Why? It is a good question and begins many an exploration of discovery. In the book of Ephesians we will discover rich answers to this question as it relates to life and faith. We will learn of God’s purpose for the church that will enlarge our understanding of the vital and universal impact of this Christ family.
There is a unique relevance of this book to our time and place. Ephesians in its day had much in common with our city. It was a place of ideas, cultures, commerce, temples, theatres and stadiums. This letter speaks to all that is new in Christ. Come along for the journey of discovery.
Sunday, January 10th Bringing it all together (Ephesians 1:1-10) In the opening verses of this great letter we are immersed in and awed by the grand purposes of the Creator. We learn of identity, purpose and plans, all of which are to bring together what has been torn apart. Central to this rescue and renewal is Jesus.
Devotional thought: What impact do God’s purposes have on the goals you have set for your life?
Sunday, January 17th Included (Ephesians 1:11-14) The staggering implications of today’s text make it hard to believe that they could be addressed to us. Christ draws us into the glorious purposes of God. How does one get in on this remarkable adventure?
Devotional thought: What are the ways that you identify yourself? What significance do you give to your relationship to Christ?
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Sunday, January 31st Prayer for Enlightenment (Ephesians 1:15- 23) This is a most necessary prayer. We need help to comprehend the utter magnitude of all that is ours and all that is possible in Christ. This prayer takes us to a higher vantage point to better see the grand scale of God’s mission.
Devotional thought: Are you prepared to see in new ways and to make this prayer your own?
Sunday, February 7th The Waking Dead (Ephesians 2:1-10) There is a level of life that is only found in Christ. By comparison to this abundant aliveness in Christ others are the walking dead. Paul uses such dramatic language to describe the awakening power of the gospel of Jesus. This is about grace – amazing grace. “I once was lost but now I’m found, t’was blind but now I see.” Come let us taste and see that the Lord is good.
Devotional thought: On a lost and found scale where would you place yourself?
Sunday, February 14th Tear down the Walls (Ephesians 2:11-22) It is tough to be excluded and to be on the outside or far away. In destroying the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, Christ brings together a new humanity of unity and peace.
Devotional thought: Are there any walls that need to come down in any of your relationships? Will you pray for Christ’s reconciling work of forgiveness, grace and reconciliation?\
Sunday, February 21st Mystery (Ephesians 3:1-13) When we can get a window through which we are better able to see we take a look. Paul opens a window on some mysteries and grants us a good view. Come explore the mysteries of Christ.
Devotional thought: Take some time to ponder with wonder at the mysteries of our world and of the mercies of God.
Sunday, February 28th Prayer for Empowerment (Ephesians 3:14-21) This prayer stretches and reaches beyond our sight and grasp. The realm of life is much larger than it looks and this prayer helps us into a larger dimension of faith and love.
Devotional thought: Consider that Christ can “do immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.” Are your prayers and dreams big enough?
Sunday, March 6th Implications (Ephesians 4:1-16) With great privilege comes responsibility. Paul urges response and action. We all have a part in preparing God’s people for service and building up the body of Christ.
Devotional thought: The body of Christ – the church, builds itself up in love as each one does their part. Consider your contribution to the health of our Christ community. We are all lifted and blessed in different ways.
Sunday, March 13th Come over to the Light side (Ephesians 4:17-5:20) In Christ we are made new. Today’s text helps us to understand in very practical terms what this means for our lives and living. We have to make wisely considered choices.
Devotional thought: If your positive actions and qualities are light and your negative actions and qualities are dark, where would you place yourself on the grey scale. Will you ask Christ to brighten your life?”
Sunday, April 3rd Faith at home and Work (Ephesians 5:21 – 6:9) What does allegiance to Jesus look like in the home and workplace? Paul, quite literally ‘brings home’ in very practical teaching, what being a Christian means in our day to day relationships. Paul also throws some light on the relationship of Christ and his Church. I hope you are at home and work with Jesus.
Devotional thought: TBA
Sunday, April 10th Equipped and Ready (Ephesians 6:10-24) Time to put on your equipment. Paul likens our Christian life in this world to be as a struggle for which we will need some protective equipment. We are introduced to the armour of God. We get dressed for service.
Devotional thought: TBA