In chapter 3 Paul explains that the union of the Gentiles and the people of Israel is the reason for his calling, his imprisonment and his suffering. He was oddly gifted and chosen by God to bring the Gospel to the Gentiles and to explain the inclusion of the Gentiles to the Jews. In verse summary in verse 13 Paul says, "I pray therefore that you may not lose heart over my sufferings for you; they are your glory." What a strong and faithful response to his own suffering. I find Paul's reaction here inspiring!
Paul ends chapter 3 with another powerful prayer for the Ephesians. "I pray that you may have the power to comprehend, with all the saints, what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen." I have used these verses as a benediction and as a prayer for our churches many times. It seems so comprehensive in its scope. I pray this prayer for each of you today, friends, as we journey together in faith.
About Me
- Pastor Bill
- I am a committed follower of Jesus Christ, a happy husband, father and grandfather!
7 comments:
Paul is such an interesting guy. Can you imagine being so humble as a prisoner for God? We all like to associate as Godly people, but can you imagine being a prisoner? The negative connotations behind being in prison probably make us all think twice about this idea. Even after all this, Paul says that he was the least of God's people, yet he was lucky enough to be chosen to suffer for his cause. What an incredible passion for the cause.
The prayer that ends this chapter is perfect. We're "so intelligent" in 2008, but I swear none of us can say these words so perfectly. It is a perfectly encompassing prayer, that should be a part of our every day lives.
At Leadership weekend for Young Life this fall (all the leaders from the greater New England Region met at Saranac to learn about Jesus together), the speaker challenged us to all memorize this prayer, and even printed it on small sheets of paper to take with us wherever we go. I have yet to succeed, but I'm working on it. Having this prayer in our hearts can change our lives - as we ponder to God...how amazing God's love is, and how with him, everything is possible.
"I stand in awe of you Lord"
God bless, g'night,
Marshall
"...to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man."
Pastor, why doesn't the Methodist Church speak/teach more on the Holy Spirit?
You know, of course, the personal journey I have started in this area, but I am curious about the "policy" on the teaching of the Holy Spirit.
It seems most of Paul's writings mention the Spirit - I would enjoy a class, lecture or sermon on Him on a regular basis.
I know the Spirit is in me - I just want to invite Him in like Paul did.
I need personal edification, but I also want the responsibility of "standing in the gap" for God's people.
Just curious about our denominational teachings.
And hungry for knowledge :)
Thank you and God Bless.
Thanks Marshall and Mark for writing in!
I agree with Marshall on the beauty and depth of Paul's words - powerful every time I read them! Let me know how you are doing with memorizing them Marshall!
Mark the UMC actually does not have an official "stance" on how or when to preach the Holy Spirit. As you know, I am a bit more "Pentecostal" than many UM pastors and I am anxious to pray with you and walk deeper into the things of Holy Spirit. The symbol of the UMC is a cross surrounded by flames - the falmes are meant to represent the fire of the Holy Spirits presence!
You have the first ingredient for the dper life of the Spirit - hunger. God loves it when we hunger and thirst after Him. Ask, Seek, Knock.
"So I say to you, Ask, and it will be given to you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you. For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. Is there anyone among you who, if your child asks for a fish, will give a snake instead of a fish? Or if the child asks for an egg, will give a scorpion? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!" Luke 11:9-13
Pastor, I remember in a sermon you told us you surprise your Pentecostal friends when you tell them you are a Pentecostal too but in the true sense of the word. What is that? I just want to make sure I know what you mean.
Marshall, nice picture.
haha - thanks. I like that picture too. She's pretty beautiful.
-Marsh
Hi Darlynne,
In my opinion, the Pentecostal tag means that I try to live conscious of, and in step with the holy Spirit that was released on the church as a promised gift on that first Pentecost in Acts 2. I believe in, and rely upon the annointing and in-filling of the Holy Spirit for power to do ministry. Great question!
Bill
I think our knowing the depth and breadth of Jesus' love, as Paul says, is tied to our then being able to act with the love of Jesus towards others. If we don't understand how we are loved by God, it is hard for us to love others in that same way. So we really do have to work at that - feeling God's unconditional love!
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