Ephesians 1:15-23
Q.1. How did the faith of the Ephesians impact Paul? What was his prayer for them Godward? What more did he pray for them? – (Eph.1:15-19)
Paul was thrilled and thankful to hear about the progress that the Ephesian Christians had made since they had embraced the Gospel, and the way they had displayed this with – love for all the saints (Eph.1:15 c.f. 3 Jn.1:4). However, Paul knew that there was so much more to experience, so specifically prayed that the Ephesians would come to understand the blessings of Christ through the Gospel. He didn’t pray for their wealth or health. He prayed that they might know God in all His fullness, that they would embrace their calling, and would be clear about their vast inheritance in glory (Eph.1:17-18). If they understood the beauty and security of their relationship with God in life and beyond, this would help them persevere in a hostile world.
Q.2. What place did the risen Saviour assume? How great is the Lord Jesus? How important is the body of Christ, the Church? – (Eph.1:19-23)
Many Christians have a limited and self-centred view of Christ. Paul wanted them to perceive – what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe (Eph.1:19). This power and authority – 19 are in accordance with the working of the strength of His might 20 which He brought about in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places (Eph.1:19-20). It is the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead that gives the foundation of the believer’s hope. Moreover, Paul revealed how extensive Christ’s triumph is. It completely assures us of victory over sin, and death, and Hell … God conquered all authorities in Heaven and on earth for time and eternity when He raised Jesus – 21 far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come. 22 And He put all things in subjection under His feet … (Eph.1:21-22). Moreover, God placed this Super-Conqueror – … 22 as head over all things to the church, 23 which is His body … (Eph.1:22-23). He means for us to understand that regardless of how circumstances may appear in the world, we are on the victory side. As God’s children, we inherit all the benefits of His triumph over Satan, and we share His authority to plunder Satan’s realm. Believers who make up His body are – the fullness of Him who fills all in all (Eph.1:23). To belong to this Victorious One really makes us people of special value.