Ephesians 6:10-24
Q.1. What provisions has the Lord made for our success in our battle against the Evil One? – (Eph.6:10-17)
We have in God’s Word all the protection and guidance we need, in order to recognize the schemes of the evil one, and to stand firm against all his attacks (Eph.6:10-11). Paul reminded the Ephesians that the real battle is not against people. Rather, it has spiritual dimensions – For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places (Eph.6:12 c.f. Eph.6:13). We have already embraced the Truth that has brought us peace with God. We also have been declared right in God’s sight (Eph.6:14). Our commission now is to spread the Gospel of Peace (Eph.6:15). The enemy opposes our mission, so we must also exercise faith, as we apply the Word of God when under attack. We need to remember that the basis of our salvation is the finished work of Christ on the Cross (Eph.6:16-17). This assures us of triumph over all opposition.
Q.2. What advice did Paul give about praying? Why is prayer so crucial in our ministries? – (Eph.6:18-20)
We must cultivate an attitude of prayer (i.e. pray and petition God at all times). We need to stay on the alert, and to persevere with our prayers and petitions, remembering that God has a different timetable from our own – With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints (Eph.6:18). Paul was especially aware of the need for prayer support for his ministry … as we should be. If Paul asked people to pray for his boldness, how much more should we. (Eph.6:19). The mystery of the Gospel is no longer hidden and was explained by Paul in Ephesians chapter 3. However, he was only too aware of people’s (especially the Jews’) refusal to accept the simple truths of the Gospel. We need to pray for boldness and ask God to remove the veil from the eyes of those to whom we witness (Eph.6:20).
Q.3. How important are fellow workers in ministry? What qualities should we develop in serving? – (Eph.6:21-24)
Whenever he wrote his letters, Paul invariably listed his co-labourers (Eph.6:210. No one has all the gifts. Even at best, we may only have a few gifts. Paul trusted – … Tychicus, my beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord … I have sent him for this very purpose, so that you may know about us, and that he may comfort your hearts (Eph.6:21-22). We need one another, in order for the body of Christ to function effectively. Even though a ministry may start small and healthily, it will eventually grow beyond the ability of one person to build it up. Paul always invested in a team of people. Paul closed with the benediction – Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ (Eph.6:24). His last words are precious – Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ with incorruptible love (Eph.6:24). Everything else will perish. But God’s love will stand the test of time! (1 Cor.13:13).