Honor GOD in HIS Church

Sunday School Lesson – Honor GOD in HIS Church – October 23, 2005

This is our fourth lesson in our series “Being Holy in an Unholy World”.

Our background scripture is Ephesians 3:14-4:16

Our focus scripture is Ephesians 3:14-16, 20 – 4:7, 11-13, 15

Last Sunday we studied the unity of all believers regardless of their National origin, birthright, education, health, wealth, social status, etc. through CHRIST and GOD building a living building. This living building is the body or the true church, not the brick and mortar church, which is being built upon the foundation of the apostles and the prophets with CHRIST being the Chief cornerstone.

Let’s review Ephesians 2:19-22, which is our spring board into today’s lesson.

19So then you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with the saints, and members of God’s household, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone. 21 The whole building is being fitted together in Him and is growing into a holy sanctuary in the Lord, 22 in whom you also are being built together for God’s dwelling in the Spirit.

GOD has a plan for each of us and today we will explore how GOD equips and enables us to carry out HIS plan for our life and to function within the living building in this unholy world.

Paul begins Ephesians 3:1-13 with a prayer, then quickly goes to his calling for ministry to the Gentiles.

It is like oh, let’s pray but before we do, I want you to be aware of this information before I get into my main objective for writing this.

Ephesians 3:1-13
Chapter 3
Paul’s Ministry to the Gentiles
1 For this reason, I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus on behalf of you Gentiles— 2 you have heard, haven’t you, about the administration of God’s grace that He gave to me for you? 3 The • mystery was made known to me by revelation, as I have briefly written above. 4 By reading this you are able to understand my insight about the mystery of the • Messiah. 5 This was not made known to people[1] Lit to the sons of men in other generations as it is now revealed to His holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit: 6 the Gentiles are co-heirs, members of the same body, and partners of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel. 7 I was made a servant of this [gospel]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. by the gift of God’s grace that was given to me by the working of His power. 8 This grace was given to me—the least of all the saints!—to proclaim to the Gentiles the incalculable riches of the Messiah, 9 and to shed light for all about the administration of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things. 10 This is so that God’s multi-faceted wisdom may now be made known through the church to the rulers and authorities in the heavens.[2] Eph 1:3,20; 2:6; 6:12 11 This is according to the purpose of the ages, which He made in the Messiah, Jesus our Lord, 12 in whom we have boldness, access, and confidence through faith in Him.[3] Or through His faithfulness 13 So then I ask you not to be discouraged over my afflictions on your behalf, for they are your glory.

Paul reveals a mystery which had been revealed to the apostles and prophets. The mystery is the Gentiles are joint heirs, members of the same body and partners of the promise in CHRIST as the Jews. Again CHRIST unifies all people through THE CROSS. (Verse 6)

As you recall a mystery cannot be discovered by humans it must be revealed by GOD. Paul reveals that he was called to be the minister of the gospel of CHRIST to the Gentiles.

Paul is under house arrest in Rome and tells his readers not to worry because this is GOD’S calling for him.

Then Paul comes back to the prayer beginning with verse 14.

Let’s read Ephesians 3:14-16.
Prayer for Spiritual Power
14 For this reason I bow my knees before the Father[4] Other mss add of our Lord Jesus Christ 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named. 16 [I pray]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. that He may grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man,

Paul begins by saying I am expressing this on bended knee before THE ONE WHO can make it happen. This shows that what he is requesting from GOD is of utmost importance for his readers and they should pay special attention to it.

Paul use of the term “from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named” has resulted in much discussion among Bible scholars. It seems that Paul is saying that GOD is in control of all things both in heaven and earth. This includes angels and human groups, which Paul calls families.

Paul is saying, you Jews and Gentiles see yourselves as different from each other but keep in mind that every created thing derives its existence and identity from GOD, including angels.
Paul is not just including Christian families but every family. The source of all human existence is from GOD.

So when it comes to knowing GOD, no group or family, because of their birthright, has an advantage over any other group.

CHRIST died for all and calls all humans to repentance. GOD does not want any to perish but have everlasting life. GOD will call all to accept CHRIST as SAVIOR but the choice is up to each individual.

In verse 16, Paul is praying that GOD will empower the Christian Jews and Gentiles in their inner person. What is the magnitude of this power? Paul asks GOD to provide the power from “the riches of HIS glory” or “the storehouse of HIS glory” to us through the enlightenment of our heart by THE HOLY SPIRIT. Then we are to allow GOD to work through us to manifest this power.

The statement “the riches of HIS glory” or “the storehouse of HIS glory” ties to Paul’s statement regarding “more than we can ask or think” in verse 20. Only GOD knows what is fully in HIS storehouse. We know about some of the gifts but other gifts remain a mystery; but GOD knows and HE will reveal them to us as HE decides.

We must NOT under estimate or limit GOD and what HE can and will do through those who are committed and are called to serve HIM.

Ground zero is the inner person. The inner person is where GOD enlightens the eyes of our heart. It is also where the intimate loving relationship with GOD comes together with understanding and acceptance. It is also where we grow and mature in CHRIST. It is the intimate part of our life where GOD knows exactly where we are spiritually.

GOD will not give HIS children something that will harm them. HE builds in each of us the character and the maturity necessary for us to be able handle the gifts and power necessary for the work HE has for us to do.

HE teaches and prepares each of us for the moment HE will manifest HIS gift and power through us.
GOD prepared Moses for the work HE would do through Moses to get Pharaoh to release the Israelites from Egypt and to carry their assignment to completion. GOD told Moses to throw his staff on the ground and it became a snake. GOD told him to pick it up by the tail and it became a staff again and other demonstrations of HIS power.

I would want GOD to give me a training session before my staff became a snake rather than getting surprised. Once Moses gained confidence in what and how GOD works then Moses knew all things were possible through GOD.

GOD’S power is awesome and HE is able to do more than we can ask or think. HE allows HIS gifts and power to be manifested through us when we can handle it. As with any gift we must accept it, understand what it will do once we know what it is and then use it. GOD is THE ONE WHO will instruct us how, when and where to use our gift or gifts, according to HIS plan and purpose.

The disciples had a problem with the proper use of power.
Let’s read Luke 9:51-56 - The Journey to Jerusalem
51 When the days were coming to a close for Him (JESUS) to be taken up,[21] His ascension He determined[22] Lit He stiffened His face to go; Isaiah 50:7 to journey to Jerusalem. 52 He sent messengers ahead of Him, and on the way they entered a village of the • Samaritans to make preparations for Him. 53 But they did not welcome Him, because He determined to journey to Jerusalem. 54 When the disciples James and John saw this, they said, “Lord, do You want us to call down fire from heaven to consume them?”[23] Other mss add as Elijah also did 55 But He turned and rebuked them,[24] Other mss add and said, “You don’t know what kind of spirit you belong to. 56 For the Son of Man did not come to destroy people’s lives but to save them.” 56 and they went to another village.

The disciple’s reaction to a situation is to call fire down from heaven. Power in immature or reactionary people is very dangerous.

I remember many years ago I was having a very honest discussion with GOD about spiritual gifts. I wanted certain gifts and HE would not give them to me. I was very upset, questioned GOD if HE loved me and pleaded with GOD to give me an answer. HE did.

You know our FATHER is so awesome. Here is the way HE answered my question.

Before I tell you the story here is some background information.
THE LORD has blessed Flonnie and me with four wonderful GODLY children. I might add and eight, so far (this does not refer to their behavior but to the number), wonderful GODLY grandchildren.

Our eldest son is Ted and our youngest son is Brad. Our two daughters are in the middle. They might say two beautiful flowers between two thorns. When this revelation happened Ted was about 24 years old and Brad was about 10 years old.

THE LORD said to me, “You have two sons?” Yes, I replied. “You have a shot gun?” Yes. “Would you give your shot gun to Ted?” Yes. “Would you give your shot gun to Brad?” No. “Do you love Ted more than you do Brad”? No. “But you would give your shot gun to Ted but not Brad”. Yes “Aren’t both your sons?” Yes. “Why would you give your shot gun to Ted and not give it to Brad”? Because I have taught Ted gun safety and he knows how to use the gun and he would not hurt himself or someone else. “Is there a time you will let Brad have your shot gun?” Yes, provide I teach him gun safety, he grows and develops mentally and physically and I know he will use the gun responsibly and not hurt himself or someone else.

Then GOD said, “Now think on this.” “All the Gifts of THE SPIRIT are mine and mine to give when you are mature enough to handle them”.

GOD THE FATHER knows how to get to the heart of a matter.

When this encounter happened, I had taught the Book of James. It is about being a mature Christian. I asked GOD to make me a mature Christian. My idea or motive or selfish or egotistical intention was to be a mature Christian so I could have the Gifts of THE SPIRIT. I wanted the power.

If GOD had granted my request at that time in my life, it would have been a spiritual ego trip for me. We think GOD sprinkles us with Holy Dust and we are changed in an instant. It can happen quickly, depending on where we are spiritually but most often GOD takes HIS time to prepare us for the work HE has for us.

GOD answered my request; just not like I thought HE would. I needed to mature as a Christian. There was no magic Holy dust to make me mature in an instant. Instead GOD cleaned my clock, so-to-speak and started a rebuilding, maturing process that is still going on to this day. I was stripped to the very foundation of CHRIST. All phony notions and ideas about being a Christian were stripped away. I was stripped to the foundation of CHRIST.

During this rebuilding process I have never doubted my salvation. I knew I was GOD’S child and I was secure in HIM. I knew I was going to heaven, if I died, based upon what CHRIST had done for me.

GOD takes every step with us along life’s journey. GOD is in the business of building character and maturing us to prepare us to serve HIM.

Place your hand in HIS today and let HIM be THE LORD of your life.




Let’s read Ephesians 3:20-21.

20 Now to Him who is able to do above and beyond all that we ask or think—according to the power that works in you— 21 to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. • Amen.

This is the Amen to Paul’s prayer.

In chapters 1-3 Paul described the timeless role of the church. In chapters 4-6 Paul will explain how church members or members of the living body are to live to bring the unity that GOD wants.

Paul acknowledges that God is all powerful and HE goes beyond what we can ask or think. GOD ways are not our ways and HIS thoughts are beyond our thoughts.

We do not like some of the decisions HE makes in our life but if we believe HE is sovereign, all powerful, all knowing and omni-present, then we have to trust HE makes the best decisions whether we agree or not. We may have to wait until we get to heaven before we will fully understand some of HIS decisions.

Let’s read Ephesians 4:1-6
Unity and Diversity in the Body of Christ
1 I, therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, urge you to • walk worthy of the calling you have received, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, accepting[1] Or tolerating one another in love, 3 diligently keeping the unity of the Spirit with the peace that binds [us]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. . 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope[2] Lit called in one hope at your calling; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all.

Paul challenges us as Christians to walk, which means living our everyday life such that we are worthy of our calling. We are called to be “the salt of the earth and the light of the world”.
As such others should see CHRIST in us. Our life should reflect CHRIST so others will want what we have.

Paul cautions us to:

Walk or live worthy of our calling as a Christian.

Walk in humility – a proper assessment of one’s self in regard to others; this is not having a poor self image but one who exemplifies the attitude of JESUS.

Walk in gentleness – gracious consideration and restraint when wronged; one whose emotions are under control.

Walk with patience – perseverance under affliction; not seeking revenge.

Walk accepting one another in love – this is a mouth full. This means “to endure”, “to put up with”, and “to show forbearance”.
Endue our brothers and sisters in CHRIST that we may not like to be around.

Satan uses our humanness to cause factions within the body of CHRIST. This works in a number of ways.

It can come from us who think we have arrived spiritually and others are just babes. We can get puffed up with spiritual pride as GOD uses us to accomplish HIS will in our life. Our brothers and sisters in CHRIST get on our last nerve. Either of these can cause problems in the body. We must watch out for these situations and work hard to keep the unity of SPIRIT within the body.

To keep unity we must keep in mind there is:

One Body – the living body of believers
One SPIRIT – THE HOLY SPIRIT
One Hope – Eternal life
One LORD – CHRIST THE HEAD of the body.
One Faith – the content of what we as Christians believe.
One Baptism – more than water baptism. It includes baptism by
THE HOLY SPIRIT, which we all receive when we accept CHRIST as our SAVIOR. This is not a second blessing but can seem like a second blessing when we commit our life to CHRIST and when GOD manifests HIS power through us.
One GOD
One FATHER

GOD is working within each of us who are different to accomplish HIS will and purpose. We may say can they be a Christian and act in such a way or do such-and-such. GOD uses us all. Some of us may be used to knock the rough edges off others or to challenge us or GOD uses us to challenge them or to work in their life.

Let’s read Ephesians 4:7, 11-13, 15

7 Now grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of the • Messiah’s gift.

11 And He personally gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, 12 for the training of the saints in the work of ministry, to build up the body of Christ, 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of God’s Son, [growing]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. into a mature man with a stature measured by Christ’s fullness.

15 But speaking the truth in love, let us grow in every way into Him who is the head—Christ.

Verse 7 is a key verse. “Grace” used here refers to a special gift or an ability to serve GOD, which CHRIST, THE MESSIAH has given to every believer. CHRIST is the source of the gifts and gives them to serve and build up the body. The gifts are manifested by THE HOLY SPIRIT.

CHRIST has given each Christian at least one spiritual gift. HE has given to some to be apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers.

Apostles – eyewitnesses of THE LORD JESUS who HE appointed to be witnesses for HIM. An apostle is sent out as an authoritative delegate. Are there apostles today? I think so. They are sent on a mission by CHRIST.

Prophets – those to speak GOD’S word – predictions and proclamations. It means “one who speaks”. Some prophets declare new revelation. Most prophets simply preach the truth GOD has already revealed. Prophets speak to edify, encourage, enlighten and consolation.

As we read earlier, Paul in Ephesians 2:20 identified apostles and prophets as the foundation of the living building and of which CHRIST is the chief cornerstone.

Evangelists – those who travel about preaching the gospel. Evangelists have the gift of making the gospel clear to the lost.

Pastor and teachers – interesting these are presented as a unit. A pastor should also be a teacher.

Pastors are shepherds of the flock of GOD.

Teachers are separate leaders. Scripture tells us teachers will be held more accountable. (James 3:1 1 Not many should become teachers, my brothers, knowing that we will receive a stricter judgment) We who teach present scripture and the revelations of scripture and GOD with understanding. We cannot hide behind ignorance. We present truth with knowledge of what it means.

Not all teachers are Pastors but all Pastors are teachers.

The purpose of the spiritual gifts is (1) to train the saints (2) in the work of ministry and (3) to build up the body of CHRIST.

The word “train” was a medical term, which originally referred to setting a broken bone. As used here it means to mend, restore and prepare. Later it came to mean to “equip” or “equipment”.

Notice verse 13 – “until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of GOD’S SON, growing into a mature man or woman with a spiritual stature measured by CHRIST’S fullness”.

So CHRIST has given us gifts to train us as Christians to train fellow Christian in the work of our calling for the purpose of building up the living body.

When will training stop?

When the body reaches unity and full maturity when compared to and measured by CHRIST and HIS example; that is when the living body fully reflects the character of CHRIST – HIS servant attitude, unselfishness, unconditional love, kindness, compassion, humility, holiness, willingness to suffer wrong for others and the list goes on.

Spiritual gifts are to be used as GOD directs us to use them.

How did JESUS make HIS day to day decisions?

JESUS was obedient to THE FATHER. HIS one purpose was to do the will of THE FATHER. THE FATHER taught HIM.

John 5:30 – JESUS is speaking.

30 “I can do nothing on My own. I judge only as I hear, and My judgment is righteous, because I do not seek My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.

John 8:28-29
28 So Jesus said to them, “When you lift up the • Son of Man, then you will know that I am [He]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. , and that I do nothing on My own. But just as the Father taught Me, I say these things. 29 The One who sent Me is with Me. He has not left Me alone, because I always do what pleases Him.”

1 Corinthians 12: 1-30 tells us about spiritual gifts but pay special attention to verse 11. GOD gives gifts as HE chooses.
Diversity of Spiritual Gifts
1 About matters of the spirit:[1] Lit About things spiritual brothers, I do not want you to be unaware. 2 You know how, when you were pagans, you were led to dumb idols—being led astray. 3 Therefore I am informing you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God says, “Jesus is cursed,” and no one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit. 4 Now there are different gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 There are different ministries, but the same Lord. 6 And there are different activities, but the same God is active in everyone and everything.[2] Lit God acts all things in all 7 A manifestation of the Spirit is given to each person to produce what is beneficial: 8 to one is given a message of wisdom through the Spirit, to another, a message of knowledge by the same Spirit, 9 to another, faith by the same Spirit, to another, gifts of healing by the one Spirit, 10 to another, the performing of miracles, to another, prophecy, to another, distinguishing between spirits, to another, different kinds of languages, to another, interpretation of languages. 11 But one and the same Spirit is active in all these, distributing to each one as He wills.
Unity Yet Diversity in the Body
12 For as the body is one and has many parts, and all the parts of that body, though many, are one body—so also is Christ. 13 For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free—and we were all made to drink of one Spirit. 14 So the body is not one part but many. 15 If the foot should say, “Because I’m not a hand, I don’t belong to the body,” in spite of this it still belongs to the body. 16 And if the ear should say, “Because I’m not an eye, I don’t belong to the body,” in spite of this it still belongs to the body. 17 If the whole body were an eye, where would the hearing be? If the whole were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? 18 But now God has placed the parts, each one of them, in the body just as He wanted. 19 And if they were all the same part, where would the body be? 20 Now there are many parts, yet one body. 21 So the eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” nor again the head to the feet, “I don’t need you!” 22 On the contrary, all the more, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are necessary. 23 And those parts of the body that we think to be less honorable, we clothe these with greater honor, and our unpresentable parts have a better presentation. 24 But our presentable parts have no need [of clothing]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. . Instead, God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the less honorable, 25 so that there would be no division in the body, but that the members would have the same concern for each other. 26 So if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it. 27 Now you are the body of Christ, and individual members of it. 28 And God has placed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, next, miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, managing, various kinds of languages. 29 Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all do miracles? 30 Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in languages? Do all interpret? 31 But desire the greater gifts. And I will show you an even better way.

Paul also tells us in 1 Corinthians 13 that agape love is the greatest gift of all. Agape is self-giving love. It is the type of love which demands nothing in return. It is the love CHRIST had for us as sinners and the world when HE gave HIS life upon THE CROSS. HE gave HIS life without demanding that we accept HIS free gift of eternal life.

1 Corinthians 14:1 tells us to desire the spirituals gifts.

1 Corinthians 14:1-19 – deals with speaking in tongues, interpretation of unknown tongues and the gift of prophecy. It also mentions revelation, knowledge, prophecy and word of instruction.

Acts 11:28 - A prophet named Agabus predicted a famine through the revelation of THE SPIRIT.

Acts 21:10-11 – THE HOLY SPIRIT told the prophet Agabus, that "the owner of the belt would be captured by the Jews in Jerusalem and handed over to the Gentiles". That belt belonged to Paul. This happened to Paul.

Pay special attention to Romans 12: 6-8. When you have a spiritual gift, use it.

Romans 12:3-8 Many Gifts but One Body
3 For by the grace given to me, I tell everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he should think. Instead, think sensibly, as God has distributed a measure of faith to each one. 4 Now as we have many parts in one body, and all the parts do not have the same function, 5 in the same way we who are many are one body in Christ and individually members of one another. 6 According to the grace given to us, we have different gifts: If prophecy, use it according to the standard of faith; 7 if service, in service; if teaching, in teaching; 8 if exhorting, in exhortation; giving, with generosity; leading, with diligence; showing mercy, with cheerfulness.

The Bible lists spiritual gifts such as but not limited to:

Making money
Cheering people up
Helps
Service
Giving
Leading
Mercy
Administration
Wisdom – knowledge applied to GOD’S plan.
Knowledge – this is experiential knowledge as well as revelations GOD gives.
Faith – this is not faith as in accepting CHRIST but faith that results in those called to live and step where there are no steps; because GOD said to that them.
Miracles
Wonders
Healing
Prophesy
Tongues
Interpretation of tongues
Apostles
Prophets
Pastors
Teachers
Evangelists
Healing
Discernment

There are many gifts. The key is for us to use the gift or gifts GOD gives us.

Each of us has one or more gifts of THE SPIRIT.

What is your gift? Are you using your gift?

How do we discover our gift?

Many times a fellow Christian will tell us that they see a certain gift being manifested in our life but GOD can reveal it to us as well. If you ask GOD to reveal your gift to you, be prepared for the revelation to come to you in any number of ways.

When we belong to GOD through CHRIST we have the gift of eternal life and have the gift of THE HOLY SPIRIT who seals us and is our guarantee or down payment that we are the children of GOD. But we also have other gifts to serve our FATHER.

Live in GOD'S Peace

Sunday School Lesson – Live in GOD’S Peace – October 16, 2005

This is our third lesson in our series “Being Holy in an Unholy World”.

Our scripture is taken from Ephesians 2: 11-22

Paul is reminding the Christians in the area of Ephesus, as well as us today, to remember our past. He is not saying to remember the sinful things but to remember that we were once separated from GOD, because of our sin.

All of us were once sinners and don’t forget it. We were once unholy in a Holy world. When we contrast our fallen or unholy state to our born-again or Holy state it helps us to understand GOD’S peace in our life, HIS great gift to us and to know we are part of the living body, the true church, which is being built by GOD.

Our world has seen and continues to see much prejudice. Prejudice between the Jews and Gentiles was rampant when Paul wrote Ephesians. The Jews considered all people who were not Jews to be Gentiles.

The Jewish race knew they were the chosen by GOD. They were chosen by their birthright. Those born a Jew considered those not born a Jew to be second class when it came to the things of GOD. A Gentile could come to the temple but there was a wall that separated the Jews from the Gentiles. Paul was almost killed because the Jews thought Paul had brought a Gentile into the Jewish area of the temple.

Sometimes we, who know CHRIST, can be spiritually arrogant; especially if GOD has manifested HIMSELF through us by one or more of the Gifts of THE SPIRIT. Some Christians think all Christians must at least have the gift of speaking in tongues.

GOD revealed years ago there is the gift of tongues but also that HE speaks in many different ways and not to forget that English is a tongue. It is unknown to some. It just happens to be known to us who speak English.

GOD gives each of us gifts of THE SPIRIT but the most important desire of our heart needs to be for us to seek? You got it, a loving intimate relationship with HIM.

Then as HE sees fit, HE will manifest HIMSELF through our lives with HIS power or special spiritual gifts to accomplish what needs to be accomplished. All the gifts of THE SPIRIT are available to us but HE chooses what we receive and when we receive them.

When we have the right relationship with GOD and HE manifest’s HIMSELF in our lives through miracles, wonders or gifts, we know it is GOD, because all power is in HIS hands. It keeps us from getting the big-head, conceited or spiritually arrogant. It is GOD working through us to accomplish HIS work.

So Paul tells us all to remember where we came from as expressed in the following scripture.

Let’s Read Ephesians 2: 11-13
Unity in Christ
11 So then, remember that at one time you were Gentiles in the flesh—called “the uncircumcised” by those called “the circumcised,” done by hand in the flesh. 12 At that time you were without the Messiah, excluded from the citizenship of Israel, and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, with no hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus, you who were far away have been brought near by the blood of the Messiah.

Paul uses the words “so then” or “in conclusion” which is based upon last week’s scripture. As you recall in last week’s lesson, we studied that salvation is the result of GOD’S grace.
We died when CHRIST died, we were buried with CHRIST, we were resurrected with CHRIST, we were made alive with CHRIST, we ascended with CHRIST into heaven and our citizenship is now in heaven. We have a new eternal existence through the miracle of rebirth. There is a continuum of our born-again life with GOD that was not possible with our natural life. But we had to be born into our natural life to be eligible to receive eternal life from GOD through CHRIST.

There is nothing man-kind or any human can do to earn their acceptance by GOD. However, CHRIST is freely available to everyone who will accept HIM. HE is THE WAY to GOD; the only way.

(If some of you have a problem with CHRIST being the only way, let’s discuss.)

So Paul is saying “so then” or “in conclusion”, you have a lot to get excited about being a Christian but do not let it go to your head. Remember where you came from. You were in a fallen state, separated from GOD by your sins, in a situation from which you could not escape, you were helpless but you have been born into GOD’S family and given a Holy status through CHRIST in GOD’S Kingdom.

The Jews had their ceremonies, laws, rituals and prided themselves in having access to GOD and the Gentiles were considered out-casts by the Jews. The Jews prided themselves in the fact they were circumcised and they referred to the Gentiles as “uncircumcised”. Paul is telling the Gentiles not to let circumcision become a stumbling block to them because circumcision is simply a ritual performed by the hands of man. It had meaning but that meaning has been fulfilled through the obedience of CHRIST. CHRIST fulfilled the law when HE gave HIMSELF as THE SINLESS LAMB and died upon THE CROSS.


CHRIST’S obedience fulfilled the law, which nullified all the rituals and ceremonies that went along with being under the law. The Jews tried to obey the law and all the rituals that were required. They had to go through an earthly Priest, who would offer sacrifices to GOD, first on their own behalf, as a sinner and then on behalf of the people. Now because of CHRIST whether a person is a Jew, Gentile, male, female, rich, poor, slave, free or any number of characteristics we as humans use to label other humans, we all have access to GOD. We approach GOD directly.

Paul tells them, that through CHRIST, THE MESSIAH you Gentiles and Jews are bonded together. You have a common bond and neither can claim spiritual pride based upon your birth as a Jew or Gentile. CHRIST settled it all at THE CROSS.

This is true for us today. We as Christian’s have a common bond with all Christians regardless of race, social status, color, language, economics, etc. As those who know THE TRUTH, we cannot let prejudice prevent us from sharing the good news of CHRIST to all.

As Christians we all share in the promises GOD made with Abraham and the patriarchs throughout history. We have been born into HIS family and all the rights and privileges are imputed to us.

Let’ Read Ephesians 2:14-18

14 For He is our peace, who made both groups one and tore down the dividing wall of hostility. In His flesh, 15 He did away with the law of the commandments in regulations, so that He might create in Himself one new man from the two, resulting in peace. 16 [He did this so]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. that He might reconcile both to God in one body through the cross and put the hostility to death by it.[7] Or death in Himself 17 When [Christ]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. came, He proclaimed the good news of peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. 18 For through Him we both have access by one Spirit to the Father.



Verse 14 – CHRIST makes peace in our hearts and with each other, as Christians. Because HE broke the invisible wall that divides us as humans and we all come to HIM the same way. Our common bond is CHRIST and we are brothers and sisters in CHRIST because we all have the same spiritual FATHER, GOD.

As mentioned earlier, when Paul wrote Ephesians the Jewish temple still had the dividing wall which separated the Jews from the Gentiles. Since, that wall still existed in Judaism; Paul used the wall as a metaphor to illustrate the oneness that Christians have in CHRIST. CHRIST broke the invisible wall of prejudice which can separate humans.

We all come to CHRIST the same way. No one can claim spiritual pride or arrogance.

GOD’S plan through CHRIST is to have a unified body to serve HIM. This body is living and although it is made up of many parts it functions as one body with CHRIST as the head. Christians are the arms, legs, ears, eyes, mouth, etc. Paul uses the human body to explain this in 1 Corinthians 12:12-31 copied below.
Unity Yet Diversity in the Body
12 For as the body is one and has many parts, and all the parts of that body, though many, are one body—so also is Christ. 13 For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free—and we were all made to drink of one Spirit. 14 So the body is not one part but many. 15 If the foot should say, “Because I’m not a hand, I don’t belong to the body,” in spite of this it still belongs to the body. 16 And if the ear should say, “Because I’m not an eye, I don’t belong to the body,” in spite of this it still belongs to the body. 17 If the whole body were an eye, where would the hearing be? If the whole were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? 18 But now God has placed the parts, each one of them, in the body just as He wanted. 19 And if they were all the same part, where would the body be? 20 Now there are many parts, yet one body. 21 So the eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” nor again the head to the feet, “I don’t need you!” 22 On the contrary, all the more, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are necessary. 23 And those parts of the body that we think to be less honorable, we clothe these with greater honor, and our unpresentable parts have a better presentation. 24 But our presentable parts have no need [of clothing]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. . Instead, God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the less honorable, 25 so that there would be no division in the body, but that the members would have the same concern for each other. 26 So if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it. 27 Now you are the body of Christ, and individual members of it. 28 And God has placed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, next, miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, managing, various kinds of languages. 29 Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all do miracles? 30 Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in languages? Do all interpret? 31 But desire the greater gifts. And I will show you an even better way.

To me this scripture illustrates what Paul is trying to tell us. As Christians, GOD has a special place for each of us to serve HIM.

GOD fits us into the exact place HE wants us to serve HIM within the body of CHRIST.

Paul develops this point more in the next scripture.

Let’s Read Ephesians 2:19-22

19So then you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with the saints, and members of God’s household, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone. 21 The whole building is being fitted together in Him and is growing into a holy sanctuary in the Lord, 22 in whom you also are being built together for God’s dwelling in the Spirit.

The chief designer and architect of this building is GOD.

It is a unique building which is not a fixed, stationary building but a living building that moves and functions as our human body. It is fashioned with living stones and CHRIST is the cornerstone.

The cornerstone is the part of the building that is structurally critical and determines the position of the rest of the building. It is foundational.

It is fitting that Paul refers to CHRIST as the cornerstone. GOD is building a living building. The moment CHRIST gave HIS life for the sins of man-kind; the veil of the temple that separated the Holy of Holies from the rest of the temple was torn from top to bottom. Why from the top to bottom? Because GOD tore it and HE wanted all to know that HE tore it. CHRIST’S death permit’s all who accept CHRIST as SAVIOR to approach GOD directly and no longer go through an earthly Priest. What a blessing and gift of grace.

Since CHIRST’S death, resurrection and ascension GOD has not dwelt in a physical building or temple made from human hands but indwells each Christian, whose body is the temple of THE HOLY SPIRIT. Therefore GOD dwells in a spiritual temple, not made by hands, that covers the earth.

Just think we, as Christians, have GOD in us. Every place we set our feet is Holy Ground because CHRIST is in us. We are a vital part of the living building that GOD is fashioning.

It is a living building that is still growing each moment a fellow Christian is born into GOD’S Kingdom and becomes a part of this living dynamic building.

GOD is the potter, we are the clay. GOD is making us and molding us into just the right Christian designed to serve HIM within this body or spiritual building according to HIS plan.

Our part is to be willing for GOD to make out of our life just what HE wants.

You guessed it again. It is all about relationship.

Experience GOD'S Life-changing Power

Sunday School Lesson – Experience GOD’S Life-changing Power
October 9, 2005

This is lesson two (2) in our series on “Being Holy in an Unholy World”.

Our over all theme in today’s lesson is “CHRIST in you, the hope of glory” as expressed in Colossians 1:27.

Colossians 1:27

27 God wanted to make known to those among the Gentiles the glorious wealth of this • mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

Hope as used in our study is not something we hope we receive but it is something we have already received. It is our present hope.

Our scripture for today’s lesson is Ephesians 1:17 – 2:10.

The lesson in our book begins with verse 18. But we need to include verse 17 to understand more about what Paul wants GOD to reveal to us as Christians.

Ephesians 1:17-23

17 [I pray]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father,[14] Or the Father of glory would give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him. 18 [I pray]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened so you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the glorious riches of His inheritance among the saints, 19 and what is the immeasurable greatness of His power to us who believe, according to the working of His vast strength.


God’s Power in Christ (This is awesome)
20 He demonstrated [this power]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. in the Messiah by raising Him from the dead and seating Him at His right hand in the heavens[15] Eph 1:3; 2:6; 3:10; 6:12 — 21 far above every ruler and authority, power and dominion, and every title given,[16] Lit every name named not only in this age but also in the one to come. 22 And He put everything under His feet[17] Ps 8:6 and appointed Him as head over everything for the church, 23 which is His body, the fullness of the One who fills all things in every way.

Verse 17 is important because Paul knows that human philosophy is useless to explain spiritual revelation. Humans cannot through our own effort discover spiritual truths. Spiritual truths are revealed by GOD through THE HOLY SPIRIT. Wisdom and knowledge of HIM are necessary to comprehend and discern spiritual truth.

Wisdom (spiritual wisdom) is defined as knowledge applied to GOD’S plan. Knowledge as used by Paul is not head knowledge or knowledge learned from a book but it is experiential knowledge, which is obtained by walking and talking with GOD along life’s journey. Knowledge revealed in “the eyes of our heart” by GOD through THE HOLY SPIRIT. Again we come back to our relationship with GOD.

Salvation is a calling or an invitation from GOD to a person to receive CHRIST as their SAVIOR. The word “saved” presupposes the need for rescue. Once we accept and receive CHRIST then the “eyes of our heart” are enlightened to spiritual truth or revelations by THE HOLY SPIRIT, which leads us to verse 18.

Verse 18 to me is one of the most exciting verses. GOD let me see the wonder in this verse over a year ago. I had never thought about the “eyes of my heart”.

The “eyes of our heart” to me is the inner most part of our being. This is the most secret place where we meet with GOD in complete truth.

This is the place where we know whether or not we are truly a Christian saved by grace or playing a religious game by attending church and reciting the Bible, prayers and singing hymns.

The “eyes of our heart” is the place we can be very honest with GOD and tell HIM what we like or dislike about HIM and ask HIM to reveal truth to us or answer legitimate questions or question HIM about concerns about how HE does things. Also the place we can praise HIM for WHO HE IS and rejoice in the fact we belong to HIM and much more.

When we have questions or concerns, let GOD know and ask HIM to give us answers. Then watch for the answer. The answer will come in a great variety of ways internal in “the eyes of our heart” through GOD’S WORD, THE STILL SMALL VOICE, as we talk to GOD through prayer, etc. or external, through others, through circumstances, life’s situation, just plain living, etc.

In the later part of verse 18 and verse 19, Paul is praying for three (3) things for GOD to enlighten Christian’s about:
v The hope of HIS calling
v The glorious riches of HIS inheritance
v The immeasurable greatness of HIS power

Awesome!

Our hope is in CHRIST; our present hope to live on earth filled with HIS power and our future hope to live eternally in heaven with CHRIST all rests in CHRIST, WHO gave HIMSELF for each of us. CHRIST makes it all possible through HIS shed blood.

When we understand and comprehend that we are saved from sin and death, born into GOD’S family and have eternal life through CHRIST that is blessed hope already obtained. It is not a hope yet to be obtained. GOD called us and we responded. GOD gave us the gift of THE HOLY SPIRIT in our hearts which confirms this hope and seals us until we escape our earthly bodies through death. What a joy and what a heritage, which leads us to riches of HIS inheritance.

There is much discussion among Bible scholars regarding the words, “the glorious riches of HIS inheritance”. Does “HIS inheritance” mean GOD has inherited us when we accept CHRIST and we bring glory to HIM or does it mean since we have accepted GOD’S provision for us through HIS SON JESUS we have inherited glorious riches because we are born into GOD’S family and are HIS children?

Either is great but I lean toward the later because of Romans 8:16-17 –

16 The Spirit Himself testifies together with our spirit that we are God’s children, 17 and if children, also heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ—seeing that[13] Or provided that we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him.

The later part of verse 19 is a gem of a verse “The immeasurable greatness of HIS power”.

Paul explains verse 19 in verse 20. What kind of power is Paul telling us about?

It is the power GOD used to raise CHRIST from the dead and sit HIM at HIS right hand, the seat of power. The seat of power that is far above every power, authority, ruler or any thing we as a human can conceive in our mind. Now that is power, wonder-working power.
Now for the clincher, this awesome power is in every Christian! It is in you!

Did you know you have this power dwelling in you as a Christians?

Then why don’t we see this awesome power manifested in our life?

You got it, relationship. We try to live our life according to our wishes and desires. We are in control.

Let GOD be in control and let HIM direct your life and as HE works through you. HIS power will be manifested through us just at the right time, right place, right circumstances because we will be in the center of HIS will and in the center of HIS plan and in the center of HIS work.

Could Moses strike a rock to get water on his own power? No but when Moses was in the center of GOD’S activity, water came gushing forth when he use his rod because it was GOD’S power working through Moses. On one occasion GOD told Moses to speak to the rock rather than strike it. Moses disobeyed and struck the rock. This act of disobedience cost Moses the opportunity to enter the Promised Land. Water still came forth from the rock even though Moses disobeyed GOD. Did Moses have a temporary lapse of confidence in GOD? We do not know, but it does point to the fact that sometimes we as humans let our ego get in the way of GOD’S work. Rather than doing something different as GOD leads us, we do it the way we have always done it because we know it works.

GOD wants to be in control and there are times HE changes our routine, just to let us see how willing we are to follow HIM. HE already knows how we will respond; we just need to see it for ourselves. Listen and respond as GOD directs your life’s activities.

Let’s read - Ephesians 2:1-3
Chapter 2
From Death to Life
1 And you were dead in your trespasses and sins 2 in which you previously • walked according to this worldly age, according to the ruler of the atmospheric domain,[1] Lit ruler of the authority of the air the spirit now working in the disobedient.[2] Lit sons of disobedience 3 We too all previously lived among them in our fleshly desires, carrying out the inclinations of our flesh and thoughts, and by nature we were children under wrath, as the others were also.

Paul includes himself in this situation. We have all been in this state, alive as a human but dead or unresponsive to GOD in our life because of trespasses and sin. Trespasses and sin blocks our access to GOD.

Trespasses are false steps and sin is missing the mark.

JESUS said if we lust after a person we have committed adultery in our heart. If we have hated someone it is the same a killing them. The point being we are all guilty of trespasses and sin.

The only solution is that the penalty for trespasses and sin must be paid in order to escape them. CHRIST paid the penalty for us to escape through HIS shed blood on THE CROSS.

All we as humans have to do, is accept what CHRIST has done for us and we are saved or escape from sin and death, receive forgiveness and receive eternal life.

We have all walked according to the dictates of the ruler of the atmospheric domain, who is Satan.

Why does Paul refer to Satan in this way?

Likely to show that Satan is mightier than humans but not as mighty as GOD. Just as air covers all of earth so Satan’s influence covers all of earth.

Once we accept CHRIST as our SAVIOR we are no longer citizens of earth but citizens of heaven. Paul tells us we are ambassadors for CHRIST remaining on earth to represent GOD.

2 Corinthians 5:20-21

20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ; certain that God is appealing through us, we plead on Christ’s behalf, “Be reconciled to God.” 21 He (GOD) made the One (JESUS) who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

Verse 21 of Corinthians tells us what makes us Holy in an unholy world.

THE SHED BLOOD of JESUS, WHO is sinless, paid the price required by GOD to satisfy GOD’S wrath against trespasses and sin.

Let’s read - Ephesians 2:4-10
4 But God, who is abundant in mercy, because of His great love that He had for us,[3] Lit love with which He loved us 5 made us alive with the • Messiah even though we were dead in trespasses. By grace you are saved! 6 He also raised us up with Him and seated us with Him in the heavens,[4] Eph 1:3,20; 3:10; 6:12 in Christ Jesus, 7 so that in the coming ages He might display the immeasurable riches of His grace in [His]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace[5] Rm 3:24; 6:14; 11:6; Gl 2:21; 2 Tm 1:9 you are saved through faith,[6] Rm 3:28; 5:1 and this is not from yourselves; it is God’s gift— 9 not from works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are His creation—created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time so that we should walk in them.
We as human beings were unresponsive to GOD or dead but through GOD’S mercy and grace HE made us alive through the miracle of rebirth with CHRIST. For all who accept CHRIST as SAVIOR, all were resurrected when CHRIST was resurrected and ascended to heaven with CHRIST because of GOD’S grace.

Through the foreknowledge of GOD, when CHRIST was resurrected, all who will ever accept CHRIST as their SAVIOR were also resurrected with HIM, made alive with CHRIST, with the same eternal life which was given to CHRIST, ascended to heaven and were then seated in heaven with HIM. Our citizenship is in heaven; eternally.

Now ponder that! Listed are some scripture for reflection. As a Christian we were crucified with CHRIST, resurrected with HIM and seated in heaven along with CHRIST.


1Pe 1:3A Living Hope
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. According to His great mercy, He has given us a new birth[6] Jn 1:13; 1 Pt 1:23 into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,


Ro 6:5The New Life in Christ


5 For if we have been joined with Him in the likeness of His death, we will certainly also be[3] Be joined with Him in the likeness of His resurrection.

Jn 11:25The Resurrection and the Life
25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in Me, even if he dies, will live.

Lk 20:36The Sadducees and the Resurrection
36 For they cannot die anymore, because they are like angels and are sons of God, since they are sons of the resurrection.

Galatians 2:19-20 – Paul tells us, he has been crucified with CHRIST.

19 For through the law I have died to the law, that I might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ; 20 and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the flesh,[10] The physical body I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.

All this is possible through the grace of GOD. Grace is unmerited favor. We do not deserve salvation but it is a free gift from GOD to all who believe in HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON.

It is absolutely impossible for any human to achieve salvation by their own efforts. If it is possible to achieve acceptance by GOD based on human effort, then CHRIST died in vain.

CHRIST says I AM THE WAY. HE did not say I will show you the way but I AM THE WAY. The proof is the resurrection.

We are saved by grace through faith in CHRIST.

Once we are saved good works flow from us because CHRIST empowers us through THE HOLY SPIRIT.

We were created to do good works as directed by GOD. Good works do not save us. Good works are fruit of THE SPIRIT.

GOD has a plan for each of us and created us in the exact time, family, location, circumstances, character, etc. to carry out HIS plan. ; All before HE created the world.

We are GOD’S handiwork.

GOD’S intent in the creation of man-kind was for man-kind to live in fellowship with HIM and to glorify GOD. Adam and Eve disobeyed which resulted in sin and death for the human race.

CHRIST by being sinless and through HIS death paid the penalty for sin and death required by GOD. GOD required it and GOD provided the means to satisfy HIS requirement through HIS ONLY SON.

As a result of CHRIST’S obedience to THE FATHER when we accept CHRIST as our SAVIOR, we are born into THE FATHER’S family. This rebirth creates afresh a new human existence of born-again humans who will never die because they have been given the gift of eternal life through CHRIST.

John 5:24 – This is JESUS speaking.

24 “I assure you: Anyone who hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment but has passed from death to life.

Now this is something to get excited about and to tell others how to obtain, it is THE GOOD NEWS. Ask GOD to show you someone who needs this GOOD NEWS today.

May our LORD bless each of you richly!

Understand GOD'S Eternal Plan

Sunday School Lesson – Understand GOD’S Eternal Plan
October 2, 2005
We begin a new series entitled “Being Holy in an Unholy World”.
The study will be in Ephesians.
October 2 – Understand GOD’S Eternal Plan – Ephesians 1:1-14
October 9 – Experiencing GOD”S Life-Changing Power – Ephesians 1:18-2:10
October 16 – Live in GOD’S Peace – Ephesians 2:11-22
October 23 – Honor GOD in HIS Church – Ephesians 3: 14-16, 20-21
October 30 - Follow GOD’S Example – Ephesians 4:22-32 and 5:1-2; 8-10
The author of Ephesians is Paul, written about 60 AD from Rome while he was imprisoned. Some Bible scholars think of Ephesians as the ultimate Christian document because Paul is not addressing a specific problem in the church at Ephesus or the surrounding churches. Therefore, Paul is free to write about the Holiness of GOD. In addition Ephesians is a handbook on the Christian faith, written to strengthen believers and explain the nature and purpose of the church and the body of CHRIST.
The early manuscripts do not include the word Ephesus. Therefore, it has been concluded that originally Ephesians was not sent specifically to the church in Ephesus but it was sent to the churches in that general area which included Ephesus. Ephesus was likely the largest city in the area as well as the largest church in the region.


Let’s begin by reading Ephesians 1:1-6.
Greeting
1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by God’s will: To the saints and believers in Christ Jesus at Ephesus.[1] Other mss omit at Ephesus 2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
God’s Rich Blessings
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavens,[2] Eph 1:20; 2:6; 3:10; 6:12 in Christ; 4 for He chose[3] Rm 11:5–7; 1 Co 1:26–31; 1 Th 1:4; 2 Th 2:13; 1 Pt 1:1–2 us in Him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in His sight.[4] Vv. 3–14 are 1 sentence in Gk. In love[5] Or In His sight in love 5 He predestined[6] Ac 4:28; Rm 8:29–30; 1 Co 2:7; Eph 1:11 us to be adopted through Jesus Christ for Himself, according to His favor and will, 6 to the praise of His glorious grace that He favored us with in the Beloved.

Paul identifies himself as an apostle as a result of GOD’S will. This gives us a clue as to what is on Paul’s mind, GOD’S will, plan, sovereignty and Holiness. It also brings in a fundamental doctrine, in order for a person to be saved GOD has to call them.

Why does GOD have to call a person to salvation? GOD in HIS wisdom and foreknowledge knows the exact time and circumstances each person is most likely to accept salvation. Therefore HE issues the invitation. HE calls the person to HIMSELF but each of us chooses.

This lesson will likely be one of the more discussed lessons because we will examine “chosen” or “election” and “predestination”. The good news is if you are already a Christian, you know you have been chosen or elected and were predestined by GOD to receive CHRIST. So let’s press on.

Paul is writing to the saints and believers in CHRIST JESUS. Remember in the original manuscripts Ephesus was not included. So it was written to the saints and believers every where, this includes us.
My first reaction when studying this, is Paul writing to two different sets of Christians, saints and believers?

No. But it helped me when I switch it to read “believers and saints” or “believers who are saints”.

Once we accept CHRIST as our SAVIOR, it is GOD’S purpose for all Christians to be saints. Saints are set aside and dedicated for service to GOD. So as a Christian you are a saint through the process of sanctification. Just plain living, as a Christian, in an unholy world provides GOD the opportunity for us to be perfected or shaped into the vessel HE wants us to be to serve HIM. The process is called sanctification. Unfortunately it is not a life of leisure but one of perfecting.

Verse 3 - It is GOD from WHOM all blessings flow, therefore the flow is from heaven to us who are in CHRIST on earth. As a Christian we are fully equipped with all spiritual blessings to serve GOD. So what is missing?

GOD never overrides our will and right to choose. We must decide to be obedient to HIM by allowing HIM to control our life as HE chooses. Submit our will to GOD. Paul said it best; it is no longer I that lives but that CHRIST lives in me.

Verse 4 – To me this is an exciting verse. GOD chose us before the foundations of the world. We are no accident of birth. GOD chose us before the foundations of the world to be holy and blameless in HIS sight. We are chosen but we have the right to accept.

Verse 5 – HE predestined us. So what does “predestine” mean? It means “to mark in advance” or “to determine beforehand”.




Chosen or election relates to “who” are elected, “people”, where as predestination relates to “what”, “purpose”, we are predestined. We are predestined to be holy, blameless and to be adopted. All according to HIS will. HE chose us. GOD pursues those who are to receive salvation.

Now this causes many to question, if GOD has chosen those who will be saved before the foundations of the world and they are predestined to receive CHRIST why do we need to present the gospel? Good question.

This is my reasoning for the necessity for presenting the gospel to all people of the earth. JESUS gave the great commission before HE ascended into heaven, gave us the parable of the Sower and gave us THE HOLY SPIRIT to manifest HIMSELF through the gifts of the spirit such as the gift of teachers, pastors, evangelists to present THE WORD to others. Confirmed by the following scripture:

Matthew 28:16-20 - The Great Commission

16 The 11 disciples traveled to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had directed them. 17 When they saw Him, they worshiped,[5] Other mss add Him but some doubted. 18 Then Jesus came near and said to them, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go, therefore, and make disciples of[6] Lit and instruct, or and disciple (as a verb) all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember,[7] Lit look I am with you always,[8] Lit all the days to the end of the age.”

Mark 4:1-9; 13-20 - The Parable of the Sower

1 Again He began to teach by the sea, and a very large crowd gathered around Him. So He got into a boat on the sea and sat down, while the whole crowd was on the shore facing the sea. 2 He taught them many things in parables, and in His teaching He said to them: 3 “Listen! Consider the sower who went out to sow. 4 As he sowed, this occurred: Some seed fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. 5 Other seed fell on rocky ground where it didn’t have much soil, and it sprang up right away, since it didn’t have deep soil. 6 When the sun came up, it was scorched, and since it didn’t have a root, it withered. 7 Other seed fell among thorns, and the thorns came up and choked it, and it didn’t produce a crop. 8 Still others fell on good ground and produced a crop that increased 30, 60, and 100 times [what was sown]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. .” 9 Then He said, “Anyone who has ears to hear should listen!”
The Parable of the Sower Explained
13 Then He said to them: “Do you not understand this parable? How then will you understand any of the parables? 14 The sower sows the word. 15 These[4] Some people are the ones along the path where the word is sown: when they hear, immediately Satan comes and takes away the word sown in them.[5] Other mss read in their hearts 16 And these are[6] Other mss read are like the ones sown on rocky ground: when they hear the word, immediately they receive it with joy. 17 But they have no root in themselves; they are short-lived. When affliction or persecution comes because of the word, they immediately stumble. 18 Others are sown among thorns; these are the ones who hear the word, 19 but the worries of this age, the seduction[7] Or pleasure, or deceitfulness of wealth, and the desires for other things enter in and choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. 20 But the ones sown on good ground are those who hear the word, welcome it, and produce a crop: 30, 60, and 100 times [what was sown]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. .”

Ephesians 4:2-13 (Gifts of THE SPIRIT to be pastors, teachers, etc.)
7 Now grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of the • Messiah’s gift. 8 For it says: When He ascended on high, He took prisoners into captivity;[3] Or He led the captives He gave gifts to people.[4] Ps 68:18 9 But what does “He ascended” mean except that He[5] Other mss add first descended to the lower parts of the earth?[6] Or the lower parts, namely, the earth 10 The One who descended is the same as the One who ascended far above all the heavens, that He might fill[7] Or fulfill; see Eph 1:23 all things. 11 And He personally gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, 12 for the training of the saints in the work of ministry, to build up the body of Christ, 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of God’s Son, [growing]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. into a mature man with a stature measured by Christ’s fullness.

CHRIST tells us to go into all the world. I take this as our instructions, as Christians, to present the gospel. JESUS tells us that the gospel will fall upon various soils. GOD tries to prepare the soil of a life but again HE never overrides our will to choose. We see in Ephesians 4:11 Paul is saying that GOD gave the apostles, etc. to train the saints, which is also the work of those gifted by GOD through THE HOLY SPIRIT.

But notice in 1 Corinthians 1:18 and 21 (Next page) Paul uses the language “the message”, which in other translations is translated as “preaching”. The message of the gospel is given through preaching, which is foolishness to those perishing but salvation to those who recognize they need to be saved from their sins and death.



1 Corinthians 1:18-21

18 For to those who are perishing the message of the cross is foolishness, but to us who are being saved it is God’s power. 19 For it is written: I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and I will set aside the understanding of the experts.[3] Isaiah 29:14 20 Where is the philosopher?[4] Or wise Where is the scholar? Where is the debater of this age? Hasn’t God made the world’s wisdom foolish? 21 For since, in God’s wisdom, the world did not know God through wisdom, God was pleased to save those who believe through the foolishness of the message preached.

Let’s discuss “chosen” or “election” and “predestination”. I will give you my thoughts on the subject. You may think differently, which is fine.

Here are my thoughts. CHRIST gave HIS life for all humans.

John 3:16-18 tells us:

16 “For God loved the world in this way: He gave His • One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.[10] 1 Jn 4:9–10 17 For God did not send His Son into the world that He might condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. 18 Anyone who believes in Him is not condemned, but anyone who does not believe is already condemned, because he has not believed in the name of the • One and Only Son of God.

CHRIST gave HIS life for every human being who will ever exist. An existence begins, in my opinion, when a sperm and egg unite.

What happens to children or the mentally challenged that die without us being aware they have asked CHRIST into their life or been alive long enough to ask CHRIST into their life?

I believe when they die they are immediately with GOD in heaven. Because there needs to be an ability to understand, comprehend and make a decision to accept or reject GOD’S provision for salvation before a person is condemned to Hell.



All humans have been “chosen” or “elected” for salvation by GOD. CHRIST gave HIS life for all humans. Even though all people are chosen or elected, not all people will choose to accept CHRIST as their SAVIOR.

Some people have been predestined for salvation. GOD in HIS sovereignty, before the foundation of the world, looked through the ages and saw those who would accept CHRIST as SAVIOR. Now GOD’S foreknowledge does not force a human to accept CHRIST as their SAVIOR. This foreknowledge let’s GOD know who will accept CHRIST.

The Bible tells us that we have guardian angles or ministering spirits to watch out for those who are to receive salvation.

Hebrews 1:13-14
13 Now to which of the angels has He ever said: Sit at My right hand until I make Your enemies Your footstool?[18] Or enemies a footstool for Your feet [19] Ps 110:1 14 Are they not all ministering spirits sent out to serve those who are going to inherit salvation?

Now why do we need guardian angels or ministering spirits?

It is a miracle we exist as a human. The bloodline for the sperm and egg which produced us had to survive over generations for us to exist. So through the miracle of physical birth, we exist. GOD knew we would exist before the foundation of the world. Our entire blood line had to be protected from the beginning of time in order for us to exist. So GOD protected our blood line so we would exist and would accept CHRIST as our SAVIOR.

Satan would try to prevent us from being born, if he could. Satan is not sovereign but he, as even we, through our human knowledge based upon history and genetics, can see the propensity for a family line to serve GOD. Thus if Satan had the opportunity, he would cut off that blood line; so GOD protects it. Of course, Satan will not cut off the bloodline of those who will not accept CHRIST because they will belong to him.
Therefore, there is a battle going on between good and evil here on earth. Remember Ephesians Chapter 6 about spiritual warfare from last week’s lesson.

So if GOD is a loving GOD, why would HE allow those who will not accept CHRIST to be born and end up in hell?

If GOD chose only those who would choose HIM to be born, then GOD’S foreknowledge would override a person’s right to choose. GOD has chosen not to override a person’s will. Therefore, we as humans exist in the world as those predestined, through the foreknowledge of GOD to receive CHRIST, along with those who will not receive CHRIST.

Only GOD knows how each human will choose but GOD does HIS part in putting stumbling blocks in the path of those who will not choose HIM to get their attention.

GOD will not have to apologize to any human when HE judges them and they are sentenced to Hell.

Since we do not know who will accept CHRIST and those who will not accept CHRIST, we are called to present the gospel. GOD calls all to accept HIM but not all will accept HIM.













Let’s read Ephesians 1: 7-12

7 In Him[7] Eph 1:11,13 we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace 8 that He lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding. 9 He made known to us the • mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure that He planned in Him 10 for the administration[8] Or dispensation; lit house law (Gk oikonomia) of the days of fulfillment[9] Lit the fulfillment of times —to bring everything together in the • Messiah, both things in heaven and things on earth in Him. 11 In Him we were also made His inheritance,[10] Or we also were chosen as an inheritance, or we also received an inheritance predestined[11] Ac 4:28; Rm 8:29–30; 1 Co 2:7; Eph 1:5 according to the purpose of the One who works out everything in agreement with the decision of His will, 12 so that we who had already put our hope in the • Messiah might bring praise to His glory.

In CHRIST we have been redeemed. As you may recall from past studies “redemption” is a term used in the days of slave trade. A price had to be paid to redeem a slave from its owner. We are redeemed from sin and death by the blood of JESUS.

Redemption is only possible because of the grace of GOD. GOD did not have to redeem mankind but HE chose to do so because of grace. Grace is unmerited favor. We as humans do not deserve to be redeemed. We cannot earn our redemption. Grace is a free gift from GOD to us through HIS only SON, JESUS.

As with any gift we have to reach out to accept it, therefore we have to ask CHRIST to forgive our sins and save us from sin and death.







Paul uses the word “mystery”. The use of the word “mystery” in spiritual terms refers to knowledge hidden in the mind of GOD and is incapable of human discovery until GOD reveals it. GOD kept the role or “mystery” of THE CROSS, the crucifixion of CHRIST hidden from the rulers during the time CHRIST lived as a human upon earth. Notice in 1 Corinthians 2:6-8 GOD predestined the event but HE had to keep it hidden because if it had been known, CHRIST would not have been crucified. GOD has a plan. HE has a plan that includes you. When GOD reveals HIS work or plan that is your invitation to join HIM. HIS work is revealed at the right moment to the right person to respond.

1 Corinthians 2:6-8
6 However, among the mature we do speak a wisdom, but not a wisdom of this age, or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. 7 On the contrary, we speak God’s hidden wisdom in a • mystery, which God predestined before the ages for our glory. 8 None of the rulers of this age knew it, for if they had known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.[3

Verse 10 - we see that GOD’S plan is to unite all things in creation in CHRIST.

Verse 11 - we are made HIS inheritance through CHRIST. GOD is working out all things according to HIS will.

Verse 12 - tells us we are made HIS inheritance to bring praise to HIS glory. We as believers can praise GOD for the redemption HE has provided through HIS SON JESUS.

Let’s read Ephesians 1:13-14

13 In Him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation—in Him when you believed—were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit. 14 He is the down payment[12] Gn 38:17–18,20; 2 Co 1:25; 5:5 of our inheritance, for the redemption of the possession,[13] the possession could be either man’s or God’s to the praise of His glory.

This scripture is so precious.
When we accepted CHRIST as our SAVIOR, THE HOLY SPIRIT came into our life. We were born into GOD’S family. We will not come under judgment but have passed from death to life. How do we know this?

THE HOLY SPIRIT is our seal, our guarantee, our security deposit, our down-payment for us to know and be assured that what we have experienced by accepting CHRIST as our SAVIOR is true and we can count on it. We can count on it now and throughout eternity. We are GOD’S children. The guarantee or warranty is from GOD and backed by GOD.

Romans 8:16

16 The Spirit Himself testifies together with our spirit that we are God’s children, 17 and if children, also heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ—seeing that[13] Or provided that we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him.

The terms used in our scripture verses 13 and 14 are business terms.

Seal refers to proof of ownership, to render secure and to establish authenticity.

In Paul’s day seals were used to seal an official document. A seal was engraved on a cylinder and the cylinder rolled over clay or wax to leave the mark behind. A seal could be a ring with a symbol pressed into hot wax or clay. If the document had the Kings seal, no one would dare tamper with it. As stated earlier the seal denoted ownership, authenticity and security.

So GOD has placed a seal upon us as Christians and marked us as HIS and no one is to mess with us.

“Down Payment” is a business term and means a deposit paid to guarantee that the full purchase price will by paid to fully redeem or possess the item. THE HOLY SPIRIT is the guarantee that we will receive our full inheritance from GOD.

The last part of verse 14 tells us that GOD’S blessings in our lives results in HIS glory.

We can trust GOD with ever detail of our life, praise HIM for HIS plan and live holy lives in an unholy world through the power, teaching, enlightenment and direction of THE HOLY SPIRIT.

WOW!!! What a journey!!!

Bible Study - Follow GOD'S Example

Sunday School Lesson – Follow GOD’S Example – October 30, 2005

This is our final lesson in our series “Being Holy in an Unholy World”.

Our background scripture is Ephesians 4:17 – 5:14

Our focus scripture is Ephesians 4:22-32; 5:1-2, 8-10

In last Sunday’s lesson we studied the scripture Ephesians 4:11-13.

Let’s read Ephesians 4:11-13 – Pay special attention to each verse.

11 And He personally gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, 12 for the training of the saints in the work of ministry, to build up the body of Christ, 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of God’s Son, [growing]* into a mature man with a stature measured by Christ’s fullness.

When preparing for today’s lesson I asked THE LORD what are YOU telling us in today’s scripture? It seems that the scripture is focusing on a do-it-yourself or works emphasis.

HIS answer is reflected in verse 13. Simply how are we, as Christians, measuring up when we are compared to the fullness of CHRIST in our life? Are we growing and maturing in THE LORD? Or do we see things from our old life coming out in our everyday life as we interact with fellow humans and in life’s situations? If we see our old life being reflected in our everyday life what do we do about it? Do we try harder?

When we recognize areas from our old life bubbling up in our everyday life, this should be a flag to us. We need to confess them to GOD and ask HIM to help us bring those areas of our life under HIS control.
We need to ask our FATHER, through the power of THE HOLY SPIRIT, to find the root of our problem and show us what needs to be done to bring it under HIS control.

GOD’S plan for each Christian is for us to reach the full measure of CHRIST or full maturity in CHRIST. To accomplish this in each of us, GOD has given spiritual gifts to Christians for the purpose of ministering to each other within the living body, which is the living church.

THE HOLY SPIRIT works within each Christian to build our character so GOD’S power can be manifested through the gifts of THE HOLY SPIRIT. When the body or living building (the living church) reaches full maturity, we as Christians will be fully equipped to be the most effective in ministry within the body and to the world around us.

If we try to conquer our problems through self-improvement we can get stressed and tied in a knot trying to perform to a standard.

Now for a quick explanation of what has been stated. This is NOT to say we do not need to read, go to a doctor, counselor, pastor, etc. GOD equips or gives gifts to others to help us through situations we face along life’s journey. GOD HIMSELF can also help us. Some things we can work out with the help of our LORD and others we need to seek help from fellow humans, all as GOD directs. We need to recognize when we need help and then pray and ask GOD to guide us to the proper resource or person which will help us. We need to ask GOD to examine our life and reveal to us the areas in our life which need to be changed and to help us bring those areas under HIS control. Often it is a matter of us letting go of a habit, addiction, something we harbor, etc.






One of the ways that GOD examines our life is through HIS WORD, the Bible. The scripture tells us in Hebrews 4:12-13:

12 For the word of God is living and effective and sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating as far as to divide soul, spirit, joints, and marrow; it is a judge of the ideas and thoughts of the heart. 13 No creature is hidden from Him, but all things are naked and exposed to the eyes of Him to whom we must give an account.

Psalm 139:23-24
23 Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. 24 See if there is any offensive[9] way in me; lead me in the everlasting way.

GOD can search us and we can look into the mirror of HIS WORD.

2 Corinthians 3:18:

18 But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.

As we live our daily life, we hear and see how we react and respond to life’s situations. How do we measure up to CHRIST?

I have to confess for myself, not well.









Let’s read our scripture Ephesians 4:21-24

21 assuming you heard Him and were taught by Him, because the truth is in Jesus: 22 you took off[9] your former way of life, the old man that is corrupted by deceitful desires; 23 you are being renewed[10] in the spirit of your minds; 24 you put on[11] the new man, the one created according to God’s [likeness]* [12] in righteousness and purity of the truth.

Verse 21 tells us if we have been born-again, we have the rights and privileges that come with being a member of GOD’S household. But we also have a responsibility to live accordingly.

Paul tells us in Romans 12:2

2 Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.

2 Corinthians 5:17

17 Therefore if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation; old things have passed away, and look, new things[11] have come.

Paul compares our old life and our new life in CHRIST in verses 22-24 to our clothing. We are taking off our old nature and putting on our new nature. This exchange of natures is taking place in the center of our being or what I like to think of as “the eyes of our heart”.

In verse 23 Paul uses the plural “minds”. This to me is the mind of the old nature or flesh being brought under the control of our new mind which comes with being born-again in the spirit.



In fact I think as humans, we deal with a spectrum of flesh minds. The spectrum ranges from the lower end of the flesh mind which yields to the desires of the flesh with little or no self-control to the higher end of the flesh mind, which is a very moral self-controlled mind. This range is determined by our flesh nature, environment and heredity.

A person has to be careful when they clean up their own house or life versus GOD cleaning up a life. When GOD cleans a life, HE fills it with THE HOLY SPIRIT so it is not left empty by the renewing of the mind. The following scripture illustrates this point.

Matthew 12:43-45
An Unclean Spirit’s Return
43 “When an unclean[15]spirit comes out of a man, it roams through waterless places looking for rest but doesn’t find any. 44 Then it says, ‘I’ll go back to my house that I came from.’ And when it arrives, it finds [the house]* vacant, swept, and put in order. 45 Then off it goes and brings with it seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they enter and settle down there. As a result, that man’s last condition is worse than the first. That’s how it will also be with this evil generation.”

Paul discusses this war between the flesh and the spirit in Romans Chapters 7 and 8; Copied at the end of this lesson.

In CHRIST we are clothed in “righteousness and purity of truth”.









Let’s read Ephesians 4: 25-32

25 Since you put away lying, Speak the truth, each one to his neighbor,[13] because we are members of one another. 26 Be angry and do not sin.[14] [15] Don’t let the sun go down on your anger, 27 and don’t give the Devil an opportunity. 28 The thief must no longer steal. Instead, he must do honest work with his own hands, so that he has something to share with anyone in need. 29 No rotten talk should come from your mouth, but only what is good for the building up of someone in need,[16] in order to give grace to those who hear. 30 And don’t grieve God’s Holy Spirit, who sealed you[17] for the day of redemption. 31 All bitterness, anger and wrath, insult and slander must be removed from you, along with all wickedness. 32 And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you[18] in Christ.

Verse 24 in the previous scripture tells us we have put on GOD’S nature in righteousness and purity of truth. Then beginning with verse 25 Paul instructs all Christians about our responsibility for being a member of GOD’S household. We have a responsibility.

Verse 26 Paul says “be angry and do not sin”. There is good anger and bad anger. JESUS got angry when HE cleared the temple of money changers. GOD gets angry at our sin but loves the sinner.
It is okay when we get angry over the right issues such as the wrong people do; injustices, lying, stealing, killing, etc., just keep it in perspective.

Verses 27 and 28 give us a clue regarding anger. First take action about that which makes us angry. We also need to keep in mind that Satan can use our anger to work us into a state of bitterness and resentment. So when we get angry do something about it don’t let it fester within us. The same is true when we get angry at GOD.



We need to recognize if we have overreacted to a situation then go and settle that matter as soon as possible. When an issue is really bugging us we need to not let it fester within us and grow to an even larger problem. Get it out into the open so it can be dwelt with.

How often do we hear someone say, “I could not sleep at all last night for thinking about this situation. We need to discuss it or I need to get it off my chest.”

I think Verses 29 and 30 are straight forward.

In verses 30-32 we are to keep in mind that we represent CHRIST, we are sealed with THE HOLY SPIRIT and we have been forgiven for our wrong doings. So do not get self-righteous, be kind and compassionate to others. We need to remember where we came from.

Let’s read Ephesians 5:1-2

1 Therefore, be imitators of God,[1] as dearly loved children. 2 And • walk in love, as the • Messiah also loved us and gave Himself for us, a sacrificial and fragrant offering to God.

Notice the transition from Chapter 4 to Chapter 5; “Therefore” imitate you FATHER. Imitate or mimic your heavenly FATHER.

HE wants us to be a “chip off the old block” in attitude and action.

CHRIST said “I do nothing on MY own, only what I see MY FATHER doing.”

JESUS was obedient to THE FATHER. HIS one purpose was to do the will of THE FATHER. THE FATHER taught HIM.



John 5:30 – JESUS is speaking.

30 “I can do nothing on My own. I judge only as I hear, and My judgment is righteous, because I do not seek My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.

John 8:28-29
28 So Jesus said to them, “When you lift up the • Son of Man, then you will know that I am [He]* , and that I do nothing on My own. But just as the Father taught Me, I say these things. 29 The One who sent Me is with Me. He has not left Me alone, because I always do what pleases Him.”

JESUS mimicked THE FATHER. Oh FATHER open our eyes such that we can see YOU work and help us to have such character that we will mimic you completely.

As we live our daily lives our new nature is to love others as CHRIST loves us. CHRIST’S love for us is agape love, which is love that does not demand that others love us in return for our love toward them.

CHRIST’S love and self sacrifice sent a fragrant offering to GOD, THE FATHER.

Have you ever thought about your life as being a fragrance to GOD? Well it is.

2 Corinthians 2:15-16

15 For to God we are the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. 16 To some we are a scent of death leading to death, but to others, a scent of life leading to life. And who is competent for this?

I love the thought of being a sweet smelling aroma to GOD and to others. Of course the scripture tells us we stink to others. I don’t think I smell too good but in CHRIST, we as Christians are a wonderful fragrance to GOD. WOW you smell so good!!!!

Let’s read Ephesians 5:8-10

8 For you were once darkness, but now [you are]* light in the Lord. walk as children of light— 9 for the fruit of the light[4] [results]* in all goodness, righteousness, and truth— 10 discerning what is pleasing to the Lord.

We are to live consistent with being a “chip of the old block”.

We are to reflect the character and qualities of our FATHER – goodness, righteousness and truth.

We are to “discern” which means “to test” or “examine” for the purpose of approving.

We live in an unholy world but we are Holy through our rebirth in CHRIST. We are GOD’S children. As we go along life’s pathway we give off a fragrance.



We represent the family name of GOD. Keep in mind son or daughter in CHRIST our name is precious because GOD has given us a new name and it is written down in glory by the blood of HIS ONLY SON, JESUS. You are precious to GOD and CHRIST!!

Our FATHER loves you so.

You know I have never noticed this before but you have your FATHER’S eyes.

This is the day THE LORD has made rejoice and be glad in it.

Again I say rejoice for you a member of GOD’S household!
Chapter 7
An Illustration from Marriage
1 Since I am speaking to those who understand law, brothers, are you unaware that the law has authority over someone as long as he lives? 2 For example, a married woman is legally bound to her husband while he lives. But if her husband dies, she is released from the law regarding the husband. 3 So then, if she gives herself to another man while her husband is living, she will be called an adulteress. But if her husband dies, she is free from that law. Then, if she gives herself to another man, she is not an adulteress. 4 Therefore, my brothers, you also were put to death in relation to the law through the [crucified]* body of the • Messiah, so that you may belong to another—to Him who was raised from the dead—that we may bear fruit for God. 5 For when we were in the flesh,[1] the sinful passions operated through the law in every part of us[2] and bore fruit for death. 6 But now we have been released from the law, since we have died to what held us, so that we may serve in the new way[3] of the Spirit and not in the old letter of the law.
Sin’s Use of the Law
7 What should we say then? Is the law sin? Absolutely not! On the contrary, I would not have known sin if it were not for the law. For example, I would not have known what it is to covet if the law had not said, Do not covet.[4] 8 And sin, seizing an opportunity through the commandment, produced in me coveting of every kind. For apart from the law sin is dead. 9 Once I was alive apart from the law, but when the commandment came, sin sprang to life 10 and I died. The commandment that was meant for life resulted in death for me. 11 For sin, seizing an opportunity through the commandment, deceived me, and through it killed me. 12 So then, the law is holy, and the commandment is holy and just and good.
The Problem of Sin in Us
13 Therefore, did what is good cause my death?[5] Absolutely not! On the contrary, sin, in order to be recognized as sin, was producing death in me through what is good, so that through the commandment sin might become sinful beyond measure. 14 For we know that the law is spiritual; but I am made out of flesh,[6] sold into sin’s power. 15 For I do not understand what I am doing, because I do not practice what I want to do, but I do what I hate. 16 And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree with the law that it is good. 17 So now I am no longer the one doing it, but it is sin living in me. 18 For I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my flesh. For the desire to do what is good is with me, but there is no ability to do it. 19 For I do not do the good that I want to do, but I practice the evil that I do not want to do. 20 Now if I do what I do not want, I am no longer the one doing it, but it is the sin that lives in me. 21 So I discover this principle:[7] when I want to do good, evil is with me. 22 For in my inner self[8] I joyfully agree with God’s law. 23 But I see a different law in the parts of my body,[9] waging war against the law of my mind and taking me prisoner to the law of sin in the parts of my body.[10] 24 What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? 25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord![11] So then, with my mind I myself am a slave to the law of God, but with my flesh, to the law of sin.



Chapter 8
The Life-Giving Spirit
1 Therefore, no condemnation now exists for those in Christ Jesus,[1] 2 because the Spirit’s law of life in Christ Jesus has set you[2] free from the law of sin and of death. 3 What the law could not do since it was limited[3] by the flesh, God did. He condemned sin in the flesh by sending His own Son in flesh like ours under sin’s domain,[4] and as a sin offering,[5] 4 in order that the law’s requirement would be accomplished in us who do not • walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. 5 For those whose lives are[6] according to the flesh think about the things of the flesh, but those whose lives are[7] according to the Spirit, about the things of the Spirit. 6 For the mind-set of the flesh is death, but the mind-set of the Spirit is life and peace. 7 For the mind-set of the flesh is hostile to God because it does not submit itself to God’s law, for it is unable to do so. 8 Those whose lives are[8] in the flesh are unable to please God. 9 You, however, are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, since[9] the Spirit of God lives in you. But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him. 10 Now if Christ is in you, the body is dead[10] because of sin, but the Spirit[11] is life because of righteousness. 11 And if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead lives in you, then He who raised Christ from the dead will also bring your mortal bodies to life through[12] His Spirit who lives in you.
The Holy Spirit’s Ministries
12 So then, brothers, we are not obligated to the flesh to live according to the flesh, 13 for if you live according to the flesh, you are going to die. But if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. 14 All those led by God’s Spirit are God’s sons. 15 For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry out, “• Abba, Father!” 16 The Spirit Himself testifies together with our spirit that we are God’s children, 17 and if children, also heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ—seeing that[13] we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him.
From Groans to Glory
18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is going to be revealed to us. 19 For the creation eagerly waits with anticipation for God’s sons to be revealed. 20 For the creation was subjected to futility—not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it—in the hope 21 that the creation itself will also be set free from the bondage of corruption into the glorious freedom of God’s children. 22 For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together with labor pains until now. 23 And not only that, but we ourselves who have the Spirit as the • firstfruits[14]—we also groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for adoption, the redemption of our bodies. 24 Now in this hope we were saved, yet hope that is seen is not hope, because who hopes for what he sees? 25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with patience. 26 In the same way the Spirit also joins to help in our weakness, because we do not know what to pray for as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us[15] with unspoken groanings. 27 And He who searches the hearts knows the Spirit’s mind-set, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. 28 We know that all things work together[16] for the good[17] of those who love God: those who are called according to His purpose. 29 For those He foreknew[18] He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers. 30 And those He predestined, He also called; and those He called, He also justified; and those He justified, He also glorified.
The Believer’s Triumph
31 What then are we to say about these things? If God is for us, who is against us? 32 He did not even spare His own Son, but offered Him up for us all; how will He not also with Him grant us everything? 33 Who can bring an accusation against God’s elect? God is the One who justifies. 34 Who is the one who condemns? Christ Jesus is the One who died, but even more, has been raised; He also is at the right hand of God and intercedes for us. 35 Who can separate us from the love of Christ? Can affliction or anguish or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36 As it is written: Because of You we are being put to death all day long; we are counted as sheep to be slaughtered.[19]37 No, in all these things we are more than victorious through Him who loved us. 38 For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing will have the power to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord!