The knowledge that Paul is praying for includes an intellectual grasp of the truth, but it also grips our emotions and brings our will into greater submission to the lordship of Jesus Christ. Ephesians 1:17-18 - MSG Bible - But I do more than thank. I ask - ask Hope in Scripture is the absolute certainty of future good. (Lehman Strauss Commentary Devotional Studies on Paul's Letters to the Galatians and Ephesians- online), Kenneth Wuest says that dunamis "power in the sense of that which overcomes resistance or effects a change" (In Mark 5:30 literal Greek = Jesus, perceiving in Himself the out from Him power going out) It was some of (Jesus') supernatural power which He felt leaving Him in the accomplishing of the miraculous cure". (Mark 12.30+). As we develop sensitivity to His voice, we move forward with what we know. -- Glenn Spencer, Glenn Spencer - Old fashioned Holy Ghost power is the need of the day. Even the ancients considered the heart to be the very center of a person -- the center of knowledge, understanding, thinking, wisdom. But there is a second reason why we need Gods power. 3:20). Paul saw fit to teach simple believers, many of whom were slaves, the great doctrines of Romans and Ephesians and his other letters. Comment: The fact that Paul qualifies this "hope" as "one hope" emphasizes that there is the same ultimate, glorious reality for all of the church, whether Jew or Gentile! To run an organization needs no God. Energeia describes Gods power in raising Christ, Paul instructing the Colossian saints that they have "been buried with Him (Christ) in baptism, in which you were also raised up with Him through faith in the (supernatural) working (energeia) of God, Who raised Him from the dead (Note well - Paul says the Holy Spirit is God and He was the the One Who "raised Jesus from the dead" - Ro 8:11+) " (Col 2:12+). He needs the Spirit to enlighten him (1 Cor. 1.12; Odes Sol. In our struggle with everything that sets itself against the knowledge of God, we have some incredible resources. 36.2; 59.3). can ignite great endeavors. You have given us freedom, That I'm dressed in Your royalty Paul Rader, former wrestler and boxer, became one of the most powerful evangelists of the early 20th century. "and to earnestly desire to walk worthy of the calling to which they have been called, motivated by the "hope of His calling". (THE MEASURE OF IMMEASURABLE POWER). And what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints. Ye may know what is the hope of his calling. (Click to read more about your inheritance in Spurgeon's Sermon A Wise Desire based on Ps 47:4). The Message Canvas Bible: Coloring and Journaling the Story of God, Spring Palette, The Message Large-Print Devotional Bible, softcover, The Message, Large Print, Brown Trio Leather-Look, Message Slimline Bible--soft leather-look, brown/tan, Pause - The Message//REMIX: A Daily Reading Bible - eBook, The Message New Testament with Psalms and Proverbs - eBook. I dare not trust the sweetest frame, The definite article in Greek ("the") precedes pisteuo, which means these are literally "the" believing ones (i.e., they are genuine believers). That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms. 2 Chronicles That is, probably, "the thing hoped for," because promised, at our calling (as in Galatians 5:5; Colossians 1:5; Titus 2:3; Hebrews 6:18; and perhaps 1Timothy 1:1), for the other objects of knowledge with which it is here joined are certainly objective or external to ourselves. The power he prays we will know is literally according to the power of the strength of his might which he worked in Christ, raising him from the dead (vv. 6:4; Heb. He called you to Himself and will hold you there, no matter what circumstances you face. Spirit, soul, and body must be freely yielded to the great Husbandman. No. What Does It Mean That There Is No One Holy Like God? Theyre depressed and discouraged because they dont see the big picture of eternity. Amazing grace! God demands that we obstinately oppose Satan, as those Romans untiringly harried Hannibal. Imagine a couple of demons speaking. It is a very high honor conferred upon God's servants, that it is said of them, "He shall choose their inheritance." Lamentations In summary, Paul is praying for one of the things these believers need to fully understand and to deeply realize -- the hope of God's calling. Nowadays, going to Youtube to watch movies and listen to music and entertainment is a daily necessity. Hither the Apostle Paul first went after he had been at Corinth, though he then made but a short stay; when he came thither again, he found twelve disciples, and was the instrument of making a great many more: here he continued two or three years and formed a Gospel church, very large and flourishing, to whom he writes this epistle; and which was written by him when he was a prisoner at Rome, as appears by several passages in it, \Eph 3:1 4:1 6:20\, and seems to have been written much about the same time as were the epistles to the Philippians, and to the Colossians, and to Philemon. KJV And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power. Galatians Victory is ours! But as far as our inheritance of God's grace is concerned, there are no preferences, no step-children's portions, no arbitrary distinctions. Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field: Which indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof. Memorize them which will facilitate "meditation on the fly" (when you don't have your Bible open, but you do have the text written on the "tablet" of your heart). All of this is for Gods glory (Ephesians 1:6,12,14). 3:21; Col. 2:12; 2 Thess. Where do we find the power to overcome anger, resist greed, offer forgiveness, or pursue sexual purity? But it is mind-boggling when he prays that we will know the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints! Vincent has a discussion of two related words ischus and dunamis (in his note on 2 Peter 2:11) -. John D. Rockefeller was the worlds first billionaire. 3:1421). Because My coming is near, and your heavenly account is pretty small, Im giving you an opportunity to make some huge investments in the few days that remain before you go to heaven., You for whom this day has seemed as a thousand yearsrejoice. (Eerdmans Publishing- usedby permission), It is difficult to give a clear distinction between the 3 Greek words that expand on the meaning of "the surpassing greatness of His power (dunamis)", but in simple terms it pictures the piling up of similar terms in an attempt to convey the magnitude and capability of God's incomprehensible, infinite power. And not just for the time being, but. ", It is power. The resurrection power of Jesus Christ (Acts 1:8-note, cp Col 1:29-note, Eph 3:20-note). Exodus For example, a young nursery worker may read about babies languishing in Romanian orphanages. From the base of dokeo; glory, in a wide application. This indicates how precious his people are to God. What a battle He had in us before we would be won! Hebrews I never heard such a sermon in all my lifeEphesians 1:18. Here it is the other way around. Copyright 2023, Bible Study Tools. Ephesians 1:18-23The Message. But that he should find the riches of glory in them!--this passes thought. (Ephesians 1:15-23 Possessing the Possessions in Christ). If not, why not? Comment: In light of this incredible truth, walk in a manner worthy of your high calling (Eph 4:1), in a manner that gives [glory or] a proper opinion to others of your Owner! You. 1:9), God has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity. Knowing that you are saved because in eternity God purposed to save you and that His purpose is certain, will give you assurance you when youre struggling with doubt or failure. (1Jn 5:13+), Comment: A T Robertson writes that eidomeans "to know with settled intuitive knowledge. (Wuest Word Studies - Eerdman Publishing CompanyVolume 1,Volume 2,Volume 3- usedby permission), William Barclay says that dunamis "is the word from which dynamite comes. 10:10): a strong consolation (Heb6:18): a mighty angel (Rev18:21). The deadline for submitting an application for a higher pension has been extended to May 3 from March 3.. Employees who were in service prior to September 1, 2014, and continued to be in service . 15-19Thats why, when I heard of the solid trust you have in the Master Jesus and your outpouring of love to all the followers of Jesus, I couldnt stop thanking God for youevery time I prayed, Id think of you and give thanks. In favor of this view is the context of Ephesians 1 (verses 3, 11, & 14). Jesus healed by the power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 10:38); cast out demons by the power of the Holy Spirit (Mt 12:28); was resurrected from the dead by the power of the Holy Spirit (Ro 8:11+); and was seated at God's right hand in the heavenly places through the power of the Holy Spirit (Eph 1:19, 20+). Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope (living because of the resurrection of Christ Who ultimately is our "Hope" as Paul states in 1Timothy 1:1 "Christ Jesus, our hope") through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 2:20). ), "What I do you do not realize (eido- know beyond a shadow of a doubt) now, but you shall understand (ginosko- understand by your experience) hereafter. It reflected honour upon God and wrought dismay in the hosts of evil. Rely on His grace and strength in doing so. Reprinted by permission. 14:13, 17; 24:18; Deut. The Son has accomplished redemption through His death (Ephesians 1:7) and provided the necessary provisions for an inheritance for the believer (verse 11). That is what Paul desires for them and for all believers. In Ephesians 1:18 the Greek word forheart is singular so that Paul is praying for each individual person's heart! Living on the inside (You set us free) Once on the mission field, he is willing to suffer hardships and separation from family and friends because the call of God is his greatest motivation. He sealed us with the Holy Spirit so that we might be kept until the day of redemption, absolutely, totally, eternally secure in our salvation. THOUGHT - God's great doctrine of our calling should cause all the "called of Jesus Christ" to exclaim "Glory! Suggestions for Prayer: Thank God for the privilege of being His child. 4:7). She begins to pray for direction. Help me tounderstand the confident hope I have in Christ Jesus my Lord. They have raised harvests of bread out of the Incarnation; and vintages of blood-red grape from the scenes of Gethsemane and Calvary; and pomegranates and all manner of fruit out of the mysteries of the Ascension and the gift of the Holy Ghost. But I do more than thank. God has laid up spiritual blessings for us in his Son the Lord Jesus; but requires us to draw them out and fetch them in by prayer. Now, I'm no longer bound by sin and darkness We do not ask for it we were born into its blessed privilege. The hand that bled to make it mine, Deuteronomy 2:1416). What Does It Really Mean That Your Body Is a Temple? Malachi What shall we say of those who think that conversion is wrought by the free will of man, and is due to his own betterness of disposition? I may have a call to go to the mission field in Africa. Undefiled! Thats why he prayed for our enlightenment (Eph 1:18). Ephesians 1:18 - Spiritual Wisdom - Bible Hub And everyone who has this hope fixed on Him purifies himself, just as He is pure. So pray for others and for yourself, that God will enlighten the eyes of your heart through His Word so that you will know what is the hope of His calling. 28:9; 33:12; 78:62, 71; 106:5, 40; Isa. Although dynamite is derived from this word, there is no suggestion here or anywhere in the Bible that Gods power is instantaneous or explosive. But, as weve seen (1:13), believers have been sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise. Since Gods promises are as certain as He is faithful, the hope of our calling is not some vague, wishful thinking that everything will work out for our good. The eye; fig: the mind's eye. If we do walk in the Spirit we will not fulfil the lust of the flesh. (Meyer, F B: Our Daily Homily). The discoveries youll make, the understanding you will glean, the gifts of praise, the expression of even frustrated prayer will affect you for the next zillion years. As priests, these sons certainly understood the facts about God, but they did not have a relationship with him. 8:30), And these whom He predestined, He also called; and these whom He called, He also justified; and these whom He justified, He also glorified. That sequence is certain! I cant handle hearing all of the heartbreaking prayer requests for sick children, terminally ill relatives, and church members in financial turmoil.. And not just barely free, either. Now therefore, our God, we thank Thee, and praise Thy glorious name (1 Chron. Throughout Scripture, the word hope always refers to that which is coming, to that which is ahead. Why? 1:9; 1 Co. 4:5; Eph. Ephesians 1:18 In-Context 16 I couldn't stop thanking God for you - every time I prayed, I'd think of you and give thanks. Pray Ephesians 1:17-19 (and other Pauline prayers). Probably, ere long the whole will have been opened up to European civilization and commerce. Ezra 9:8 But now for a brief moment grace has been shown from the LORD our God, to leave us an escaped remnant and to give us a peg in His holy place, that our God may enlighten our eyes and grant us a little reviving in our bondage. How long he laid siege to our hearts! Read the Bible, discover plans, and seek God every day. In other words, this is not just an intellectual ability to understand or teach these truths. How does the Spirit enlighten you? When our hearts are set to obey the Lord, He confirms His call in a variety of ways: godly counsel, natural gifting, fruitful results, Scripture, and a sense of rightness that does not conflict with any of the other confirmations. - Now, I want to ask you a question: Are you sitting in this auditorium, this morning, or are you sitting in heavenly places? 19:8; 2 Ki. The surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe. So that (1519) (eis) conveys the primary idea of motion into any place or thing figuratively as here speaks of the purpose for the Ephesian saints having been enlightened. But in order that you may know (eido) that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins-- He said to the paralytic--I say to you, rise, take up your pallet and go home. The inner man can see (Ps. As you pray and study Gods Word, He transforms and renews your mind (Rom. If we want to know what the Divine Power can make of us, let us turn to look with the eye of faith upon what it has made of Jesus Christ. Kratos means strength or might, the power to rule or control or exert dominion (power to rule, supreme authority, sovereignty, the right to govern or rule or determine). In the Greek culture the seat of emotions would be the intestines. That's a good description of the way God gives His riches to us. F B Meyer writes about THE SAINTS' INHERITANCE IN GOD (Ephesians 1:14, Ephesians 5:5). But if we want our church to truly be the church, the things Paul prayed for here are vastly more important. Since land was divided by lot, probably in the framework of common use of the fields, kleros came to mean a share, land received by lot, plot of land, and finally inheritance. The principle is that we should pray for the promises of God to be realized in our hearts (cf 2Pe 1:4) Only the Spirit can reveal spiritual truth. There must be no reserve put on any part of our being. However, this is not a new sentence in Greek. We could never defeat these spiritual foes in our own power, but we can through the Spirits power. Ischus is used as an attribute of God in the Revelation saying with a loud voice, "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power (dunamis) and riches and wisdom and might (ischus) and honor and glory and blessing." He is the Spirit of wisdom and revelation (Isa. Such a glorious hope inspires to holy living and to a hatred of all that is of this world. These things are brought about by the power of God for the believer. Thus we know that He will fulfill all of His promises to us. It may, however, be explained by a piece of farming that I learnt recently. Our Lord gave us an object lesson on this truth when He spoke about faith as a grain of mustard seed. Now Paul deals with the third area, that is, the greatness of his power which God directs toward believers (for a structural layout of the prayer, see 1:16b). There are seminary professors who can exegete the Greek text here, but these glorious truths do not thrill their hearts. It is utterly impossible to put the fullness of divine reality in human language, to compress the infinite into what is finite. We are mean enough to wish to make all we can of God, and to give Him as little as possible of ourselves. The present glories of the ascended Christ are glories possessed by a Man, and, that being so, they are available as evidences and measures of the power which works in believing souls. It is the power of God that made this possible. For years, Ive been hearing Jesus could come at any time. The new has come, Now I have resurrection power living on the inside 1:18). B. This expectation of seeing Jesus, our "Blessed Hope" [see below] and being like Him is entertained equally by both Jewish and Gentile believers. But with God this shall never be. The Christian Church is precious to God. In other words Paul is saying God's resurrection power is of such a magnitude and quality that it exceeds all standards of physical magnitude! 4:4, 6). Acts 4:18 = hardness of heart; Eph. First, he raised Christ from the dead (v.20). The possessive pronoun shows that it is Gods inheritance.Because of His choosing, redeeming, adopting, and sealing us, we are his possession. It is Christs coming to take His own to be with Himself. Resurrection Power. The little boy just stood there and made no move for the candy. This thought is too great to fully comprehend in this life! Notice that pisteuo is in the present tense which describes those who are continuously believing as for example would be demonstrated by their lifestyle, which is generally (not perfectly) directed God-ward and Heaven-ward (homeward). It was everlasting power. Because He wants to hang out on the Columbia River? Also, the parallel passage (Col. 1:12) refers to our sharing in the inheritance of the saints in Light. Other Scriptures also refer to the inheritance that is stored up for those who are Gods children through faith in Christ (Acts 20:32; 26:18; Heb. The emphasis is not on that which is little, but rather that which starts out small and grows into something bigger and stronger. Therefore, whereas the hope that was produced by his calling looked back to the past, his inheritance in the saints will be fully realized in Christs coming to get his saints." From kleronomos; heirship, i.e. BGT . What kind of riches are you looking for? Don't you think it's time that the people of God begin to understand and to exercise Kingdom Authority? We are His own possession. The former is given by knowledge as well as by madness or rage; but strength comes from nature and a healthy state of the body. ESV having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints. From the grave of mortality to the throne of the eternal God, who only has immortality; from the darkness of the tomb to the insufferable light; from this small world to the centre and metropolis of the universe. Paul is praying "that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, having the eyes . On the other hand, in the OT the hope of the righteous is directed toward the eternal God who will protect and ultimately deliver if not now, certainly in the future. Rather, if we are the called according to Gods purpose, then we know that He is actively working all things together for our good, both in time and in eternity (Rom. Verse of the Day , Ephesians 1:18 Treasury of Scripture Knowing, God, My Praise (Study In God - All I Need-19). It means to make known in reference to the inner life or transcendent matters and thus shed light upon. They have laid all God's revealed character under contribution. In that case, it was used of the believers inheritance which is their share in heaven. Literally this verse reads, The eyes of your heart being enlightened. We think of the heart as the emotional part of man, but in the Bible, the heart means the inner man, and includes the emotions, the mind, and the will. But I do more than thank. But, also. We might expect Paul to pray for enlightened minds rather than hearts, but thats because we associate the word heart with emotions rather than with thought. When her teacher finally did let her discover for herself that she would one day be Queen of England, Victorias response was, Then I will be good! Her life would be controlled by her position. There are a good number of folks who have believed and been saved who's faith hasn't grown. He was sometimes called the New Elijah. In 1916, while pastoring Moody Memorial Church of Chicago, Rader, 30, was asked to preach at Los Angeles Church of the Open Door. The Lord pursued His disobedient servant until Jonah submitted himself to the call. Paul explained (Col. 1:29), For this purpose also I labor, striving according to His power, which mightily works within me. Laboring in His power is the antidote to burnout.

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