The Scripture makes it very clear that as we focus on purity we experience power from above. Paul stressed this in his final letter to his understudy Timothy. “Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter [i.e., “iniquity”], he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work” (2Ti 2:21). How? The process is simple: God the Father works through the Son. The Son works through the Holy Spirit. The Spirit works through the Word. The Word works through the believer. The believer works through living faith.
Gene Cunningham - June 9, 2003
Ephesians #14
Though unworthy, the prodigal son's father restored his: robe - authority; ring - bank account; and sandals - service. Our Father pours out His Grace unconditionally to those seeking reconciliation. Eph 3:8-13 Paul considers himself much the same as the prodigal -- "less than the least of the saints" (1Co 15:9, Eph 3:8, 1Ti 1:15). We have "unsearchable riches" because of our relationship (Eph 3:8). "Fellowship" -- economy -- the law of the household in Eph 3:9, is the same word for dispensation, and speaks of stewardship. The "mystery" was hid from angels, the "manifold wisdom of God" (multi-colored Eph 3:10) -- Jesus death is His victory (Rom 8:28), power in weakness and enigma -- making sinners saints. Five works of the Holy Spirit at salvation: union (1Co 12:13), regeneration (Tit 3:5), indwelling (Rom 8:9-11), gifts (1Co 12:7), and sealing (Eph 1:13, Eph 4:30). The norm and standard (Eph 3:11) -- the cross -- the means by which He fulfills His purpose. We have bold access to Grace (Eph 2:18, Eph 3:12, Rom 5:1-2, Heb 4:16, Heb 10:19-22). In Eph 3:13 Paul encourages us not to evaluate circumstances inappropriately (2Co 4:7). The principal of the cross is our guide.
Scripture References: Titus 3:5, Ephesians 3:12, Romans 8:28, Ephesians 2:18, Ephesians 3:10, Ephesians 3:11, Ephesians 3:13, Ephesians 3:9, Ephesians 4:30, Hebrews 10:19-22, Ephesians 3:8, Ephesians 1:13, Hebrews 4:16, Ephesians 3:8, Romans 8:9-11, Romans 5:1-2, Ephesians 3:8-13
From Series: "Ephesians"
More than any book Ephesians reveals the blessings from God based on our relationship with Jesus Christ by grace through faith. Eph 1:3 is the a key verse. Other key verses by chapter include Eph 2:8 Eph 3:19 Eph 4:1 Eph 5:18 and Eph 6:10-11.