Abundantly Overflowing

Note: Beginning this month, we are making a change in our ministry. Its focus will be adjusted to primarily encourage and edify women in their many roles to understand, apply, and teach others the Word rightly divided. Brian has decided not to write any longer but will continue to edit and be an integral support. Of course, articles will be written so all can benefit from the articles and verses.

The book of Ephesians is advanced teaching that builds upon previous, more foundational doctrine, which are found in Romans through Galatians. It centers on our eternal destiny and heavenly calling, helping saints to stay focused above to glorify Him, especially during great suffering or tribulation. Understanding the purpose of this book, along with how it is functional in our walk as women, can enable and empower us in our ministries, but also in our day-to-day lives.

The book marvelously opens by reviewing how the Body has been given so, so much; all of which is ‘in God’s Son.’ Count for yourselves, how many times similar phrases are used by Paul in Ephesians 1, such as: “in Christ,” “in Him,” “in whom,” “in the beloved,” and “in himself.” What a joy to think on the abounding blessings that God has gifted to “the Body of Christ.” Note a few of them in just 4 verses:

                  Verse 3: “All spiritual blessings in heavenly places.”

                  Verse 4: “Chosen us… holy and without blame.”  

                  Verse 5: “Predestined us unto the adoption of children.”

                  Verse 6: “To the praise of the glory of his grace” and “Accepted in the beloved.”

Next, let us take a peek at another aspect of the book, uncovering a great Truth. It is through the grace doctrine given to us that we can understand our personal access to God’s great power and wisdom. Take time to consider the context:

-His power is deposited in us as we read, believe, and walk it out, trusting Him: “And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power.” (Ephesians 1:19)

–God’s manifold wisdom is made known by us through Christ in our inner man: “And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery…To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God.” (Ephesians 3:9-10)

–God is able to do so much for us as we appropriate the doctrine given: “Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us.” (Ephesians 3:20)

As we walk out our role as women, trusting Christ and desiring to apply what God has given to us, we can observe that it is all Christ and His resurrection life shining forth. This enables us to know the love of Christ, be filled with all the fulness of God, and allow His wisdom and power to be manifest within us as we negotiate any kind of suffering and persecution. We will be able to stand, using His armor, so that we can boldly hold forth the Truth as ambassadors for Christ. (Eph.6:18-20)