 |
| Return to the Library>>>>>> |
|
| Return to the Library>>>>>> |
 |
|
|
|
Our Position in Christ
Ephesians 2:1-22
Today we are going to talk about our position in Christ. In this chapter, Paul takes the time to restate some things that he said in the first chapter. He wants our hearts and minds to be clear about the issue of whom we belong to, and what is expected of us.
There are three principles that we will be dealing with that all blend into one thought. Here is how I will lay it out for you:
Now let's pray�..Father, I thank you for the way you teach us to walk in your ways. Open the eyes and hearts of these people so they can know you and walk in the way you have chosen for them. Bless them in all that they do, say and think. Refresh their spirits and make them whole again.
Ephesians 2:1-10 (on being made alive in Christ)
In verses 1-3 Paul reminds us of our former position in life, one of death, destruction, and uselessness. Our sinful lifestyle put us in that place. We are reminded of following our evil passions, desires, and lusts. All of these only satisfy our natural selves. And were born out of selfish desires. Because of this we put ourselves under God�s curse.
Do you remember those days? Days of suffering, sadness, and various forms of depression, anger, and hatred! Perhaps, some of you still live with some of these desires. You don�t need to! Some of you are saved, walking with the Lord, but still battle with these problems. You need to renew your mind! (Romans 12:1-2) That takes setting yourself apart from friends, family, and all other distractions and locking on target with the Lord! Ask him what he wants you to do, or not do to fulfill your destiny.
In verses 4-7 we learn more about the abundance of God�s love for us. Paul tells us how, through love, the Lord empowers us to new life. Through the Lord�s favor and mercy we were given �new life� instead of sentenced to death. Where would we be without mercy? We also know that we do not stand condemned as Christians because we have been given life. (Romans 8:1-5) Most Christians really don�t understand that they are no longer condemned. We need to reorient our mouth to speak the same word that the Bible does. Jesus never spoke ill of his disciples. When he taught he stayed positive. The only people that got badmouthed were the Pharisees, and that was because they were deceivers. They deceived the people because they were deceived themselves.
Another point is that we are God�s masterpiece. (verses 8-10) He does everything in perfection. He put his seal on us (the Holy Spirit) so no one can say they did it themselves. This is another thing that we, as Christians need to get a hold on! We are his jewels, the apple of his eye. He is well pleased with us! We need to have right thinking about ourselves.
Verses 11-18 (Oneness in spirit; peace in Christ)
In verses 11-12 Paul explains how the Hebrews excluded the Gentile Nations. Gentiles couldn�t be part of the family because they were not the chosen of God, but they were to be treated humanly. The Hebrews chose not to do that. If you study the book of Numbers you will see what Jehovah God really had in mind for the Gentiles. It would take too much time to fully explain here and I want you to study some things on your own.
I will say this: the Pharisees made up laws as they went along because they wanted to control the people. And, unfortunately, we still have some of those in Churches today. Pray for that type of person, they are deaf and blind to the truth of the Gospel.
In verses 13-18 we can see that the death, burial, and resurrection of the lord is what ties everyone together. It is in him that we have life. All of us! There is no longer Jew, or Greek, male or female. We are one in him. Only through Jesus could freedom be obtained.
Here's something to think about�.How many of you put down another denomination because they don�t worship the way you do? Charismatics trash Baptists because they don�t speak in tongues, Baptists trash Charismatics because they do. Everyone trashes those who are Catholic because of Idol worship (specifically praying to saints and to Mary.) {Yet there are many Catholics who know and love Jesus who don�t do those things.} Mainline churches such as the Methodists, Presbyterians, Nazarenes, etc. are considered DOA Some of you are badmouthing other charismatic churches because they are different from yours. STOP IT!!!!
My experience with various denominations is that everyone has a solid piece of the Rock {Jesus}. When everyone comes together under Christ�s headship, awesome power is released. We are one body under the headship of Christ. (Read 1 Corinthians 12-14)
In verses 19-22 Paul reiterates that we are joined and fitted together into one holy living temple, Jews, Gentiles, and everything in between. Throughout the Gospels Jesus talks about grafting in the Gentiles to the family of God. Throughout the Old Testament we see the prophecies about it.
I am not one to use trite sayings, but I feel this one is appropriate for this study. �United we stand. Divided we Fall.� Think about it!!
Be Outrageously Blessed!
Pastor
E-mail: Soaring Eagle Ministries
Be Outrageously Blessed!
Pastor Earl
Last updated February 20, 2004
|
||