“Knowing God’s Riches, Glory & Greatness” 3/19/06
POINT 1- The reputation of the Ephesians earned them Paul’s PRAISE
A. He commends them for exhibiting true FAITH. V. 15a
“You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe -- and tremble! But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead?” James 2:19-20 also see Gal. 5:17-22. Which are you exhibiting?
2 Corinthians 13:5
B. He also commends them for their love for ALL the saints. V. 15b
JOHN 13:35 / 1 COR 13
“Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins.” 1 Peter 4:8
REV 2:4 – They lost it
POINT 2- Paul understands their needs and offers to God a PETITION
A. He prays that they may know the greatness of God’s PROMISES that are found in the knowledge of Him. V.17
2 Tim 4:1-4
“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” Hosea 4:6
B. He prays that they may know the greatness of God’s PLAN. V. 18
C. He prays that they may know the greatness of God’s POWER. V. 19-20
WHAT IS STRONGER THAN RESURRECTION POWER?
Finances? Marriage? Prodigals? If God did it for Jesus, he can do it for us!
D. He prays that they may know the greatness of God’s PERSON. V. 21
POINT 3- There are many ways we hinder God’s best for us.
A. SIN- LACK OF OBEDIENCE
B. LAZINESS IN THE WORD
C. SELECTIVE OBEDIENCE
D. NO PERSEVERANCE
E. LACK OF PATIENCE
CLOSING
Jesus is our Lord and Head. We are the fullness of Jesus here on earth. He has called us to take this message to our community in HIS POWER (Vv. 22-23).