January 18, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Ephesians Chapter 4

¹ I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,

² With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;

³ Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

⁴ There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;

⁵ One Lord, one faith, one baptism,

⁶ One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.

⁷ But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.

⁸ Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.

⁹ (Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth?

¹⁰ He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.)

¹¹ And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

¹² For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:

¹³ Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:

¹⁴ That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;

¹⁵ But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:

¹⁶ From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.

¹⁷ This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind,

¹⁸ Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart:

¹⁹ Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.

²⁰ But ye have not so learned Christ;

²¹ If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus:

²² That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;

²³ And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;

²⁴ And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

²⁵ Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.

²⁶ Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:

²⁷ Neither give place to the devil.

²⁸ Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.

²⁹ Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.

³⁰ And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.

³¹ Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:

³² And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction:

Ephesians Chapter 4 marks the transition from theological teaching to practical living in the Apostle Paul’s letter. He calls believers to unity within the church and emphasizes the diversity of spiritual gifts that serve to build up the body of Christ. Additionally, he urges Christians to embrace a new way of life characterized by truth, love, and holiness.

Commentary:

Paul begins with a strong exhortation to live a life worthy of God’s calling (v. 1). He highlights the importance of humility, gentleness, patience, and love as the foundation for unity in the Spirit (vv. 2-3). The emphasis on “one body, one Spirit, one Lord, one faith, one baptism” (vv. 4-6) clearly illustrates the fundamental unity of Christians. At the same time, Paul underscores the diversity of gifts that Christ has given to believers to strengthen the body of Christ (vv. 7-13).

His warning against false teachings (v. 14) shows the necessity of spiritual maturity to remain steadfast in faith. Paul encourages the church to grow in love and to recognize Christ as the head (vv. 15-16). The contrast between the “old self” and the “new self” (vv. 22-24) highlights the radical transformation that Christians are called to undergo. Practical instructions for daily life (vv. 25-32) demonstrate that this new life should be shaped by truth, reconciliation, and love for one another.

Summary:

Ephesians 4 calls believers to unity in Christ, founded on love, humility, and peace. Despite this unity, there is a diversity of gifts meant to build up the church. Paul urges Christians to put off the “old self” and live in righteousness and holiness. Practical guidance—such as honesty, forgiveness, and compassionate actions—should guide daily life, enabling the church to grow in Christ and reflect God’s love.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 87—“To My Father, and Your Father”
This chapter is based on Luke 24:50-53; Acts 1:9-12.
Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction:

In Chapter 87 we learn about the final act of Jesus’ earthly life and His ascension into heaven. Jesus, having triumphed over death and sin, prepares to ascend to His Father in heaven. This moment marks the completion of His mission on Earth and the lasting promise of His presence in the hearts of believers. The place of His ascension—the Mount of Olives—is not merely a geographical location but a place rich with memories of Jesus’ life, prayers, and His struggle for humanity’s salvation. The ascension signifies the transition from Jesus as the suffering Redeemer to the triumphant King ascending to heaven.

Commentary:

Chapter 87 presents Jesus’ ascension as an act of victory and fulfillment. After completing His earthly mission and revealing Himself as the living Savior, He enters the heavenly realms. This moment is bittersweet for the disciples—filled with sorrow at parting from their Master but also with hope, as they now have confirmation of His victory over death. The Mount of Olives, once a place of Jesus’ prayers and struggles, now becomes the stage for His farewell. Yet, this farewell is not final; rather, it marks the beginning of a new era of hope. Jesus promises to remain with His followers and assures them that He will return one day in glory.

The angels affirm to the disciples that Jesus has not departed forever but will return in the same way they saw Him ascend. The image of heavenly hosts welcoming their King symbolizes Jesus’ future triumph at His second coming. Before this moment, Jesus raises His hands in blessing—a powerful affirmation of His presence and ongoing connection with the disciples. This blessing uplifts the disciples spiritually, filling them with joy and confidence in Christ’s continued presence and His role as their intercessor.

Summary:

Chapter 87 portrays Jesus’ ascension as a profound moment of exaltation and victory. The Mount of Olives, once a place of prayer and struggle, becomes the setting for His glorious ascent into heaven. After offering His disciples comfort and the promise of His return, Jesus is taken up by a cloud, disappearing from their sight. The angels proclaim that Jesus will return in the same way. This event conveys a dual message to believers: the comfort and assurance of Christ’s ongoing presence and the hope of His glorious return. The disciples return to Jerusalem with newfound joy and confidence, their hearts filled with praise and gratitude for the living Christ, who continues to live and intercede for them.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/18-01-2025-ephesians-chapter-4-believe-his-prophets/

3.6 Summary
Being Pleasing to God – Living in His Love and Grace

Lesson 3 demonstrates what it means to lead a life that pleases God and how we can live in close relationship with Him through faith, love, and dedication. God’s joy over us and His grace are at the center of this lesson.

3.1 More Valuable Than You Can Imagine
The Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11–32) and Zephaniah 3:17 illustrate God’s unconditional love and mercy. God rejoices exuberantly when people return to Him—regardless of their faults. This joy challenges us to act with love and compassion, without envy or self-righteousness.

3.2 Rejoicing with Enthusiasm
God not only feels love but also active joy over His people (Zephaniah 3:17). Like the father in the Parable of the Prodigal Son, God runs to us when we repent. His joy motivates us to forgive others with enthusiasm and celebrate reconciliation.

3.3 Pleasing God?
God takes pleasure in people who live with sincerity, love, and righteousness (Isaiah 43:4; Psalm 149:4; Proverbs 15:8–9). He does not seek empty rituals but a genuine, humble heart.

3.4 Living Stones
Through Jesus Christ, we are living stones in God’s building (1 Peter 2:4–6). Our faith is not passive but active. God shapes us and empowers us to offer spiritual sacrifices that please Him (Hebrews 11:6).

3.5 A Valuable Goal
The story in Mark 9:17–29 vividly shows that God does not expect perfect faith. Even honest, albeit weak, trust is sufficient. Jesus accepted the father’s small faith and effected healing.

Overall Conclusion:
God does not demand perfect faith but an honest heart that seeks Him. His joy in us is based on His infinite love and grace. As living stones, we are called to carry God’s love and righteousness into the world. Our valuable goal is to please God through our faith, actions, and love.

Lesson 3 not only shows us what it means to live pleasingly to God but also challenges us to actively integrate these principles into our daily lives. God’s love, grace, and joy in us should inspire us to consciously align our daily lives with His will.

1. Accept and Share Unconditional Love (3.1)

   God loves us unconditionally, as demonstrated in the Parable of the Prodigal Son. This love challenges us to meet others with love, patience, and mercy.

In Daily Life:

• Forgive people, even when it’s difficult.

• Approach others, even if they have made mistakes.

• Show compassion instead of judging.

2. Live Joy and Enthusiasm in Faith (3.2)

   God actively rejoices over us. This joy should reflect our faith—lively, enthusiastic, and contagious.

In Daily Life:

• Live your faith with joy, e.g., through praise and gratitude.

• Celebrate reconciliation when relationships are restored.

• Encourage others and acknowledge their successes.

3. Lead a Life of Sincerity and Righteousness (3.3)

   God seeks sincerity, not mere outward piety. Our hearts and actions should align with His will.

In Daily Life:

• Be honest and authentic in relationships.

• Stand up for justice and support the vulnerable.

• Make decisions that are driven by love and compassion.

4. Recognize Our Calling as Living Stones (3.4)

   We are living stones in God’s building—each of us has a significant role in God’s plan.

In Daily Life:

• Actively use your gifts and talents to help others.

• Take responsibility in the church or community.

• Consciously understand yourself as part of God’s grand plan.

5. Act with Honest Faith (3.5)

   God does not expect perfect faith but an honest heart. Even small faith can achieve great things.

In Daily Life:

• Speak honestly with God about doubts in prayer.

• Show trust even when the path is unclear.

• Take courageous small steps in faith, even in uncertainty.

Overall Connection to Daily Life:

• Live in Trust: Trust God despite uncertainties and doubts.

• Practice Neighborly Love: Accept and love others as God loves us.

• Act Justly: Treat others fairly and respectfully.

• Share Joy: Make God’s joy visible in everyday life.

• Actively Participate: Take responsibility and help build God’s kingdom through concrete actions.

Conclusion:            
Living pleasingly to God means accepting His love and actively reflecting it in our lives. It requires faith, sincerity, and compassion in our interactions with others. Our faith should motivate us to act courageously and lovingly, use our gifts, and take small steps to grow closer to God. A life in God’s love and grace is the most valuable goal we can pursue. An honest heart and even the smallest faith are enough to let God’s love and grace work in your life.

Even the smallest spark of faith can achieve great things when it is rooted in God’s love.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-3-to-be-pleasing-to-god-3-6-summary-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/

January 17, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Ephesians Chapter 3

¹ For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles,

² If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward:

³ How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,

⁴ Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)

⁵ Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;

⁶ That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:

⁷ Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.

⁸ Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;

⁹ And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:

¹⁰ To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,

¹¹ According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:

¹² In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him.

¹³ Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.

¹⁴ For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,

¹⁵ Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named,

¹⁶ That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man;

¹⁷ That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,

¹⁸ May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height;

¹⁹ And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.

²⁰ 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,

²¹ Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction:

Ephesians Chapter 3 is a central section in the Apostle Paul’s letter to the church in Ephesus. Here, Paul speaks about his calling to proclaim the Gospel to the Gentiles and reveals the previously hidden mystery of God: the Gentiles are now co-heirs of the promise in Christ. This chapter also contains an impressive prayer in which Paul asks for inner strength and a deep understanding of God’s love within the congregation.

Commentary:

Paul describes himself as a “prisoner of Christ Jesus” (v. 1), highlighting both his physical imprisonment and his complete dedication to his mission. The “mystery” revealed to him (vv. 3-6) concerns the equality of Jews and Gentiles in the Kingdom of God—a revolutionary message at the time. Paul humbly acknowledges his calling as the least of all saints (v. 8) to proclaim the “unsearchable riches of Christ.” The intercessory prayer in verses 14-21 reveals Paul’s pastoral heart: he prays for spiritual strength, faith, and love for the church. He especially emphasizes the immeasurable dimension of Christ’s love (vv. 18-19), which surpasses all human understanding. The concluding doxology (vv. 20-21) honors God’s supreme power, which far exceeds human comprehension.

Summary:

Ephesians 3 focuses on Paul’s divine calling to bring the Gospel to the Gentiles and the great mystery that all believers are equal in Christ. He emphasizes God’s wise and gracious guidance in this plan. In his prayer, Paul asks that believers be strengthened inwardly, that Christ may dwell in their hearts, and that they may fully grasp the limitless love of God. Paul concludes by praising God for His immeasurable power and glory.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 87—“To My Father, and Your Father”
This chapter is based on Luke 24:50-53; Acts 1:9-12.
Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction:

In Chapter 87 we learn about the final act of Jesus’ earthly life and His ascension into heaven. Jesus, having triumphed over death and sin, prepares to ascend to His Father in heaven. This moment marks the completion of His mission on Earth and the lasting promise of His presence in the hearts of believers. The place of His ascension—the Mount of Olives—is not merely a geographical location but a place rich with memories of Jesus’ life, prayers, and His struggle for humanity’s salvation. The ascension signifies the transition from Jesus as the suffering Redeemer to the triumphant King ascending to heaven.

Commentary:

Chapter 87 presents Jesus’ ascension as an act of victory and fulfillment. After completing His earthly mission and revealing Himself as the living Savior, He enters the heavenly realms. This moment is bittersweet for the disciples—filled with sorrow at parting from their Master but also with hope, as they now have confirmation of His victory over death. The Mount of Olives, once a place of Jesus’ prayers and struggles, now becomes the stage for His farewell. Yet, this farewell is not final; rather, it marks the beginning of a new era of hope. Jesus promises to remain with His followers and assures them that He will return one day in glory.

The angels affirm to the disciples that Jesus has not departed forever but will return in the same way they saw Him ascend. The image of heavenly hosts welcoming their King symbolizes Jesus’ future triumph at His second coming. Before this moment, Jesus raises His hands in blessing—a powerful affirmation of His presence and ongoing connection with the disciples. This blessing uplifts the disciples spiritually, filling them with joy and confidence in Christ’s continued presence and His role as their intercessor.

Summary:

Chapter 87 portrays Jesus’ ascension as a profound moment of exaltation and victory. The Mount of Olives, once a place of prayer and struggle, becomes the setting for His glorious ascent into heaven. After offering His disciples comfort and the promise of His return, Jesus is taken up by a cloud, disappearing from their sight. The angels proclaim that Jesus will return in the same way. This event conveys a dual message to believers: the comfort and assurance of Christ’s ongoing presence and the hope of His glorious return. The disciples return to Jerusalem with newfound joy and confidence, their hearts filled with praise and gratitude for the living Christ, who continues to live and intercede for them.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/17-01-2025-ephesians-chapter-3-believe-his-prophets/

3.5 A Worthy Goal
A Valuable Goal – Pleasing God with Faith

Read Mark 9:17–29. How does God respond to the man in this story? How much faith is enough faith?

The story in Mark 9:17–29 powerfully illustrates how patient and merciful Jesus is with our weak faith. The father of the possessed boy is desperate and openly confesses his doubt to Jesus: “I believe; help my unbelief!” (v. 24). This honest statement shows that the man has faith but also struggles with uncertainty. However, Jesus does not reject him. Instead of rebuking him for his imperfect faith, Jesus accepts this weak faith and acts with full compassion.

1. God’s Acceptance of Honest Faith

   Jesus does not require perfect or strong faith. He desires honest faith—even if it is accompanied by doubt. The father in the story presents his request with the humble plea to Jesus to overcome his weakness. Jesus demonstrates here that even the smallest spark of faith is sufficient when it is sincere.

2. Faith as Relationship, Not Performance

   Faith does not mean that we understand everything or that we must be free of doubts. Rather, it is an expression of trust in God’s power—even when we are uncertain. Jesus does not call us to first have “enough” faith, but He invites us to come to Him with everything we have. This faith is not perfect, but it is genuine.

3. God’s Power Works Despite Our Doubt

   The healing of the boy shows that God’s power does not depend on the strength of our faith. It is not the degree of our faith but the object of our faith—Jesus Christ—that makes the difference. Therefore, we can come to God with all our weaknesses and doubts, for He works through His grace.

4. A Valuable Goal: Living Pleasingly to God

   As Paul encourages, we should aim to live pleasingly to God (2 Corinthians 5:9). This means growing in trust in God, bringing our uncertainties to Him, and allowing Him to shape us. This includes acting in love, exercising patience, and remaining steadfast in prayer (Romans 12:10–13).

Connection to Daily Life:

• Be Honest Before God: We can openly express our doubts and fears to God because He meets us with grace.

• Practice Trust: Even small faith can achieve great things when it is rooted in Jesus.

• Take Steps in Faith: Instead of waiting for perfect faith, we should act with the trust we have.

• Ask God for Growth: Just as the father asked Jesus to overcome his unbelief, we can ask God to strengthen our faith.

Conclusion:
God does not expect perfect faith but an honest heart that seeks Him. Even the smallest faith that turns to Jesus is enough for God to work through. This knowledge encourages us to grow in trust and align our lives to live pleasingly to God—in love, patience, and dedication.

Why Should We Accept Others More if God Accepts Us Through Christ? What Do the Commandment of Loving Your Neighbor (Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 22:39) and the Golden Rule Tell Us in This Context?

If God accepts us unconditionally through Christ despite our imperfections and faults, this challenges us to also meet others with the same love, acceptance, and mercy. God’s grace toward us is the highest model for how we should treat our fellow human beings.

1. The Foundation of Loving Your Neighbor

   In Leviticus 19:18, it says, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” This commandment was emphasized by Jesus in Matthew 22:39 as the second greatest commandment after loving God: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” This love calls us to treat others with the same respect, patience, and care that we desire for ourselves.

Since God loves us despite our faults, we are also to forgive others, treat them with respect, and do good to them—regardless of whether they “deserve” it from a human perspective. This love is not superficial or selective but encompasses all people, regardless of their background, opinions, or behavior.

2. The Golden Rule – Active Loving Your Neighbor

   Jesus emphasizes the so-called Golden Rule in Matthew 7:12: “So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them!” This rule calls us not only to be passively kind but to actively do good. It translates loving your neighbor into concrete actions: just as we expect understanding, patience, forgiveness, and respect, we should extend these values to others.

3. Acceptance that Enables Change

   God accepts us not because we are perfect but to transform us through His love. Similarly, we can help others grow and heal through our acceptance and love. People who are accepted unconditionally often experience inner healing and transformation. Our love can be a reflection of God’s love, leading others to Him.

4. Overcoming Prejudices and Boundaries

   God’s acceptance knows no boundaries. Jesus met outcasts, sinners, and people on the margins of society with love and mercy. We are also challenged to shed prejudices, meet others openly, and consciously reach out to those who are different from us.

Connection to Daily Life:

• Practice Forgiveness: Just as God has forgiven us, we should forgive others—even when it is difficult.

• Show Empathy: Put yourself in others’ shoes and treat them as you would like to be treated.

• Live Boundless Love: Love people without reservations—regardless of their background, opinions, or past.

• Actively Do Good: Don’t wait passively but take the first step to create peace and strengthen relationships.

Conclusion:        
God’s acceptance through Christ is the greatest model for our behavior toward others. If God loves us despite our faults, how much more should we meet others with love, patience, and mercy. Loving your neighbor and following the Golden Rule call us to actively live out this divine love and make God’s character visible in the world through our attitude and actions.

The connection between faith and loving your neighbor with our daily lives and faith is essential to leading a life that is pleasing to God. The story from Mark 9:17–29 and the commands of loving your neighbor from Leviticus 19:18 and Matthew 22:39 show us how we can practically live out this faith.

1. Living Faith in Daily Life – Even with Weaknesses

   Like the father in Mark 9:24, we too can come to God with our imperfect faith. Our daily lives are marked by challenges, doubts, and uncertainties. But we can know that Jesus accepts even the smallest faith and works through it.

In daily life, this means:

• Courageous Prayer: Pray boldly, even when unsure if and how God will answer.

• Trusting Decisions: Make decisions trusting in God’s guidance.

• Honest Communication: Bring our doubts and fears honestly to God and ask Him to strengthen our faith.

2. A Life Pleasing to God

   As Paul encourages in 2 Corinthians 5:9, our goal should be to please God. This happens not through perfection but through faith that is expressed in love, patience, and dedication.

Practical Implementation:

• Exercise Patience: Be patient in dealing with difficult people.

• Persistent Prayer: Continue praying even when changes are slow to occur.

• Active Love: Love others actively by serving them in love and forgiving them.

3. Loving Your Neighbor as Living Faith

   The commandment of loving your neighbor challenges us to extend God’s acceptance of ourselves to others. If God loves us despite our faults, we should also meet others with this love.

In daily life, this means:

• Forgiveness: Forgive others, even when hurt.

• Show Empathy: Empathize by putting yourself in others’ shoes.

• Be Helpful: Actively work for the well-being of others.

• Break Down Prejudices: Overcome prejudices and treat people with respect regardless of their background or opinions.

4. The Golden Rule as a Standard for Our Actions

   The Golden Rule from Matthew 7:12 calls us to treat others as we would like to be treated. This attitude transforms our interactions.

Practically, this means:

• Express Appreciation: Show appreciation where often criticism prevails.

• Show Helpfulness: Help others without expecting anything in return.

• Seek Peace: Strive for peace where conflicts exist.

5. Faith and Loving Your Neighbor as a Valuable Goal

   Our faith is not a static state but a living relationship with God that changes our thinking and actions. Pleasing God means growing in faith and making this love visible through concrete actions.

This means for our daily lives:

• Act Consciously: Act not out of duty but out of love for God.

• Reflect God’s Love: Reflect God’s love in family, friendships, and the workplace.

• Live in Community: Live in communities where acceptance and love are the foundation.

Conclusion:
God does not call us to have perfect faith or flawless love. He invites us to come to Him with everything we have—even our doubts and weaknesses. In daily life, this means living our faith in small steps and meeting others with the same love and mercy we have experienced from God. Our goal should be to live pleasingly to God through faith and loving our neighbor—a life full of trust, dedication, and active love.

Even the smallest spark of faith can achieve great things when it is rooted in God’s love.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-3-to-be-pleasing-to-god-3-5-a-worthy-goal-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/

January 16, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Ephesians Chapter 2

¹ And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins;

² Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:

³ Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.

⁴ But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,

⁵ Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)

⁶ And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:

⁷ That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.

⁸ For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

⁹ Not of works, lest any man should boast.

¹⁰ For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

¹¹ Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands;

¹² That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world:

¹³ But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.

¹⁴ For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;

¹⁵ Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace;

¹⁶ And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:

¹⁷ And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.

¹⁸ For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.

¹⁹ Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;

²⁰ And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;

²¹ In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:

²² In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

The second chapter of the Epistle to the Ephesians deepens the understanding of the new life as a gift of God’s grace and the restoration of unity between Jews and Gentiles through Jesus Christ. Paul vividly describes the former spiritual deadness of believers, who were separated from God by sins and transgressions, and how they were made alive through God’s mercy and love. This chapter highlights the transformative power of God’s grace and emphasizes that salvation is received not through human works but solely through faith in Christ. Additionally, it underscores the importance of unity within the Church, made possible through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Commentary

Paul begins the chapter with a sobering depiction of the believers’ former state: “You were dead in your transgressions and sins” (Ephesians 2:1). This metaphor of death emphasizes the complete separation from God and humanity’s inability to save itself. He further describes how believers once lived according to the desires of their flesh and the spirit of this world, making them “children of wrath” (Ephesians 2:3).

The turning point comes in verse 4, where Paul highlights God’s abundant mercy and great love: “But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us.” Here, the fundamental message of grace is emphasized—salvation is a gift from God that cannot be earned through human efforts. “For by grace you have been saved through faith” (Ephesians 2:8).

Paul continues to explain the new identity of believers in Christ. They are “made alive with Christ” and “seated with Him in the heavenly realms” (Ephesians 2:5–6). This spiritual rebirth is an essential part of the Christian experience, emphasizing the close connection between God and believers.

Another central point is the unity of the Church, which includes both Jews and Gentiles. Before redemption, Gentiles were “without Christ, alienated from the citizenship of Israel” (Ephesians 2:12). Through Christ’s work, this separation was overcome: “For He is our peace, who has made the two one” (Ephesians 2:14). Christ abolished hostility through His flesh and created a new humanity that lives together in peace.

Paul describes the Church as the “Holy Temple” and emphasizes that believers are “built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone” (Ephesians 2:20–21). This imagery illustrates the stability and holiness of the Church and Christ’s central role as its head.

Summary

Ephesians Chapter 2 conveys a powerful message of salvation and unity through God’s grace. Paul describes the former spiritual deadness of believers and highlights how they were made alive through God’s mercy and the love of Christ. Salvation is not achieved through human works but solely through faith in Jesus Christ. This new life in Christ leads to the unity of the Church, which includes both Jews and Gentiles, with Christ as the cornerstone and head of the community. The chapter emphasizes the transformative power of God’s grace and the importance of unity and holiness within the Christian community, which serves as God’s holy temple.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 87—“To My Father, and Your Father”
This chapter is based on Luke 24:50-53; Acts 1:9-12.
Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction:

In Chapter 87 we learn about the final act of Jesus’ earthly life and His ascension into heaven. Jesus, having triumphed over death and sin, prepares to ascend to His Father in heaven. This moment marks the completion of His mission on Earth and the lasting promise of His presence in the hearts of believers. The place of His ascension—the Mount of Olives—is not merely a geographical location but a place rich with memories of Jesus’ life, prayers, and His struggle for humanity’s salvation. The ascension signifies the transition from Jesus as the suffering Redeemer to the triumphant King ascending to heaven.

Commentary:

Chapter 87 presents Jesus’ ascension as an act of victory and fulfillment. After completing His earthly mission and revealing Himself as the living Savior, He enters the heavenly realms. This moment is bittersweet for the disciples—filled with sorrow at parting from their Master but also with hope, as they now have confirmation of His victory over death. The Mount of Olives, once a place of Jesus’ prayers and struggles, now becomes the stage for His farewell. Yet, this farewell is not final; rather, it marks the beginning of a new era of hope. Jesus promises to remain with His followers and assures them that He will return one day in glory.

The angels affirm to the disciples that Jesus has not departed forever but will return in the same way they saw Him ascend. The image of heavenly hosts welcoming their King symbolizes Jesus’ future triumph at His second coming. Before this moment, Jesus raises His hands in blessing—a powerful affirmation of His presence and ongoing connection with the disciples. This blessing uplifts the disciples spiritually, filling them with joy and confidence in Christ’s continued presence and His role as their intercessor.

Summary:

Chapter 87 portrays Jesus’ ascension as a profound moment of exaltation and victory. The Mount of Olives, once a place of prayer and struggle, becomes the setting for His glorious ascent into heaven. After offering His disciples comfort and the promise of His return, Jesus is taken up by a cloud, disappearing from their sight. The angels proclaim that Jesus will return in the same way. This event conveys a dual message to believers: the comfort and assurance of Christ’s ongoing presence and the hope of His glorious return. The disciples return to Jerusalem with newfound joy and confidence, their hearts filled with praise and gratitude for the living Christ, who continues to live and intercede for them.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/16-01-2025-ephesians-chapter-2-believe-his-prophets/