What Is God's Plan For The Church? | Following after Christ

What Is God’s Plan For The Church?

LESSONS FROM PAUL’S LETTER TO THE EPHESIANS. Have you seen a yard sign like the one below? Many members of the church here display a yard sign inviting the community to come to this page every Monday for a new article. Scroll down to view all previous articles in this series.

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Monday, March 31, 2025

Ephesians #27: Some Conclusions to God’s Wisdom Being Known

Paul informed his Gentile readers that God’s wisdom has been made manifest by looking at the church. He then gives three consequences, as they pertain to the Gentiles, to God’s wisdom being made known (Ephesians 3:11-13).

The first consequence is that the church, which was “in accordance with God’s eternal purpose,” came into existence. All of God’s plans for the church were complete “before the foundation of the world.” God had worked out everything in His mind before anything was created.

After God created the world, all He needed to do was execute His plans. Paul tells us God “carried out [those plans] in Christ Jesus our Lord.” After Jesus ascended to heaven, it was now time for the church to come into existence; and it did!

Because the church came into existence, those who are Christians can have the “boldness and confident access,” through their faith, to approach God with anything they desire to talk to Him about. There is no reason to be shy when approaching God about anything! This is not an arrogant approach, but one full of confidence and courage.

The third consequence that Paul mentions is that the Gentile brethren in Ephesus should not be ashamed of Paul being in prison nor the tribulations he was enduring because of his preaching God’s mystery. Paul does not want them to be embarrassed because of his imprisonment. On the other hand, Paul wants them to consider his incarceration to be a cause for their glory.

We might ask, “Why would Paul’s imprisonment” be a cause to glory? The answer might be that Paul was doing the work God had commissioned him to do so well and, as a result, Paul’s enemies wanted to get rid of him and the message he was preaching.

Paul did not want the Ephesians to become discouraged or “lose heart” because of his circumstances. Even though it might sound strange, Paul wanted them to be encouraged because of his imprisonment and his tribulations. It is very possible that he wanted them to see his “tribulations on your behalf” as being something positive. It was proof Paul had done and was doing what Christ had commissioned him to do.

As Christians, when we consider these consequences to God’s wisdom being revealed, it should cause us to be extremely happy. As members of this church that God planned before the foundation of the world, we can approach God with boldness and confidence. As Christians, Paul’s tribulations are our proof that he was doing what God wanted him to do. Therefore, our conclusion should be that we want to be as diligent as possible at living God’s way.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, March 24, 2025

Ephesians #26: Results of Paul Preaching God’s Mystery

Labeling the mystery that had been revealed to him as God’s grace, Paul gives several results of his preaching this grace. This mystery was given to him by God (Ephesians 3:8-10).

Describing himself as “the very least of all saints,” Paul is probably not being literal, but rather reflecting the way he looked at himself considering what God had done for him and the responsibility God had given him. He felt unworthy of such an important task, especially since earlier in his life he persecuted the church, even killing Christians. He considered himself unworthy of preaching “the unfathomable riches of Christ” and the “manifold wisdom of God” as it relates to the church.

Paul mentions three results of his preaching God’s mystery to the Gentiles. He proclaimed the “unfathomable riches of God,” he brought to “light what is the administration of the mystery,” and he made known “the manifold wisdom of God.”

Included in Paul’s preaching, to both Jews and Gentiles, were things that could not be described or understood using human words. Paul wanted those who listened to him to know that the “riches of God,” which were all the blessings God would give to His followers, were really incomprehensible for the human mind. By using the word “unfathomable” Paul reveals that nothing is superior to what God has to offer.

Paul’s preaching explained how “this mystery” would be administered. Every project must have a plan. The more detailed the planning, the more likely the goal will be achieved. In the case of God’s mystery, Paul says he revealed God’s plans for the church, something “hidden in God who created all things.”

The final point Paul makes in this passage is informing the Gentiles that his preaching has made known “the manifold wisdom of God … through the church.” When we consider the church, we see all the different aspects of God’s wisdom. While possibly difficult to comprehend, we can understand this aspect of God when we purposefully read to understand Paul’s writings.

God wants mankind to know what He has done, especially in bringing the church into existence. At the beginning this was accomplished by those who preached the mystery of God. Today, we can know about the unfathomable riches of God, how the church is to be administered, and have a glimpse into the many different aspects of God’s wisdom by reading what Paul, the other apostles, and the prophets wrote.

By reading and understanding the New Testament, everyone can know about these results. When Christians apply what is recorded in the New Testament, then they will be faithful members of the church God established and will be living God’s way.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, March 17, 2025

Ephesians #25: A Portion of God’s Mystery Revealed

After Paul describes how the Gentiles in Ephesus could read and understand the revelation God had given him, Paul then reveals a portion of God’s mystery. He states the Gentiles are now “fellow heirs and fellow members of the body, and fellow partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel” (Ephesians 3:6, 7).

Paul has been leading up to this statement since chapter two. The Gentiles are now on equal par with the Jews when both of them are “in Christ Jesus.” There is no distinction between the two, the “wall” has been broken. They are now part of the “building” that is being built with Christ Jesus as the cornerstone and the foundation being the apostles and prophets.

Something else is said in these two verses that we should notice. By these two groups of people, Jews and Gentiles, being united, there is now a new group of people who are “God’s people.” Collectively they are called Christians. They are heirs to the same thing, they are members of the same body, and they are partakers of the same promise that is “in Christ Jesus through the gospel.”

Both Jews and Gentiles can now receive the things God has “been saving up” to give to them. Both Jews and Gentiles are now constituents of the same body. And, both Jews and Gentiles are going to indulge in all the promises God has made to those who are “in Christ Jesus through the gospel.”

The second thing to notice is that all of this is “through the gospel.” This gospel is the “mystery” that God has revealed to Paul, who was “made a minister, according to the gift of God’s grace which was given to [him] according to the working of [God’s] power.”

Paul became a “minister” of this gospel that was preached to the Gentiles because of what God had done and not anything Paul had done. Paul was given this “gift” because of “God’s grace.” Paul became God’s servant to the Gentiles because of Jesus appearing to Paul one day while he was traveling to Damascus. This appearance was for the purpose of giving Paul instructions concerning his salvation and to appoint him to be an apostle to the Gentiles (Acts 26:12-18 and especially verses 16-18).

Paul never forgot this “gift of God’s grace” that was given to him. Christians today should not only be thankful for God being gracious to Paul, but also for Paul using this “gift of God’s grace” to preach to the Gentiles. By reading, understanding and obeying God’s revealed mystery, we can be heirs, members, and partakers as a result of everyday living God’s way.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, March 10, 2025

Ephesians #24: God’s Steward to the Gentiles

After stating the apostles and prophets were the foundation of the building Jesus would build, Paul begins to talk about being appointed as God’s steward to the Gentiles (Ephesians 3:1-5). Before he was a Roman prisoner, Paul was given “the stewardship of God’s grace” for the sake of the Gentiles. What a contrast in positions!

Paul begins to describe himself, his qualifications to speak to the Gentiles, how he received the message God wanted the Gentiles to hear, and how they would be able to understand this God-given message. Paul wants to make the point that God has appointed him to this position and given him this responsibility. Paul did not presumptuously take it upon himself.

When writing this letter to the Ephesians, Paul was in a Roman government prison somewhere in Rome. However, he does not identify himself as a government prisoner, but rather he labels himself as a “prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles.” He wants his readers to understand the real reason he is in prison. It is not for criminal activity, but rather for being a steward of God’s message to the Gentiles.

In describing himself, Paul is telling the Ephesians that God placed him in an official capacity with the responsibility of managing or overseeing the delivering of the message of God’s grace to the Gentiles. Paul says he was given this message by revelation from God. He calls this revelation “the mystery.”

The readers would interpret this “mystery,” not as something that could not be known, but as something God had previously not revealed to mankind. Paul states in verse five that this “[mystery] has now been revealed to His holy apostles and prophets in the Spirit.”

Paul’s message to all Gentiles is that they could know about this “mystery” because he had written it down, they could read it, and they could understand what he wrote. By having his understanding, they would know what Paul understood about this mystery.

Paul did not take lightly this stewardship, this enormous task and heavy responsibility, God placed upon him. The book of Acts records Paul’s efforts of being a superb manager of God’s message to the Gentiles. Paul’s writings, as a component of this stewardship of God’s message, can be read and understood.

It is of vital importance that we understand what Paul wrote. It is imperative we do not place our own meaning upon the content of these various letters to congregations and individuals, but rather place the meaning Paul intended when he wrote them. By understanding what Paul received from God by revelation and applying it to our lives, we will be living God’s way!

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, March 3, 2025

Ephesians #23: The Cornerstone and the Foundation

When individual Jews and Gentiles become a Christian, they form one spiritual unit, which Paul describes in several ways. He calls this union a nation, the household of God, and a temple. He says the apostles and prophets provide the foundation and Christ Jesus provides the cornerstone of this structure which is being built (Ephesians 2:20-22).

There are four components to this building. They are the apostles, the prophets, Christ Jesus Himself, and Christians. When one contemplates these elements, one must conclude that the church is built upon the teachings of Jesus, along with what the apostles and prophets taught. Individual Christians are the “walls” of the structure.

It should also be noted that there is no mention of a “roof” to this building, which means this building is still “under construction.” As of Paul’s writing, it was not completed! Today, it is still “under construction”! New “walls” are added daily.

The beginning of building any structure is the cornerstone. From this “cornerstone” everything else in the building is related; the remainder of the foundation and the walls. Paul wants us to see that Christ Jesus is the focal point of this building. With Jesus being the cornerstone, He provides the stability and direction for the construction of this building, which is the “my church” Jesus said, during His ministry, He would build (Matthew 16:18).

Jesus commissioned the apostles to go and “make disciples,” which are the “walls.” From consulting the book of Acts, we see the apostles, with the emphasis upon Peter and Paul, preaching the gospel and individuals from all peoples being added to the church, another name for this “building.” The book of Acts also tells us about men, who were labeled as prophets, preaching the same message. When we combine these two groups, the apostles and the prophets, we have the total message that would be delivered to all the nations.

Today that complete message is contained in our New Testament. So as Paul will point out later in this letter, the work of the apostles and prophets (along with the evangelists, pastors, and teachers), was to strengthen Christians and to bring them to maturity (Ephesians 4:11ff). This was the “growing into a holy temple in the Lord” Paul mentions in this article’s text. All Christians are to be “fitted together”, and “together” as one unit, we are to be “a dwelling of God in the Spirit.”

The basis of a Christian’s faith, their foundation, must be the teachings of Jesus, along with the apostles and prophets. By using this foundation and practicing what “the cornerstone and the foundation” taught, people can become Christians and they can be living God’s way.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, February 24, 2025

Ephesians #22: Results of Jesus Preaching

The death of Jesus on the cross broke down the dividing wall between the Jews and the Gentiles. The preaching of Jesus brought about peace between these same two groups along with bringing peace between mankind and God (Ephesians 2:17-22).

Using a passage from Isaiah, Paul illustrates his point by making an application of this passage to Jesus preaching “peace to [those] we were far away, and preach to those who were near.” Based upon the context the “far away” were the Gentiles and the “near” were the Jews. Both of these groups are now one and have “access in one Spirit to the Father.”

The preaching of Jesus brought unity. It also allowed people to be “no longer strangers and aliens, but … fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God’s household.” The Gentiles would be extremely glad and thankful to now be in a relationship with God.

With Paul using the word “we” when he is talking about “our access in one Spirit to the Father,” he is including himself, a Jew. So with this information, the conclusion one should reach is that the things described in verses 19 through 22 apply both to the Jewish people and the Gentile people. The final result is that followers of the teachings of Christ, Christians, are building a structure Paul calls “a holy temple in the Lord … a dwelling of God in the Spirit.”

The religious people in the days of Paul believed “their god” lived in a temple. Paul uses this language to describe the place where God now dwells among Christians. Paul is not talking about a literal temple, but a spiritual temple which probably is a reference to the assembling of all people from all times into one “place.”

With this shift in his focus, Paul is describing what the church is like. He is not talking exclusively about a “brick and mortar” church with a GPS location, although it would be included, but he is also talking about the church that is a “gathering of all disciples from all over the world,” referred to as “the universal church.” Paul explains within this context how this “temple” is going to be built.

While focusing on Christians being the temple or household of God, let us not forget the importance of Jesus preaching the message He was given by God. This information is just as important as the death of Jesus on the cross.

Without this preaching, and the preaching of the apostles, people would not know about the cross. They would not know how to live after becoming a Christian. It would be impossible for them to be living God’s way.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, February 17, 2025

Ephesians #21: Christ Broke the Dividing Wall

In describing how the status of the Gentiles has changed because of the “blood of Christ,” Paul now describes what was accomplished in the death of Jesus. He brought about a “peace” between the Jews and the Gentiles because He “broke down the barrier of the dividing wall” (Ephesians 2:14-16).

Before the death of Jesus, the Jews were separated, hostile toward the Gentiles. The Jews did not want to have anything to do with the Gentiles because they were not part of God’s nation, as mentioned in the preceding verses. Metaphorically there was a fence between the two groups of people that kept them divided. There was “enmity” between the two groups and Jesus, through His death, broke down this fence or wall.

Paul describes this “enmity” as being the Mosaic Law, which he defines as the “commandments contained in ordinances.” This is a literary way of describing the biblical books of Exodus, Leviticus and Deuteronomy. A good portion of these books contains “legal descriptions” of the commands God had given to the children of Israel. Considered to be the law of the nation of Israel, these books contained information about how to live with each other and how to worship God.

By breaking down this wall, the focus is now upon what Jesus had spoken and commanded. It is “in Himself” that He has made both Jew and Gentile “into one new man, thus establishing peace.”

At the same time, Jesus has provided a way for the two groups to be reconciled to each other and therefore producing “one body to God through the cross.” It was the “cross” or the death of Jesus that “put to death [this] enmity.”

With this enmity removed, it can be said that Jesus “abolished” the Law of Moses. How did Jesus “abolish” this law? The death of Jesus made the Law of Moses to be no longer in effect. Its jurisdiction over the Jews, and by implication the Gentiles, ceased. Now it is the “Law of Christ” governing both groups. The Law of Moses is no longer a “dividing wall” between the Jews and the Gentiles. The “fence” has been broken down; there are no more boundaries between the Jews and the Gentiles.

People all over the world should be celebrating with joy and with gratitude because Jesus died on the cross. It gives everyone an opportunity to be in the “one body,” which Paul later defines as the church.

If everyone would become a member of this church, this body, there could be peace among all nationalities. By every member of this church practicing the law Jesus established, then everyone worldwide would be living God’s way.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, February 10, 2025

Ephesians #20: Status of the Gentiles Changes

After discussing God’s work to bring about salvation for mankind and describing God’s workmanship, Paul now addresses the Gentiles, specifically to talk about a change in their status with God. He writes about what they formally were and what they now are, because of the blood of Christ (Ephesians 2:11-13).

In describing the Gentiles, Paul also describes the status of people who are not Christians. He shows the relationship people have with God before they become Christians.

Paul says Gentiles were called the Uncircumcised by the Jews who were also known as the Circumcised. Circumcision indicated a Jew was in a covenant relationship with God. When the Jews called a Gentile the Uncircumcised they were saying Gentiles were not in a covenant relationship with God.

Paul goes on to list four different aspects of the status of Gentiles before they became Christians. He says they were “separated from Christ”; “excluded from the commonwealth of Israel”, and “strangers to the covenant of promise.” Because of this Gentiles “had no hope and were without God in the world.”

Once they became Christians, this status changed. They are no longer considered “far off,” but they are now “brought near by the blood of Christ.”

With this change in their status, Gentiles now are in a covenant relationship with God; they can enjoy the benefits of being a part of the community that belongs to God; they can have the hope of enjoying the promises contained in this covenant; they have God in this world.

With the shedding of the blood of Christ, as Paul will describe in the following verses, those who are not Jews by birth can now be among the saved people. They can have the hope of going to heaven and being with God for all of eternity.

Paul will explain to the Colossians (2:11, 12) how the Gentiles are now “circumcised” people because they have been baptized. This action “made without hands” now puts everyone, both Jew and Gentile, in a covenant relationship with God. As Christians today, once we are baptized, we are in a covenant relationship with God; He has added us to the church (Acts 2:41, 47).

Christians have the hope of being with God eternally. We can have the confidence that God is with us in this world. Christians can enjoy all the benefits of being part of God’s family, His people.

What a marvelous thing God did for all of mankind through the shedding of the blood of Jesus! When we become a Christian, our status with God changes, just like the Gentiles’ in Paul’s day. Because of this status, Christians will want every day to be living God’s way.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, February 3, 2025

Ephesians #19: God’s Workmanship

Paul summarizes how a man is made alive after being spiritually dead. He says it is by God’s grace, through man’s faith (Ephesians 2:8-9).

People can be saved because of God’s grace and the exercising of their faith. However, salvation is not solely by God’s grace. A person’s salvation is a result of both God and that person working together to accomplish the salvation of the person’s soul, which is escaping eternal spiritual death.

In the context of these passages, Paul’s emphasis is upon what God has done, but it is not to the exclusion of what mankind must do. That is why both “faith” and “not boasting” are involved.

A person’s faith comes as a result of them putting their trust in the message of God, which they have heard. Hearing God’s message and not practicing it does a person no good.

Some would say that a person is saved by “grace alone” or “grace only.” There would be no reason for Paul to add the phrase “through faith” if this were true. However, Paul did include the phrase and mankind has a part in this process. They must exercise their trust, their confidence, their faith in what God has said if they want the forgiveness of their trespasses and sins.

The same people who say a person is saved by “grace alone,” also says a person must believe in Jesus. This is true. By a person having to “believe in Jesus” then it is no longer by “grace alone.” It is now God’s grace and a person believing in Jesus. They have done something; their works are involved.

A second thing to consider from this passage is the phrase “it is the gift of God.” Many will say that the gift is salvation. However, the words “it is” are supplied in the English language, so we have the proper understanding of the Greek language. To what is the word “it” referring? Grammatically, it is referring to grace and not saved. Salvation is not the topic of the sentence. Grace is the topic.

The grace of God is not dependent upon the works of man. If the grace of God was dependent upon man’s works, man would have reason to boast. They could say they have earned it. However, God’s grace is not dependent upon man’s actions. It is based solely upon God’s own desires and what He wants to do.

Therefore people must conclude that they are saved because God wanted to make provisions for them to be saved. The actions of people must demonstrate their trust in these provisions. Christians appreciate God’s grace and express this appreciation by daily living God’s way.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, January 27, 2025

Ephesians #18: Saved by Grace through Faith

Paul summarizes how a man is made alive after being spiritually dead. He says it is by God’s grace, through man’s faith (Ephesians 2:8-9).

A person’s faith comes as a result of them putting their trust in the message of God, which they have heard. Hearing God’s message and not practicing it does a person no good.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, January 20, 2025

Ephesians #17: Mercy, Love, and Grace Motivates God

Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.

God, because He does not want people to be dead as a result of their “trespasses and sins,” has made provisions for them to be “made alive” or “resurrected.” His actions were motived because of His mercy, love, and grace (Ephesians 2:4-7).

God has done a tremendous amount of planning and work in bringing about the necessary provisions for people to escape being spiritually dead. He wants them to be “resurrected” from this death and made alive so they can be with Him for eternity.

Paul is saying that God is not only motivated by mercy, but He is “rich in mercy,” indicating the abundance of God’s mercy. God wants the spiritually dead to avoid being miserable eternally.

The love God demonstrates toward mankind is not motivated by what they can or have done for God. It is solely motivated by God’s desires for the spiritually dead. He wants to do for them what they cannot do for themselves, that is to obtain forgiveness for “their trespasses and sins.”

These two actions, mercy and love, are a result of the grace God wants to extend to people. This favor, this act of loving-kindness, this good will God has extended to sinful people, is all because He wants to. It is not motivated by any human action.

God is truly amazing! People have disappointed Him, rejected Him, and disrespected Him, yet He still wants to be gracious to them, do what is best for them, and not punish them.

How can we as people truly appreciate these actions of God? How can His followers recognize the full worth of these actions?

One thing Christians can do is to hold God in high regard and in high esteem. We can elevate His values and desires. We can encourage others to have a high opinion of God and all the mighty works He has done throughout history for the benefit of human beings.

Another thing Christians can do is to be grateful for what God has done for mankind in making provisions for us to be “raised up with [Christ]” and to be sitting with Christ in the heavenly places. When “those in Christ” fully recognize and understand the magnitude of the implications of God’s actions, then we should be overwhelmed with His character, abilities, and love.

It may take a person’s lifetime of studying the Bible to fully grasp the enormity of these actions. But that is not to say that a person who is young in this life cannot appreciate what God has done for them personally. Both the novice and the veteran can show their gratitude for God’s actions by daily living God’s way.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, January 13, 2025

Ephesians #16: Characteristics Identifying the Spiritually Dead

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In contrast to Jesus being raised from the dead, Paul writes about a person being “dead in [their] trespasses and sins.” He identifies, in detail, characteristics of people who are “spiritually dead” (Ephesians 2:1-3).

When Paul uses the word “dead” he is not speaking of being physically dead, but rather of being spiritually dead. One similarity between being physically dead and being spiritually dead is both incur a separation. In physical death there is the permanent separation of the air we breathe from our body. In the spiritual death we are separated from God resulting in us no longer being in a relationship with Him and no hope of being with Him eternally.

However, because of what God has accomplished through Jesus, being spiritually dead can be temporary; it does not have to be eternal. Notice Paul states the Ephesians “were dead.” This language identifies their past spiritual condition and not their current spiritual condition. Notice Paul uses the phrase “in which you formerly walked.” They have made some changes in their life so they are no longer spiritually dead.

How would someone today be able to identify an individual who is “dead in [their] trespasses and sins”? Paul says they walk “according to the course of this world.” They are following the way the world thinks one should live and not how God thinks they should live.

They walk “according to the prince of the power of the air,” which I believe is one description of Satan. They walk according to “the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience.” This indicates the “sons of disobedience” are being led by Satan.

In describing the individual who is spiritually dead, Paul says they “live in the lusts of [their] flesh.” They are living however they want to live. They are the standard for their life.

Those who are spiritually dead are living by their feelings or “desires of the flesh and of the mind.” Their emotions are the deciding factor in how they will conduct themselves. These are people who are living by the philosophy of “if it feels good, do it.”

Those who are spiritually dead are doing what they have always done and how they have always lived. They are “by nature children of wrath.” This means their life will result in experiencing the wrath of God, eternal punishment, if some changes in their life are not made.

The key word in this passage is “formerly.” These people were no longer “dead;” they were “alive.” No longer “children of wrath” but “children of God.” We should be like them. We should be “alive” people who are now daily living God’s way.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, January 6, 2025

Ephesians #15: Supreme Authority of Jesus Explained

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After stating the God given position Jesus has in heaven, Paul explains this supreme authority by listing several categories (Ephesian 1:21-23). They include those in heaven, on earth, and even the church. Paul states this authority is permanent; it is not only for “this age, but also [for] the one to come.”

By using the phrase “far above,” Paul is stating that there is no authority above Him. The authority Jesus has is superior to government’s authority, those who have the right to rule in government, those who are commissioned to enforce the laws of the government, as well as those who have “dominion” over any person. Every government and every person working for a government is ultimately under the authority of Jesus.

All the demonic beings, including Satan and all his followers are not “above” Jesus. Even though they rebel and reject the supreme authority of Jesus, they are held accountable to this authority of Jesus.

The phrase “put all things in subjection under His feet” comes from a military background meaning everything must submit to the authority of the supreme authority of Jesus. It implies there is to be submission without question.

Using another human anatomy metaphor, Paul says Jesus is “head over all things to the church, which is His body” By using this phrase, Paul is saying the “church” and the “body of Christ” are synonymous terms. The two metaphors connect Jesus and the members of the church, thereby describing unity.

Like with our personal body, the head is the control center for all decisions of our body. By Jesus being the head of the church, He is the one who decided how the church would function and operate. Jesus is also the provider of all things the church will need to carry out those functions and operations.

As we think about how we can apply this passage to our modern day churches, there are several points to be considered and agreed upon if our church is going to be the church Jesus purchased and established. We must agree Jesus has supreme authority. We must agree the programs and ministries the church desires to participate in are authorized by Jesus. Our acts of worship must be done in the manner Jesus has described in the New Testament. Church leaders must have the qualifications established by Jesus. Even the methods to raise the finances for all the church expenses and programs must be done how Jesus authorized it.

Those who are followers of Jesus recognize He has supreme authority. They practice His policies. They teach them to others. They are setting the example in their daily lives. They are living God’s way.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, December 30, 2024

Ephesians #14: Authority of Jesus Proven by the Resurrection

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What evidence can be given that God can grant hope to the Christian and they will become His “inheritance”? Paul says it is the resurrection and the positioning of Jesus at God’s right hand (Ephesians 1:19-20).

In the days of Paul, people believed there were many different gods. Consider Roman and Greek mythology. Which god was the most powerful, the superior god?

Paul and other writers gave many examples of God’s strength and His superiority over all the “other gods.” Paul’s example in this context is the resurrection of Jesus.

Paul also stated that God “seated [Jesus] at His right hand in the heavenly places” with authority. How can we have the confidence God gave Jesus all this authority? Because of the resurrection of Jesus.

Paul trusted the fact that God gave Jesus “all authority” because he received this information from God by the Holy Spirit. Paul believed this fact, even though Paul himself did not personally see it.

Paul wants the Ephesians to have the confidence (and us as well) that Jesus is sitting at the right hand of God because God raised Jesus from the dead. If God can raise Jesus from the dead, then God can place Jesus at His right hand. The second is proven by the first.

There are many proofs both inside and outside the Bible which prove Jesus was raised from the dead. To itemize them is not within the scope of this article. What we must focus on is Jesus being at God’s right hand and having all the authority God has given Him.

So what is the significance or importance of Jesus having all this authority? It means that there is no one who has more authority than Him. The one exception is God Himself, because God has to have more authority than Jesus in order to grant this authority to Jesus (1 Corinthians 15:27). God is not under the authority of Jesus, but Jesus is under the authority of God (1 Corinthians 15:28). One could say, “God delegated authority to Jesus.”

As a result of Jesus having authority over everything, including the church, then Christians, and especially the church, must be looking to Jesus for His permission or authority to do any and all things. Everything a Christian does in this world, both physically and spiritually, they must have the approval of Jesus for their actions.

As Christians consider this fact stated by Paul that Jesus has been given “all authority,” then we must constantly be learning what Jesus taught. As we apply the things He taught to our lives then we will have His permission and we will be living God’s way.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, December 23, 2024

Ephesians #13: Eyes of Your Heart Enlightened

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Another request Paul makes in his prayer to God is for the Ephesians to have the eyes of their heart enlightened (Ephesians 1:18, 19). When this happens then they will be able to perceive the “hope of [God’s] calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe.”

The phrase “eyes of your heart” is used to describe how one is enlightened. The heart, as used in this context, is the center of man’s emotions and his intellect. Speaking metaphorically, the heart has “eyes” allowing both the emotions and the intellect to “see” what God has done for the believer. Paul wants God to help his readers to have a better understanding of what God has provided.

Our understanding will be achieved the more acquainted with God’s provisions for the believer and the ramifications of these provisions we become. This understanding comes by continuing to spend time reading God’s word (the Bible) and thinking about all the things He has done.

As Christians become more acquainted with God fulfilling His promises, then they will have more confidence that He can provide “the hope” He has promised with His calling, which is eternal life. This hope is not some wishful thinking, but rather an expected result. It is something the believer is anticipating based upon their faith in God’s promises.

The more we understand God’s word, the more we will understand how precious the body of Christ, the church, all Christians, are to God. Because Christians are God’s inheritance, we need to fully understand how valuable we are to God. We need to realize and fully comprehend that everything that is in this world and all that God has done in history is for the group of Christians called the church.

As believers who meditate upon God’s word and as we obtain a fuller understanding of all the things He has accomplished, we must acknowledge the power He possesses. Think about the two terms Paul uses to describe God’s power – surpassing greatness. Paul is not only acknowledging that God’s power is great, but he is saying God’s power goes beyond being great. A phrase we might use today is “God is the one and only superpower.”

The Ephesians did not have the written word, therefore Paul was wanting God to reveal more about Himself to the Christians at Ephesus. Because the New Testament contains all God has revealed, Christians today can still be enlightened by reading it. As a result, the eyes of our heart will be enlightened; the more we will appreciate the importance of living God’s way.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, December 16, 2024

Ephesians #12: Getting a Spirit of Wisdom and of Revelation

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Paul addresses his prayer to the “God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory.” After expressing thanks for their faith and love for the saints, Paul now expresses one of his many requests on the behalf of the Ephesians. He wants God to give them “a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of God” (Ephesians 1:17).

Before discussing Paul’s request, let us think about how Paul describes the “god” whom he is addressing. He uses two phrases, “God of our Lord Jesus Christ” and “Father of glory.”

By describing God as being the “God of our Lord Jesus Christ,” Paul informs us that Jesus had a “god” to whom He was accountable. While Jesus was on this earth, He was required by God to be obedient to God, which is also required of every human being. Unlike mankind, Jesus was obedient to every command of God. Jesus never committed a sin (Hebrews 4:15), even though every other human being has committed a sin (Romans 3:23). Christians should be like Jesus, striving to be obedient to every command of God.

Turning our attention to Paul’s request, Paul is asking God to give Christians a “spirit” or disposition, an attitude for the wisdom of God and the knowledge of God. How God will grant this request, the text does not inform us. Christians do not need to know the how, as much as we need to have the confidence God will grant Paul’s request.

It should be pointed out that Paul is asking God to “give” something to people who are already Christians. Paul is not asking God to act upon the unbeliever so they may become believers.

It should also be pointed out that Paul is asking God to give something to people who have already demonstrated their faith, for which Paul has already given thanks. Paul seems to be asking God to give opportunities for their faith to increase. He is requesting that they receive more of God’s wisdom and more of God’s revelation about God Himself. It is not revealed how God grants this request.

Very possibly, God granted Paul’s request. The entire Bible contains many passages that God wants people, and especially Christians, to be able to practice His revealed message, as well as learn more about Him.

As Christians, we need to recognize when “doors of opportunity” have been opened for us to receive more of God’s wisdom and the revealed knowledge of Him. As Christians, who want to follow God, we will recognize these opportunities. We will take advantage of these opportunities because we want to be even better at living God’s way.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, December 9, 2024

Ephesians #11: Faith Lived and Saints Loved

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As is customary in first century letter writing, Paul includes a prayer of thanksgiving for his readers. There are many things mentioned in this prayer, but today we will only look at Paul’s comments about the faith the Ephesians lived and the love they had “for all the saints” (Ephesians 1:15, 16).

Paul spent many hours with the saints at Ephesus. He taught them in various ways and at different times. His closeness with this group is evidenced by his conversation with the elders from this church as he was making his final trip to Jerusalem (Acts 20). During the years after this final visit with these elders, Paul continued to “keep up with” the saints in Ephesus as mutual friends would tell him about what was going on with this church.

The only way a person can know about the faith of another person is by seeing their actions. In the reports Paul was receiving, his informants must have been telling him about the lives of these saints. As Paul listened to the reports, surely there was joy in his heart about their continued faithfulness. He was thankful they were continuing to practice God’s message which he had proclaimed to them.

Also, the text says Paul “mentioned” them in his prayers. In my mind, I imagine Paul having possibly “mentioned” them individually as well as collectively. He would be expressing to God certain wishes and desires he had for these fellow Christians.

Not only did Paul mention to God about their faith, but he also “mentioned” how they had a “love for all the saints.” This is one of the things Jesus commanded His apostles to do and to teach those who would become disciples. Jesus even prayed that His people would have a “love [for] one another.”

As we consider these two characteristics of the Christians in Ephesus, there should be some reflection on our own personal lives. We should be asking ourselves, “Is my faith visible to others? Are other people talking to their friends and associates about my faith? If Paul were to hear about my faith or the actions of my church, would he give thanks to God?”

“What about my love for all the saints? Is it visible? Can people see it in my actions, or is it only words.” The word love in this context means that a Christian will be doing what is best for his fellow-Christians regardless of what will happen to him.

What a great compliment Paul is expressing to his readers! To be living one’s faith and to be loving all the saints is truly external evidence that a person is living God’s way.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, December 2, 2024

Ephesians #10: Holy Spirit Seals Listeners and Believers

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After having told the Ephesians they were God’s inheritance, Paul now mentions how they became this inheritance. He says it begins with listening to the message of truth, believing the gospel of salvation, and being sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise (Ephesians 1:13, 14).

Without someone listening to the message of God, there is no basis for putting one’s faith in the message of truth. Paul told the Romans (10:17) that “faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” This is not a religious concept; it is a reality concept. One cannot put their faith in something or someone they have never heard anything about. A person cannot be a believer without first being a listener.

After hearing the message of God and acting upon it, then “the Holy Spirit of promise” will seal them in Christ. This “gospel of [one’s] salvation” contains things which the listener must do in order to have this salvation. Once they have completed these actions, then the Holy Spirit will place a “seal” upon those actions.

The word “seal” in this context authenticates an action taken by the listener. The “seal” proves the listener has done what the message of truth commanded.

The “seal” is also the “pledge” that the promise of God will come to pass. This promise is that those who are believers will be part of “the redemption of God’s own possession;” this “possession” will be part of “the praise of [God’s] glory.”

Based upon the language of this text, the function of the Holy Spirit is not some miraculous event. It is an action the Holy Spirit is taking and not something the Holy Spirit does upon the listener. This sealing comes after the listener has become a believer.

By the use of the words “you also,” Paul is indicating that the Gentiles can now be included as believers. The Gentiles can now be part of “God’s possession.” The Jews are no longer the only ones who are “God’s possession.”

This final statement Paul makes, as to why God should be praised, is very powerful, especially for those who are not Jews by birth. This statement declares that both Jews and Gentiles can be part of “God’s possession,” because listening and believing are part of the requirements and not one’s birth.

Christians today should be very thankful for this provision in God’s plan He designed before the foundation of the world. We should join Paul in praising God for this blessing. We will only be part of God’s possession, if after we have heard the message, we believe the message, and until our death we are continuously living God’s way.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, November 25, 2024

Ephesians #9: God Made Christians His Inheritance

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As Paul continues his praise to God for the things God has done for the universal church, Paul mentions that God made Christians His heritage. Christians are the “things” which God has created that in a figure of speech are His “property,” His inheritance that will be “passed on” to the next generation (Ephesians 1:11, 12).

When one considers the word “inheritance,” it is most often thought of as being the money or property or both which an individual receives after another person has died. Another word for inheritance is the word “heritage,” which is usually used to denote something of value that is passed down from previous generations. The point being is the “inheritance” is the “what” that is being passed down.

An “inheritance” is the result of a life-long accumulation of assets. In our Ephesians passage, it is the result of God’s purpose which He devised before the foundation of the world and worked out “after the counsel of His will.” It is the collection of all the members of the church, from all time, who would bring about praise to God’s glory.

Some might think of this verse as Christians obtaining heaven. The word used in the passage is present tense, something that is current. Paul says he was among “the first to hope in Christ [resulting in] the praise of [God’s] glory.” Those who have their “hope in Christ” are Christians. Therefore, this inheritance is something in existence today and not something to be “obtained” in the future.

As Christians think about being the “inheritance” of God, the “assets” or “property” that God is acquiring through time, it should cause us to act with a certain mindset. Having the attitude that as members of this church we are the result of God’s predetermined, prehistoric plan; we are not an “afterthought.” Christians are the result of God’s counsel, His plan of action. Human beings had nothing to do with this plan, which God has executed because they were not in existence when God “predestined” this “inheritance.”

It should be considered by Christians an honor to be part of this group of people called the church. It is something special because it is the result of all of God’s efforts to bring this church into existence. Everything from the beginning of time to the coming of Christ, as recorded in the Old Testament, was for the purpose of bringing this inheritance into existence.

What is so marvelous about this inheritance is that it is growing daily. God is adding to this “inheritance” as people are changing their lives to become Christians. As part of this inheritance, we should constantly be living God’s way.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, November 18, 2024

Ephesians #8: God Makes Known the Mystery

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Paul continues his praise to God for the things He has done for the universal church. Paul now turns his attention to God making known the mystery (Ephesian 1:8-10).

In this context, Paul’s definition of “mystery” is the plan God developed “before the foundation of the world.” This plan was given in segments to different prophets throughout history. However, before Paul wrote to the Ephesians, he says God has now “made know to us the mystery of His will.”

Today, we can read about this “mystery” because Paul and others wrote it down and it has been preserved throughout history. Paul states later he received this “mystery,” and has written it down “in brief.” When people read Paul’s letters, then they can “understand [Paul’s] insight into the mystery of Christ” He goes on to say that this mystery “in other generations was not made known to the sons of men, as it has now been revealed to His holy apostles and prophets in the Spirit” (Ephesians 3:3-5).

God truly should be praised for revealing this plan, having faithful men write it down, and it being preserved in history for all of mankind who today can read this mystery with understanding. Without this revelation, no human being would know about God’s great plan and the opportunity it presents for every person to have their sins forgiven and go to heaven when they die.

Paul tells us that in making known this mystery, God did it “according to His kind intention which He purposed in Him” (that is Christ). This is just another example of God’s grace, which He has bestowed upon all of mankind.

Giving the purpose for making known this mystery, Paul says God did it “with a view to an administration suitable to the fullness of the time, that is, the summing up of all things in Christ, things in the heaven and things on the earth.” God used Jesus to bring this pre-historic plan to its conclusion. One might say, Jesus was God’s culminating action in bringing into existence the church.

All of the things God has predetermined to be done to bring the church into existence are from His gracious and kind heart. They are all important, but it could be said that without God making known this mystery, mankind would not have known about any of those things. People would not have known about the crucifixion nor the purpose of Jesus dying.

Therefore, it is imperative that Christians join Paul in praising God for this action with their lips. However, it is more important that Christians show their thankfulness to God for making known the mystery by daily living God’s way.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, November 11, 2024

Ephesians #7: Redemption Through His Blood

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Paul, as he continues his praise to God for the things He has done for the church, turns his attention to Jesus shedding His blood for our redemption. This redemptive action accomplished two things for universal church members, the forgiveness of their sins and their redemption (Ephesians 1:7,8).

Redemption, primarily a religious word, generally means to regain something in exchange for payment. A popular use of this term is in redeeming coupons at a retail store. The word is also used when speaking of returning containers (such as cans or bottles that required a deposit fee at the time of purchase) and redeeming the deposit.

In Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, he is speaking of using the blood of Jesus as the payment by which people are redeemed. He explains that redemption is “the forgiveness of our trespasses.”

To understand this statement and appreciate its significance, we need to examine the consequences for individuals who are guilty of “trespasses.” The word, “trespasses” is not a common word in our vocabulary but is primarily a religious word brought over from antiquity that means to “commit an offense against a person,” which in this context is God. Paul’s understanding of this word would have had the meaning of “a lapse or deviation from truth and uprightness.” Sin is another word for “trespasses,” which John the apostle describes as “lawlessness” (1 John 3:4).

When a person commits a sin, they separate themselves from God and they become a slave of the devil. In order for a person to return to God, they must be “redeemed” by having the forgiveness of their trespasses or their violation of God’s law.

Without the shedding of the blood of Jesus, mankind would not have the opportunity to have this redemption. When we think about this statement, it should motivate us to think about how horrible sin is if it takes the blood of Jesus to make the payment for sin.

Once again Paul says this action by God was not only done because of God’s grace, but God was “lavish” with this gracious act. To say it another way, God was elaborate, luxurious with His grace. We might even say, God was not skimpy with His grace when it came to what was necessary for us to “have redemption through [Christ’s] blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses.”

We, as Christians, need to join Paul in praising God for this costly but grand provision that He has made for the church. Without this action of God, no human being would be able to be a member of this church. As members, we should daily show our appreciation for God’s gift by living God’s way.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, November 4, 2024

Ephesians #6: God’s Love and Grace Motivated Predestination

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Before the foundation of the world, God predestined those who would be included in the church. The criteria for admission into this group of believers, as adopted sons, was motivated by God’s love and grace (Ephesians 1:4b-6).

God’s love for mankind is seen in many ways. This action of identifying the characteristics of the church before time began, demonstrates God’s grace to mankind. Before He created Adam and Eve, the concept of the church and the standard by which individuals would be admitted to this assembly of His people was determined, and that is why Paul uses this word “predestined.”

When we consider that God determined beforehand, one could say no one person influenced God’s choice or decision. God chose to do something for those who were created in His image, because He “wanted to” and not because He “had to” or was forced to. The grace He possesses motivated Him to make this decision.

What is marvelous about this class of people, those “adopted as sons,” is that it is open to every individual who has lived since the first Pentecost after the resurrection and ascension of Jesus. God has made it known what is the criteria and, every person who has the ability to understand, has the opportunity to make the choice to become a member of this church. Since God has made known the criteria to everyone, individuals simply need to act upon that criteria.

Those adopted, whom this writer has known, say adoption is a wonderful feeling. To go from not being accepted, to having someone decide they want to adopt you and make you a part of their family is a great thing. One can hear, in their voices, the appreciation they have for their “adopted parents.”

Christians need to approach this level of appreciation for the love of God and His gracious act of predestinating the criteria for those who would be “adopted as son.” Those of us who are members of this church, need to be like Paul and “bless” God for this wonderful act.

We should consider this action of God to be something extraordinary. God not only decided before the world began that this is what He was going to d0, but He brought it about in the course of His time, according to His timetable.

It is such a blessing to be included in this group of God’s people who are added to the church by God after we have met His criteria. We should equally consider it a blessing from God that we will be included in this great assembly, from all times, if we are continually living God’s way.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, October 28, 2024

Ephesians #5: Holy and Blameless Describes the Church

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The church, the collection of Christians from all times, is described as holy and blameless (Ephesians 1:4). These two behavioral objectives were chosen by God “before the foundation of the world.”

Because this choice was made before time began, it was something that God decided before any action of mankind was made. It was not made based upon the good merit or the failure of any one human being or a group of human beings. It was solely the thought and plan of God before He “created the heavens and the earth.”

The idea behind the language of “chose us” is the same as that found in the Old Testament when God, through the prophets, described the nation of Israel. This choice was not based upon their size nor their righteousness, but based solely on the choice God made and declared to Abraham. It had nothing to do with Abraham’s behavior or his descendants.

The phrase “in Him” is significant because of its reference to Christ from the previous verse. Paul will use this phrase repeatedly throughout this book and his other writings to indicate the collectivity of Christians worldwide beginning on the day of Pentecost and lasting until the world is no more.

In the verse under consideration, these two words (holy and blameless) describing the church are adjectives and they are plural in nature, meaning both refer to a group. The first word “holy” means something that is sacred, set apart, or dedicated, for the worship of a deity, in this case God. It is referring to something in the religious world and not the secular.

The second word “blameless” means “faultless,” “without blame.” The church is “innocent” of any wrong doing. This word is describing the status of this group of people God has chosen. This assembly of people is without any guilt as they stand in the presence of God. In Old Testament writings, this description was used to describe the animal to be sacrificed by an individual; it was to be “without blemish.”

It is understood that individuals make up this group of people and that individuals should have these same characteristics. However, in the context of Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, he is speaking of a group of Christians and not about an individual.

When one considers these characteristics of the church, it should motivate all those who are members of this church to be the type of people described here. A Christian should not want to be the reason why the church would no longer be described as holy and blameless. Never wanting to bring a blemish on the church, Christians should always be living God’s ways.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, October 21, 2024

Ephesians #4: God Should Be Blessed

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We often think of the word “blessed” in the context of God doing something for an individual. However, in Paul’s opening comments to the “saints who are at Ephesus and who are faithful in Christ Jesus,” he says God should be blessed for all the things He has done (Ephesians 1:1, 3).

In his opening remarks, Paul is saying these people, collectively known as the church, should be thanking God for all the “spiritual blessings in the heavenly places in Christ.” Paul enumerates several things God has done for this church, which was purchased with the blood of Jesus. As one thinks about all these different things, every person, and especially Christians, should give thanks to God for what He did for the body of Christ, the church.

Paul is talking about a group of people who receive these blessings from God. While this group is made up of individuals, the blessings are upon the group. So in order for an individual to receive these blessing, they must first of all be a member of the group.

Paul goes on to describe what God has done for the members of this church. Christians should be ever thankful that God was willing to grant these “spiritual blessings.” Again, these blessings come as a result of being a member of the church planned by God “before the foundation of the world.”

When Paul talks about choosing “us,” he is talking about the church, and not an individual. When he talks about predestinating “us,” he is talking about the church, and not an individual. In this context, the group who has been redeemed through the blood of Jesus is the church and not an individual. The plural pronoun “us” is referring to the church and not to an individual. The “us” is identifying the collectivity of the members of the church which Jesus purchased with His blood.

Paul, in these opening comments, is describing what God has done for this group of people known as the church, and not an individual. To make the application to an individual is to misapply the intent of Paul when he was writing this letter. He wants Christians everywhere to hear and to know what God has done for this group of people from all over the world, beginning on the day of Pentecost and lasting until the world is no more.

Everyone in the world, and especially Christians, should be thanking God because of what He has done for mankind when He brought the church into existence. Christians should bless God for revealing this information about the church and how, as a member of this church, one can be living God’s way.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, October 14, 2024

Ephesians #3: The Saints and the Faithful

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Paul, appointed to be an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, writes a letter to a group of people he identifies as the saints and the faithful (Ephesians 1:1). These two descriptive words, saints and faithful, describe not only the people who make up the church at Ephesus, but also the church Jesus purchased with His blood. It is the church of which Jesus is the head.

It should be noticed that Paul is writing to a living group of people who are called saints. These are people who have been declared sacred by God. They are people whom God has made blameless because they have been forgiven of their sins. They are people set apart from the rest of the world because they are devoting themselves to God.

The saints are also referred to as the “beloved of God” (Romans 1:7). They are sanctified people (1 Corinthians 1:2). They are a group of people referred to in a specific location such as Rome and Corinth, as well as living in a region such as Achaia.

The faithful are people who are loyal to God and are steadfast in their beliefs. They have not wavered in their allegiance to God and the principles God has revealed. Their actions demonstrate how committed they are to the teachings of God and the commandments of God.

In addressing the people in Colossae, Paul uses similar language; he calls them “saints and faithful brethren in Christ” (Colossians 1:2). To the church at Smyrna, John the apostle encourages the brethren to be faithful until death and they will receive a crown (Revelation 2:10).

The church is composed of people who are both saints and faithful. They are Christians either in a local sense such as Ephesus, or they are members of the church from a universal sense. This universal sense includes all of the people who have become Christians from the day of Pentecost until the last day the world is in existence.

People must become saints while they are living. Once they become saints they must remain faithful to God regardless of what might happen to them.

As we contemplate these two descriptive words, let us ponder their significance to the content of this letter. Let us ask ourselves are we saints who are faithfully living out God message in our daily lives?

In most of Paul’s letters, he is revealing God’s information as to how those who are members of the universal church and who want to be saints and faithful to God should be living. By applying this information to their lives, then Christians will be saints and faithful in living God’s way.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, October 7, 2024

Ephesians #2: Will of God Appoints Paul

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In introducing himself to the Ephesians, Paul identifies himself as “an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God” (Ephesians 1:1). There are several points that need to be mentioned about this “title” that Paul gives to himself. Paul is saying that he did not appoint himself as an apostle, but that he was appointed to be an apostle by the will of God.

In the days of Paul, the word “apostle” was not necessarily a religious word. It could mean a delegate or a messenger, but added information had to be given to understand who this “apostle” was representing. In the New Testament, it applied to the twelve men Jesus appointed from among His followers to be His special delegates or messengers to the world. Paul, in other writings, claims to have the same authority as these original twelve men.

In Ephesians, Paul indicates that God appointed him to be an apostle. Therefore, the things Paul wrote would be the message God wanted people to hear. This would apply both to when Paul spoke on behalf of God, as well as when Paul wrote what God wanted him to write. In other words, Paul’s writings are authoritative and not his opinion. It is not “what Paul thought God was saying”, but rather “what God was saying.”

As a delegate, messenger, or ambassador of Christ Jesus, Paul is stating that he is speaking on the behalf of Jesus. Paul is not delivering his own message, but rather is delivering the message of Christ Jesus.

Reading through the book of Ephesians, we must remember that Paul is describing how God brought the church into existence, why He brought it into existence, and how He wants this church to function. By Paul having this authority to write God’s message, and by him writing out God’s message, then after reading this letter and understanding this letter, then we can have the knowledge God gave to Paul about the church God planned before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 3:3-7).

One of the conclusions that must be reached is that the church in our world today should look the same as the church in the day of Paul. There was only one church in the days of Paul, and because Paul taught the same thing in all the churches, they looked the same. It should be the so today.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

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Monday, September 30, 2024

Ephesians #1: God’s Plan for the Church

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As “an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God” (Ephesians 1:1), Paul received information directly from God about different subjects pertaining to Christianity. One such revelation was concerning a “mystery.” The book of Ephesians records this “mystery” – God’s plan for the church. Paul wrote it down so we can read it, understand it, and apply it to our lives.

In the New Testament, the word “church” is used in two senses. One sense has a very narrow application, such as a local church, like the “church” at Jerusalem, Antioch, Philippi, Corinth or Ephesus. The other sense has a very broad application, such as when Jesus said He would build His “church”, or the “church” was purchased with the blood of Jesus, or people are added to the “church” by God. In his opening comments of the book of Ephesians, Paul states he is writing to both those “saints who are at Ephesus” (the narrow sense) and to the “faithful in Christ Jesus” (the broad sense) (Ephesians 1:1).

This article is focused on the broad sense of the word “church.” What was God’s plan for the church in “the broad sense”?

We can see the book of Ephesians is divided into two parts – Chapters 1-3 and Chapters 4-6. Chapters 1-3 show what God did to plan for this church, why He planned it, and how we can know about it. Chapters 4-6 show what God planned for those, who would be members of this church, to be doing.

Paul says God made all these plans before the foundation of the world. God knew exactly what He wanted to do and He accomplished His plans. The motivation behind God making these plans was to display to mankind His great love, mercy and grace. He revealed this plan to mankind through the apostles and prophets, who heard it and wrote it down. It has been preserved through time for us to read, understand, and apply.

God wanted there to be unity among all believers. God provided five groups of people to edify these believers so that they would remain steadfast and not lose their faith. He also revealed how He wanted the members of this church to interact with one another as members and how to interact within the family setting. He even gave instructions as to how a person should be equipped so they would remain a Christian and to fight the spiritual battles that would confront them.

The book of Ephesians is a great book for everyone to read and study if they want to know God’s plan for the church. When Christians properly apply God’s plan, then they will be living God’s way.

We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak

Middleburg church of CHRIST