WEDNESDAY April 3, 2024

The Church

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints who are in Ephesus, and faithful in Christ Jesus:
Ephesians 1:1

The book of Ephesians, as I read and study it, has become one of my greatest joys in life. I will go through the book at a snail’s pace because it is an important book that relates to the Church. Understand that you and I, as believers, constitute the Church. The Church is not a building. The term “Church” is a reference to all believers in Christ.

Again, in the first three chapters, the Apostle Paul will teach our position in Christ. Then once we know our position, he will continue to teach us what we are supposed to be doing for Christ. Many times, believe it or not, there are churches who will tell a person what they should be doing for God before they even know who they are in Christ. Believers need time to grow in Christ before they begin to serve Him in ministry.

As we study the book of Ephesians together, Paul will give us insights to help us learn practical, biblical terms. He will teach us that we are His [God’s] workmanship... (Ephesians 2:10). The word workmanship in the Greek language is poiema, meaning, “we are His poem.”

Paul will also help us to understand that believers in the body of Christ are actually constructed together: in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit (Ephesians 2:10). We are the Church, and God dwells within us.

Paul will teach us a lot of doctrine in the book of Ephesians––the doctrine of God’s grace, redemption, and forgiveness. He addresses being chosen, predestination, and God’s foreknowledge.

As a student of God’s Word you will become rooted and grounded in the love of Christ.

From eternity to eternity, the beauty of God is pervasive and practical. Ask him to open the eyes of your heart (Ephesians 1:18). Give your life to this quest –seeing and savoring more and more of the happifying beauty of God.
~John Piper~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!