We learned from chapter 2 that the purpose of the church (ecclesia, the called out ones) is to build and edify the body of Christ. Understand when we say "body of Christ" we are using figurative language and we are referring to those that are saved, believers in the finished work of Jesus Christ. Now we are to build or grow this group of people and disciple or support them in this present age. Also remember Christ is the head of this body.
Ephesians 3:8b-9 (CLNT) "to bring the evangel of the untraceable riches of Christ to the nations (Gentiles), and to enlighten all as to what is the administration of the secret, which has been concealed from the eons (ages) in God, Who creates all, that now may be made known to the sovereignties and authorities among the celestials, through the ecclesia, the multifarious wisdom of God, in accord with the purpose of the eons, which He makes in Christ Jesus, our Lord."
Let me paraphrase: The purpose of the church is to tell all about Christ, to let people know this grace is for everyone, and to say that God is so wise this plan of His will all come together in the end. God is in control and there is hope in this age and the ages to come. It's hard to believe that most of our neighbors don't understand this and even harder to believe that we are hesitant to tell them.
Lord help us to understand the unsearchable, untraceable riches of Christ, to grasp the manifold, multifarious wisdom of God, and to have the boldness and elegance to share this with the world around us. Maybe Paul says this much better than I, read verses 14-21.
Grace, MB
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2 comments:
It is unbelievable that some don't know it. Sometimes even when you tell them, they say they know. They listen to you, and talk to you like you just told them a fairy tale. It is frustrating. You feel lost and sadness. You just revealed the greatest thing of their whole life and they just let it wiz past the top of their head. It's like someone is dying right in front of you and you can save them, but they won't let you. They say you can't save them all, but you planted a seed that eventually will grow into the masterpiece it was ment to be in the first place. I have seen it happen to many in my life. So don't be discouraged. Tell everyone about our great inheritence and how they can have some as well. Not only in the after life but have riches in this life that will improve their lives and the ones around them.
Lori
Lori, you're not afraid to share, I think that's awesome. I admire that about you. MB
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