The message and meaning of Ephesians 1:15-23
The passage urges believers to intercede in prayer for others, cultivate wisdom, and understand their calling.
Believers are expected to value their abundant inheritance in Christ and acknowledge His authority over all. This message also highlights the church as the unified body of Christ united in purpose and empowered by the Holy Spirit.
The vital part of this message is the importance of intercessory prayer. Paul was appreciative of the believers in Ephesus, for their love and faith. He was aware of their staunch devotion to Christ and love for all the saints. Paul began by stating the basis for his prayer and thanksgiving, and he continued to pray for them throughout the letter.
Ephesians chapter 1 verses 15 to 16 says,
“Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers:”
Christians should understand the value of praying for one another and the desire for the spiritual well-being of others. Paul mentioned in 2 Thessalonian 3 verses 1 to 2,
“Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may run swiftly and be glorified, just as it is with you, and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men; for not all have faith.”
Another key message emphasized is the need for believers to grow in wisdom and understanding of God.
“That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him,” (Ephesians 1 verse 17)
This aligns with Peter’s admonition to believers in 2 Peter 3 verse 18, which encourages believers to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. It underscores the importance of maturing in faith and deepening our relationship with God.
Believers have the assurance of eternal life and fulfillment of His promises. As Christians, understanding this hope and inheritance provides confidence and purpose in the journey of faith.
This truth is also confirmed in 1 Peter 1 verses 3 to 4.
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you,”
Paul emphasized the surpassing power and authority of God and Christ. He describes Christ as the head of all things, both in the present age and in the age to come. This reveals the sovereignty of Christ and His position of supreme authority over the church and the entire universe.
This truth is also confirmed in Matthew 28 verse 18 which says,
“And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.”
Recognizing Christ’s authority encourages believers to submit to His Lordship and trust in His sovereignty over every aspect of life.
Romans 8 verse 11 says,
“But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.”
If the same power that raised Jesus from the dead lives in us, there is no force of hell that can stand against us. Understanding and experiencing this power equips believers to overcome challenges.
Unity Within the Body of Christ
It is important to note that Christ is the head of the church and believers are the individual members forming His body.
Through various biblical references, we can understand the importance of unity within the body of Christ. This unity is not merely an organizational structure but a spiritual bond that fosters love, support, and harmonious collaboration among believers.
Paul emphasizes the unity of believers within the body of Christ. Despite diverse gifts and backgrounds, all believers are united through the Holy Spirit into one body—the church. This unity transcends social and cultural boundaries, reflecting the universality of Christ’s salvation. As individual members, we contribute to the functionality of the body, complementing one another for the common purpose of glorifying God.
Likewise, the book of Ephesians 4 verses 3 to 5 highlights the unity of the Spirit within the body of Christ. Believers are called to preserve this unity, working towards peace and understanding. Paul reminds us that there is one body, one Spirit, and one God we all serve. This unity, grounded in our shared faith, hope, and calling, is a testimony to the world of God’s love and power.
In Romans 12 verse 4 to 5, Paul uses the metaphor of the body to illustrate the diversity of gifts and functions within the church. Just as a physical body comprises various parts with unique roles, the body of Christ consists of individuals with distinct gifts and callings.
However, despite these differences, we are all interconnected and interdependent. Our diversity should not lead to division but rather strengthen the unity within the body, as each member contributes to the overall well-being and effectiveness of the church.
Also, Paul’s appeal to the Corinthians reveals the importance of unity and agreement within the church. Divisions among believers hinder the body of Christ from functioning harmoniously and diminish its impact on the world (1 Corinthians 1 verse 10).
As followers of Christ, we are called to seek unity of mind and judgment, rooted in our shared allegiance to Jesus. This unity strengthens our witness and draws others to the power of the gospel.
What is our Hope and Inheritance as Believers?
The Christian faith is rooted in hope—a confident expectation of future blessings and eternal life in Christ.
The Bible provides numerous passages in the new testament that speak of the hope and inheritance of believers.
Romans 5 verse 1 to 2 says,
“Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.”
This verse from Romans assures believers of justification and peace through faith in Jesus Christ. It further states that believers can rejoice in the hope of sharing in God’s glory. This hope of eternal fellowship with God gives Christians a firm foundation and a source of joy.
The Hope of Resurrection and Eternal Life is also a major hope for believers, as identified in 1 Corinthians 15 verse 51 to 52 which says,
“Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.”
The book of Titus 2 verse 13 also emphasizes the hope of Christ’s return. It says,
“Looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ,”
Similarly, Revelation paints a vivid picture of the hope that awaits believers—a new heaven and new earth (Revelation 21 verse 1 to 4).
The current world, with all its brokenness and imperfections, will pass away, making room for a glorious and perfect realm.
The voice from heaven declares that God Himself will dwell among His people. In this new heaven and the new earth, every tear will be wiped away. The pains and sorrows that accompany our earthly existence will be eradicated. Death, which has cast its shadow over humanity since the fall, will be no more. The relentless grip of sorrow and mourning will be replaced with everlasting joy. God will wipe away every tear, comforting His people.
As Christians, this hope of a new heaven and new earth fuels our perseverance, sustains our faith, and empowers us to live with purpose and conviction. It shapes our perspective, reminding us that our present sufferings are temporary in light of the eternal glory that awaits us.
This hope inspires us to seek God’s Kingdom and righteousness, to live lives characterized by love, compassion, and justice, and to share the good news of salvation with a world in need. As we do so, remember we are of the heavenly realms, seated in heavenly places with Christ Jesus, above all principalities and powers, and we are partakers of riches of his glorious inheritance.
Therefore, the hope of Christians and believers is firmly rooted in the promises of God’s word which is the word of truth.
What is the Importance of Spiritual Growth?
Spiritual growth is a vital aspect of the Christian journey. It involves deepening our relationship with God, maturing in our faith, and becoming more Christlike in our character and actions.
The Bible provides valuable insights into the significance of spiritual growth for believers.
Ephesians 1 verse 17 to 18 serves as a starting point for our discussion. It says
“That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints,”
This passage emphasizes the importance of spiritual growth in understanding the hope of our calling, the riches of God’s inheritance, and the immeasurable power available to believers. It encourages us to seek wisdom, revelation, and an enlightened heart to grasp the depth of these spiritual truths.
By growing in our knowledge of God, we can experience the great power of His resurrection and comprehend the exalted position of Christ, who reigns above all.
Other biblical passages further highlight the significance of spiritual growth.
2 Peter 3 verse 18 says,
“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”
In this passage, Peter exhorts believers to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ. Spiritual growth involves continually deepening our understanding of God’s grace, His character, and His teachings. It is through this growth that we reflect His glory in our lives and remain steadfast until the day of eternity.
The book of Hebrews 5 verses 12 to 14 also admonishes,
“For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.”
This message urges believers to move beyond the elementary teachings of the faith and progress toward spiritual maturity. Spiritual growth involves not only receiving basic instruction but also developing discernment through constant practice in applying God’s Word. This discernment enables us to differentiate between good and evil and make wise choices in alignment with God’s will.
Colossians 2 verse 6 to 7 also teaches about spiritual growth.
“As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving.”
Paul encourages believers to continue walking in Christ, being rooted, built up, and established in the faith. Spiritual growth is not a one-time event but a lifelong process of deepening our connection with Christ. By remaining grounded in Him, we are fortified and strengthened to withstand the challenges and temptations that come our way. Spiritual growth enables us to mature in our faith, ensuring that our foundation remains firm and unshakable.
1 Peter 2 verse 2 says,
“As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby.”
Peter compares spiritual growth to the nourishment of infants. Just as babies long for milk to grow physically, believers are encouraged to have a similar hunger for spiritual sustenance. We grow by immersing ourselves in God’s Word, prayer, fellowship, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
This intentional pursuit of spiritual nourishment enables us to mature in our salvation and experience the fullness of God’s promises.
Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, informs the connection between spiritual growth and the abounding of love, knowledge, and discernment. As we grow spiritually, our capacity to love expands and our understanding deepens. This growth enables us to make wise and righteous choices, reflecting the character of Christ. The fruit of righteousness that springs forth from our spiritual growth brings glory and praise to God.
“And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ, being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.” (Philippians 1 verses 9 to 11 )
Spiritual growth is an essential journey for Christians. It involves developing a deeper relationship with God, maturing in faith, and aligning our lives with His will. The significance of spiritual growth cannot be overemphasized.
The immeasurable power of God is evident throughout biblical accounts, from Moses parting the Red Sea to Joshua leading the Israelites into the Promised Land. As Christians, we are called to trust in God’s unwavering sovereignty, knowing that the same resurrection power that raised Christ from the dead is available to us.
Alongside this call to trust, interceding for others holds a significant place in our faith, as the Bible encourages believers to pray for one another, offer support, and stand in the gap on behalf of others. Apostle Paul, in Romans 15 verse 3, urges believers to join him in prayer, recognizing the transformative strength that intercession brings in spiritual struggles.
We are instructed in the scripture to pray for all people, including those in authority, emphasizing the desire for peaceful and godly living.
“Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.” ( 1 Timothy 2 verse 1 to 2)
Epaphras in the bible serves as an exemplar of intercession in Colossians 4 verse 12, constantly wrestling in prayer for the believers in Colossae, desiring their spiritual maturity and steadfastness in God’s will.
Through these various biblical references, we gain a deeper understanding of the significance of interceding for others, particularly new converts.
As a fundamental aspect of our Christian faith, it allows us to support one another, pray for spiritual growth, and embody the love, care, and unity within the body of Christ.
Who wrote Ephesians 1:15-23 and when was it written?
Ephesians 1:15-23 was written by Apostle Paul. It was written during his imprisonment, commonly referred to as the “prison epistles” which took place in Rome around the early 60s AD.
What is the context of Ephesians 1?
The context of Ephesians 1 reflects Paul’s desire to strengthen the faith of the Ephesian believers and provide them with a solid foundation for understanding the mysteries of God’s plan of salvation.
The passage also talks about the identity of the church of Christ and the importance of living in unity and holiness as believers.
The book of Ephesians is one of Apostle Paul’s letters to the early Christian church. Specifically, this letter was addressed to the believers in the city of Ephesus. Paul wrote this letter while he was imprisoned in Rome.
Ephesians is considered one of Paul’s “prison epistles,” written during his time of imprisonment.
The primary purpose of the letter is to instruct and encourage the believers in their faith. It covers a wide range of theological and practical topics, addressing issues such as the nature of the church, unity among church members, the role of Christ in salvation, and instructions for Christian living.
To understand the context of Ephesians Chapter 1, it is essential to consider the broader context of the entire letter. In this chapter, Paul establishes the groundwork for the theological themes he developed further in the book.
One of the key aspects of this message is opening the chapter with a prayer. Paul initiated the letter by expressing gratitude for the believers in Ephesus and their faith in Christ. He also offered prayers for them, setting a tone of encouragement and spiritual blessings.
Ephesians 1 verses 3 to 14, often referred to as the “Blessings of Salvation” or the “Spiritual Blessings in Christ,” outlines the various spiritual blessings received by believers through their union with Christ. These blessings encompass adoption, redemption, forgiveness of sins, and the sealing of the Holy Spirit, among others. The focus is on God’s sovereign plan of salvation and the lavish grace bestowed upon believers.
Paul went further to express his gratitude for the faith of the Ephesian believers and then prayed for them from the bottom of his heart. His prayer was for God to grant them wisdom and revelation in their knowledge of God.
He desires that the believers may have a deeper understanding of the hope to which they are called, the riches of their inheritance in Christ, and the surpassing greatness of God’s power.
The context of this message establishes the foundation for the rest of the letter to the Ephesus, emphasizing the theological underpinnings of salvation and the believer’s relationship with God through Christ. It conveys that believers are chosen, blessed, and empowered by God, while also encouraging them to grow in their knowledge and experience of God’s grace and power.
We could see that Paul wrote this passage out of deep gratitude, thanksgiving, and love for the believers in Ephesus. He had heard about their faith in the Lord Jesus and their love for all the saints, which prompted him to offer a prayer on their behalf.
“Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints.” (Ephesians 1 verse 15)
Moreover, the letter emphasizes the significance of wisdom, revelation, and knowledge of God’s plan and purposes.
Therefore, the message can be seen as an expression of Paul’s love, concern, and desire for the spiritual growth and well-being of the Ephesian believers. It serves as a reminder of the rich blessings they have in Christ and encourages them to seek a deeper relationship with God for a fuller experience of His power.
What is Ephesians 1:15-23 prayer?
Heavenly Father, with grateful hearts, we come before You, acknowledging the faith and love of fellow believers. Grant us a spirit of wisdom and revelation that we may know You intimately. Open the eyes of our hearts to understand the hope of our calling and the abundant blessings You have bestowed upon us in Christ.
Enlighten our minds to comprehend the immeasurable greatness of Your power, displayed in raising Christ and exalting Him above all. Help us grasp His authority over all things in this age and the age to come. May we, as Your church, fully embrace our role as the body of Christ, united in purpose and mission. Fill us with Your Spirit, empowering us to live according to Your will. May our lives bring glory to Your name and be instruments of Your love and grace, this I pray in Jesus’s name. Amen.
Conclusion
As we conclude our journey through this message and its profound exploration of God’s power at work within us, let us take a moment to reflect on some themes found not only within this passage but also extended throughout the Bible.
When embraced and practiced, these themes will serve as an exhortation to all Christian believers, encouraging us to grow in our faith and live lives befitting our calling.
The theme of unity within the body of Christ resounds through the stories of the early church, where believers were united in purpose, breaking bread together, and sharing all they had. It reminds us of the significance of building strong relationships within our local communities of faith and supporting and encouraging one another as we journey through our Christian life.
In Acts 2 verses 42 to 47, we witness the unity and devotion of the early believers, who were of one heart and soul, sharing everything and living in awe of God’s work among them. This passage serves as a powerful example of the unity and sacrificial love that should characterize the body of Christ.
Also, Apostle Paul’s letters abound with exhortations to live a life worthy of our calling. Whether it is in Ephesians, Colossians, or Philippians, Paul consistently urges all believers to walk in a manner that reflects the transformative power of Christ within us. This includes putting off the old self, renewing our minds, and clothing ourselves with righteousness, kindness, and humility.
In Colossians 3 verse 12 to 14,
“Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection.”
Paul encourages believers to clothe themselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, bearing with one another and forgiving each other as the Lord forgave them. This passage serves as a reminder of the attitudes and behaviors that should characterize our lives as followers of Christ.
Similarly, the teachings of Jesus emphasize the importance of love, forgiveness, and servanthood. From the parable of the Good Samaritan to Jesus washing His disciples’ feet, we are reminded that true power is found in humility and selfless acts of love. The immeasurable greatness of his power, working of his great might and exceeding greatness of his power are rooted in true love.
Jesus, our perfect example also instructs His disciples to love one another as He has loved them, for it is by this love that all people will know they are His disciples. This commandment highlights the centrality of love in the life of a believer and its role in displaying the power and character of God to the world.
In light of these timeless biblical themes, let us respond to the admonition found in Ephesians 1 verse 15 to 23 by embracing the fullness of God’s power in our lives. It is important to deepen our faith by living as vessels of God’s love and agents of reconciliation in a divided world. Let us unite as the body of Christ, supporting and encouraging one another on our shared journey of faith.
May we continually seek the Spirit of wisdom and revelation so that we may comprehend the immeasurable greatness of God’s power at work within us.