Sjbjburke's Blog

The Letter to the Ephesians    Message Ten   1 May 2022

Two weeks ago we read the first thirteen verses of chapter three and learned of God’s –

VI.  Promise  Ephesians 3:1-13

Through these verses we learned that God revealed His plan –

  A.  To enable all men to come to Him by grace through faith –

  B.  To explain that Paul was called of God to salvation and once saved, to service as he wrote in –

Ephesians 2:8-10  For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

As we saw, he was to declare the message to all men, but particularly the Gentiles.

    1.  Paul was touched by conviction, as they were.

    2.  He was taught by revelation –

      a.  The Authority of this revelation was God.

      b.  The acceptance of this authority was of God

    3.  He was tasked with the preaching of the gospel to the Gentiles.

    4.  He was training others to follow the commission of God –

  C.  To exalt the Lord Jesus Christ

  D.  To ease their concern for him

Ephesians 3:13  Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.

Today we turn from God’s promise to Paul’s –

VII.  Perception.  Ephesians 3:14-21

He perceived  (understood) the Greatness of God and the need (emptiness) of men which we see in his reliance, his request, and his regard for God.

  A.  Paul’s Reliance on God

Paul knew that the distance between man and God is infinite.  We can travel forever and never arrive into His presence!  We learn from Paul’s message to those in Athens as recorded in Acts 17 that they could not know God, except that He revealed Himself to them. 

Acts 17:19-23  And they took him, and brought him unto Areopagus, saying, May we know what this new doctrine, whereof thou speakest, is? For thou bringest certain strange things to our ears: we would know therefore what these things mean. (For all the Athenians and strangers which were there spent their time in nothing else, but either to tell, or to hear some new thing.) Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars’ hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious. For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you.

 Paul knew that God was not conceived in the imaginations of man, and even that knowing the truth of God, all of the praying and all of the preaching would be of none affect except that God’s power was in it.  Therefore Paul stated –

    Ephesians 3:14  For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,

In the Old Testament at the rebuilding of the Temple following the Babylonian captivity, Zerubabble was reminded that even though the building was constructed by the labour of men, it was God through His power who enabled them to build it and it was God who would consecrate and establish it as the House of Prayer.

It was through the account given by Zechariah in chapter 4, verse 6 that we are reminded of our need to rely on God –  Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts.

It was through the words of Jesus that we are reminded that while men built the house, it was through His power and for His purpose that it was built –

Matthew 21:13  And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer…..

Paul both learned this truth and he practiced it, relying on the Lord –

1 Corinthians 2:4-5  And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.

He prayed that others would learn and lean on the Lord for power in their lives.

    2.  The picture of what is, but even more, in holiness what should be.

    Ephesians 3:15   Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named,

When we think of ‘family’, we should be reminded that ‘family’ began in the mind and heart of God.

Man separated himself from God through sin, but in doing this, he did not destroy the concept of family set forth by God.  This being true, we understand more about why Satan attacks the family with more energy and hatred than any other institution.  The family has been under attack since the beginning in the Garden of Eden.  Even after these thousands of years, the family unit still brings glory to God.

The Letter to the Ephesians    Message Nine

VI.  Promise  Ephesians 3:1-13

As we read the Scriptures and understand the revelation of God from the beginning we must, as the New Testament believers also must, learn that the Gospel to the Gentiles was not an afterthought!  The promises of God were revealed at His appointed time in accordance to His will, and we see in His Word the perfect plan set before the beginning of time.

Remember  –

Jesus came “in the fulness of time…”

Jesus ministered “…my time is not yet come…”

Jesus died “…when Jesus knew that his hour was come that he should depart out of this world unto the Father…”

God revealed His plan –

  A.  To enable all men to come to Him by grace through faith –

Ephesians 3:1 For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you

Gentiles,

To understand Paul’s statement “For this cause…” we must read again the previous verses –

Ephesians 2:18-22  For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.

The cause is that men might know that it is God’s will for to be united in Him and being united in Him, to be united with one another –

John 17:22-23  And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.

  B.  To explain that Paul was called of God to declare this message –

Ephesians 3:2  If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward:

    1.  Paul was touched by conviction, as they were.

Acts 9:4-5  And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.

    2.  He was taught by revelation –

Ephesians 3:3-4  How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)

      a.  The Authority of this revelation was God.

Galatians 1:11-12  But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.

      b.  The acceptance of this authority was of God

(The Gentile church is not an invention of the Apostle Paul as some have claimed.)

Ephesians 3:5  Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;

Acts 15:14-18  Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name. And to this agree the words of the prophets; as it is written, After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down; and I will build again the ruins thereof, and I will set it up: That the residue of men might seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles, upon whom my name is called, saith the Lord, who doeth all these things. Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world.

Galatians 2:7-9  But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter; (For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:) And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision.

    3.  He was tasked with the preaching of the gospel to the Gentiles.

Ephesians 3:6-8   That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel: Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power. Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;

    4.  He was training others to follow the commission of God –

Ephesians 3:9  And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:

Matthew 28:18-20  And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

Paul was preparing men to prepare others to carry out the commission of the Lord Jesus Christ until He returns.  He was training his generation to train the following generation until the “…end of the world.”

2 Timothy 1:12-13  For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day. Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.

2 Timothy 2:2  And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.

  C.  To exalt the Lord Jesus Christ

    1.  Returning the glorious news of Christ –

Ephesians 3:10  To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,

• shouting it back unto all those that gave the first news of His arrival –

Luke 2:8-14  And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

    2.  Reminding us again of how much the Lord loves His church –

Ephesians 3:11-12 According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord: In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him.

Refer to –

Ephesians 5:25  Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;

The Lord loved the church from eternity past, before creation, He loved His church.  In the sense of the infinite, Jesus loved it immediately, and in the sense of time, He loved it in anticipation.

We do not truly understand the infinite, but we who are married certainly understand the immediate and the anticipation of the marriage to our loved one.  Jesus loved and loves the unity brought forth by grace through faith.

Grace brings us peace, but praise God as we grow in Him and daily learn also that grace brings boldness and access to Him.

  D.  To ease their concern for him

Ephesians 3:13  Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.

Paul completed this thought by telling them not to worry about the tribulations he was going through – it is all worth it and after all – very temporary.

It is all in His plan – no surprise to God, it is just being revealed to us, unfolding as it were as time moves forward.

Have you submitted yourself to His plan – calling upon Him through salvation?

The Letter to the Ephesians   Message Seven   Ephesians 2:4-10

Last week we reviewed the riches of God through His grace which brings peace to us each day.  We saw that –

      a.  He is rich in Power  Ephesians 2:5,6

      b.  He is rich in Provision –   Ephesians 2:7

      c.  He is rich in Promises –   Ephesians 2:8

        1).  Grace. 

        2).  Saved

        3).  Faith. 

This week we continue to look at the riches of God to us through His grace resulting in His peace.

      d.  He is rich in Purpose – His plan works –

        1).  To Exclude pride.

Ephesians 2:8b     Not of works, lest any man should boast.

        2).  To Exalt the Lord Jesus Christ.

Ephesians 2:9 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus

        3).  To Engage man

Ephesians 2:9b-10  …..unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

From the beginning, man has declared religion over relationship.  Man’s pride insists that he add his own works (religion) to God’s offer of salvation (relationship).  God has set forth clearly that salvation is completely by His grace according to man’s faith in Him.  We trust and accept, then we work because we are saved, not work to be saved!

Multitudes of people have said “No one can save me, not man and not God”, but God had stated that “whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved”

Jeremiah 32:27  Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?

Put away your pride, humble yourself before Him and trust God alone for your salvation.  We also learn that –

      e.  He is rich in Presence –

Ephesians 2:11-13  Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.

Romans 3:2  Much every way: chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God.

Psalm 139:7-12  Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me. If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me. Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee.

As we consider the riches of God and His Son the Lord Jesus Christ, let’s review His riches in the light of the account of the Samaritan’s notice of one in need –

As I was considering these character traits, I thought again of His provision, being encouraged not only by His unlimited store but also by His infinite kindness which manifest the fulness of all that we are reminded of this morning.

Ephesians 2:7  That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.

Kindness – actions based on attitudes –

Luke 10:30-37  And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee. Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves? And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.

We see in the Samaritan the meaning of God’s words –

Philippians 2:3-5  Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

He had the power to help – strength and ability to deliver the man from danger

He had the prestige to help – respected and trusted by the innkeeper

He had the provision to help – immediately and in the future

He had the presence to help – he went to where the need was

He had the mercy to help – he had compassion instead of accusation – using a convenient reason to cross to the other side of the road –

“I am not from here and am just passing through this area.  Being from Samaria, if I do try and help you, the Jews, who despise Samaritans, may think that I am the one who beat and robbed you.  I feel sorry for you, but I do not want to get involved, I don’t want any trouble.”

But we see that the Samaritan had the grace to help by putting his own journey aside, and putting this man’s needs before his own

We are put in mind again of our Lord –

2 Corinthians 8:9  For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.

“…for his great love wherewith he loved us….”

Ephesians 2:5   Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)

Conclusion

      f.  He is rich in Prestige which leads to Praise –

Isaiah 45:22-23  Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God, and there is none else. I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, That unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear.

Ephesians 2:6   And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: Our eternal life, which has already begun when we turned to God for salvation through His Son, Jesus Christ, is all of Him and about Him.  Thank Him now and every day.

The Letter to the Ephesians     Message Six

IV.  Proof of changed lives.  Ephesians 2:1-13

  A.  Our (mankind’s) Resignation   Ephesians 2:1

Being where they were, as they were, they lived accordingly –

  B.  Our Resolve

  C.  Our Rescue          Ephesians 2:4-13

Last week we were reminded of some of –

    1.  The Positive responses of God –

      a.  When no hope is expected –

      b.  When all hope is lost –

      c.  When hope in God is questioned –

      d.  When no hope of victory over temptations –

      e.  When no hope that God’s plan will be fulfilled –

Ephesians 2:4-5  But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)

God reaches out to us through His power, explaining His working through His Word, bringing help to us and glory to Himself.

    His mercy through His patience and forbearance is emphasized when we realize –

    2.  The Position we were in –

         “…even when we were dead in sins…”

Can you rejoice today in those words, two words that mean everything to us – “But God…” –

Not only might we rejoice in the marvelous mercy of God in our lives, coupled with His Grace and His Peace, but we can rejoice in the fact that God’s present work never diminishes His future ability!  He never has to ‘restock’ or ‘reserve for future use’!  God is not just ‘immense’, He is infinite!  How can our limited minds define the unlimited Person of God? We simply accept and rejoice as we consider the riches of God

    3.  The Praise of His rich grace, peace, and love.

Ephesians 2:4  But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,

Consider the riches of God manifested because of His Great Love –

      a.  He is rich in Power –

Notice the declaration given in –

Isaiah 43:13  Yea, before the day was I am he; and there is none that can deliver out of my hand: I will work, and who shall let it?

We are reassured by His power that He has done, and He will do that which He has declared –

Ephesians 2:5,6  Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)  And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:

Without the saving work and power of God, we cannot even raise ourselves up above ourselves through our own strength.  Reformation is temporary –

the old self continues to rise to the surface,

the old memories continue to haunt us, even sometimes terrify us, creating scars which harden our hearts and encourage bitterness at our own weaknesses.

This is the human nature, the natural man that God has saved us from!

There is no Stairway to Heaven – there is the Doorway, “…raised us together….” the Lord Jesus Christ who by faith in Him brings us to God, from death to life, from this world to Heaven, “…to sit in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.”

Praise God for His infinite Power!  Also we know that –

      b.  He is rich in Provision –

He is infinite in His provision –

Psalm 50:10-12  For every beast of the forest is mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills. I know all the fowls of the mountains: and the wild beasts of the field are mine. If I were hungry, I would not tell thee: for the world is mine, and the fulness thereof.

Do you praise God that He shares His provisions with you?

Ephesians 2:7  That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.

Have you noticed that one of the most blessed ways God shows His grace and His kindness is through sharing Himself through fellowship and provision?

Exodus 24:7-11  And he took the book of the covenant, and read in the audience of the people: and they said, All that the LORD hath said will we do, and be obedient. And Moses took the blood, and sprinkled it on the people, and said, Behold the blood of the covenant, which the LORD hath made with you concerning all these words. Then went up Moses, and Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel: And they saw the God of Israel: and there was under his feet as it were a paved work of a sapphire stone, and as it were the body of heaven in his clearness. And upon the nobles of the children of Israel he laid not his hand: also they saw God, and did eat and drink.

John 21:9-12  As soon then as they were come to land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid thereon, and bread. Jesus saith unto them, Bring of the fish which ye have now caught. Simon Peter went up, and drew the net to land full of great fishes, an hundred and fifty and three: and for all there were so many, yet was not the net broken. Jesus saith unto them, Come and dine. And none of the disciples durst ask him, Who art thou? knowing that it was the Lord.

Do you praise God for His provision given from His infinite store and through His infinite love?

      c.  He is rich in Promises –

Ephesians 2:8,9  For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.

I have a question for you Christian – what qualifies you to call yourself a Christian?  Let’s consider this verse –

        1).  Grace.  Remember that the theme of this letter as stated in chapter one is the grace of God and through His grace, peace with God.  We determine, then, that the grace mentioned here is from God.  The motivation is the glory of God, and the offer is through the grace of God, promised thousands of years before, first made known in Genesis 3.       

        2).  Saved.  It is interesting to think about how many people are offended by this word.  Christians even try to use other words because they have been confronted by angry hearers so often – “What do I need to be saved from”?  Is there a better way to say it, a better way to approach people in a “kinder, gentler” way? I am afraid that “Christians” have worked out many ways to get people into Heaven without them knowing it!  The word ‘saved’ in the context of salvation of the Lord is used more than thirty times in the New Testament.  Once is enough, but we find this important word is to be used to help people realize they are ‘lost’ and need to be saved!  Once a person understands that he is lost, he will be glad to hear this word ‘saved’.

I have shared many times about the night many years ago we were driving to Sarasota, Florida.  Everyone in the car was asleep and I decided to drive late and reach our destination.  I pulled off at an exit on the interstate to get gas.  I tried to be quiet and smooth in my driving in order to not wake anyone.  They all remained asleep and I continued the journey.  After about 20 minutes, I noticed the compass showed ‘N’ for North.  It should have been showing ‘S’ for south!  I had taken the wrong entrance onto the highway and was going somewhere I did not want to go!  I remained very quiet and began looking for an exit so I could turn around and reach the intended destination. The compass marking ‘N’ saved me from going to the wrong place, and taking others along with me.  I did not get angry at the compass and insist on continuing the wrong direction.  I admitted to myself that I was wrong and based on that admission, turned around to go in the right way, which  I confessed to the family upon our arrival.  The word ‘saved’ is important, it is imperative because people are ‘lost’.

        3).  Faith.  You believe in many things and your exercise of this belief is called faith.  The Scripture defines faith in –

Hebrews 11:1-3  Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.  For by it the elders obtained a good report. Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.

So, what is faith?  Faith is –

          a).  A Promise.  Hebrews 11:1  “Substance of things hoped for”       (Promise,    Title deed)

         b).  A Presentation.  “Evidence of things not seen.”

         c).  A Proof.  Hebrews 11:2,3  The evidence presented by “…things that are seen were not made of things which do appear”

Faith is not mysterious or intangible, it is real and exercised daily.  Is your faith in God?  It is this faith in Him, through His grace that saves us, qualifies us to call ourselves ‘Christians’.

        4).  Gift.  Being saved is a gift from God.

A gift is that which is voluntarily given from one person to another without compensation.  If men could be saved through works of their own, it would no longer be a gift.  Salvation is of God alone and it is not for sale!

God is rich in His Promises –

Romans 10:9-13  That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

Consider the riches of God manifested because of His Great Love –

He is rich in Power, Provision, and Promises.  Have you put your faith in Him today?

The Letter to the Ephesians        Message Five

  A.  Our Resignation

  B.  Our Resolve

  C.  Our Rescue

As I read and began to consider this verse, –

Ephesians 2:4  But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,

I thought about the Lord’s mercy and love which could not be described simply as mercy and love. Paul had to express them, not only through his own experience, but also through the truth of the Holy Spirit as he was led, with words that expressed their unlimited abundance, their infinite greatness coming from the very nature of God Himself – His riches and His greatness, “…rich in mercy…his great love… wherewith he loved us….”

And then the truth expressed that His rich mercy and His great love follows those two words that should capture our attention and lead us to reflect on the truth that we do not deserve to be clothed in His abundance of mercy and love, what amazing words they are that we often read over without even thinking about them – “But God”!

    We are blessed by those words –

Ephesians 2:1 And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins;

Ephesians 2:4   “But God…..”

It will do us good to be reminded of some of –

    1.  The Positive responses of God –

      a.  When no hope is expected –

Romans 5:7-8  For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

      b.  When all hope is lost –

Acts 13:29-30  And when they had fulfilled all that was written of him, they took him down from the tree, and laid him in a sepulchre. But God raised him from the dead:

Two walking to Emmaus

Widow in Nain

Martha and Mary

Even the rich young ruler – “with God all things are possible….”

“…But God…”

      c.  When hope in God is questioned –

1 Corinthians 3:6-7  I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.

Planted, watered, but God gave the increase –

John 1:44-49  Now Philip was of Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph. And Nathanael said unto him, Can there any good thing come out of Nazareth? Philip saith unto him, Come and see. Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and saith of him, Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile! Nathanael saith unto him, Whence knowest thou me? Jesus answered and said unto him, Before that Philip called thee, when thou wast under the fig tree, I saw thee. Nathanael answered and saith unto him, Rabbi, thou art the Son of God; thou art the King of Israel.

      d.  When no hope of victory over temptations –

1 Corinthians 10:13  There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

      e.  When no hope that God’s plan will be fulfilled –

Hosea 13:9-10  O Israel, thou hast destroyed thyself; but in me is thine help. I will be thy king: where is any other that may save thee in all thy cities?

Israel rejected God, yet God gave them Good News that His promises would stand true –

Romans 11:1-2  I say then, Hath God cast away his people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. God hath not cast away his people which he foreknew. Wot ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession to God against Israel, saying,

See also –

Revelation 7:4  And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed an hundred and forty and four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel.

God is still giving Good News – How will you respond?

   We must be reminded though, of –

    2.  The negative side of God’s responses –

Luke 12:20  But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?

Luke 16:15  And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.

God’s judgment remains in place for those who reject His mercy and His grace.  They are intent on loving themselves instead of loving God and through that love, loving others. They are still in the position of being “…at emnity with God….”

Romans 8:7-8  Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.

Can you rejoice today in those words, two words that mean everything to us – “But God…” –

Ephesians 2:5  Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)

Ephesians 2:6  And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:

Philippians 3:20-21  For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.

Our eternal life, which has already begun when we turned to God for salvation through His Son, Jesus Christ, is all of Him and about Him.  Thank Him now and every day.

Message Four

We have noted the Prologue in chapter 1:1,2 setting forth the theme of the letter to be grace from God and the peace of God that is the result of that grace. Following the Prologue, we learned the lessons from the message on the Praise in chapter 1:3-13; and then the Prayer in chapter 1:14-23.  Today we will begin looking at the –

IV.  Proof of changed lives.  Ephesians 2:1-13

Which we learn by comparing the old nature of man, those that have not believed and trusted in God, with the new nature – that which God creates in those that put their faith in Him through believing the Gospel of His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.  We will begin with the old nature which we all had in common –

  A.  Our (mankind’s) Resignation   Ephesians 2:1

Men have rejected faith in God and sought to find peace in pleasure because they do not understand that peace only comes through the grace of God.  They justify themselves by believing that their actions, which are initially undesirable (forcing themselves to overcome their own physical reactions, such as what happens to them when smoking tobacco or drinking alcohol), are necessary for them to be accepted into popular society.  They continue to identify with the Old Testament statement –“…every man did that which was right in his own eyes…” which statement was rephrased later by psychiatrist as “the pleasure principle” and then the popular slogan of the 1960’s “If it feels good, do it”.  No matter what statement is used throughout the ages, the truth is that it is sin being lived out in accordance with man’s sin nature b order to reject accountability (it is not my fault, which excuse has been used since the beginning in the Garden of Eden –

Genesis 3:11-12  And he said, Who told thee that thou wast naked? Hast thou eaten of the tree, whereof I commanded thee that thou shouldest not eat? And the man said, The woman whom thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I did eat.

Genesis 3:13  And the LORD God said unto the woman, What is this that thou hast done? And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat.

• And which excuse was rejected, then as it is now, because they deliberately chose to follow their own desires, rejecting the commandment of God)

At times, even the most successful feel trapped, but resign themselves to continue on, being encouraged by pride and exercising their choice to please themselves.

Life in Ephesus was no different than life in our time, being filled with pleasure seekers who sought relief from the fear of oncoming death either by diversion or religion.  They were ignorant of the fact that they were already dead, not understanding that existence never ceases, only location changes. 

Those on the earth who have not believed God and trusted Him through His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, will continue to live separated from Him forever, not in a land of pleasure, but in a Lake of Fire.

Those on the earth who have believed God and trusted Him through His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, will continue to live with Him forever in His presence in Heaven.

Every person who has God-given eternal life through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, at one time, was not living, but was dead through their unbelief.

Multitudes of people believe they are ‘Christians’, that they are going to go to Heaven because their families were ‘Christians’.  They believe that they were never “…dead in trespasses and sins…”

Some believe they are ‘Christians’ because they, knowing that they had been doing wrong, determined to change their lives and live better.  They may have been able to change their habits but they cannot change their nature and they remain dead in unbelief.

They resign themselves to a ‘wait and see’ belief, “I am okay”.

Whatever the reason, whatever the excuse, the Truth cannot be changed – all are or were “…dead in trespasses and sins…”.

The Apostle John warned how wrong and dangerous this thinking, nationality, relationships, or will, is –

John 1:12-13  But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood (Your nationality),

John the Baptist refuted this argument –

Matthew 3:9  And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.

…” nor of the will of the flesh,…” (Your Parents)

Jesus refuted this argument –

John 4:19-20  The woman saith unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou art a prophet. Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship.

 nor of the will of man, (Adoption, deciding to be a Christian),  but of God.

Please turn to and read –

Luke 16:20-24  And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores, And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.

This ‘Rich Man’ is referred to as a good man according to the standard of the world –

He allowed this begger to be laid at his gate each day to beg.

He allowed this begger to receive from that which was off of his own table.

He allowed himself even to be acquainted with the begger – “…send Lazarus…”

This ‘Rich Man’ was, even according to the world’s standard, a better man than the very religious man written about in –

Luke 18:10-11  Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.

And yet this good man went to Hell, separated from God forever because using one’s will to be good does not change one’s nature, only their actions!  He was still under condemnation, separated from God.

God has declared the truth for our good –

 Ephesians 2:1  And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins;

John 3:16-18  For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

Romans 3:10-18  As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one….

And due to their resignation to abide in this world led by their own desires they are described accurately by Paul as those that have –

…no fear of God before their eyes.

Being where they were, as they were, they lived accordingly –

  B.  Our Resolve

Ephesians 2:2  Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world,

Men resolve to live according to the circumstances that are before them, not being aware of better things. 

Some struggle to live through the day, seeking rest at night and hoping for another day. 

Others struggle to maximize their circumstances, accumulating as much as they can each day, might it be prosperity, power, position, or praise – they also are hoping for another day.

I like the translation of the word ‘course’ from the Greek word ‘age’.  Both words convey the truth of our living in our present world, as generations before lived in their ‘present world’ and the generations to come will live in theirs.

When I think of a course, I think of playing golf – laid out and controlled beforehand by professionals to keep one on the course.  Many of the fairways are difficult, presenting a serious challenge, but enough are easy to encourage continuous play!  The easy ones are the most deceiving because they encourage you to keep on playing. It has been planned by the most devious of designers –

“…according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:”

In their frustration, from time to time, I have heard golfers scream at the course (“I hate this game” echoing across the fairways), curse the ponds, sand traps, and high grass.  I have seen them throw their clubs, bend them, break them, and even throw an entire bag into a lake.  I have seen them cheat by moving their ball to a better position when they thought no one was watching.  And yet for all of this, they will be paying money to be back on the course next week, after going to the golf store to find better clubs, longer flying balls, more comfortable clothing to help them to be better than they actually are.  They will play in the rain and on windy and cold days.  They complain about dress rules at work, but will gladly wear whatever the club requires to play on their course. Their entire lives are filled with contradictions and hypocrisy.  What resolve they show in this microcosm of society, this course, this life on earth!

All of us were on that course, in that age of the world

Ephesians 2:3  Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.

Next week we will learn of the wonderful message Paul wrote about –

  B.  Our Rescue

Ephesians 2:4  But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,

Ephesians 2:5  Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)

But Today, the question is before you – if you are saved by grace through faith, are you thankful that He has moved you from the old life to the new?

Today if you are not saved, you are still in this old life, there is hope for a better life, it is in the Lord and only in Him.  Will you turn to Him today?

The Letter to the Ephesians         Message Three

We have noted in the first two messages the Prologue, introduction, in verses 1 and 2, followed by the Praise in verses 3 through 14.  Today we continue by looking to the –

III.  Prayer.  Ephesians 1:15-23

A.  Things that we may affect in the lives of believers –

Ephesians 1:15,16  Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints,  Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers;

Paul desired that they might continue to grow in grace and peace, knowing God more each day, realizing that they would be blessed and be a blessing to others, and that their testimony would be carried along according to the command of the Lord – “…to all nations…”

Your testimony is an encouragement to others as they see and hear of your –

    1.  Faithfulness

        a.  In Living – being a Godly influence to others.

        b.  In giving – your testimony in giving will encourage others to trust the Lord and be confident in giving.

2 Corinthians 9:2  For I know the forwardness of your mind, for which I boast of you to them of Macedonia, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal hath provoked very many.

Your testimony is an encouragement to others as they see and hear of your –

  2.  Loving  “…love to all of the saints….”

    a.  Witnessing – Loving God and others in sharing with them of their need of salvation.

    b.  Teaching them in learning of God through His Word.

    c.  Training –  The Lord sent forth witness two by two that they may encourage one another and confirm the truth to those to whom they spoke.

Your testimony is an encouragement to others through your faithfulness and love in all of the areas of life, and then also you help them by teaching them about –

    3.  Dying –   This is not a thought that occurs to us often, but our love for God and for others should encourage us to be a testimony in dying!

2 Timothy 4:6-8  For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

How was Paul able to have this attitude –

Do you remember the first time you traveled by air?  Were you nervous?  Did you wonder why so many of the passengers were so calm, looking forward to the flight, enjoying the time?  It is because they often traveled by air.  The fear had been removed by experience.  When we understand life as Paul did, we will view death as he, and multitudes of saints, did –  Look at his testimony –

Galatians 2:20  I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

1 Corinthians 15:31  “…I die daily…”

Philippians 1:21-23  For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not. For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:

Paul had learned not to hold on to the things of this life, for they are only temporary.  We should live for that which is of eternal importance.  Faithful believers help us know how to be faithful, how to love God and others, and they even teach us how die well!

Remember – “fear hath torment”.  It will stop us in our tracks!

This brings us to that which he was praying for them –

B.  Things that we may know.  The –

    1.    Sovereignty – Ephesians 1:17a  That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory…

                                                 Praying that we may have –

    2.  Spiritual understanding –

Ephesians 1:17b ….may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:

Praying that we know God working in us to the end that ye may know the and understand –

    3. The Significance and Source of  His grace and peace –  Ephesians 1:18,19a  

      a.  The eyes of your understanding (through) being enlightened;

      b.  …..what is the hope of his calling,

      c.  ….what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,

      d.  what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe….

All of these blessings of grace in our lives are from Him and about Him, and that this understanding should lead us to –

    4.  Submission –   Ephesians 1:19b   That we may recognize His grace and peace in our lives.

The power which He used creating all things –

….according to the working of his mighty power,

• is used in the salvation of each man, woman, boy, or girl who calls upon Him in repentance for forgiveness and salvation!  It is the changed life, the very beginning of your resurrection from being condemned and dead in sins to life everlasting.  Do you realize as a child of God that nothing has to be added to you, from the time of salvation to the moment of resurrection – we are on the way!

Colossians 2:9-10  For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:

Praise God –

1 Corinthians 2:9  But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

Through all of the working of His mighty power we may know the –

 C.  Things that we may receive with Him –

Ephesians 1:20-23  Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places,  Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come; And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.

We see Who He is and where He is, and we should realize that we will be with Him –

John 14:3  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

His Place – ‘…heavenly places…’

His Position – ‘…above all principality’  King of kings

His Power – ‘…and power and might…’  Lord of lords

His Presence – ‘…and dominion…’

     His Praise – “…and every name that is named…”

And all of this only through His Power, infinite power!! 

Now –

Paul reminded the Ephesians that God has changed us with this same power – Our salvation is being compared with this power of God, raising Jesus from the dead!!

We must admit that it is absolutely impossible for us to bring someone back from being dead, no matter how much we try, how much we desire, what we do, using every means available to us, we cannot bring someone back to life. 

We also cannot bring ourselves back from death and we know that we are dead in trespasses and sins. 

This is why the preaching of the cross without the preaching of the resurrection is fruitless. 

Acts 4:33  And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.

Romans 1:4  And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead:

1 Peter 1:3  Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,

Hebrews 12:2  Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Again, The same power that raised Jesus from the dead saves us from eternal separation from God.  This is why it was so important to Paul to remind and encourage the saints, and us, that all we may know and all we may receive is through the power of God, that which no man on earth can accomplish.

Conclusion –

Psalm 116:12-13  What shall I render unto the LORD for all his benefits toward me? I will take the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the LORD.

Can you call Him blessed today?  Is He your Saviour?

Letter to the Ephesians        Message Two

As we begin this second message on the Letter to the Ephesians, we need to pay particular attention to the first word of verse three – “Blessed”.  We are familiar with this word and read it many times around the time of Christmas in the account given by Luke in chapter one.

Mary was called blessed, and so she was.  We note the testimony of the Lord as relayed by His messenger, Gabriel.  We note her willingness to serve the Lord in whatever way she could. We note her knowledge of the Scriptures as she met with Elisabeth –

She was certainly deserving of the greeting as recorded in –

Luke 1:26-28  And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.

It is interesting to note though, that the greeting to Mary, ‘blessed’, is different from the word used by the New Testament writers speaking to God, as we read in this letter in verse 3 “…Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ…”.

We must remember there is infinite difference between God and men, no matter how faithful the believer, with mankind always falling short of God.  This is why the word, eulogéō, used by the writers when speaking about men, is different every time, from the word,  eulogetos , used only when speaking about God.

Mark down the testimony of God Himself –

Isaiah 44:8 “…. Is there a God beside me? yea, there is no God; I know not any.”

Isaiah 45:5,6  I am the LORD, and there is none else, there is no God beside me: I girded thee, though thou hast not known me: That they may know from the rising of the sun, and from the west, that there is none beside me. I am the LORD, and there is none else.

Isaiah 45:21-22  Tell ye, and bring them near; yea, let them take counsel together: who hath declared this from ancient time? who hath told it from that time? have not I the LORD? and there is no God else beside me; a just God and a Saviour; there is none beside me. Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God, and there is none else.

Isaiah 46:9-10  Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me, Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure:

When we consider the Person of the Lord, His being, character, and nature, we can understand why the word ‘blessed’, that is used of God, should not be used for man.

Paul, who constantly experienced the grace and peace of God, considered all that God is and could say no other thing but “…Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ…” as he presented –

II.  Praise unto God.  Ephesians 1:3-14

  A.  God’s Grace through infinitely perfect decisions.

    1.  Decisions made before the creation of the world – “Before the foundation of the world…”

    2.  Decisions made according to His own good pleasure – “…according to the good pleasure of his will….”,  “…according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself…”

“…according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will…”

    3.  Decisions made for His own glory – “… to the praise of the glory of his grace…”

“…that we should be to the praise of his glory…”

    4.  Decisions made to accomplish His ultimate purpose, all things becoming one in Christ – “…he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth.

  B.  God’s grace through His Son the Lord Jesus Christ.

    1.  That in Christ –

      a.  All spiritual blessings are available – “…all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ…”

      b.  All spiritual blessings in Christ were determined before the creation of the world –

“…chosen us in him before the foundation of the world…”

    2.  That in Christ, salvation is available

“…we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins…”

    3.  That in Christ, being one with God is available

“…he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him…”

  C.  God’s grace to man.

    1.  That the believer’s sins should be forgiven.

    2.  That believer’s are adopted, in Christ, as children

    3.  That we are accepted in Christ.

    4.  That we are, in our standing before Him, holy and without blame in Christ.

    5.  That we have obtained, but not yet received an inheritance in Christ.

    6.  That we are sealed, safe, in the Lord through the work of the Holy Spirit.

Ephesians 1:13-14  In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.

Notice that believer’s have received all of this through the grace of God.  That in His infinite grace –

Romans 10:13  “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

And that being in Christ –

  2 Corinthians 5:17  “…any man be in Christ, he is a new creature…”

The praise which is given to God for His grace could only begin with that one word “Blessed…”

No other is like Him, nor can be.  Will admit this today and lift our praise unto Him for His wonderous grace?

Have you turned to God for salvation?

Ephesians 2:8-10  For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

Grace and Peace – God’s gift to you in His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.

  A.  Reproof of Job by God.

  B.  Regret of Job.

The Book of Job.  Why did Job suffer?

Message Twelve

Job 40:3-5  Then Job answered the LORD, and said, Behold, I am vile; what shall I answer thee? I will lay mine hand upon my mouth. Once have I spoken; but I will not answer: yea, twice; but I will proceed no further.

  C.  Response  from God – God, I am sure to Job’s great dismay, did not declare to Job that He understood that Job had been under an overwhelming amount of pressure, that He would comfort Job and everything would be okay.  Job had yet to learn God’s purpose in all of this!  God continued –   

Job 40:6-14  Then answered the LORD unto Job out of the whirlwind, and said, Gird up thy loins now like a man: I will demand of thee, and declare thou unto me.

Be as great a man as you can possibly be, giving as much credit to yourself as you can –

Wilt thou also disannul my judgment? wilt thou condemn me, that thou mayest be righteous? Hast thou an arm like God? or canst thou thunder with a voice like him? Deck thyself now with majesty and excellency; and array thyself with glory and beauty. Cast abroad the rage of thy wrath: and behold every one that is proud, and abase him. Look on every one that is proud, and bring him low; and tread down the wicked in their place. Hide them in the dust together; and bind their faces in secret. Then will I also confess unto thee that thine own right hand can save thee.

God charged Job that man is so feeble that he cannot even stand before that which God created!

Job 41:1-34  Canst thou draw out leviathan with an hook? or his tongue with a cord which thou lettest down? Canst thou put an hook into his nose? or bore his jaw through with a thorn? Will he make many supplications unto thee? will he speak soft words unto thee? Will he make a covenant with thee? wilt thou take him for a servant for ever? Wilt thou play with him as with a bird? or wilt thou bind him for thy maidens? Shall the companions make a banquet of him? shall they part him among the merchants? Canst thou fill his skin with barbed irons? or his head with fish spears? Lay thine hand upon him, remember the battle, do no more. Behold, the hope of him is in vain: shall not one be cast down even at the sight of him? None is so fierce that dare stir him up: who then is able to stand before me? Who hath prevented me, that I should repay him? whatsoever is under the whole heaven is mine.

God does not answer to man!  With this Job was filled with regret for the words that he has said, but –

        God did not settle for regret!  He never does.

Proverbs 28:13  He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.

Psalms 51:16-17  For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.

God only settles for repentance!

Do you take the doctrine of God lightly. 

Do you suggest to God how things should be done?

Do you read His Word and ignore that which you do not agree with?

Do you feel sorry for sin but you do not forsake it?

Admit this sin before to the Lord and turn from it, determining to obey Him in all things!  Obey even the things you may not understand yet and trust Him to teach you as your grown in Him.

Note: Recognition of sin and repentence of sin are related, but are not the same.  Mere recognition, or even admitting sin, stops short of repentence.

Do you know that you need to be saved?  Knowing is not enough, you must act upon that knowledge – repent of your sin, pray and ask God for His forgiveness and His salvation.

V.  The Satisfaction of God’s Righteousness.  Job 42:1-17

  A.  Repentance.  Job  42:1-6

     1.  Job – a righteous man.  Why did he suffer?  The question to be anwered.

      a.  What did he suffer –

        1).  Loss of posessions.

        2).  Loss of his beloved children

        3).  loss of health

        4).  loss of respect –

          a).  of his wife

          b).  of his friends

          c).  of his community

        5).  Loss of fellowship with God.

      b.  How did he suffer?  In confusion and complaint.

      c.  How did he respond? 

        1).  With regret  Job 40:3-5  and finally –

        2).  In repentence.  42:1-6,  Note vs. 6

Job 42:1-6  Then Job answered the LORD, and said, I know that thou canst do every thing, and that no thought can be withholden from thee. Who is he that hideth counsel without knowledge? therefore have I uttered that I understood not; things too wonderful for me, which I knew not. Hear, I beseech thee, and I will speak: I will demand of thee, and declare thou unto me. I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth thee. Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes.

When visited by the presence of God, Job’s suffering faded from his mind.

Why?   Was his suffering replaced by joy?  No

All of the things that were constantly on his mind, afflicting him, causing him suffering and shame – the loss of his family, his possessions, his health, his respect from the community – all of these things faded from his mind.  He did not speak of these things to God, not one word!

His suffering was replaced by repentence!  Job found that God is all in all.  He is the Beginning and the End.  Life was no longer about Job,  Life is about God!

He was an upright man.  He was a righteous man.  He did hate and avoid evil.  But his peace, joy, strength, confidence were based on the blessings that God had supplied.  When the blessings were removed –  He retained his integrity, and we appreciate him for that,  but he lost his joy, his strength, his purpose in life.

  B.  Restoration. 

Job 42:7-10  And it was so, that after the LORD had spoken these words unto Job, the LORD said to Eliphaz the Temanite, My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken of me the thing that is right, as my servant Job hath. Therefore take unto you now seven bullocks and seven rams, and go to my servant Job, and offer up for yourselves a burnt offering; and my servant Job shall pray for you: for him will I accept: lest I deal with you after your folly, in that ye have not spoken of me the thing which is right, like my servant Job. So Eliphaz the Temanite and Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite went, and did according as the LORD commanded them: the LORD also accepted Job. And the LORD turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends: also the LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before.

    1.  Reputation.

    2.  Property

    3.  Family

To answer the question – Why did he suffer?

Job was a righteous man who suffered for the glory of God.  Job learned to give God the glory when he endured suffering for a season.

These things were written for our learning.  Job was an early patriarch and the saints through the ages have been able to learn from him.

Look at –

David as he escaped from the wrath of King Saul, unjustly accused of conspiricy against the kingdom, and all this knowing that he was the annointed king. 

Daniel thrown into the den of lions for lifting up supplications to God.

Paul and Silas singing from the depths of the dungeon after being publicly humiliated and thrown into prison – and countless multitudes since. 

James encourages us to find strength to endure affliction through the testimony of Job.

James 5:10-11  Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience. Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.

God did not forsake Job, or any of His people – He forsook only One in all of eternity – Jesus took our  penalty, that which we deserved upon Himself – for us.  Do you love Him today?

To God be the glory!

Do you know that God is all in all?  Is He all in all to you?  Is He the Beginning and the End for you in your life?  What will you present to Him today?

Romans 12:1-2  I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.