Intercession for the Saints

Intro: Tonight we are going to look at the two prayers the Paul writes out for the church at Ephesus. We find them both in the book of Ephesians, the first one being one that we looked at Sunday coming from chapter 1 and the second coming from chapter 3. They each carry with them a message for this church of young believers. In his first prayer Paul prays that “that ye may know...” and the second “that ye might be...”

Ephesians 1:15-23

A. The eyes of your understanding: We read in 1 Corinthians 2 on Sunday, and we all understand that no matter how intellectual we are that without the Spirit’s leading, and guidance, there is no hope for us understanding this book.

B.That ye might know what is the hope of his calling: Since the covenant of Christs death was established since before the foundation of the world was framed, we have a blessed hope that isn’t based upon my merit but upon the grace of God! (vs. 4-5)

C. What the riches of the glory of His inheritance: We not only have an inheritance in Christ but we are His inheritance. (vs. 11) Riches indicating the fact that there is nothing lacking! True Christian maturity comes through realizing just how much you mean to Christ, and then by that, starting to live a life that is pleasing to Him!

D. The exceeding greatness of his power: The very power that spoke the world into existence, that called Christ from the grave, is the same power that is available to you and I on a daily basis! Christ has already won the victory, we do not fight for victory, but from victory!

We notice that this first prayer is about learning!

Ephesians 3:13-21

A. To be strengthened with might: What an afterthought our inner man often is… The Spirit of God empowers us from within! We must be willing to work in, so that He may work out!

B. Being rooted and grounded in love: Whenever I think of Christ dwelling in my heart, I liken it to a home. During His earthly ministry He went often to His friends home in Bethany. He was welcomed, was fed and was loved there. What a challenge that is to us… Now consider Him coming to Abraham and visiting with Abraham while He sent two angels to Lot’s house, what a reception they recieved...

C. May be able to comprehend: This is more than knowledge… It is a wonderful blessing that can be grasped hold of! By faith we lay hold on the promises of God and allow them to become part of our very being!

D. Might be filled with all the fulness: The ultimate purpose for our lives! We are complete in the one whom all fulness dwells! We will always be filled with something if not God then what? Disobedience, pride, envy, lust, discontentment. We must be filled with all the fulness of God!

We notice that this second prayer is about living!

Closing: God works in us, God works through us, and by that, God is glorified in us!