Browse Bible Study Resources

Daily Devotions

Ephesians

Ephesians 
Day 
Day 27

"That in the dispensation of the fullness of the times He might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven and which are on earth- in Him."

Text: Ephesians 1:10

THE “TIME” ASPECT OF GOD’S WILL

Paul’s explanation of God’s will included, interestingly, a “time” aspect.

1. With reference to “Time in the Past”

Paul spoke of a time “before the foundation of the world”. Just how far back that was, we do not know. But there was a reference to the distant past.

2. With reference to “Time in the Future”

If there is a “time in the past” then it should not surprise us if there is also “a Time in the Future”. Paul was obviously describing the future when he wrote about what God would do in “the fullness of the times”.

THE MANAGEMENT OF GOD’S WILL

The word “dispensation” (“oikonomian”) is worthwhile studying in some depth. It yields further elucidation on the subject of “God’s will”.

1. Definition of the word “dispensation” (“oikonomian”)

a) Lexical roots (“oikonomos”)

This word is closely related to another one. The basic idea behind these two words is
“stewardship” or “management”. The word-picture is that of a household steward managing the affairs of the estate of his master.

b) Application of the word

Paul used this word, here translated “dispensation” to describe the fact that God’s will is carefully managed. His will is not some wild and uncontrollable thing, some speak of as “Fate”.

2. “Fullness of the times”

The word “fullness” (“pleroma”) suggests a number of ideas. The following relevant thoughts may be considered:-

a) A definite period of time
b) A culmination of that period of time
c) All that God had planned to occur will take place in “fullness”
d) When the culmination or the “fullness of the times” would be known only to God.

Once again, we are humbled as we seek to learn more about God’s Will. We must at least be thankful that God is in absolute control of everything, in the management or administration (“dispensation”) of His will.