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The exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe

Text: Ephesians 1:15-23
4 May 2008

(I) GOD’S PLAN FOR OUR SALVATION

1. Plan thought out before the foundation of the world

“…He chose us in Him (Christ) before the foundation of the world…” Ephesians 1:4

2. Planning and predestination

“Having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ…” Ephesians 1:5

(II) GOD’S PROVISION IN HIS PLAN FOR OUR SALVATION

1. Redemption in Christ

“In Him we have redemption through His blood…” Ephesians 1:7a

2. Full forgiveness

“…the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace” Ephesians 1:7b

3. An inheritance

“In Him also we have obtained an inheritance…” Ephesians 1:11

(III) GOD’S PLAN SEALED AND GUARANTEED

1. The Holy Spirit as Seal

“…in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit…” Ephesians 1:13

2. The Holy Spirit as Guarantee

“Who is the guarantee of our inheritance…” Ephesians 1:14

(IV) GOD’S POWER PROMISED ESPECIALLY

1. Description of God’s power

“…exceeding greatness of His power…” Ephesians 1:19a

2. Description of God’s power at work

a) With reference to believers

“…toward us who believe…” Ephesians 1:19b

b) With reference to actual application of that power

“…according to the working of His mighty power” Ephesians 1:19c

(V) GOD’S PLAN COMPREHENDED

1. Through prayer

“…making mention of you in my prayers” Ephesians 1:16

2. Through enlightenment

“…may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened…” Ephesians 1:17-18

3. Through experience

“…the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power which He worked in Christ…” Ephesians 1:19-20

(VI) GRATEFUL RESPONSE

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ” Ephesians 1:3

1. To give thanks to God for His wondrous gift of salvation

2. To seek deeper understanding of our salvation in Christ

3. To discover the power of God in our daily life