1 Peter 1:5 says that we are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. Jude 24-25 proclaims, Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to make you stand in the presence of His glory blameless with great joy, to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion and authority, before all time and now and forever. It would seemingly be enough to mention the power of God, who is omnipotent. to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called". 25 But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it. When we make use of these resources, we will experience the mighty power with which God raised Christ from death! 10:13; Eph. (Mornings with Tozer: Daily Devotional Readings). But, since there are many who dispute it, allow me just to stir up your minds by way of remembrance, by mentioning certain facts which will lead you to see clearly that verily God does choose our lot, and apportion for us our inheritance. Heart (2588) (kardia) is most often used in the Bible not of the literal organ that circulates blood in our body. 1:10). Emotions are important, but they must be guided and controlled by an enlightened mind. This hope is of the perfection of all, which we are called to enjoy really, but imperfectly, here. 6:14; 16:5f, 9, 15, 17, 19, 30; Ruth 2:1; 1 Sam. Eyes (3788) (ophthalmos) is literally the organ of vision but in Paul's use is obviously figurative. Thats why, when I heard of the solid trust you have in the Master Jesus and your outpouring of love to all the followers of Jesus, I couldnt stop thanking God for youevery time I prayed, Id think of you and give thanks. We need to go back and read the manual carefully, asking God to give us His wisdom and understanding. The soul, as is written, The soul of man is the lamp of the Lord (Prov. To the extent that you understand these vast spiritual resources, you will enjoy God and glorify Him forever. It takes far more faith to encounter and endure the battles of the Christian life than it did to trust Christ and be born again. Usually ischus denotes power, might, strength, ability. Ancient understanding is often linked to other kinds of power or authority (e.g., dunamis, exousia; cf. . Are you confused now? Gods mighty power has granted us all that we need for life and godliness, so that we can escape the corruption that is in the world by lust (2 Pet. Either way you interpret this phrase, whether we are heirs to a vast fortune in heaven or whether we are Gods special inheritance (both are true), the application is the same. Certainly, there is always the danger of spiritual pride that comes from thinking that you know more than others know. Play Chris Tomlin's Resurrection Power. It comes only through the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. But you cant understand this manual by mere human insight or wisdom. Used from Homer on it meant originally the fragment of stone or piece of wood which was used as a lot. We must live as citizens of heaven who belong to God. 3:24; 4:37; 8:17f; 9:26, 29; 26:8; 32:13; 33:11, 25, 27; Jos. Eph 3:20+ Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us (speaking of the power of the Spirit that continually energizes us - see Php 2:13+, cp the prayer in Eph 3:16+!). In the New Testament it's a special invitation from God to man to accept the priceless benefits of His salvation. Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. Is (2076) is the present tense of eimi = to be, and so conveys the idea "what is continually the hope.". What did God require of him (vv. It seems to be parenthetical, as in the KJV, ASV, and RSV (ED: NRSV = "so that, with the eyes of your heart enlightened"). 1QS 11:36). Living in the light of Your goodness In hours of weakness they drew on God's power; in those of suffering, on his patience; in those of misunderstanding and hatred, on his vindication; in those of apparent defeat and despair, on the promises that gleam over the smoke of the battle, as the Cross before the gaze of Constantine; in death itself, on the life and immortality which find their home in the being of Jehovah. Consequently it should fill you with joy (Rom. Start for FREE. But the effectual call is the lightning bolt that connects. By his own sovereign choice. After all, what good is it to have wealth if you are too weak to use it? 3:7; Eph. Kratos means strength or might, the power to rule or control or exert dominion (power to rule, supreme authority, sovereignty, the right to govern or rule or determine). The literal rendering is "the eyes of your understanding being enlightened." What a tragedy when believers do the same thing with the riches they possess in Christ, failing to really possess their possessions! It gives off light, but it doesnt strike anything in particular. The resurrection power that raised up the Lord Jesus Christ from the dead is the power that works in every single believer. 15.110; Sib. Having been enlightened rests on the observation that you cant see in the dark and implies that the addressees used to live in mental darkness but that at conversion they were transferred into the realm of mental light, so that now they can see what the Spirit reveals to them (Eph 4:1718; Eph 5:8; Colossians 1:13). Commentators tell us that they can distinguish differences of meaning between the words, in that the first of them is the more active and outward, and the last of them is the more inward. We are called by God to salvation. Aristotle (Rhet., i., 5) says strength (ischus)is the power of moving another as one wills; and that other is to be moved either by drawing or pushing or carrying or pressing or compressing; so that the strong (ho ischuros) is strong for all or for some of these things.. 18:1; 22:15; 29:4, 11; 31:10; 33:16; 38:10; 39:10; 61:2; 65:6; 71:9; 78:61; 102:23; 103:20; 111:6; 118:14; 147:5; Prov. Hoehner adds that "According to Aristotle is actual power whereas is potential power. NET and what is the incomparable greatness of his power toward us who believe, as displayed in the exercise of his immense strength. 4:13). God is able to do exceeding abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us (Eph. Get Your Bible Minute in Your Inbox Every Morning. Knowing of Jonahs disobedience beforehand, God had already prepared a great fish to swallow him and spit him out when he was humbled enough to repent (Jonah 1:172:1). "Like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. " Romans properly transcendent and immeasurable, and passes thought and desire and knowledge. How did God respond to Pauls prayer to remove his thorn in the flesh? Philippians 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. 1:9; 1 Co. 4:5; Eph. That men might know the measure of Gods power. But while countless people place, or rather misplace, their faith in the transforming power of subliminal messages, living faith in Jesus Christ cannot fail to do its transforming work. Kleronomia is literally what is received as a gift from someone who has died, but figuratively as in this verse it refers in a religious sense to God's promised salvation, gifts, and benefits. Strength (2904) (kratos) refers to manifested power or power that is put forth in action. What an objective in prayer! ", Toward (1519) (eis) motion toward = marking that which any person or thing inclines toward (in this case genuine belief). Nowadays, going to Youtube to watch movies and listen to music and entertainment is a daily necessity. It will fill you with thanksgiving, joy, and hope. He will win for Himself a great name, as He turns thy desert places into gardens, and makes thy wildernesses blossom as the rose. Jesus healed by the power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 10:38); cast out demons by the power of the Holy Spirit (Mt 12:28); was resurrected from the dead by the power of the Holy Spirit (Ro 8:11+); and was seated at God's right hand in the heavenly places through the power of the Holy Spirit (Eph 1:19, 20+). "For we are dead, and our life is hid with Christ in God." A marvellous lift was there! Eph 3:16+is another "powerful" (power full - also using dunamis) passage indicating that the Holly Spirit is the Source of this incredible supernatural power (cf Lk 4:14+ = Jesus' pattern for our lives today [1Co 11:1+]!, Acts 1:8+, Ro 15:19+, 1Co 2:4+, 1Th 1:5, Micah 3:8)! 119:18) or other spiritual realities (2 Kings 6:17). Yes, we are, indeed, the conquered captives of his omnipotent love. . Thus, His possession is located in the saints. That power works in every one of us, as I stand before you. These are in accordance with the working of the strength of His might (NASB: Lockman), Greek: kai ti to huperballon (PAPNSN) megethos tes dunameos autou eis hemas tous pisteuontas (PAPMPA) kata ten energeian tou kratous tes ischuos autou. When He placed his cross against the wall, and scaled our ramparts, planting on our strongholds the blood-red flag of his omnipotent mercy? When we were children, the map of Africa gave us a few scattered names around the coast line; but the great interior was blank. Some have learnt the happy art of receiving and utilizing every square inch if we may use the expression of that knowledge of God which has been revealed to them. It sounds vague and theoretical. The field is the world. What does the Bible say about how much power Christians possess? 46) he admonished them to employ that power in faithful living for their Lord. "That you will know" Recall Paul's pronouncement of truth in Colossians 1:27 that believers (Jews and Gentiles) now have Christ in them and that this is their hope of glory. But here, Paul is writing to believers (saints, us who believe, 1:18, 19). All Christians have the same hope. 15:19). Hoehner on kratos -In the NT it is used twelve times, four times by Paul, twice in Ephesians (1:19; 6:10) and it always has reference to supernatural power: once of the devil (Heb 2:14), and the other eleven times of God. Galatians So he should not be judging Adam who shows concern for his unborn child. Ephesians 1 1-2 I, Paul, am under God's plan as an apostle, a special agent of Christ Jesus, writing to you faithful believers in Ephesus. (Psalm 119:18-see commentaryor related commentary). (Life Application Study Bible: New Living Translation). God called the entire nation of Israel to be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation (Exodus 19:6). There is no mortgage on his estate; no suits can be raised by opposing claimants, the price was paid in open court (1Co 6:20, Rev 5:9), and the Church is the Lord's freehold for ever. Year after year the process is repeated, until, perhaps when twenty years have come and gone, the fences are needed no longer, because the extent of occupation is commensurate with the extent of the original purchase. 1:18; Eph. 6:22 =that he may comfort your hearts. The second dealt with the future when God will gain his inheritance at the coming of Christ. The man was powerfully built, and Fuller visualized how he must have looked in the ring. 13:3; Ezra 9:8; Barn. God the Father gave the world to Adam. No, not at all. Remember that the first three chapters are doctrine but the last three are "duty," calling for a walk "in step" with the doctrinal truths. Yes, it is an inheritance. Warren Wiersbe (Be Rich [Victor Books], pp. In sum, for believerseido/oida suggests Spirit given fullness of knowledge, absolute knowledge (that which is without a doubt), rather than a progress in knowledge (cp ginosko) a distinction illustrated in the following passages. 25:15): virtue (Mk 5:30): power (Lk24:29; Acts 1:8; 1 Cor. Extract each minute. COMMENT - This context refers to the spiritual powers of the heavenly beings. 1 Peter Philippians 3:14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. 5:2) and motivate you to godly living (1 John 3:3). The power which raised Christ from the grave, lifted Him to heaven, put all things under His feet and made Him the Head over all to the Church, is to us-ward who believe. First is dunamis (power), from which we get dynamite and dynamo. In the Old Testament, thats what Israel was called; she was called The Lords Portion, the Lords inheritance. Our faith in Christ did not originate with our feeble will, but with the sovereign, eternal will of God. In Ephesians 1:19 and Ephesians 6:10, ischus describes the strength of God bestowed upon believers. But let us not stop here - believers needed resurrection power to be saved the first time (justification) and are in continual need of this same power for "daily salvation" (progressive sanctification, "present tense" salvation) from the world, the flesh and the devil! That is, probably, "the thing hoped for," because promised, at our calling (as in Galatians 5:5; Colossians 1:5; Titus 2:3; Hebrews 6:18; and perhaps 1Timothy 1:1), for the other objects of knowledge with which it is here joined are certainly objective or external to ourselves. Therefore, whereas the hope that was produced by his calling looked back to the past, his inheritance in the saints will be fully realized in Christs coming to get his saints." There is the danger of stopping at knowing doctrine, rather than allowing the doctrines to give you greater personal knowledge of the God of whom the doctrines speak. 4:7). It does not matter how it hurts as long as it gives God the chance to manifest Himself in your mortal flesh. The end of which is, that those predestinated, redeemed, and adopted ones, should be to the praise and glory of God, Eph 1:12, and who are described as such, who first trusted in Christ upon hearing the Gospel; and after they had believed in him, were sealed by the Holy Spirit, said to be the Spirit of promise, Eph 1:13, and who is also spoken of as the earnest and pledge of the saints' inheritance, and who will continue so until all the people of God are redeemed from the grave in the resurrection morn, which will also issue in the praise and glory of God, Eph 1:14, and now on account of all these blessings of predestination, adoption, redemption, calling, and the sealing of the Spirit; as also, because of their faith in Christ, and love to the saints, these believers were possessed of, the apostle gave thanks, and continued to give thanks to God in his prayers to him, Eph 1:15,16. Ask Him to impress on your heart the blessings and responsibilities of your calling. And all the crops of golden grain, all the fruits of Christian grace, are Thine from us, because Thou hast by thy blood and tears, by the sunshine of thy love, and the rain of thy grace, enriched natures which in themselves were arid as the desert and barren as the sand. The same power that brought Christ from the dead, and set him on high, works in the salvation of every believer. 1:4; 2:37; 3:4, 20; 4:1, 13f, 21ff, 30f; 5:7; 7:7; 8:6f, 22, 24; 10:8, 16f; 11:1, 6f, 10, 15, 17, 19, 25, 34; Hos. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints. I, Paul, am under Gods plan as an apostle, a special agent of Christ Jesus, writing to you faithful believers in Ephesus. (Ephesians: An Exegetical Commentary). B. It abounded with orators and philosophers, and men of great wisdom and learning {c}; and was formerly a very rich, trading, flourishing city, but now a village, and a poor desolate place; it retains the name of Efeso, though the Turks call it Aia Salik. In conclusion, is supernatural power that is in actual operation. He purchased it and paid for it with the blood of His Son. It is Christs coming to take His own to be with Himself. 1 Samuel Notice that pisteuo is in the present tense which describes those who are continuously believing as for example would be demonstrated by their lifestyle, which is generally (not perfectly) directed God-ward and Heaven-ward (homeward). God can. May we learn daily to surrender to the Spirit of Christ, Who energizes our walk, elevating it from a "natural" to a "supernatural" walk. Undefiled! Thats why there is rape and famine, pollution, corruption, and death on our planet. He's the Father of our Master, Jesus Christ, and takes us to the high places of blessing in him. You have given us freedom, hallelujah. What Does It Mean That There Is No One Holy Like God?