The aim of Bible study is to simply believe and obey so we can properly worship God, not to find support for our theological agendas. So it ought be as we consider the biblical doctrine of election. This truth is a cause for joy, not dissension! God's sovereign and saving love reveals not only His great power, but also His tender mercies. It utterly removes the efforts of man so that we may more fully praise the perfections of a God who rescues and transforms. Whatever your theology may be, lay down your agendas when you pick up His Word. Only through humble submission to His truth can we praise Him as we should.
Worship Through Praise: Praise the Father, Part 2
Passage: Ephesians 1:3–1:6
March 24, 2013 • Pastor Marc Wragg
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Ephesians, Chapter 1-2
Introduction to Ephesians: Part 1
March 3, 2013 • Pastor Marc Wragg
Many today believe the Church is obsolete. Still others attack Paul's authorship of Ephesians despite clear evidence to the contrary. It's true that much of the Church today is weak and ineffectual, chasing after worldly influence and trusting in worldly strength. But in Ephesians, not only do we find Paul's authorship affirmed, we also find that the vitality of the Church flows from its Head. Methods and movements don't make us relevant; life and spiritual power will be evidenced as the majesty of the Gospel is put on display in the life of the Church.
Introduction to Ephesians: Part 2
March 10, 2013 • Pastor Marc Wragg
Paul had been a devoted pharisee, convinced he was serving God by persecuting the Church. Yet in a single moment Christ pulled back the veil and revealed that his service had not been to God, but Satan. We all come to Christ steeped in sin and warped by error, our dirty hands filled with futile works. Even so, Christ has borne our penalty and freed us from our enslavement to sin, and empowered us to pursue holy lives through faith in Him. This lavish grace cannot help but change our understanding of God, and ultimately lead us to humbly bow in worship.
Worship Through Praise: Praise the Father, Part 1
March 17, 2013 • Pastor Marc Wragg
In the Church, we get a glimpse of eternity. It demonstrates Christ's rule, openly displays His glory, and reveals the mysteries of God. The many references to the Church in the book of Ephesians might tempt us to dwell on what great things we can do for God, yet Paul directs us to what great things God has done for us! He has chosen us, predestined us, adopted us, redeemed us, and revealed the mystery of His Gospel to us. Reflecting on the grandness of God's work is where real and healthy worship begins. God graciously blesses us with the might and power of His deeds. How else can we respond but to offer up to Him the simple praises of our lips?