SEARCH THE SCRIPTURES 02-12-2018

RECAP OF OUR LAST STUDY In our last study, entitled “Victory of Jabesh over Ammon”, we learnt that Satan’s attack aims at bringing reproach to God and His people; yet God always intervenes to deliver His people. The gospel liberates and brings joy to all those under demonic siege; believers must be ready always to give this message of hope and deliverance to all. The power and presence of the Holy Spirit in the believer grants victory in life’s battles. We must always return in praise and worship to God when we enjoy victory.

TODAY’S STUDY: LESSON 721: BELIEVERS’ ENRICHMENT THROUGH CHRIST MEMORY VERSE: …… “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ” (Ephesians 1:3). TEXT: Ephesians 1:1-14

INTRODUCTION Christians have a wealth of blessings in Christ. Though we may be in different locations, God has “blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ”. Paul’s missionary work in Ephesus delivered the city from years of idol worship and occultic practices. The gospel changes lives. Paul’s thrust in writing this epistle is for believers to be aware of their position in Christ and live a holy life despite the prevailing circumstances around them.

CATALOGUE OF BELIEVERS’ BLESSINGS IN CHRIST Ephesians 1:1-10 Paul wrote about the numerous blessings, inheritance and riches believers have in Christ. God has given us blessings for a successful and satisfying Christian life. They are timeless and eternal. QUESTION 1: Outline specific blessings a believer enjoys by virtue of his faith in Christ – Romans 8:15,17; Ephesians 1:9,10 QUESTION 2: What are the implications of divine blessings for a believer? – Psalm 37:16-19; Philippians 4:4-7,19

BENEFITTING FROM CHRIST’S TREASURES Ephesians 1:8,9 Irrespective of nationality, age or religious background, anyone can partake of the treasures in Christ once he or she meets the terms and conditions. Believers who have received God’s grace must be diligent to preserve it. QUESTION 3: Highlight the conditions for partaking in Christ’s provision – John 1:12; 1 Corinthians 9:27

CONSEQUENCE OF BELIEVERS’ ENRICHMENT IN CHRIST Ephesians 1:11-14 Paul’s emphasis is on spiritual and not physical enrichment. God is the Source of true riches and His purpose is that our riches should be “to the praise of His glory”. The grace of God in us should illuminate, liberate and justify unbelievers. QUESTION 4: How can contemporary believers profitably deploy the riches of Christ? – James 1:22; Matthew 5:16; 2 Cor. 12:15

CONCLUSION God has given us unlimited blessings: “all things that pertain unto life and godliness”. We should be holy and blameless before Him. Trials and adversity shouldn’t make us to envy unbelievers. Rather, our light should enlighten and transform them. We should use our time, talents and treasure to expand God’s Kingdom and glorify His name.