Ephesians 2-3 We are all sinners saved by the grace of God through our faith ( 2:1-10 ) Jesus on the cross brought us all together ( 2:11-22 ) Paul’s purpose was to reveal this “mystery” – that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs ( 3:1-13 )

Ephesians 2-3 Paul considered himself least of all the saints (not inferior) ( 3:8 ) Yet, God graciously used him to present the “mystery” - to preach among the Gentiles that they too can be saved He revealed…

Unsearchable riches (3:8) “Unsearchable” incomprehensible, unable to fully understand The greatness of God He do we know how to please and serve Him? He tells us

Unsearchable riches (3:8) Unsearchable riches – greatness of His gifts Even with what we are told, it is but “the hem of the garment” Romans 11:33 Colossians 2:2-3 Consider His grace, mercy, love, compassion, longsuffering, eternity, power, knowledge, etc.

Unsearchable riches (3:8) It was preached among the Gentiles – not exclusive His ultimate gift – our salvation! Titus 2:11, Eph. 2:1-10, Galatians 3:26-29, etc.

“Fellowship” of the mystery “and to make all see what is the fellowship of the mystery,” (NKJV, KJV) “and to bring to light what is the administration of the mystery” (NASB95) “and to bring to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery” (ESV)

“Fellowship” of the mystery “make all see” - to illuminate, to cause to know It is for ALL to see

“Fellowship” of the mystery “fellowship” - sharing, association, communion The spiritual relationship we have with God and one another! Phil. 2:1, 1 John 1:3, Cor. 1:9 NASB, “administration”, ESV, “plan” – “stewardship” slightly different Greek word – Paul revealing this message

“Fellowship” of the mystery hidden from the beginning God had not fully revealed His plan for all mankind until the time of Paul 1 Cor. 2:6-7, see 1 Peter 1:10-12 For example: Melchizedek – Psalm 110:4 It was not a mistake – 2 Peter 1:2-3

Manifold wisdom of God “Manifold” – many and varied Heb. 11:33, His ways past finding out When God acts we may not know how or why, but HE KNOWS WHAT HE IS DOING! Do NOT question Him – Rom. 9:20- 21

Manifold wisdom of God Now made known by the church Is the church to reveal the wisdom of God? 1 Tim. 3:15, 1 Thess. 1:8,… Here - the point is the very idea of the church REVEALS His wisdom Consider this in light of “the mystery” – the church promotes unity! Gal. 3:26- 27, Rom. 12:12-27, Etc.

Manifold wisdom of God THOUGHT: If the church demonstrates the manifold wisdom of God, what is our attitude toward His wisdom if we seek to change the church – in work, worship, name, organization, mission, doctrine, etc????? Do we not then call into question His wisdom?

Manifold wisdom of God Made known to principalities and powers An expression of heavenly beings 1 Peter 1:12, “things which angels desire to look into.”

Manifold wisdom of God According to the eternal purpose This was in God’s plan from the beginning! Prophecy is an amazing testimony! Many of Paul’s letters appeal in detail to God’s former revelations to demonstrate this plan 1 Peter 1:20, Eph. 1:4

Manifold wisdom of God Which he accomplished in Christ Jesus Jesus fulfilled the plan – Acts 20:28, Eph. 2:13-17, etc.

In whom we have boldness Because of what God has done… We have boldness – Heb. 4:14-16, 1 John 4:17

In whom we have boldness Because of what God has done… We have access – John 14:6, 1 Tim. 2:5 He hears our prayers – 1 John 5:14, Eph. 2:18

In whom we have boldness Because of what God has done… We have confidence – 1 John 4:4, Rom. 8:37 – God is greater Heb. 3:6, 10:35, 1 John 3:21-23

In whom we have boldness We have confidence “through faith” Faith is our part in salvation – Eph. 2:8 Trusting Him enough to obey His gospel

Salvation is for all! Will you receive it?