Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
June 07, 2023: SOAP #4934: Ecclesiastes 4-6; Psalm 18; Ephesians 3

SCRIPTURE:  Ephesians (NIV) 3:6 This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus….
10 His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, 11 according to his eternal purpose which he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord.

OBSERVATION:  I cannot read this passage without my mind filling with thoughts about the eternal plans and purposes of God.  They are mind expanding thoughts.  It is like looking through a telescope at a distant object on the horizon and trying to determine what I am seeing. 

Joining Jews and Gentiles in the church is a major part of God’s plan for it is through the church that God’s wisdom is displayed in all its varied brilliance!  God’s wisdom is on display for “rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms!”  What kingdoms, what authority structures, what governments are in the heavenlies over which these rulers and authorities reign? 

God’s power and might are clearly seen in creation; what is being demonstrated through the church?  It must be His LOVE!  It must be His capacity to Love fallen creation!  

APPLICATION:  When I consider that God’s manifold wisdom is being seen in His interaction with me, it makes me have a strong desire to make Him look good!  I want to be and do things that cause people to honor Him!   May the magnificent glory of God be seen in me.  May my life be a telescope through which people can get a glimpse of Jesus.  May the image of Jesus seem to be much closer as they view Him through the lens of my life. 

PRAYER:   Holy Spirit, help me to be easily identified as a God-lover.  May people who see me, see Jesus.  May people who know me, want to know Jesus.  Amen 

Pastor Leon
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