Memory Verse — Ephesians 2:13 13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.
Heidelberg Catechism 51: What profit is this glory of Christ, our head, for us? First, that by his Holy Spirit he pours out heavenly graces upon us his members; and then that by his power he defends and preserves us against all enemies.
Monday: Eph 4:8. How does Eph 4:8 picture Jesus as a Triumphant, Victorious General? What battle has he won (e.g. Rev 12:7-11)? Who are the captives (Col 2:15)? What is his triumphal march (Eph 1:20)? How does it help you to know that Jesus if your reigning, victorious King (Eph 5:10-11, Rom 8:1, Rom 16:20)? Pray about this.
Tuesday: Eph 4:8, Ps 68:18. Paul has been accused of tinkering with Ps 68:18 by changing the word “received” to “gave” gifts. Paul intentionally changed the word to capture the whole psalm’s meaning. Look for powerful King (Ps 68:1); the triumphant King (68:17-18); the present King (Ps 68:19); the giving King (68:35). Do you believe Jesus is all these things? How can you actively live out of these truths?
Wednesday: Eph 4:8-10. When did Jesus ascend (Acts 1:9)? Why was his ascension so significant (Acts 1:8, 2:1-4, 35)? When and why did Jesus have to descend to earth (Lk 1:35, Phil 2:6ff)? As Victorious King, what is Jesus now doing (v 8, v 7)? What are his gifts for (1 Cor 12:7, 1 Pet 4:10)? If Jesus’ gifts are apportioned, hand-crafted, is there any room for jealousy? How can others’ gifts be doors to thanksgiving?
Thursday: Eph 4:13. What is Jesus purpose for giving each believer a gift (v 13, 16)? If his grand design it to take us from Adam-like sinners to Jesus-like saints, how should we view our gifts? How can you bless, strengthen, encourage, love, serve the church body today? What does this maturing through one another’s gifts require? Pray for yourself and the church body to grow in faithfulness here.
Friday: Using Eph 4:7-10, 13, how would you answer someone who said the following: “No one’s hurt if I just keep my distance”? “My gift is not that important.” “The church is doing just fine without my gift.” “I don’t know what my spiritual gift is, so I can’t serve.” What is Jesus doing by gifting each believer (Eph 5:26-27)? Beautiful, isn’t it?
Saturday: Eph 4:11-16. What roll to the teaching gifts have in the church? To what are they to lead?