NEW TESTAMENT READING PLAN: Luke 2-4
SCRIPTURE READING
Eph 1:19-23 and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who
believe, according to the working of his great might that he worked in Christ when he
raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far
above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named,
not only in this age but also in the one to come. And he put all things under his feet and
gave him as head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who
fills all in all.
Paul continues his prayer and prays that they would know the greatness of God’s power
towards them as believers. This is the same power that raised Christ from the dead (vs.
20). Knowing the greatness of His power is absolutely necessary for a close and steady
walk with God. It is a desirable thing to know experientially the mighty power of the grace
of God. In verses 20-21 Paul goes on a bit of a rabbit trail to make some points about the
Jesus and His exaltation. Jesus sits at the Father’s right hand in the heavenly places;
Jesus is above all, set in authority over all. All is being made subject to Him in this age
and in the one to come. God has given Jesus authority over the enemy, He is King above
all. What an incredible passage of scripture to mediate on and to teach us about the
magnificence of Jesus. The Father has put all things under Christ’s feet and made Him
head over all things to the church. Being made head over all things was a gift to Christ
and it was a gift to the church to have a head with so much power and authority. Jesus is a
head in guidance and governance, the body receives its instructions, its life and its strength
from Jesus Christ. This is why Jesus must be the functional Lord of each of our lives and of
the Church! God has given Him this position and therefore we must too!
PRAYER and MEDITATION
1. Spend some time meditating on verses 20-22. Ask God to impart to you a deeper
understanding of the authority of Christ. Ask God to grow in your a deep reverence and
respect for Jesus.
2. Are you getting your guidance from Jesus? Does He instruct you? Ask God to grow you
in making Jesus the functional Lord of your life.
3. Spend some time thanking God for the leaders of this church, who strive to submit to
Jesus and let Him lead this church.
