Daily Devotions
Ephesians
"Peace to the brethren, and love with faith from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen."
Text: Ephesians 6:24
THE BLESSING OF GRACE
The doctrine of “grace” is arguably the most developed in Paul’s treatment of New Testament doctrines. A quick survey of the use of this word in the epistle to the Ephesians would give to us some ideas as to why it deserved this kind of attention of exposition.
1. Description of the grace of God
a) It is full of God’s glory (Cf. Ephesians 1:6)
b) It is well-described as “rich” (Cf. Ephesians 1:7)
2. Expressions of this grace include the following:
a) It is the means by which we obtain salvation (Cf. Ephesians 2: 5, 8-9)
b) It is by the means of this grace we are given the privilege of ministry (Cf. Ephesians 3:8)
c) It is by grace that we are given spiritual gifts for ministry (Cf. Ephesians 4:7)
SPECIAL EXPRESSIONS OF GRACE
The doctrine of grace far exceeds what Paul noted in his epistle to the Ephesians. The theme of grace may be found in all of his epistles. (This theme is also touched upon by other New Testament writers).
1. General Grace
We may speak of a “general grace” from the Lord. The Gospel of Matthew describes how this grace is bestowed on both the good and the bad.
Your Father in heaven…
He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good,
and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.
MATTHEW 5:45
2. Special Grace
Paul did not elaborate on what this special grace constitutes. However, he did specify that this grace will be especially given to love the Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. The phrase “in sincerity” (“aphtharsia”) is perhaps better translated by another expression.
The essence of the word “aphtharsia” is associated with that which is “imperishable” or “undying love”. Those who have learned to love the Lord Jesus with an imperishable, undying love would indeed be blessed with special grace. May we love the Lord Jesus with an immortal love. Amen!