Daily Devotions
Ephesians
"That in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus."
Text: Ephesians 2:7
THE PURPOSES OF GOD
God never does anything without purpose. That is no empty statement. We have already come across a number of texts where God’s purposes have been declared. (The Greek language employs certain words that help us understand when a statement was stated with a distinct sense of purpose. The “simple Infinitive” is often used to express purpose. Some times, the “special use of the articles” can also be employed to state purpose). Let’s review some of these statements which declare God’s purposes. Two may be highlighted.
1. To live in a holy and blameless manner
One of the purposes for our being chosen was so that we may live in a holy and blameless manner (Cf. Ephesians 1:4).
2. To redound to the glory of God
God’s plan of salvation was meant to reflect His glory. His wonderful deeds were designed to purposely display His grace and glory (Cf. Ephesians 1:6, 12)
ANOTHER SPECIAL PURPOSE REVEALED
Paul revealed yet another profound purpose of God in this text:-
“In the ages to come”
This phrase is intriguing. Two possibilities must be considered:-
1. Reference to the temporal future
This would mean “any future” from the time of God’s planning and executing of His plan of salvation.
2. Reference to the ultimate future
This would be a reference to Paul’s mention of “the fullness of the times” (Cf. Ephesians 1:10). The eschatological aspect is inescapable in this reference.
“He might show”
The word “show” (“deiknumi”- to point out, to explain) speaks of God Himself personally explaining His own plan of salvation.
a) Man’s declaration of God’s wondrous plan of salvation
Is this valid? Yes, for Paul was deeply involved in pointing out God’s glorious plan of salvation in all his writings.
b) God’s declaration of His own plan of salvation
Only He who is the Author can fully explain all that He had planned and executed. How wonderful it is to know that God will personally explain to us the intricate details of His plan of salvation.