Daily Devotions
Ephesians
"To the intent that now the manifold wisdom of God might be made known by the Church to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places."
Text: Ephesians 3:10
TO THE INTENT
This phrase, “to the intent” translates the simple “hina” is a possible translation of this purposive particle. This article is used effectively to disclose the wonderful purpose of God in the hiding of the mystery of the riches of Christ.
THE MANIFOLD WISDOM OF GOD
Arrogant pride has been the downfall of both angelic and human beings. It was arrogance that caused Satan to rebel against God. Sinful man, subtly influenced by the Evil One also finds himself filled with arrogant pride.
Over and against the background of pride in both Satan and man, God’s manifold wisdom was couched in the simple message of the Cross. Paul remarked on this in his epistle to the Corinthians.
For the message of the cross is foolishness to those
who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is
the power of God…
For since, in the wisdom of God,
the world through wisdom did not know God,
it pleased God through the foolishness of the message preached
to save those who believe…
Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men,
and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
1 CORINTHIANS 1:18, 21, 25
Let us take time to ponder the following thoughts:-
1. The wisdom of the world
a) Man’s wisdom concerning the divine led him to make and worship idols (Cf. Romans 1:18-23).
b) Arrogant man tries to figure out God but fails miserably.
c) The message of the cross is simply “foolish” to those perishing.
2. God’s manifold wisdom revealed
a) The message of the cross may seem simplistic but it has great power to bring salvation.
b) The “weakness of God” is greater than the strength of men.
c) The “foolishness of God” is greater than the wisdom of Man.
d) The wisdom of God was at first revealed to the holy apostles and prophets (Ephesians 3:5).
These laid the foundation for the Church, the special abode of God.