Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Theological Education – Equipping the people of God
Ephesians 3:1-13
v10,11 - His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to his eternal purpose that he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. 
 

            What if the church is more than the weekly forum to meet and worship together, where the usual songs are sung, pleasantries are exchanged, and where folks think they may have encountered their Maker?  Paul says that the church is to convey the mystery of God's grace. The word mystery stems from the Greek musterion which has several implied meanings – revealed secret, mystery, and matters of a different realm that required teaching.  Paul teaches his reader the musterion, the simple fact that God’s grace had no boundary, and was open to Gentile and Jew alike.  It was a profound reality that the average person, no matter how sharp his intellect, could have ever deciphered on his own.  This musterion could only be taught and explained through a revelation by God Himself.  Paul argues that this truth, which was hidden “for ages and generations” (Col 1:26), has now come to light. This mystery should be taught by the Church to the world at large.
            Paul instructs the believers to:

  1. Read  (3:4a) – One has to spend time in the Word day and night, meditating on its truths and keeping God’s Word close to his heart.  There simply is no substitute.  It is impossible to learn or hear our Maker speaking to you, if you do not spend time daily in the Word.
  2. Perceive and Receive (3:4b) – When one spends time in the Word, he perceives truths and receives revelations of the realities of the heavenly realm in ways he never has before.
  3. Preach and Teach (3:8) – When you read the Word, you perceive and receive God’s truths, then becomes our duty to “bring to light to everyone…” 

As a church, it is essential that we understand what is at stake as Christians in this world.  We cannot engage with the world unprepared.  We must be equipped with the indelible Word of God, “the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit” (Eph 6:17).  Only then can mysteries be brought to light, and through the church “the manifold wisdom of God might be made known.” (3:10).

PRAYER
Lord Jesus, I pray today that You open my eyes so I can see, free up my mind so I can listen, unbind my heart so I can follow You.  Reveal to me your profound mysteries, and give me the wisdom to know You more.  In Jesus’ name, AMEN.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
May His Word today renew my hope for tomorrow.  
 
    Dr. Thomas K John, Redeemer Mar Thoma Church, Waldwick, New Jersey 
Christian Education Forum, Diocese of NAE of the Mar Thoma Church

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