A Greater Life

Ephesians 3:14-21

I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. (Ephesians 3:16)

THE MERCHANTS OF EPHESUS PRIDED themselves on the wealth of the city, much of which had been amassed through the manufacture and sale of religious artifacts and imagery of the Greek goddess Artemis. That’s why in Acts 19 they had rioted against Paul and his teaching of the gospel; conversions were bad for business. Also problematic were Christians who refused to engage in the emperor cult. Neglecting sacrifices in the name of Rome’s ruler—sometimes called the “father of the fatherland”—might cause imperial repercussions or bring divine misfortune on the city. So when Paul invoked the “Father from whom every family on earth is named” (Ephesians 3:14-15, in literal translations) and made an appeal according to his riches and glory, Paul was intentionally contradicting the local culture. He was suggesting that the Kingdom of God offered much greater benefits than any believer or nonbeliever had ever experienced.

He was right. While Ephesian culture offered wealth, good standing with a powerful empire, and spiritually potent amulets and spells, God’s Kingdom provides unlimited resources that connect us with the most powerful Spirit in the universe and give us glimpses of ultimate glory. The “energy” at work within us—one of the words often translated as “power” in Paul’s writings—empowers us to live not in our own strength but in the strength of Jesus himself. As we follow him, our roots grow down into his love, and he makes his home in our hearts. The result is an altogether different kind of life than we have known.

As you relate to the world around you, be aware of where you are drawing your life and getting your energy. Your natural soul will want to feed on the perks and promises of a fallen culture. Your reborn spirit can only be satisfied with the life of Jesus within. One gives you temporary enjoyment, the other overwhelming joy. For your sake, and for the sake of the world, let the Spirit of Christ fill you with the light of his power and love.

{Father, Paul’s prayer is mine—that I would tap into the unlimited wealth of your glory, be empowered by the life of Jesus, and be filled with supernatural love. Amen.