Faith and Love
We’ve been spending some quality time with Ephesians 1:15-23, a passage I like to call, “What You Need to Know.” I’ve entitled it that, because that’s what Paul is praying for. He says, “. . . making mention of you in my prayers . . . that you may know . . .” Of course, as we’ve said, this knowing is not for the sake of satisfying intellectual curiosity, or acquiring more Bible facts. Not at all! It’s information that leads to transformation in our lives. But let me ask you a question – What kind of believers are most likely experience this kind of transformation? A lot of the answer to that question can be found in Paul’s words in verse fifteen of our text.
“For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints . . . “
How significant these words are – Paul says, “I’m praying for certain life changing knowledge to come to you, because I’ve heard about you, and what I’ve heard is that you have a strong faith in the Lord Jesus. And the result of that faith is love; not exclusive love, not self-serving love, but love for all the saints.”
Which of us are most likely to experience Bible knowledge that transforms our lives? Simple–those trusting the Lordship of Christ in our lives, and loving all the saints. It really is true – “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:35, ESV) And when we give our trust to God, through Jesus Christ, His son, and our love to all his saints we receive the life transforming power of His Word in us.
Are you trusting? Are you loving “all”?
