September 22nd Recap & Application of Pastor Kevyn’s Sermon Notes: “Paul's Summary of God's Blessings in Life”
In this sermon, Pastor Kevyn explores the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, which beautifully summarizes the blessings and spiritual truths that Jesus Christ has accomplished for us. These teachings are essential for how we live, how we relate to God, and how we walk daily with Jesus.
Ephesians 1:1-14 - The Father, Son, and Spirit Working to Heal Us
Verse 1-14 Summary:
Paul begins by showing us how the Father, Son, and Spirit have worked to bless and heal us. We are chosen, redeemed, and adopted into God's family. This passage is foundational because it reveals that God’s purpose from the beginning was to have a relationship with us, bringing us healing through Christ.
Action to Consider: Reflect daily on how God has worked in your life through the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Remember that you are chosen and loved by God. When difficulties arise, trust in His healing power and His plan for your life, which was laid out before the world was even created.
Ephesians 1:15-23 - Paul's Prayer for Our Growth in True Understanding
Verse 15-23 Summary: Paul prays that we would grow in wisdom and understanding of God's will, that we would fully grasp the hope of our calling, the riches of our inheritance, and the greatness of His power.
Action to Consider: Seek God’s wisdom in your daily walk through prayer and reading His Word. Ask for clarity and understanding in all aspects of life, trusting that God’s power is available to you to overcome challenges. Be intentional about growing in your knowledge of God and His purpose for you.
Ephesians 2:1-10 - God's Work Changes My Life Personally
Verse 1-10 Summary: This passage emphasizes how we were once dead in sin, but through Christ’s work on the cross, we have been made alive and given new purpose. It is by grace, not works, that we are saved.
Action to Consider: Embrace the grace God has given you. Let go of guilt and shame from past sins, knowing you are a new creation in Christ. As you go about your day, walk in the confidence that God has given you life and a purpose. Extend this grace to others, remembering you were saved by grace, not by your own effort.
Ephesians 2:11-22 - How God's Work Changes My Prioritized Relationships
Verse 11-22 Summary: Paul teaches that through Christ, the dividing wall between people is torn down. We are no longer strangers, but fellow citizens with the saints. God’s work in Christ transforms our relationships, making us one family.
Action to Consider: Focus on unity and reconciliation in your relationships. Whether in your family, community, or workplace, remember that God’s work has brought us together as one people. Look for ways to break down walls of division and extend love, forgiveness, and kindness to others.
Ephesians 3 - How and Why Paul Knows So Much
Summary: Paul explains that the mysteries of Christ were revealed to him by God’s grace. His deep understanding of God’s plan was given so that he might share it with the world.
Action to Consider: When you seek to understand God’s Word, trust that He will give you insight through the Holy Spirit. Like Paul, be open to learning and sharing what you know about God with others. Your knowledge can become a source of blessing to those around you.
Ephesians 4-6 - How We Are Now Supposed to Live Consistent with Truth
Summary:
Paul lays out practical ways in which Christians should live, highlighting themes like unity, maturity, and living as children of light. He calls us to put off the old self and put on the new self, created in Christ’s likeness.
Action to Consider: Commit to living a life that reflects the truth of Christ. Evaluate your actions and decisions through the lens of God’s Word. Strive for personal holiness and integrity in all areas of life. Live in a way that brings light and hope to those around you, showing the world what it means to follow Jesus.
Encouragement and Homework
Knowing the book of Ephesians will transform your understanding of God and your purpose in life. The spiritual blessings, unseen but powerful, will satisfy your soul. Take the time this week to read Ephesians 1:1-14 multiple times in different translations (consider using BibleGateway for NASB, NLV, and Amplified). Allow the richness of this passage to take root in your heart and bring about a deeper understanding of God's blessings and your identity in Christ.
Paul's Summary of Jesus' Teachings on Blessings
Matthew 5:1-12; Luke 6:20-23 - Jesus teaches that blessings come to those who value the things God cares most about:
"Blessed are the poor in spirit...for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."
Application: Seek to align your heart with God’s values. Look for blessings not in material wealth or success but in living out God’s principles—humility, mercy, and righteousness.
John 17:1-12 - Jesus taught there are chosen people in the world for whom He is responsible:
"I have revealed Your name to the men whom You gave Me out of the world."
Application: Rest in knowing that you are chosen by God. Let this truth deepen your commitment to follow Him and His Word. Be confident that Christ intercedes for you.
Matthew 20:28; Mark 10:45 - Jesus was born to heal people and to serve, fulfilling God’s plan:
"For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many."
Application: Live a life of service to others, following Christ’s example. As you go about your day, look for opportunities to serve and bring healing to those around you.