Because we have left our old life behind, we should not “let sin reign” or have control over our mortal bodies. The word for mortal is θνητός meaning liable to death. Our bodies therefore are still subject to death even though death does not rule and have power over the whole of our lives (v12). … Continue reading Romans 6:12-14
Posts
Freedom
One of the types of resources available from Faithroots is Bible teaching guides. My aim here was to provide preaching and teaching resources recognising third things, first that the cost of commentaries will beyond many preachers, secondly that for many, technical commentaries will be inaccessible. thirdly often there is a gulf between the technical information… Continue reading Freedom
My purpose
Here is the exciting a liberating truth about our identity in Ephesians. If god’s purpose in saving me was to make me part of his family and if that was ultimately in order to display ss as his church in order to show off “the riches of his grace”, then I do not need to… Continue reading My purpose
The trophy of grace
There’s that wonderful moment at the end of a major football competition where the tournament winners go up to the podium to receive their trophy. The team captain lifts the cup of shield as the players around him jump for joy, the press take photos and the crowd goes wild. Now, usually, by the time… Continue reading The trophy of grace
Our identity and purpose (Ephesians 1:3-14)
We have three basic or foundational needs: identity, comfort and protection. These needs when we look for them in the wrong ways, places or at the wrong time become the cause of temptation into sin and idolatry. However, they are real needs and meant to be met in and by Christ. Here, I want to… Continue reading Our identity and purpose (Ephesians 1:3-14)
Desiring God -an appreciation
I was surprised to find out that “Desiring God” by john Piper is 40 years old this year. The idea of Christian hedonism as a term and Christian hedonists as an identifier, perhaps understandably never caught on and that’s also perhaps for the better. However, the shocking use of such language by Piper at the… Continue reading Desiring God -an appreciation
Background preperation for preaching is not a last minute job
I’ve been sharing some background materials that I’ll be taking into account as I prepare a sermon on Ephesians 1:3-14. Part of my aim here is to invite you into my study to get a little bit of an insight into my preparation. It’s important to note that this isn’t preparation that has all happened… Continue reading Background preperation for preaching is not a last minute job
God Predestines
Arising out of God’s sovereignty, is the truth that God elects and predestines. These concepts often prove controversial and leave us with a lot of questions about human responsibility. As we will see, Paul’s intention in Ephesians 1 is not to stir up controversy or make a philosophical point but rather to encourage us pastorally.… Continue reading God Predestines
God is sovereign
One of the other things I tend to look out for when preparing either a one off sermon or a series is the particular doctrinal issues that arise. In the case of Ephesians 1, a big theme is the sovereignty of God. Here’s a chapter from my E-book “Who is God” on thi. As we… Continue reading God is sovereign
Notes on Ephesians 1
I’m preparing to preach on Ephesians 1:3-14. One of the ways in which I prepare in advance for preaching is by jotting down my own commentary on the text. You may have seen that I’ve currently been working through Romans. Here are some notes on Ephesians 1 which I’ll be returning to and reflecting on… Continue reading Notes on Ephesians 1
