Scripture Reading (KJV)

Ephesians 3:1-13 1 For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles, 2 If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward: 3 How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote before in few words, 4 Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) 5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; 6 That the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel: 7 Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power. 8 Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; 9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: 10 To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, 11 According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord: 12 In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him. 13 Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.

### Study Summary The passage from Ephesians 3:1-13 is a continuation of the discussion on the integration of Jews and Gentiles within the church. The term "mystery" refers to something that was previously hidden but is now revealed through divine revelation. This revelation concerns the inclusion of the Gentiles as fellow heirs and members of the body of Christ, breaking down the barriers that once separated them.

Paul, writing from his imprisonment, speaks of his divine appointment to share this revelation. His circumstances, though challenging, are seen as opportunities for ministry and growth. The passage encourages believers not to lose heart over tribulations, drawing a parallel to David's Psalms written during his times of distress. This highlights the idea that personal hardships can be used by God to further His purposes.

The unity of the church is a central theme, with Ephesians 3:6 emphasizing that Gentiles are now fellow heirs, members of the body, and partakers of the promise. This unity reflects the breaking down of barriers and the display of God's wisdom to the principalities and powers in heavenly places. The example of Gandhi's experience in a Christian church was used to illustrate the power of unity and the breaking down of barriers.

Paul's humility is another key point, as seen in his self-description as "less than the least of all saints." This humility is encouraged as a focus on Christ's unsearchable riches rather than on oneself. The story of Timothy Peet, a missionary in Japan, was used to illustrate this point, emphasizing the importance of focusing on Christ's work rather than one's own inadequacies.

The discussion also touched on ministry and witness, with Jeff sharing his testimony of preaching to recruits at Camp Pendleton. This highlighted God's use of humble and inadequate vessels to accomplish His purposes. The importance of unity and reaching out to all people without distinction was emphasized, with a discussion on building worship centers on military bases to facilitate this outreach.

The study concluded with specific prayer requests for health, reconciliation, and spiritual growth, emphasizing the importance of prayer in the life of the church. The day's discussion was summarized with encouragement and a reminder of the day's key themes: Paul's circumstances, the unity of believers, Paul's humility, and the importance of ministry and witness. ==========