Outline:
I. Introduction
A. Being at the center of God’s eternal purpose
B. The importance of prayer and perseverance in trials
II. Prayer as the Means of Exercising God’s Authority (Ephesians 3:12)
A. The role of prayer in advancing God’s rule on earth
B. Understanding prayer as a means of enacting God’s eternal purpose
C. Accessing boldness and confidence in prayer through Christ
III. Enduring Trials in Light of God’s Eternal Purpose (Ephesians 3:13)
A. Paul’s concern for the Ephesian believers amidst his own trials
B. The encouragement to not lose heart in trials
C. Emphasizing the ultimate glory resulting from trials in God’s purpose
IV. Conclusion
A. The comparison to Apple Computer’s visionary leadership
B. The centrality of the church in God’s eternal purpose
C. Encouragement to commit fully to the church and pray for its impact
V. Application Questions
A. Reflecting on the impact of realizing God’s eternal purpose
B. Considering the influence of daily behavior on spiritual beings
C. Addressing theological questions about the existence of evil
D. Reimagining prayer as a tool for spiritual warfare and empowerment
VI. Privilege and Purpose of the Mystery (Ephesians 3:12-13)
A. Access to boldness and confidence in prayer through faith in Christ
B. Paul’s reassurance to the Ephesians regarding his trials and their purpose
C. Lessons on humility and teaching spiritual beings through human conduct
Author
kay.alli@legalview.co.uk