I. The Significance of God’s Eternal Purpose in Prayer (Ephesians 3:12)
A. Understanding Prayer in Light of God’s Eternal Purpose (3:12)
1. Prayer as Exercising God’s Authority for His Rule on Earth
2. Emphasis on Prayer’s Role in Advancing God’s Kingdom
B. The Boldness and Confidence in Prayer Through Christ (3:12)
1. Boldness: Approaching God Without Fear of Rejection
2. Confidence: A Sense of Familiarity and Privilege in Prayer
3. Access: The Privilege of Admission to God’s Presence
C. Prayer’s Foundation in Christ and Through Faith in Him (3:12)
1. Prayer as Enabling God’s Eternal Purpose on Earth
II. Maintaining Resolve in Trials Because of God’s Eternal Purpose (Ephesians 3:13)
A. Paul’s Concern for the Ephesian Believers in Trials (3:13)
1. Paul’s Focus on the Ephesians’ Spiritual Well-being Amidst His Trials
2. Encouragement to Maintain Perspective Despite Difficulties
B. Enduring Trials in Light of God’s Ultimate Glory (3:13)
1. Paul’s Personal Example of Embracing Trials for the Greater Purpose
2. Reminder of God’s Sovereignty in Using Trials for His Glory
III. Conclusion: Embracing God’s Eternal Purpose and Privilege (Ephesians 3:12-13)
A. The Privilege of Bold and Confident Prayer Through Christ (3:12)
B. Enduring Trials with Perspective of God’s Sovereign Purpose (3:13)
C. Application: Reflecting God’s Wisdom and Glory Through the Church
IV. Application Questions
A. Understanding the Church’s Role in God’s Eternal Purpose
B. Recognizing the Impact of Daily Behavior on Spiritual Realms
C. Addressing Theodicy: Responding to Questions About Evil in the World
D. Transforming Prayer Life: Shifting Focus from Personal Needs to Kingdom Advancement
V. Final Thoughts on God’s Eternal Purpose and Our Response
A. The Church as Central to God’s Plan for the World
B. The Humility Required for Effective Service in God’s Kingdom
C. Reflection on the Teachings Witnessed by Spiritual Beings Through Our Lives
Author
kay.alli@legalview.co.uk