THE POWER OF GOD
© Rosemary Bardsley 2006
INTRODUCTION
Romans 1:14-16. Do we see Christianity or the Christian message as a thing of power? Do we enjoy the power of what God has done for us in Christ? Or are we ashamed of the gospel, ashamed of being known as a Christian?
BIBLE READING: Ephesians 1:15 – 2:7
OUTLINE
God’s power at work in Christ’s death and resurrection
God’s power at work in our death and resurrection
The implications of God’s power
GOD’S POWER AT WORK IN CHRIST’S DEATH AND RESURRECTION
[1] Jesus died: and the disciples felt: hopeless, despairing [the two on the road to Emmaus – Luke 24]; fear [they all fled]; denial [Peter]; that it was all finished [they went back fishing.]
[2] But God’s power was in Christ’s death. John 19:10-11a; Revelation 13:8; Mark 10:45. This death was no accident, but the eternal plan of God.
[3] God’s power in it all was demonstrated by the resurrection. It was mighty power [Ephesians 1:19]; resurrecting, regenerating, life-giving power [1:20]; victorious, conquering power [1:21-22]. Compare Ephesians 4:8; Colossians 2:15. Not even death is stronger that God’s power.
GOD’S POWER AT WORK IN OUR DEATH AND RESURRECTION
[1] We were dead: Ephesians 1:1,5; 2:2-3; Isaiah 59:2. A situation of hopelessness, despair, fear, helplessness, in which we were headed for hell.
[2] God’s power works our resurrection. The same power that raised Christ from death raises those who believe in him from spiritual death to spiritual life [Ephesians 1:19,20; 2:1-6]. God made us alive, God raised us up, God seated us with Christ in the heavenly realms.
IMPLICATIONS OF GOD’S POWER
[1] For Christ: complete and permanent victory and supremacy – Ephesians 1:19b-23.
[2] For the believer: The knowledge and confidence that our regeneration and redemption depends on this same awesome power, and because of this, our salvation is as secure and permanent as the victory and supremacy of Christ. Ephesians 1:18-19.
[3] The magnificence of God’s grace is demonstrated – Ephesians 2:7.
CONCLUSION AND CHALLENGE
Romans 1:16. Is the gospel the power of God to you? Are you depending on this powerful and gracious action of God? Or are you struggling and striving under the impression that you have to lift yourself up by your own bootlaces? That you have to gain and maintain God’s acceptance by your own efforts.
It is God alone who can lift you up out of sin and death and grant you access into his presence. Recognize your own weakness, and trust in his power. Recognize your sinfulness and trust in his grace.