“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. “
Ephesians 3:20–21

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OCTOBER 21, 2024

What do you think of this statement? The church partners with God in His mission.

Is that true? I’d guess your inclination, like mine, is to say yes. However, if we examine this statement under the light of Scripture, we’ll find that it is not quite right. As members of the global church, we certainly do partner with one another for the work of the gospel (Philippians 1:3-5), but we don’t partner with God in the same way.

Rather, the church is God-made: elected by the Father, redeemed by the Son, formed by the Spirit. Therefore, the church’s relationship with God is not a partnership, but a fellowship. She receives her message and mission as a result of being created by and for God.

What does this have to do with Ephesians 3:20-21? Well, if we neglect to recognize and affirm that the church is created by God and receives her message and mission from God, we’ll inevitably begin to believe that the one who’s able to do immeasurably more is not God, but us. We’ll rely on a pastor and not God. We’ll rely on our worship and not God. We’ll rely on our good deeds and not God. We’ll rely on human-made worldviews, programs, and methods—anything but God!

In light of our tendency towards human reliance, Ephesians 3:20-21 reminds us that the immeasurable God of the Bible is the one who can do immeasurably more. And yes, this power is at work through us, the church.

Church family let’s impress this reminder deeply into our minds and hearts as we consider how the Lord can do immeasurably more through our church family in our local communities.

Questions for reflection and discussion:

  • What is the difference between partnering with God and fellowshipping with God?
  • What does the church receive from God and why is it important that we understand it comes from God? What can happen if we forget this?
  • Take a moment to thank God for Wheaton Bible Church, our local communities, and the outreach we’re involved in. Pray to be reminded to proclaim God’s message and accomplish God’s mission.

 

Church Reading Plan: Daniel 6; Psalm 112-113