Introduction
• Ephesus: sophisticated city…Paul in Ephesus (Acts 19)
• Ephesians 1:1-14 (theme) & 1:15-23 (prayer)
• Dennis Okholm quote

I. Paul’s Pattern
1. pioneer church planting…three missionary journeys…
2. build them up…visits…letters

II. The Apostle Paul
• rabbinical training…Old Age & Age to Come…
• Jewish expectation vs. Gospel fulfillment…the risen Christ changed everything

III. Pauls’ teaching
A. The kingdom of God has dawned in Jesus’ death and resurrectionRidderbos quote

B. Nurturing the life of Christ
• Organic: Growing up to maturity
• Architectural: Building on a foundation

C. New life and obedience
• Obedience based on what God has done
• Resurrection life in the Spirit
• New relationship to God: Justification, reconciliation, adoption
• Obedience motivated by love
• Obedience normed by law
• Whole of human life

D. For the sake of the world
• Exemplary and attractive
o Bosch quote
• Public life of culture
o Winter quote

E. The Coming of the Lord

Conclusion: Our place in the story
Ephesians 1:15-23: a prayer for us as well…hope and power