All the rich truths the Holy Spirit has revealed in Eph. 1:3-14 are given to establish and assure Christians of their identity in Christ. As we grow in our knowledge of God and the blessings of His grace, we walk more effectively in the good works He has prepared for us (Eph. 2:10). We likewise are more equipped to minister to others (Eph. 4:11-12).
Practically, this means that every Christian has been fashioned by God to effectively minister to others. If we have been chosen by the Father (Eph. 1:3-6), redeemed by the Son (Eph. 1:7-12), and sealed by the Holy Spirit (Eph. 1:13-14), then God has made us adequate to serve others for His glory. And He has entrusted His truth to us – His word, the Bible. The essence of our service then, in the power of the Holy Spirit, is to “speak the truth in love” (Eph. 4:15).
Beloved, whether you are ministering to other believers, or to unbelievers, you are adequate to “speak the truth in love”. Whether you’re ministering to family, friends, or strangers; to those older, younger, or peers; whatever the person or situation – you are adequate to “speak the truth in love”. You can share scripture in your conversations, you can read and study scripture with others, and you can pray for scripture to be effective in the lives of others. You are adequate!
Certainly, we should be continually growing in our knowledge of the truth, and thus growing in our “truth-telling” ministry to others. And we should also humbly receive the ministry of others in our lives. But never doubt that God can use you right now to speak His truth in love to others.
So, who might God have you talk to today?
Because Christ lives, and is returning,
Greg