Today we read Ephesians 4. Paul describes the new life that results from the Gospel. Yet, the Law also continues to apply because of our sinful nature. As we inevitably fail to live up to such demands, forgiveness preserves and restores the harmony of the Church. • Father, forgive us our sins, that we may forgive those who sin against us. Amen.
Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10229). (Function). Kindle Edition.
Today we read Ephesians 3. As Paul considers God’s wisdom, grace, and love, he breaks out in prayer and praise. Study of God’s Word naturally combines with prayer and praise in the Divine Service, where Christ’s gifts are given out, and we receive them with thanksgiving. • Lord, let these verses be my prayer for my church today. Amen.
Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (pp. 10223-10224). (Function). Kindle Edition.
Today we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! *** Our Bible reading is Ephesians 2. Notions of favoritism divided the earliest Christian churches and still affect our churches today. Paul urges all of us to remember who we were apart from Christ and to rejoice in what Christ has made us to be: His one Body. • Lord, forgive my prejudices and teach me to see Your Son in every Christian. Amen.
Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10220). (Function). Kindle Edition.
Today we begin a new book of the New Testament: Ephesians. This is a letter that the Apostle Paul wrote to the Christian congregation in the city of Ephesus (located in modern-day Turkey. Paul gives thanks for God’s power at work in the Ephesians. God’s power is not automatically good news. It terrifies sinners, but it comforts us who know His love for us in Christ. • Merciful Lord, powerful to save, grant us Your good Spirit that we may boldly confess Jesus’ saving Gospel. Amen.
Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (pp. 10215-10216). (Function). Kindle Edition.
