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In this sermon from Joshua 1, we see God calling Joshua and the new generation of Israel to cross the Jordan River and take possession of the land He promised centuries earlier. The lesson is clear: God's promises are certain, but receiving them requires courageous faith, obedience to His Word, and a willingness to step into the unknown. Drawing from Israel's history, New Testament truths, and real-life applications, this sermon challenges us to stop settling for a fraction of what God offers. Whether it's peace, joy, love, or purpose, God has already said “yes” to every spiritual blessing in Christ — but we must walk in them. Like Joshua, we face our own “Jordan Rivers” that test our trust and commitment. Will we remain in the wilderness, or will we step forward in strength, courage, and obedience to claim the fullness of what God has prepared?
This week, Chase walks through verses 1-14 of Ephesians 1, taking special note of the phrase "In Christ" and similar prepositional phrases which are found throughout the book. Description Visit our linktree: https://linktr.ee/scatteredabroadnetwork Visit our website, www.scatteredabroad.org, and subscribe to our email list. "Like" and "share" our Facebook page: https:// www.facebook.com/sapodcastnetwork Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ the_scattered_abroad_network/ Subscribe to our Substack: https://scatteredabroad.substack.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel: The Scattered Abroad Network Contact us through email at san@msop.org. If you would like to consider supporting us in any way, don't hesitate to contact us through this email.
This week, Chase walks through verses 1-14 of Ephesians 1, taking special note of the phrase "In Christ" and similar prepositional phrases which are found throughout the book. Description Visit our linktree: https://linktr.ee/scatteredabroadnetwork Visit our website, www.scatteredabroad.org, and subscribe to our email list. "Like" and "share" our Facebook page: https:// www.facebook.com/sapodcastnetwork Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ the_scattered_abroad_network/ Subscribe to our Substack: https://scatteredabroad.substack.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel: The Scattered Abroad Network Contact us through email at san@msop.org. If you would like to consider supporting us in any way, don't hesitate to contact us through this email.
As open the letter to the Ephesians, we can jump right into it without much introduction and through the leading of the Holy Spirit, we we will be so blessed by the power and beauty of this letter. But we would probably prefer at least some background information to use as on ramp tonight to the book of Ephesians.Paul is and in the early church fathers is recognized as the author of Ephesians. Practically speaking is one of the Epistles, a letter to the church similar to Galatians, Philippians and Colossians. It most similar to Colossians and some modern scholars have used those similarities to question whether or not Paul is actually the author of Ephesians. For full disclosure, the debate of Paul's authorship rises over a few issues that some scholars have made a big deal over.Some of the early copies of Ephesians that we have do not have the name “Ephesians” in the title.It was likely an encyclical letter - sent to all the churches.We know Paul used an amanuensis and copies of the letter were made at the time of writing the original.Many of the copies we have do include the title Ephesians. The letter seems to read more generically to the church and does not focus on some specific controversy or rebuke such as in Galatians or the Corinthian letters.It seems like a fake argument to me. Paul wrote letters to the churches based of the needs of those churches. His emphasis on the unity between Jews and Gentiles through the cross of Christ would have been specific to Ephesus but was probably a very common theme in many of the Greek and Roman communities where Paul preached the Gospel.Colossians has similarities to Ephesians in a way that some insist the author of Ephesians leaned on Colossians to write Ephesians.While I know that smarter men than me have studied these ideas in greater detail, I agree with the commentaries that take on these questions and recognize that there is no evidence, even with the shared similarities, that indicates which epistle was written first or why similar language between the letters would cause us to question Pauline authorship. Some of the language the author uses, vocabulary and phrases, is unique to the letter to the Ephesians.Once again, the uniqueness of some of the phrases or theological points made in Ephesians does not require a different author. We would recognize that Paul explains the gospel from different angles and does so based on his audience which would require using different words, phrases, or even different concepts that work to explain God's mystery of the Cross to us.Apostleship: An Apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God. Paul has the title of Apostle. An apostle by definition is “a sent one”. And this would make Paul An Apostle of Jesus Christ because Paul encounters Christ on the road to Damascus and Jesus saves him and through Ananias, gives the call on Paul's life “he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel.” Acts 9:15.There were three qualifications to be considered an apostle in the early church. A disciple of Jesus.An eye witness to the resurrection.Called and commissioned directly by Christ.We will discuss Paul's calling and ministry more when we get to chapter 3.Audience: The Church in Ephesus In modern day Turkey, ancient Ephesus was ruled first by the Greeks and then by the Romans. Paul would have been in Ephesus under Roman rule. It was a relatively large city with all of the Greek and Roman traits; wealth, multicultural community, amphitheater, temples, idolatry, immorality, etc.The Big Picture Paul's letter has been divided up into 6 chapters and there are a few different ways we can outline his letter and the main ideas that Paul was teaching.From the Bible Project: Two Main sections C. 1-3 and then C. 4-6. Chapter 1-3 are much more theological, describing how we are saved or laying out for us SOTERIOLOGY. And Paul explains our unity in Christ between Jews and Gentiles. Chapters 4-6 Paul teaches us about the church Chapter 4-6 are explaining how our salvation should then change our lives, how God calls us to serve him, treat one another in the home and our community, and the spiritual resources we have in Jesus to stand firm on our faith.One way to see how this unfolds in the book is by seeing how some of the terms Paul uses changes through the latter.The opening of Paul's song emphasizes the worship of God and reminds of the position of God the Father and Jesus the Son as well as the Lordship of Jesus and his office of Messiah. Paul is praising God in this Jewish way similar to the Schema - “Hear O Israel The Lord our God, the Lord is One. Through this prayer he has reminded us of the trinity with the role of the Holy Spirit coming just a few verses later.Spiritual Blessing in the Heavenly Places - What are the spiritual blessings we are given for which Paul is giving thanks? We were chosen in Jesus before the world was created. PLEASE DON'T PANIC OVER THE WORD CHOSEN. 2. We were chosen by his grace and not based on our own good works. It is obvious in the text that God chose us knowing that we need a Savior and subsequently with the plan to send the Savior all along. He did not pick us because of something we would do or because of our class or our potential. In fact it reads to me that He chose us because we are sinners and we would need a savior.3. We are adopted to part of God's family through Jesus. IN LOVE - The placement of this phrase could point back to “chosen” or it could point forward to predestined - either way these action are done as a result of God's love.4. We are blessed by this Salvation according to God's will, by his glorious grace, and through the Beloved - Jesus Christ.Let's pause here for just a minute - two tracks in scripture. Chosen and whosoever will. Ephesians 1:3 and John 3:16. There is no contradiction.We are called to witness, be missionaries - which is what Paul was doing - and while I am doing that work I know it is only Jesus that saves.Our salvation only comes through the finished work of Jesus Christ. Jesus went to the cross and shed his blood for us. Let's remember our Hebrews study - Jesus is the final sacrifice. He is the Lamb of God who tales away the sins of the world. But all the animals and the blood that was spilled for atonement were a shadow - an imperfect offering looking to the things ahead - until Jesus could offer the perfect, fulfilling sacrifice.It's out of the riches of his Grace! The imagery here is of wealth and opulence. But God does not here offer something that will rust be lavishes on us his Grace.  The idea of the mystery of God's plan or his will has finally been revealed through Jesus Christ. Where we can understand in part through reading the prophecies of the Old Testament, we are now on the other side of the cross and see more fully - certainly not all - but the mystery of God's plan.We have an inheritance that comes to us through Jesus Christ. In Him! Spiritual Blessing. We are heaven bound. Do you remember when you were saved? Not a date or moment. Do you remember when you heard the truth? Do you remember when you believed? It is then that you were sealed.
Pastor Todd and Susan share Friday's devotional podcast from Bible Fellowship Church. [Scripture: Ephesians 1:3-4]
 The weekly podcast of Empowerment Ministries Christian Center, led by Dr. Gregg S. Magee, Sr.
 The weekly podcast of Empowerment Ministries Christian Center, led by Dr. Gregg S. Magee, Sr.
Paul worships God because of the blessings He has given.
Demonstrating Dr. Barnhouse's acute understanding of Romans and his heart for effective preaching, these messages skillfully and reverently expound even the most difficult passages in a clear way. Dr. Barnhouse's concern for a universal appreciation of the epistle fuels this series and invites all listeners into a deeper understanding of the life-changing message of Romans. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/791/29
Proverbs 10:22 reminds us that being rich goes beyond money. God's blessing makes us rich in every area - spiritually, emotionally, and physically. The blessing is a powerful spiritual force, like a tornado or an ocean, capable of creating, transforming, and elevating lives. It doesn't bring sorrow, even when the process involves pain.Having a strong awareness of your covenant with God positions you for victory. When you move in the name of Jesus, you witness mighty things. Joshua 1:8 teaches that meditation transforms God's Word from mere information to deep revelation.Faith is not wishful thinking - it's confidently standing on God's promises. Christ took the curse so that we can walk in the blessing. Spiritual blessings may be unseen, but they are actively working. We have been chosen, adopted, and redeemed through Christ. We are blessed with Abraham's blessing, and by believing, the force of the blessing follows us everywhere.ABOUT THE NEWWe are a people of love and excellence who are result-oriented, spirit-led, word-rooted, prayer-driven, and kingdom-conscious. Led by Pst. Shola Okodugha, we are on a divine assignment to equip and raise men; to release people from strongholds that have stifled them from taking their rightful places, and to give young people an avenue for their God-given gifts to find expression.——OUR CREED"As sure as God helps us,We will not give upWe will not cave inWe will not quitWe will not failWe will not dieUntil our job is doneAnd victory is won"——Partner with us to spread the influence of God all over the world. Give - https://pay.squadco.com/TheNewglobal——BROADCAST DETAILSMinister: Pst.Shola OkodughaDate: Tuesday 15th July 2025——Stay ConnectedSubscribe to the latest content: http://bit.ly/subscribethenewliveWebsite: http://wearethenew.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearethenew_global/#TheNewLive #SholaOkodugha
If being blessed was just about having more stuff, then wealth would guarantee peace—but we know it doesn't. In this message, Dr. Tony Evans unpacks what true blessing really means and how delighting in God's Word leads to lasting joy.
If being blessed was just about having more stuff, then wealth would guarantee peace—but we know it doesn't. In this message, Dr. Tony Evans unpacks what true blessing really means and how delighting in God's Word leads to lasting joy.
If being blessed was just about having more stuff, then wealth would guarantee peace—but we know it doesn't. In this message, Dr. Tony Evans unpacks what true blessing really means and how delighting in God's Word leads to lasting joy.
If being blessed was just about having more stuff, then wealth would guarantee peace—but we know it doesn't. In this message, Dr. Tony Evans unpacks what true blessing really means and how delighting in God's Word leads to lasting joy.
In today's devotional, Dr. Michael Youssef encourages us to focus on God to develop a heart of thankfulness. If you enjoy this podcast, would you consider giving a gift to partner with us to press on in this Kingdom work and more? This month, our June Gift Challenge offers a special opportunity to double your impact to reach the lost and equip the church for Christ.If you would like more insight into today's devotional topic, listen to Dr. Michael Youssef's sermon series Call on Me: LISTEN NOW
Today, we start our Summer Series through the book of Ephesians. Pastor Ed began the series by preaching on the Spiritual Blessings we have in Christ.
Our Spiritual Blessings - Ephesians 1:1-14 by South Sub Church
Sunday sermons from Chewelah Evangelical Free Church
These verses are on long flow of thought that specify the blessings we have from the 3 Persons of the Trinity. Join us as we continue to talk about the riches of God we have in Christ Jesus. Visit: abideatascadero.orgEmail: info@abideatascadero.orgInstagram: @abide.calvary_atascFacebook: @AbideCalvaryAtascadero
Too often, we as Christians live unaware of the spiritual riches we possess. We may feel spiritually bankrupt, constantly asking God for things He's already provided. We beg for scraps when a feast has been laid out before us. But the truth is, if we've accepted Jesus Christ as our Savior, we have access to blessings beyond measure.
A concluding study of Psalm 1 and the practices of a righteous man that lead to Spiritual Blessings
A continuing study of Psalm 1 and the practices of a righteous man that lead to Spiritual Blessings
We cannot separate the blessings of salvation from the One in whom they are found and experienced, Jesus Christ. Today, Sinclair Ferguson describes the interconnected way we should think about the person and work of Christ. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/things-unseen-with-sinclair-ferguson/every-spiritual-blessing-in-christ/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
A beginning study of Psalm 1 and the practices of a righteous man that lead to Spiritual Blessings
Grace floods the faithful and no ark is needed. If you're in the resident congregation, turn off your electronic devices and put them away. Let this be a place where you aren't distracted by the world. Welcome To BARAH MINISTRIES Rory Clark Pastor-Teacher Good... for full notes: http://www.barahministries.com/index.php?proc=lsn&sf=v&tid=1930
Unclaimed Spiritual Blessings | Paige Clingenpeel | May 11, 2025
This message highlights seven spiritual blessings (found in Ephesians 1:11-14): we are chosen, predestined, and included in God's redemptive plan to glorify Him. Through faith, we are made part of His family, sealed with the Holy Spirit, and given the Spirit as a guarantee of our future inheritance. These truths give purpose, assurance, and a call to live for God's glory. Part Three Ephesians Series “Spiritual Blessings (Part Two)” (Ephesians 1:11-14) Pastor Bill Young May 10 & 11, 2025
JESUS GAVE AND SENT US WITH THEM!
Saturday is review day on The Daily Promise. Every Saturday, we review the promises of the week so we can allow them to go deep into our hearts and lives. Here are the promises we covered this week. Malachi 3:6 – God Never Changes. Ephesians 1:3 – I have Every Spiritual Blessing. Genesis 1:27 – I am Created in God's Image. John 7:39 – You Have the  Holy Spirit in You. Psalm 103:8 – God Abounds in Commitment Love.
Paul reminds Believers in Ephesians 1:3–10 that we are spiritually loaded with blessings. We are chosen, adopted, redeemed, forgiven, and promised a glorious future — all because we are in Christ. Yet, many Christians live like spiritual paupers, obsessed with temporary earthly blessings instead of eternal riches. Our calling is to recognize, rejoice in, and actually live out the vast spiritual wealth God has already given us. Part Two Ephesians Series “Spiritual Blessings” (Part One)(Ephesians 1:3-10) Pastor Josh Whitney May 4 & 5, 2025
Being Able To See Spiritual Blessings | Pastor M.L. Whitlock
Today's Promise: Ephesians 1:3 You are blessed. It's a fact. God has blessed you! He has poured out every spiritual blessing on you through His love and grace. To be blessed by God is to walk in His favor. It is allowing God to bring about good things in your life. The phrase "spiritual blessings" in this promise isn't referring to the blessing we receive when we get to heaven. Instead, spiritual blessings are the blessing brought to you through the work of the Holy Spirit in your life.
If you're a Christian, you've been blessed, far greater than you may realize! Today on a Daily Walk we'll uncover some of these great spiritual blessings that include acceptance by God, forgiveness, redemption, adoption, sealed with the Spirit, chosen and given an inheritance! How does that sound? To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1368/29
Today we want to pause for a bit to reflect on who we are in Christ and all that has been made available to us. We've been blessed beyond measure, and I think you'll walk away from today's study greatly encouraged as you hear about these great blessings. Join us for our introduction to Ephesians. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1368/29
By Jorge de Campos - God provides us many spiritual blessings from heaven through His Son Jesus Christ. The blessing of His life, justification by His gift of faith, God's righteousness and of God's Holy Spirit.
Pr. Chris Rosebrough of Fighting for the Faith Fighting for the Faith The post This Week in Pop-Christianity: Paula White Promising Donors Seven Spiritual Blessings – Pr. Chris Rosebrough, 3/28/25 (0893) first appeared on Issues, Etc..
We have a lens that interprets all that we hear and read. Scripture has a lens over it from 400 years of theological battles and 200 years of American culture. These two can distort what Scripture actually says. In this text we look at the Bible's Greatest Hit and if we hear this song Scripture sounds amazing.
Paul's letter to the Ephesians reveals the radical truth that all believers—Jews and Gentiles alike—share equally in God's abundant grace and eternal inheritance. Through Christ, God has lavishly blessed us with every spiritual blessing, completely transforming our identity and purpose. As humanity finds unity in Christ, all creation itself awaits its ultimate restoration and fullness in Him.
Paul's letter to the Ephesians reveals the radical truth that all believers—Jews and Gentiles alike—share equally in God's abundant grace and eternal inheritance. Through Christ, God has lavishly blessed us with every spiritual blessing, completely transforming our identity and purpose. As humanity finds unity in Christ, all creation itself awaits its ultimate restoration and fullness in Him.
Fr. Mike outlines Paul's trial before King Agrippa and his efforts to use his conversion story to convert those hearing his case. He also leads us through the first half of Ephesians, emphasizing Paul's main theme of unity in the spirit. Today's readings are from Acts 26, Ephesians 1-3, and Proverbs 29:18-21. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.