FOR THIS CAUSE, that is, for preaching the gospel to the Gentiles in general; and in particular, for asserting, that the privileges of justification and salvation by Christ belonged equally to the Gentiles as well as the Jews, though they were not circumcised; for this cause. was persecuted and impr... [ Continue Reading ]
Observe here, 1. The title given to the gospel, it is styled THE GRACE OF GOD; partly because the glad tidings which the gospel brings are the effect and product of God's grace and favour, and partly because the gospel is the instrument and means of working peace in the souls of persons. Observe, 2... [ Continue Reading ]
Our apostle here proceeds in setting forth this great mystery of man's redemption in general, and the calling of the Gentiles in particular: he styles it. MYSTERY. 1. Now. mystery is. purpose and decree of God, unknown to, and unsearchable by, man, unless first by revelation discovered and made kno... [ Continue Reading ]
As if the apostle had said, "Of this gospel it pleased God to make me. successful minister or dispenser, furnishing me with ordinary and extraordinary gifts and graces from his Holy Spirit, for that weighty work and sevice; unto me, even unto me,. say, was this special favour granted, though unworth... [ Continue Reading ]
Observe here, 1. The title given to the holy angels; they are styled PRINCIPALITIES AND POWERS, because God makes us of their powerful ministry in governing the kingdoms and principalities of this world: and they are said to be in HEAVENLY PLACES; not as if they were never here upon earth below, but... [ Continue Reading ]
Our apostle here shows, 1. That whatever the wisdom of God has done in the work of redemption, was from all eternity purposed to be done, and that our Lord Jesus Christ was the Person by whom God would in time execute his eternal purpose: ACCORDING TO THE ETERNAL PURPOSE WHICH HE PURPOSED IN CHRIST... [ Continue Reading ]
Our apostle having exhorted the Ephesians in the foregoing verse, not to faint at his tribulation for the gospel, here he puts up. most affectionate prayer to God for them on the same account: FOR THIS CAUSE, and in order to this end, I BOW MY KNEES,. C. Now in this affectionate and most excellent p... [ Continue Reading ]
Our apostle here proceeds with affectionate ardour to pray for further spiritual blessings on the behalf of his beloved Ephesians: 1. He prays that Christ may dwell in their hearts by his most holy faith. The phrase of DWELLING IN US, imports. very close and intimate union between Christ and believ... [ Continue Reading ]
Observe here, 1. How our apostle closes his prayer with thanksgiving and praise; intimating to us, that praise should evermore conclude that work which prayer began, and that spiritual blessings principally deserve our praises. Observe, 2. The title which St. Paul's faith fixed upon, in his approac... [ Continue Reading ]