Ephesians 1:15-23 - Homiletics

Prayer for spiritual growth.

General characteristics of Paul's prayers (see Exposition, Ephesians 1:16 ). The prayer is

I. RETROSPECTIVE . Consists of thanksgiving ( Ephesians 1:16 ). Happy key-note for prayer.

II. PROSPECTIVE . Of supplication. Here we may note:

1. The name by which God is invoked ( Ephesians 1:17 ; see Exposition).

2. The blessing sought, viz. further illumination in the knowledge of God's will.

3. The points needing to be more fully revealed, viz.:

4. The working of God's power in Christ, as foreshadowing his working in believers.

To what a glorious elevation we are carried in such prayers! We seem to luxuriate in infinite stores of blessing. Observe, again, that all is connected with Christ and his redemption. If the power that raised Christ should raise us, to what a glorious elevation should we rise!