A Blessing on the Church

Aim: To live in the reality of God's blessing on Christ's church.

Doctrine: The book of Ephesians' concluding apostolic blessing is full-orbed. It ranges from the church's security to her persevering members' sincerity.

Exegesis: How Paul's blessing on the church encourages us: parish harmony is to be enjoyed (through Christ and His doctrine) (v. 23a); Christian hope is fulfilled (since our help comes from God) (v. 23b); congregants' heaven is assured (for all who possess genuine faith) (v. 24).

Further application: How these verses encapsulate the entire epistle of Ephesians: the church's success is inevitable, because Her head is glorified.

Key verses: vv. 23-24 ''Peace to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen.''