Unto Himself

In this part of the sermon: Martin introduces Ephesians 1:3-6 as a hymn of praise, noting Paul's passionate theological writing. He highlights God the Father's general blessing in verse 3 and then focuses on…

Paul, though a theologian, writes Ephesians 1 not with cold logic but with a heart inflamed by God's salvation, like a saint and a poet, bursting with praise. This illustrates the passionate nature of the text.

As his mind thought upon and meditated long upon the great salvation which had come to the Ephesians. He cannot pick up his pen and write with the cold logic of the theologian.

1:49 - 2:04 Read in full sermon

In this part of the sermon: To understand God's satisfaction, Martin first explores what God enjoyed in man at creation. He identifies two key factors: similarity of character (man made in God's image with…

If a student used the phrase 'in our image' three times in a short composition, a teacher would mark it redundant. However, the Holy Spirit's repetition emphasizes the importance of man being made in God's image, showing divine communication is not bound by human rules.

Male and female created he them. Now whatever is involved in this matter of the image of God. It's obvious that it's important. Because if you youngsters wrote a composition in your English class.

13:45 - 13:59 Read in full sermon

In this part of the sermon: Next, Martin examines what God lost in the Fall, describing the horror of Adam and Eve hiding from God, signifying the rupture of intimate communion. He highlights the progressive…

Martin describes his personal delight when his children run to greet him upon his return home, illustrating the intimate communion a father desires with his children. This sets up the contrast with man's hiding from God after the Fall.

As some of you know. I'm away from home. Quite frequently. Two or three days at a time.

23:24 - 23:31 Read in full sermon

In this part of the sermon: Next, Martin examines what God lost in the Fall, describing the horror of Adam and Eve hiding from God, signifying the rupture of intimate communion. He highlights the progressive…

He then imagines the horror and grief he would feel if his children, instead of running to him, hid in fear upon his return. This powerfully illustrates God's grief when Adam and Eve hid from Him after their sin, signifying the loss of intimate communion.

And his children. Can you imagine what it would mean to me. If when I came through the door. On Thursday night.

24:17 - 24:25 Read in full sermon

In this part of the sermon: Martin concludes that God is both the originator and the goal of redemption, stamping Romans 11:36 on Ephesians 1:5. He parallels election unto holiness (restoring character) with…

The analogy of Christ as the heavenly bridegroom who gave himself for the church to present her to himself, and his 'thirst' for his bride, illustrates God's desire for His people and the delight He receives from them.

That he might present that church himself.

46:05 - 46:11 Read in full sermon