This morning we will be looking at the first of two Spirit-filled prayers that Paul prays for the saints at Ephesus (Ephesians 1:15-20). These prayers, like all the prayers in the bible, can be used to help us in our prayer lives. In fact, I would say that one reason why God has preserved them for us is so we might pray them as well.
Paul prays that they would be given spiritual wisdom and revelation knowledge of who Jesus Christ is. Take note that what we need in order to grow in our fellowship with Jesus is not just academic knowledge. In the gospels we read of demons “knowing” who Jesus is. That is certainly not the kind of knowledge that Paul is praying for. Now bible programs on Jesus Christ may be incredibly edifying to read and meditate on, but that’s not the same as experiencing His presence in our lives. I believe it was Thomas a’Kempis who said, “I would rather experience the love of Jesus than simply know how to define it.” Amen and Amen. That is what Paul is asking The Father to give to His adopted sons and daughters here in our study.
Knowing Christ in a real and intimate way is the very basis of the Christian life. The prophet Jeremiah said, “Thus saith the LORD, ‘Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth Me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight,’ saith the LORD.” (Jeremiah 9:23-24)
Our precious Lord Jesus said, “And this is life eternal, that they might know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” (John 17:3) Nearly thirty years after being born again, the apostle Paul prays, “that I might know Him” (Philippians 3:10). It is to that end that Paul then goes on to proclaim the resurrection and ascension power of Jesus Christ that makes this relationship with Him possible.
Therein is a key to spiritual growth: “looking unto Jesus, The Author and Finisher of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2). Instead of looking at the tools or means that God has provided for us to grow, as wonderful as they are, they in and of themselves have no power to turn us into mature followers of Jesus Christ. We need revelation knowledge of the Person and glory of Jesus Christ. May The Father of our Lord Jesus Christ grant to us that personal and congregational revelation knowledge of Jesus Christ.
