Bible verses referenced
Ephesians 1:10 (NASB)
"With a view to an administration suitable to the fullness of the times, that is, the summing up of all things in Christ, things in the heavens and things on the earth. In Him."
2 Corinthians 5:14-17 (NASB)
"For the love of Christ controls us, having concluded this, that one died for all, therefore all died; and He died for all, so that they who live might no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf. Therefore from now on we recognize no one according to the flesh; even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him in this way no longer. Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come."
Ephesians 1:11 (NASB)
"Also we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to His purpose who works all things after the counsel of His will."
Teaching notes
Introduction
Pastor Lenny opens his sermon by expressing gratitude to the congregation and online community for their unwavering support and love. He highlights the importance of partnership during the holiday season and encourages the audience to consider giving to the ministry. Additionally, he mentions opportunities to purchase gifts that support Christian businesses.
Exploration of Ephesians 1:10-11
The sermon centers on Ephesians 1:10-11, verses often overlooked according to Pastor Lenny. He emphasizes the need to understand scripture without preconceived notions and traditions that might hinder new interpretations.
Key Concepts
- Fullness of Times
- Pastor Lenny explains that the "fullness of times" refers to the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is not about a future event but something that has already occurred.
- He underscores that God's plan was a mystery revealed through Christ, and if the rulers of the world had known it, they would not have crucified Jesus.
- All Things Gathered in Christ
- The sermon emphasizes that "all things" were gathered in Christ, both in heaven and on earth. Pastor Lenny challenges the traditional interpretation and suggests that this gathering includes all of creation, past, present, and future.
- He uses the Greek word "pas," meaning all, every, and the whole, to support his interpretation.
- Universal Reconciliation
- While affirming that he is not a universalist, Pastor Lenny suggests that the reconciliation of all things in Christ means that everyone has been included in Christ's death and resurrection. However, individuals must believe to experience this reconciliation personally.
Supporting Scriptures
Pastor Lenny interprets these verses to mean that all were included in Christ's death and resurrection. The love of Christ and the reconciliation of the world in Him are central themes.
Key Concepts
- Inheritance and Predestination
- Believers have already obtained an inheritance in Christ, which was predestined by God's purpose.
- The inheritance includes all the blessings and rights as children of God, such as healing, wholeness, and provision.
- Sowing and Reaping
- Pastor Lenny refutes the idea that believers must sow to receive blessings, emphasizing that God has already provided all through Jesus. Acts of kindness and giving are fruits of the believer's nature, not means to gain favor.
Conclusion
Pastor Lenny concludes by encouraging believers to share the message with those mature in their faith to understand it deeply. He reminds the congregation of their identity in Christ and the full inheritance they possess.
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Walk in Your Blessings
Pastor Lenny closes with a blessing, urging the audience to walk in the fullness of their identity and inheritance in Christ.