He put all things in subjection under his feet, and gave him to be head over all things for the assembly, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all. Ephesians 1:22-23 WEB
Paul begins his letter to the church at Ephesus with a brief greeting that includes a blessing of grace and peace for the faithful in Christ. He follows with a section of praise for God for the spiritual blessings the faithful receive in Christ. Among these are redemption from sin, sonship through adoption into God’s holy family, and the presence of the Holy Spirit. Finally, Paul conveys his thanksgiving and prayers for the faithful Ephesians who are part of the body of Christ who God made head over all things.
By the power of God’s will, Jesus has authority over all things. Christ revealed this to his disciples after his resurrection. Matthew 28:18-19 records this from the words of Chist himself as it reads, “Jesus came to them and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth. Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I commanded you. Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. WEB”
Jesus Is the Head of the Church
Here, in his letter to the Ephesians, Paul teaches the authority of Christ. Specifically, Paul addresses Christ as the head over all things in the assembly. That is to say that Jesus is the head of the church. He follows with a metaphor calling the church the body of Christ. As the body of our Lord and Savior, it is our responsibility to do his work which is the will of our heavenly Father. We are the hands that care for others and do good works to honor God.
Paul concludes with words that are somewhat more confusing. Not only is Christ the head over all things including the church, the church is the fullness of Christ. In addition, Paul writes that Chirst fills all in all. This is a reference to Christ’s omnipotence, authority, and generosity to bless the church with the gifts needed to accomplish God’s will on earth. As we read of believers in Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me. WEB”
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for calling me into the body of Christ. Thank you for the reassurance of your holy word. Lead me with your holy spirit to do your will. Bless me with understanding to follow the example set by my Savior. In Jesus name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Mighty Works and Wonders
