and to know Christ’s love which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Ephesians 3:19 WEB
Paul wrote these words concerning the fullness of God in his letter to the Ephesians. In the letter, Paul expresses that he wants the reader to experience the love of Christ in a personal sense that surpasses mere information. He wants them to experience his love in a personal relationship with our Lord that relates to active service of God and his plan for mankind. Knowing Christ’s love fills us with the fullness of God.
The main idea is that God’s love is beyond our ability to understand. The love of the Lord far exceeds human ability to love. God’s love is not merely information or a feeling. It is an active love that demonstrates care and concern. Our greatest example of this is Jesus’ willingness to die in our place to redeem us from sin.
In Jesus’ time, the Pharisees placed emphasis on keeping the law of God. This is important but without love it is meaningless. We know that we are all guilty of sin. As we read in Romans 3:23, “for all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God. WEB” Being guilty of sin, we all need forgiveness. The act of paying for our sins with the blood of his Son, demonstrates the active love of our heavenly Father. The loving sacrifice of Christ paid our sin debt in full for having violated God’s law.
If You Love Me Keep My Commandments
Acting according to the law without love is invalid as is love without action. But do we need to keep the law? The answer is a resounding yes! However, we do not keep the law in loveless legalism. We keep the law to demonstrate our devotion and love for Jesus. As Jesus says in John 14:15, “If you love me, keep my commandments. WEB”
In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul wants the reader to focus on the greatness and love of God. He wants us to understand the active love, service, and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Further, he encourages the reader to live life by the example set by Christ. Paul wants the reader to experience the fullness of God.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for loving me. Thank you for the understanding that love is active and filled with service. Help me to love like you do. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: The First and Great Commandment
