2. Ephesians 2:1-22 We were all dead in trespasses God’s grace made us alive Jesus broke down the walls of separation We are fellow citizens, one body

3. For this reason (3:1-6) The mystery (something hidden) was revealed to Paul (through the Holy Spirit). He wrote it down (preserving it) so that when we read we might understand it. While not known in other ages, it is now understood

4. The Mystery Revealed As it has been revealed by the Spirit to His holy apostles and prophets They “mystery” is now known Apostles and prophets of that day (Eph. 4:11, 1 Cor. 12:10)

5. WHAT is the “mystery”? Vs. 6 That the Gentiles should be fellow heirs Salvation is for all!

6. WHAT is the “mystery”? That the Gentiles should be fellow heirs was formerly revealed Did those prophets speak of the Gentiles? Cf. 1 Peter 1:10-12 Genesis 12:3 (26:4, 28:14) Amos 9:11-12 Isaiah 11:10, 49:6, 62:1-2

7. WHAT is the “mystery”? That the Gentiles are of the same body Part of His church! Ephesians 2:19-22

8. WHAT is the “mystery”? That the Gentiles should be (fellow) partakers of His promise in Christ through the gospel Consider Acts 2:38-39.

9. The mystery presented Paul was made a minister to reveal this grace (7) He considered it God’s grace to present this message (grace to him and grace for all) Ultimately, Paul is establishing his authority in writing these things

10. The mystery presented Paul’s unworthiness (8) He is least of all the saints! (Genuine humility) 1 Timothy 1:12-15, chief of sinners 1 Cor. 15:9, least of the apostles 2 Cor. 12:11, “I am nothing”

11. The mystery presented Do we possess this humility? James 4:6, 1 Pet. 5:5, God resists the proud… 1 Peter 5:6, humble yourselves (James 4:10) Romans 12:3 Philippians 2:3-4

12. The mystery presented This grace was given that I should preach among the Gentiles He did consider it a privilege (even in suffering) Gal. 2:7-8 He was not ashamed, Rom. 1:16 He was compelled, 1 Cor. 1:17, 9:16

13. The mystery presented The unsearchable riches of Christ The “fellowship” of the mystery Hidden from the beginning of the ages Now made known by (through) the church according to His eternal purpose

14. Salvation is for all! Will you receive it?