As we’ve been learning about the Holy Spirit in our Small Group for the past weeks, it’s interesting to read Paul’s letter through these fresh eyes. Paul is writing, but it is the Holy Spirit guiding him.
So right from the start, we don’t just see Paul introducing himself – we see the Holy Spirit affirming Paul’s identity as an apostle of Christ. We don’t just see Paul praising God, we see the Holy Spirit bringing glory to the Father and to the Son – just as Jesus said He would. And so forth : )
Lots of “him” pronouns here, it will be an interesting activity to figure out which person of God each pronoun is referring to. (Although really, with the nature of the Trinity, it’s basically interchangeable.) For example, I don’t know if this is right:
“In him (Father) we have redemption through his (Jesus) blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his (Father) grace, which he (Father) lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight making known to us the mystery of his (Father) will, according to his (Father) purpose, which he (Father) set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him (Jesus, I think), things in heaven and things on earth.” (Ephesians 1:7-10 ESV)
It goes on. The mystery of the Trinity – hope I will get to understand more.
The revelation of God through the Holy Spirit, is Paul’s prayer because just by understanding the heart of God toward us will give us great hope, will give us strength. If only we understand!