Ephesians: The Local Church, the Hope of the World

Jesus ended his earthly mission not by writing a book, not by collecting His teachings, and not by ascending to earthly power. Jesus left the world – a community. He left...the Church. 

 This raises all kinds of questions. Why did Jesus entrust all He taught, lived, and promised...to a community of flawed men and women? Why does Jesus see the church as His own self, His body? What does this mean for our relationship to the church today? 

The church, in all its beauties, mysteries, and complexities is a necessary requirement to discipleship to Jesus. But it is not just “the church” as a theory that is necessary to discipleship to Jesus. It is a local church. A church, with breathing humans, who encourage us and say weird things, who spur us on to courageous faith and discourage with their faults; it is this kind of church that Jesus expects we give our life to.  

The church is the place where – every spiritual blessing in Christ exists...where it is filled with people predestined...for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ...a church filled with people made...alive with Christ. The local church is not just a profound mystery. It is the hope of the world.  

Ephesians invites us to enter a profound mystery. Ephesians invites us to join this community Christ has saved to bring hope to the world.