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August 9, 2026
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Message Notes
There are no additional message notes for this week, however, we want to make sure you know that if you were unable to view the video on Calvinism vs. Arminianism linked in last week's Message Notes, the video link has been fixed now, and it is viewable.
The Pause Questions
1. What evidence does my life currently give that I truly belong to Christ?
Paul had heard about the Ephesians’ faith in the Lord Jesus and their love for all the saints (v.15). What would people who know me best say reveals my faith in Christ? Is my love for other believers growing, or am I becoming increasingly critical, isolated, or self-focused?
2. What do I need God to open the eyes of my heart to see more clearly?
Paul prays that believers would have the eyes of their hearts enlightened (v. 18). Where am I currently living as though I cannot see or fully understand what God has already given me in Christ? Do I need a clearer understanding of the hope of
His calling, the riches of His inheritance, or the greatness of His power?
3. Where am I living as though my circumstances are more powerful than Christ?
Paul emphasizes the immeasurable greatness of God's power toward those who believe—the same power that raised Christ from the dead and exalted Him above every authority (vv.19–21). What fear, disappointment, temptation, conflict, or circumstance am I currently treating as though it is beyond Christ's authority and power?
4. What does it mean for me that Jesus is the Head of the Church?
Paul says that God gave Christ as Head over everything to the Church (vv. 22–23). Do I genuinely view the Church as belonging to Jesus, or do I subtly treat it as belonging to pastors, leaders, members, or myself? How should Christ's authority change the way I serve, lead, participate, and respond within His Church?
5. Where do I need to stop merely knowing about Christ and begin living in light of what I know about Him?
Paul's prayer is ultimately that believers would know God more deeply—not merely possess information about Him. What truth from Ephesians 1:15–23 most needs to move from my head into my heart and then into my daily life?
