"Unfolding Purpose"


 INTRODUCTION
          We have thus far discussed in general terms our calling in life and a wide variety of gifts and natural abilities and talents given to us by God.  Although some Christians may be fulfilling their “general” destiny in life by utilizing their strengths instilled within them at birth, we also want to fulfill our “redeemed purpose” in life and our specific mission from God.  We want to glorify God in all that we do, advance God’s Kingdom of love and righteousness, and live out the “God life.”  This automatically instills within us a much needed sense of purpose and fulfillment.  However, this “plan” God has for us can only be implemented through a dedication to Christ and a surrender to God’s will.
 
INTRO TO EPHESIANS
          The book of Ephesians was written by the apostle Paul while he was in prison.  It can easily be divided into two distinct sections with three chapters each.  Section one, chapters 1-3, speaks to the privileges and position of the saints in Christ Jesus, or, in other words, “who we are in Christ.” 
          Section 2, chapters 4-6, speaks to the Christian’s responsibility or conduct in the world based upon who we are in Christ.  It might be called “what we do in Christ.”  It is a far more practical section. 
          There are several key themes in the book of Ephesians.  One might be titled “I am a new person in Christ.”  When we surrender to Christ we are transformed from our old, sinful, dull, confusing, and meaningless life to a new, vibrant life of purpose.  I have been granted certain rights, privilege, benefits, and blessings due to the fact that I have become a child of the heavenly Father.  There are simply some natural (or supernatural) benefits from having God as my Father, much like having a police office as a father or a mom who owns a candy factory or a husband who works at Dippin’ Dots or parents who are wealthy. 
 
UNFOLDING PURPOSE
          Here is an important fact about our destiny.  I know of only a handful of people who have discovered their purpose or destiny in life through a miraculous method like a dream or vision or audible voice.  Furthermore, most of those were due to the unique nature of their calling.  I have known a few more that have had a calm but confident assurance regarding their purpose in life even from an early age.  Nonetheless, the vast majority of Christians are forced to grapple with their purpose or destiny most of their lives.  So, if that is you, do not be unnecessarily alarmed.  Let me say that it is usually an unfolding, continual “process” of discovery.  I cannot tell you how extremely important it is to grasp this truth.  God’s plan is unfolding before us, like a flower in the spring, as we follow Him!