THE AGES TO COME

"But God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of
works, lest any man should boast." (Ephesians 2:4-9)

Devotion 2 of 17

A BIG BACKGROUND

We are apprized that God made "the worlds" through our Lord Jesus Christ, and He is "Heir of all things" (Heb 1:2). Therefore, the "glad tidings of good things" proclaims Jesus to be "Lord of all" (Acts 10:36). The Savior Himself confessed, "all things that the Father hath are Mine" (John 16:15). It is no marvel we are told of "The unsearchable riches of Christ" (Eph 3:8).

Individuals must cease to think within the framework of their own persons. God's Kingdom is bigger than any one person being saved. Congregations must also extend themselves beyond the perimeter of their own fellowship. Salvation is not confined within geographical boundaries or regional provinces. Those who attempt to restrict the sphere or extent of Divine influence greatly err. Remember, it was said of Israel, "Yea, they turned back and tempted God, and limited the Holy One of Israel" (Psa 78:41). Restrictive thinking, particularly in the matter of salvation, is infinitely more serious than sophists dare to imagine.

The Lord Jesus Christ is the Creator of all things. As it is written, "For by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him, and for Him" (Col 1:16). An expression like this does not conform to minuscule religious thought! "Invisible" things, together with "thrones, dominions, principalities, and powers" were created by Him, and FOR Him! His domain extends far beyond our fondest imagination, and we do well to stretch our minds and hearts to comprehend it. There are realms over which Jesus reigns that extend beyond the perimeter of human sensitivities and activities. Yet, that dominion is not unrelated to our salvation! There is no aspect of "the Man Christ Jesus" that is unrelated to our redemption from the curse and preparation for the world to come! His reign is extensive because salvation is far-reaching in both its intent and implications.

Salvation, we will find, was planned before the foundation of the world, is now being worked in the midst of the earth, and is working effects that will extend into "the ages to come."

PRAYER POINT: Father, I thank You, in Jesus' name, for a great salvation. Give me grace to conduct myself in keeping with that greatness.

-- TOMORROW: THE EFFECT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS --