Power Up

VBS – Adult Class - 2004

Introduction

We will not study the lessons the children are learning today

I want to focus on the theme – “POWER UP” – in the book of Ephesians

The word “power” is used 7 times in this short book of the New Testament.

IntroductionGreek word – dunamis

English words – dynamo, dynamite, dynamic

Word meansAwesome power of GodPower of the gospel, resurrection, blood of

ChristOur strength which comes from our faith in God

Ephesians 1:19

and what is the exceeding greatness of His powerpower toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty powerpower

His POWER – great, wonderful, awesome

To the believer – We have seen His power in our lives

To the unbeliever – It is like a fairy tale

Ephesians 1:21

far above all principality and powerpower and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come.

Christ is raised from the dead

Christ is in heaven – at the right hand of God

He is far above – superior, more powerful – all others

Ephesians 2:2

in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the powerpower of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience,

Another power – Satan

He is at work

He wants us to follow the world

1 of 2 things is true: You once walked You are still walking

Ephesians 3:7

of which I became a minister according to the gift of the grace of God given to me by the effective working of His powerpower.

Paul became a minister

He used the gifts, talents, abilities he had

We must learn to use what we have

Ephesians 3:20

Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the powerpower that works in us,

Watch how it builds Able Abundantly Above All We ask Or think

You cannot out pray, out dream God

Ephesians 6:10

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the powerpower of His might.

We are in the army of GodWe must stand, be ready to defendWe do not stand in our powerIt is only in the power of God that we are able to stand

We can see God’s Power

Resurrection of Christ

Blood shed for our salvation

God’s grace offered to all men

Creation

Miracles

God Gives us Power

Pray

Think

Obey

Believe

Love

Change

Hope

KNOWING RIGHT DOES NOT GIVE US THE POWER

TO DO RIGHT