Friday night, Box Hill
For the past few weeks the Box Hill Care Group (perhaps better know as a Bible study group) has been studying the book of Ephesians each Friday night.
I have shared in this blog before my complete astonishment with regards to the depths the books of the Bible can be studied and Ephesians was no disappointment! It may not have gripped me in the same way as the Gospel of John but it employed plenty of poetry, prayer and metaphor (which I always particularly enjoy). It always amazes me that such ancient texts can hold wisdom that is still relevant today.
I won’t go into an in-depth study here – but I wanted to share some of the things that spoke to me from the book of Ephesians:
First, Paul talks a lot about the Spirit and Signs of the Spirit throughout Ephesians and, for that matter, all of his writings. This passage, towards the end of Chapter 5, blew me away, so to speak: Ephesians 5:18 – 21.
It is a simple passage but as I read it, it felt strangely familiar. It begins by suggesting that being ‘filled with the Spirit’ entails, I paraphrase, ‘singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord’, ‘giving thanks for all things’, and ‘submitting to one another’. Why would this ‘blow me away’?
I looked around as I read it (or rather, in between verses, because I only have two eyes). We, as a group, had just finished singing and making melodies to the Lord (in my case, in my heart as the verse suggests), we had given thanks to the Lord in our prayers that evening and were spending the evening in fellowship, or, submitting to one another.
Our Bible study group is important to me both socially and spiritually and studying this passage was one of those occasions when you read something in the Bible, see it enacted and understand why attention is brought to it. Such a simple observation, but such a powerful reminder of how God provides for all our needs: spiritual, social and physical (I may have neglected to mention that we also share a meal together each week).
Paul then promptly jumps into what could be considered a controversial subject. He uses the example of marriage in a Christian household. I say controversial because at a superficial level the relationship described may seem unequal but with further thought and careful reading it reveals a foundation of respect and love that mirrors the relationship of Christ with the His people (or the Church).
The book of Ephesians is then rounded out with one of those metaphors I love so much – The Armour of God. This armour is to protect us against ‘the wiles of the devil’ but, as it’s a metaphor, I think it is describing the attributes that a Christ-follower should develop along their spiritual journey. I encourage everyone to ponder this armour that is available to us all, not only as protection but as growth and establishment of a Christlike character.
Truly wonderful reflections Ben. The Box Hill Care Group while i’m not a “member” seems to model a way of Christian community which we need to see more of centered around the Word the God of the Word. That is the basis for true fellowship I think. You have inspired me to re-read Ephesians and I will take the time to do so. I would love to visit the Box Hill Care Group one Friday night if my age or disability doesn’t exclude me. The Armour of God is the most powerful armour we can possess. Thank you for sharing your insights. I wish every member of the Box Hill Care Group God’s blessing. Obviously a group when the Holy Spirit is working in powerful ways. God bless each of you.
Sincerely,
Uncle Geoff (Panckhurst)
Of course you’re welcome any time! I feel remiss in not including an open invitation to Care Group! The driveway is quite steep but I’m sure neither age or disabilty would prevent anyone from joining us. Give me a call if you want a lift!