The Manifold Wisdom of God (2026-03-01, Cody Brobst, Ephesians 3:7-13)

A sermon on the wisdom and power of God by Rev. Cody Brobst.  Application questions: What is meant by ”the mystery of the Gospel”? Are there hints around what this means throughout the book of Ephesians (start with verse 6)?   What is Paul’s goal with the Gentiles? What message is he trying to send about the nature of the church this side of Christ's death on the cross?  How does this inform “who is in”? Does the body of Christ today do well at inclusion? Do we have a warped definition of inclusion? Discuss.  Both in v. 2 and v. 7, we see that God’s grace was given to him (Paul). What does he want us to know about his ministry as an apostle?  Paul sees himself as a steward of the Gospel mystery. What is a “steward”? Read 1 Peter 4:10 and encourage one another by naming your own gifts!  Paul further calls himself “the very least of all the saints.” Is this false humility since we know he is an apostle? What context in Paul’s life drives his view of himself?  Where would we be helped practically by having this kind of humility?   Verse 10 says "that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places.” What does this refer to? Again visit 1 Peter 1:12. Why would angels take interest in the church?  What is “wisdom”? What does the world say wisdom is? What are the ways God’s wisdom is made known to the church?  Verse 11 says “This was according to the eternal purpose...” Which is?   Do you approach God’s throne boldly knowing you have direct access to him? V.13 encourages us to not lose heart over Paul’s suffering (remember: in prison). How would Paul’s suffering lead to the Ephesians glory? As you consider your own suffering or that of those you care about, what are the pitfalls of how Christians view suffering positively and negatively?