Built On Truth: The Transformative Foundation Ephesians 2:19-20 Series

Built on Truth: The Transformative Foundation

Introduction:

Dear Friends,

In Ephesians 2:19-20 (NLT), we discover the transformative power of truth as it shapes our identity and purpose. Join me on this journey as we explore the profound truths that have the potential to reshape our lives.

Ephesians 2:19-20 (NLT) So now you Gentiles are no longer strangers and foreigners. You are citizens along with all of God’s holy people. You are members of God’s family. Together, we are his house, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself.

Point 1: Citizens of God's Kingdom

Ephesians 2:19 (NLT)

The concept of being "citizens with God's people" emphasises our inclusion in God's Kingdom. As believers, our identity is rooted in a heavenly citizenship, transcending earthly distinctions.

Quotation: C.S. Lewis reminds us of our true citizenship, saying, "If I find in myself desires which nothing in this world can satisfy, the only logical explanation is that I was made for another world."

Philippians 3:20 (NLT) - "But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior."

Point 2: Foundation of Apostles and Prophets

Scripture: Ephesians 2:20 (NLT)

The reference to being "built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets" highlights the significance of God's revealed truth as the bedrock of our faith. The teachings of the apostles and prophets form the solid foundation upon which our lives are constructed.

Quotation: John Stott underscores the importance of biblical truth, stating, "The authority of the Bible is in the truth it reveals, and it reveals the authoritative Christ."

2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NLT) - "All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right."

Point 3: Christ Himself as the Chief Cornerstone

Scripture: Ephesians 2:20 (NLT)

Exegesis: The declaration that Jesus Christ is the "chief cornerstone" signifies His central and crucial role in our faith. The cornerstone provides stability and alignment to the entire structure, ensuring that our lives are built upon the unshakable truth of Christ.

Quotation: A.W. Tozer reflects on the supremacy of Christ, saying, "What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us."

Colossians 1:17-18 (NLT) - "He existed before anything else, and he holds all creation together. Christ is also the head of the church, which is his body."

Conclusion:

Ephesians 2:19-20 reveals that our lives are transformed by the foundational truths of our citizenship in God's Kingdom, the teachings of the apostles and prophets, and the central role of Christ as the chief cornerstone. May these truths be etched into the core of our being, shaping our identity and purpose.

May our lives stand as a testament to the transformative power of the truth revealed in God's Word. As citizens of heaven, built on the foundation of apostles and prophets, with Christ as our chief cornerstone, let us live out our faith in a way that glorifies our Lord.

May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.