Ephesians 1:15-20 - Two items stand out. First, praise and prayer constitute a balance in the life of the Christian. Emphasis only on prayer causes us to ignore the blessings we have received. Emphasis only on praise causes us to stop asking God for that which we need. Either side will skew our relationship with God. The second item is that Paul wants us to know what God's power in our lives means. It is resurrection. Jesus Christ was raised from the dead. This is our hope by faith.
Ephesians 2:11-22 - Stop dividing yourselves. In this section, Paul discusses how in Christ, the barrier between Jew and Gentile is no more. Jesus creates a new society that is rooted in him. Yet in our sin we still find ways to be divided. These barriers cannot be overcome by common interest or personality adjustments. In fact, it's very unlikely that we can see past our differences by looking at each other. Instead, Paul focuses us on Jesus who has made us one by his death and resurrection. Look to him first. Then look through his eyes toward each other.
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