A Profund Mystery

Genesis 2.19-24 Ephesians 5.21-33 One nature, of the same body. A great mystery= hidden thing, secret, mystical, not obvious to understanding But I am talking about Christ and the church. Ephesians 5.32 Jesus building His Church is in this Profound Mystery. I saw it at Verlene’s Funeral Service, in the words that were said but more than that in the little groups of people comforting one another. It was soul refreshing. I see it in the cistern being built, each kid in Haiti getting an education and a hot meal… in the lady from India who spoke at Verlene’s funeral, giving thanks for all those years ago when she sponsored her to become a citizen of the US. This Profound Mystery of being one flesh with Christ. We love the LORD. We care for each other. We are connected to Heaven. We are one with Christ and each other. I see it here each Sunday and throughout the week. It begins with Jesus… * Christ loved the Church and gave Himself up for her. We don’t think about that enough. The self emptying kenosis passage Philippians 2.5-8 We need to catch the direction here… let this mind be in you… Not taking any special privileges The position of a slave No luxurious inns Selfless life Our attitude of this profound mystery. Philippians 3.10-12 be a partner in His suffering Two kinds of sufferings: Forced Willing Even when it is forced we can submit to it. This is a Profound Mystery One of the evidences of One Flesh is in children produced. They are a combination of both parents. They share the genes. Interestingly when Jesus said, “I will build My Church.” the word build means to build a house or erect a building, to promote growth in Christian wisdom, affection, grace, virtue, holiness, blessedness. His sacrifice makes us holy, becoming like Him. Reflecting His image… He gave Himself up so we could become like Him through His blood and the washing of water through the Word. * The Church submits to Christ To His Word There is the flesh and there is the Spirit. We are to submit to His Word. Forgiveness In complete commitment to Him. To His Spirit Wherever He leads I will follow. To His character Becoming like Him “Christians” To His Will He submitted to the Father’s will, to the point of death. John 12. 27 “Now My soul is troubled, and what shall I say? ‘Father, save me from this hour’? No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour. 28 Father, glorify Your name!” Luke 22. 39 Jesus went out as usual to the Mount of Olives, and His disciples followed Him. 40 On reaching the place, He said to them, “Pray that you will not fall into temptation.” 41 He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, 42 “Father, if You are willing, take this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done.” 43 An angel from heaven appeared to Him and strengthened Him. 44 And being in anguish, He prayed more earnestly, and His sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground.