APRIL 9TH, 1895

^[p. 107] APRIL 9TH, 1895

...And now in reference to your question as to Ephesians 2. The statement in that chapter is clearly of what God had by His power effected in the saints. He had (as is seen also in Colossians) quickened them together with Christ. In referring to it my point was to show what it is in which this is displayed. Evidently the first thought is that Christ risen is the centre and point on which all is formed; then we stand associated with Him a heavenly band. We have (conscious of His love) appropriated Him in what He is to God as risen from the dead, and thus we live together with Him Godward in love. (See chapter 1:4.) It may be said that this is mixing up what is in a sense experience with the power of God, but I think that the result of God’s work is viewed as a whole in Ephesians, the fruit and effect of His power working where nothing was but death, and producing a result suitable and sufficient for Himself. It is seen there in its full extent, and is what is true in principle in all christians, though not realised by all. I trust that this may simplify the matter.