Ephesians 1:17 captures the apostle Paul’s prayer for the Ephesian believers, desiring that God would grant them spiritual wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him:
“I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.”
This verse highlights the importance of deepening our understanding of God and His ways through the work of the Holy Spirit. It reminds us that true knowledge of God is not merely intellectual but involves a personal, experiential encounter with Him.
God of Our Lord Jesus Christ
Ephesians 1:17 begins by acknowledging God as the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, highlighting the relationship between God the Father and His Son.
It affirms the deity of Jesus and emphasizes His unique role in our salvation. Recognizing Jesus as Lord and understanding His identity as the Son of God is foundational to our faith and knowledge of God.
We approach God the Father through Jesus, knowing that He (Jesus) is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. The verse establishes the authority and importance of Jesus Christ in our pursuit of spiritual wisdom and revelation.
Spirit of Wisdom and Revelation
The prayer in Ephesians 1:17 expresses the desire for believers to be filled with the Spirit of Wisdom and Revelation. This refers to the work of the Holy Spirit in illuminating our understanding, opening our eyes to spiritual truths, and deepening our knowledge of God.
Spiritual wisdom goes beyond human intellect and reasoning. It is the insight and discernment that comes only from the Holy Spirit, enabling us to comprehend the mysteries of God and His plan for our lives.
Revelation refers to God’s self-disclosure and the unveiling of His truth to our hearts. It is through the Spirit’s work that we can truly know God intimately and experience His presence and guidance in our lives.
Knowing Him Better
The ultimate purpose of asking God for the Spirit of Wisdom and Revelation is for us to know God better. It is not just about acquiring knowledge about God but developing a deeper, more intimate relationship with Him.
Knowing God involves experiencing His love, grace, and transforming power in our lives. It is a lifelong journey of growing in faith, seeking His presence, and conforming to His image.
As we seek the Spirit’s Wisdom and Revelation, our knowledge of God expands, our love for Him deepens, and our desire to walk in His ways increases. We are drawn into a closer communion with Him and are transformed by His presence; and this is a very good thing indeed!
Seek the Spirit of God to grant you deeper insight and understanding of Him. Cultivate a personal relationship with God, knowing Him not just intellectually but experientially.