The Lost Coin By Michael Reed Luke 15:8-10 (Click Here To Listen)

These three parables have the same central theme: "The Father's yearning love for the lost"  They also reveal what our own attitude should be toward the lost. In this lesson, we shall consider the parable of "The Lost Coin" (Lk 15:8-10). Let's begin by reading the parable and then taking a closer look.
Luke 15:8-10
"Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses one. Does she not light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? 9 And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.' 10 In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents." NIV

Getting Ready To Grow by Michael Reed (Click Here To Listen)

For churches to grow, they must look beyond their evangelistic efforts.  For the mortality rate of new converts is often high, unless a congregation is prepared to assimilate and nurture new converts, any success in evangelism may be short-lived.     To have real, enduring growth, we must get ready to grow!

A Place For God's Children By Michael Reed (Click Here To Listen)

It would seem that from the time we are born upon this earth, we begin to find our place. We seek food,  comfort, closeness, and let all of those around us know when such is not received. This is something that God included in His masterful plan of creation. The same is true when we are spiritually "born of water and of the Spirit" (John 3:5).  Just as God provided a place for us at physical birth, He does the same when we are born "through the word of God which lives and abides forever" (1 Pet. 1:23). God, without a doubt, provides a place for His children! What are some of these places?

The Lost Sheep by Michael Reed, Luke 15:1-7 (Click Here To Listen)

In the fifteenth chapter of Luke, we find three more parables that reveal the great love of our Father in heaven;   "The Lost Sheep"  Lk 15:1-7, "The Lost Coin" Lk 15:8-10, and "The Prodigal Son" Lk 15:11-32.  These three parables, were told on the same occasion, in response to murmuring by Pharisees and scribes. Having the same central theme: "The Father's yearning love for the lost". These parables were designed, though not just to tell us about the Father's love for the lost. But what should be our attitude toward the lost as well!

Add To Your Faith by Michael Reed, 2 Peter 1:1-11 (Click Here To Listen)

 For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love.  For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.  But if anyone does not have them, he is nearsighted and blind, and has forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins.

The Great Supper by Michael Reed Luke 14:15-24 (Click Here To Listen)

 Again, Jesus is eating at the house of one of the rulers of  the Pharisees, along with a number of lawyers and Pharisees - Lk 14:1-6.  He had just told the parable of "Taking The Lowest Place" - Lk 14:7-11.   He then tells His host that when he has a dinner or a supper, that he ought to invite those who cannot repay him Lk 14:12-14.  Jesus' comments prompt a response from one who heard Him - Lk 14:15 "Blessed is he who shall eat bread in the kingdom of God!" This saying was likely precipitated by Jesus' reference to the being repaid at the resurrection of the just - cf. Lk 14:14.  It is this comment by the other guest that prompts Jesus to tell another parable.

"The Nature of Faith" by Michael Reed, (Click Here To Listen)

What is faith?  What does it mean to believe?
Some Christians think it means blind acceptance: "You've just got to believe."
Some skeptics agree: "Faith is believing in something without good reasons to do so."
Both are mistaken; such ignorance of the nature of faith leads to shallowness of faith among Christians and prejudice against faith among skeptics. To avoid misunderstanding the nature of faith, especially the nature of Christian faith, this study will examine both.

Taking The Lowest Place By Michael Reed Luke 14:7-11 (Click Here To Listen)

Jesus tells another parable, the setting is a wedding feast, a common social event in those days - Lk 14:8.  Jesus warns against sitting down in the best place - Lk 14:8b-9. Someone more honorable may have been invited.   When they arrive, the host will ask you to move. With shame you will have to move to the lowest place (likely the only place left!)  Instead, He counsels them to sit in the lowest place - Lk 14:10. That way, the host will come along and say "Friend, go up higher" so instead of shame, brought about trying to sit in the best place, you will receive glory among those who sit at the table with you.  Jesus then concludes with this maxim:  "For whoever exalts himself will be abased, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." - Lk 14:11

"Does The Lord's House Lie In Ruins? by Michael Reed, Haggai 1:1-15 (Click Here To Listen)

About 600 years before Christ, Judah was taken captive to Babylon.  Jerusalem with its temple was plundered and burned, seventy years later, the Jews were allowed to return. It was the Lord's intention that the Jews rebuild the temple. He stirred up Cyrus of Persia to let them do this - Ezr 1:1-5. But once the people returned to Jerusalem, other things began to take precedence. God then sent Haggai to the Jews with a simple message.  The message was "Build the temple!" The message has an application for the church today. 

Turning in our Bibles to Hag 1:1, let's take a closer look at.

"The Barren Fig Tree" by Michael Reed, Luke 13:6-9 (Click Here To Listen)

Jesus was responding to news about a calamity in Luke 13:1-5 when He was told of how Pilate (the Roman governor) had killed some Galileans (Jews from Galilee, the same region Jesus was from) and mingled their blood along with their sacrifices. He anticipated the thinking of those who brought Him this news.Were those who suffered such atrocities worse sinners than other Galileans? No, and unless they repented they would likewise perish! He reinforces His point with a reference to a similar calamity in which a tower in Siloam (in Jerusalem) collapsed and killed eighteen people. Those victims were no worse sinners than others in Jerusalem. He then repeats His warning that unless they repent, they will all likewise perish! Some understand this to be a reference to the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70. Whether or not, it still called for individual repentance.  

"The Rich Fool" by Michael Reed, Luke 12:13-21 (Click Here To Listen)

It is amazing sometimes how spiritually dense, and worldly minded, people can be.  I've known some to habitually fall asleep, not during a long sermon, but at the beginning! On one occasion, I was sharing the gospel of Christ with a person, after presenting the gospel message and reviewing examples of conversion in the NT, I asked if he had any questions,  he only had one:  "In that passage where the Spirit caught Philip away (Ac 8:39), do you think that could have actually been a UFO?"
A similar thing happened to Jesus on one occasion.  He was teaching on the importance of fearing God, and confessing Him before others, when someone from the crowd interrupts with a request for Jesus to resolve a family dispute over an inheritance!  This prompted not only a terse response from Jesus, but a warning and parable to the crowd about the dangers of covetousness and placing one's confidence in earthly riches.

"The Importance of Faithfulness" by Michael Reed from 1 Corinthinas 10:1-13 (Click Here to Listen)

 Lessons on "The Importance of Faithfulness" are sorely needed in the Lord's church today. Many have obeyed the Gospel, but few are remaining faithful. Matt. 24:12  In view of the danger and consequence of unfaithfulness, all of us need to regularly examine ourselves regarding our standing with the Lord.  In 1 Cor. 10:1-13, Paul gives strong warning and exhortation for the Corinthian brethren to remain faithful.  He uses the example of the Israelites to show the possibility and the results of unfaithfulness.      Let us examine Paul's words in 1 Cor. 10:1-13 verse by verse.

"When The Election Is Over" by Michael Reed from Romans 13:1-4 (Click Here To Listen)

Many Christians are blessed to live in democratic countries where elections are held to determine new leaders.  Where Christians have a voice in the election process. When an election is over, feelings are often diverse. Those whose candidates won are ecstatic and hopeful, those whose candidates lost are often depressed and worried. Whether one's preferred candidate won or lost, it is important that Christians remember certain things in regards to our living among the nations of men.

                                                             Michael Reed, Minister

"The Friend At Midnight" by Michael Reed from Luke 11:1-13 (Click Here to Listen)

In studying the parables of Jesus, we have seen how He used the parabolic method of teaching on different subjects.  Mostly on the theme of the kingdom of heaven  But also in response to questions by His disciples and even His enemies. One such parable was told in response to a question related to prayer.   Jesus had been praying in a certain place - Lk 11:1 .  When He ceased praying, one of His disciples asked:  "Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples".   In answering that request, Jesus did three things; 1) He first told them "how" and "what" to pray for. 2) He then told a parable to stress a crucial element in "how" to pray. 3) He followed up by elaborating on what the parable was designed to illustrate.  
The parable is known as "The Friend At Midnight" it is recorded in Lk 11:5-8.  In it we find Jesus illustrating the importance of "persistence in prayer".

"Restoring Straying Saints" By Michael Reed, from Luke 10:25-37 (Click Here To Listen)

As James comes to the close of his epistle, he stresses the importance of restoring those who wander from the truth. Restoring straying saints is a responsibility that is greatly neglected, and in most cases IS neglected! The purpose of this lesson is two fold: 1) To impress upon our minds the importance of engaging in this work of restoring straying saints. 2) To suggest how we should carry out this important work.
To appreciate the grave importance of restoring saints who have strayed, consider this question:
"What is the condition of those who have wondered from the Truth?" (John 17:17) "Your Word is Truth".
The work of restoring or correcting saints may be unpleasant at times, but it has the potential for Great JOY!
Luke 15:7 I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent. NIV
  
                                                                                                        Michael Reed, Minister
 

"The Good Samaritian" By Michael Reed, From Luke 10:25-37 (Click Here To Listen)

This Parable is commonly applied to allegorical interpretations; for example: The traveler represents man, who has left the Heavenly City (Jerusalem) for the Worldly city (Jericho). The robbers are representative of the Devil and sin, who leave a man dying in sin. The Priest and the Levite refer to the Law and its sacrifices, which are unable to help. But the Good Samaritan is Jesus, who provides the help needed. The wine represents the blood of Christ; the oil, the atoning of the Holy Spirit. The Inn is the Church, the Inn keeper representative of the apostles; the two coins representing baptism and the Lord's Supper.
And as interesting as such interpretation my be, it is really not what Jesus is teaching in this parable. In this lesson we shall review the setting of the Parable and then offer some lessons that I believe are more in keeping with what Jesus' original purpose is in telling it. For instance "Who is my neighbor"

I pray that this sermon will help us all understand the challenge to a higher standard of Love. Higher in that the definition of "neighbor" is more inclusive, and higher in that the definition of "compassion" is greater.
                                                                                 Michael Reed, Minister

"A Call To Prayer and Praise" By Michael Reed from James 5:13-18 (Click Here To Listen)

In James 5:13-18, we find a call to pray and sing praises, with guidance as to what to do and when. For example, in times of suffering we need to pray (Vs.13). What kind of suffering does James refer to? For what should we pray? For whom should we pray? It is a wonderful privilege to pray, and a great source of comfort when afflicted. In times of cheer, we should sing songs of praise!
Listen to James as he instructs us as Christians to pray and praise God to His glory. 

                                                                                               Michael Reed, Minister

" The Two Debtors" by Michael Reed from Luke 7:36-50 (Click Here To Listen)

Do you appreciate what Jesus has done for you? Does your service and devotion to Jesus demonstrate the true extent of your appreciation? If you are slack in your service, what does that indicate? If you wish you could be more diligent in your service, what would help to motivate you? Answers to these questions are found in a parable and it setting that Jesus told on an occasion where He was invited to eat at the house of a Pharisee in Luke 7:36-50. This Parable has come to be known as the Parable of The Two Debtors.
                                                                                                         Michael Reed, Minister

When You're Being Oppressed by Michael Reed from James 5:7-12 October 7, 2012 p.m. (Click Here To Listen)

Do you feel like someone is out to get you? That they are trying to take advantage of you? That you are being oppressed? What should you do when you are oppressed? What should you NOT do?
In James chapter five, we find James giving instructions to those who appear to have been oppressed by the rich. The rich are holding back their wages (James 5:4) The rich had been oppressing the righteous (James 5:6). What were the oppressed Christians to do? Listen and you we will see!

                                                                                                       Michael Reed, Minister

THE GROWING SEED by Michael Reed from Mark 4:26-29 October 7, 2012 (Click Here To Listen)

This parable reveals how the Word of God produces fruit in the Kingdom of God (i.e., How the kingdom grows). The growth produced by the Word is a mystery, it is gradual but through such growth the harvest eventually comes. So the kingdom of God, growing by virtue of the Word of God being planted, is similar to the amazing growth observed in the sowing of grain.

                                                                                                 Michael Reed, Minister

"Looming Crisis of Apostasy" By Justin Hopkins 2 Timothy 1:1-12 (Click Here to Listen)

Justin Hopkins of The Voice of Truth International and Global Harvest the voice of World Evangelism, speaks on the need for doctrinally sound teaching in the Church today.

"God Gets Angry At The Rich" James 5:1-6. By Michael, Reed (Click Here to Listen)

Compared to many people in the world, we here at Deer Park, Texas are indeed blessed; In fact we are VERY RICH! Now it is important to stress that God does not condemn the rich for being rich. However Christ does speak of the difficulty of the rich being saved (Matt 19:23-26), and there are times when God is very angy at the rich, as in our text.
As we consider this passage more carefully, we will do so by trying to answer four questions.
1. Who is James addressing in this passage?
2. What is in store for these rich people?
3. Why is God so angry at them?
4. What applications can we draw from this passage? (James 5:1-6)

                                                                                                      Michael Reed, Minister

The Parable of The Talents Matthew 25:14-30 By Michael Reed (Click Here to Listen)

The main points of the parable of The Talents is...: 1) Be faithful in using the opportunities for service which the Lord has given us. 2) Diligence is rewarded; negligence is punished. Other points to be noted; whatever we have, whether opportunities or abilities, they all belong to God; we may possess, but God owns it all, we are simply stewards - Mt 25:14.
                                                                 Michael Reed, Minister

"Making Our Plans" James 4:13-17 September 16, 2012 P.M By Michael Reed (Click here to Listen)

The subject of today lesson is very relevant for us today, for we make plans of one sort or another everyday. Making plans, in of itself, is not wrong, the apostle Paul often made plans in regard to his travels, in fact making plans or setting goals is a key to success in any venture we may undertake in life. But there is a "right" way , and a "wrong" way; and James discusses both in this passage. Let's let James teach us how it is that we can glorify God in the plans that we make.

The Parable of Jesus "The Laborers In The Vineyard" Matthew 20:1-16 by Michael Reed (Click here to Listen)

This parable identifies another attitude of heart that has no place in the kingdom. This parable is known as "The Laborers In The Vineyard".  The meaning of this parable has challenged many expositors, and explanations offered have been varied. While admittedly difficult, I believe the main point can be determined with a fair degree of certainty especially if we begin by taking into consideration the setting.  Jesus had been approached by this man with a question concerning eternal life. In the course of their conversation, Jesus challenged the young man to give up all and follow Him. The man went away sorrowful, unable to accept the challenge.  Jesus used this opportunity to teach how difficult it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of heaven. This causes the disciples to wonder who then could be saved?  Jesus' response is that with God all things are possible.

The Parable of Jesus' "The Hidden Treasure" Matthew 13:44 by Michael Reed (Click here to Listen)

My apologies, there is a short delay in this recording, you can press the seek/ fast forward botton to begin the recording. Thank You

What distinguishes this parable from the one following is that it describes the value of the kingdom to one who accidentally finds it.  Though not purposely looking for it, its value is immediately recognized. So the kingdom of heaven has been, and will be, for many people! As Hendriksen says again:  "...we should grasp its one important lesson: the incalculable preciousness of salvation for those who discover it and obtain possession of it without even looking for it!"

The Parable of Jesus' "The Pearl of Great Price" Matthew 13:45-46 by Michael Reed (Click Here to Listen)

A merchant is seeking beautiful pearls, he finds one pearl of great price, Undeterred by its price, he sells all that he has and buys it!       The use of the word "Again" ties this parable to the preceding one where the value and preciousness of the kingdom was being described. Where we saw the value to one who accidentally finds it.  But in this parable, the person is on a mission to find that which is of great value. He believes there is something out there worth looking for, or he would not be seeking it. When he finds it, he immediately recognizes its value and is willing to sell all to obtain it. Neither this parable (nor the previous one) is suggesting we can "buy" or otherwise "earn" our salvation. For salvation is a gift (Ro 6:23) We can "buy" salvation only in the sense of gaining  rightful possession of it, which we do by grace through faith (Ep 2:8-9). 
When we submit to the working of God and the renewing the Holy Spirit which takes place as we are baptized into Christ (Col 2:11-13; Tit 3:4-7). This parable, then, describes how some people react to the kingdom of heaven, when they know there must be something out there worthy of great value and have been searching for it.

The Parable of Jesus' "The Leaven" Matthew 13:33 by Michael Reed (Click here to Listen)

In the New Testament, "leaven" is often symbolic of corrupting influence. Jesus warned of "the leaven of the Pharisees and the Sadducees", which included their teaching and hypocrisy - cf. Mt 16:5-12; Lk 12:1. Paul wrote of the danger of how "a little leaven leavens the whole lump", as he addressed the need to withdraw from the unpenitent brother - 1Co 5:1-13. This has led some to conclude that "leaven" in the parable represents something evil. But there are several reasons why this is not likely true; There is no reason why its use elsewhere must be the same here. 1)    A speaker or writer is certainly free to use a figure any way they wish, even differently in different situations. 2)    To read the use of the figure as found elsewhere into this passage is a form of "eisegesis" that is, reading something into the passage not actually there.    Though in this case one may not be reading their own preconceived ideas into the passage, as is commonly done. But reading the ideas of another Biblical context into this one is still a form of "eisegesis".  As opposed to "exegesis", which is to read out of a passage what it  actually says or means, and should be the goal of proper Bible study.

The Parable of Jesus' "The Wheat and Tares" Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43. By Michael Reed (Click to Listen)

Jesus' purpose is clearly to teach principles related to "the  kingdom of heaven", for he begins with "The kingdom of heaven is like..."  Therefore Jesus intends to reveal principles related to the "rule of God" as it would soon be manifested in the Person of His Son.  Like "The Parable Of The Sower", this parable is one of the few in which we have Jesus' own explanation. The explanation was given in response to the disciples' inquiry - Mt 13:36 ,and the explanation is found in Mt 13:37-43 (READ)
In this study, we shall focus on Jesus' explanation of the parable, and then draw some truths from it.

Baptism "What About Re-Baptism" By Michael Reed March 11, 2012.a.m (Acts 18:24-19:5) Click to Listen

In our study of baptism we have seen that it is essential to salvation (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; Acts 22:16) and to becoming a disciple of Christ (Matthew 28:19-20; Gal 3:27). The Greek word can only mean immersion. Pouring and sprinkling do not fit the figures used to describe baptism in the New Testament.
Scholars are unanimous that immersion was the practice in the New Testament.

Another question that is often raised: Is the ever a need to be re-baptized?
What about those who were sprinkled?
What about those baptized as infants?
What about those baptized believing they were already saved?

In this study we will examine the question of re-baptism.

"What about Infant Baptism?" By Michael Reed March 4, 2012 a.m. (Click to Listen)

In the previous studies we have seen that baptism is essential salvation Mk 16:16; Ac 2:38; 22:16  and to becoming a disciple of Christ Mt 28:19-20; Gal 3:27. The Greek words for baptism or baptize can only mean immersion. Pouring and sprinkling do not fit with figures used to describe baptism in the N.T. Scholars are unanimous in pointing out that immersion was the practice in the Bible and early church. Two more questions remain which are often in the minds of people: Should infants be baptized? and Is there ever a need to be "re-baptized?"

This study shall consider the question "What about infant baptism?"

Baptism, Sprinkling, Pouring, or Immersion? By Michael Reed (Romans 6:3-5) February 26, 2012.a.m. (Click to Listen)

Acts 8:35-39
35 Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus. 36 As they traveled along the road, they came to some water and the eunuch said, "Look, here is water. Why shouldn't I be baptized?"  38 And he gave orders to stop the chariot. Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him. 39 When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him again, but went on his way rejoicing. NIV

In the the preaching and teaching of the apostles, we saw that baptism was essential to Salvation and becoming a disciple of Christ. But even when the necessity of baptism has been established, questions often remain. Is baptism to be immersion, pouring or sprinkling?
This lesson examines this question "Is baptism to be sprinkling, pouring or immersion?"

How the Gentiles Became Fellow Heirs by MIchael Reed (Ephesians 2:11-22) February 19, 2012 p.m. (Click to Listen)

Paul here speaks in more general or corporate terms, especially as it relates to the salvation of the Gentiles and how they became fellow heirs. Because of Jesus, who made peace by reconciling both Jew and Gentile to God in one Body through the cross.

Baptism in The Teaching of Peter by Michael Reed (1 Peter 3:20-21) February 19, 2012 a.m. (Click to Listen)

1 Peter 3:20-21
20 who formerly were disobedient, when once the Divine longsuffering waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight souls, were saved through water. 21 There is also an antitype which now saves us — baptism (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, NKJV

In Peters preaching on the day of Pentecost he commanded the people to be baptized for the remission of sins and act that involved water. But one might properly ask; was Peter teaching that baptism was for the forgiveness of sins, and therefore necessary for Salvation? Or that one is saved by baptism in water?
Fortunately, we do not have to wonder, for Peter in his first epistle tells what he meant and carefully explains why.

Baptism in the Teaching of Paul by Michael Reed (Romans 6:4-11) February 12, 2012 a.m. (Click to Listen)

We have noticed where baptism played a prominent role in the apostolic preaching. In every case of conversion described in the book of Acts, baptism is mentioned. We have seen what the apostles proclaimed regarding baptism, that it was commanded "for the remission of sins" (Acts 2:38), it was done to "wash away sins" (Acts 22:16), it involved "water" (Acts 8:36-38; 10:48) it was done "immediately" without delay (Acts 16:25-33). This would certainly suggest that baptism is necessary for salvation.
But is this a fair conclusion drawn from the "preaching" of the apostles? Is this conclusion consistent with the "teaching" of the apostles, as found in their epistles? In this lesson we will examine what the Apostle Paul taught in the epistles regarding baptism beginning with his epistle to the Romans 6:4-11.

Baptism in the Preacing of the Apostles By Michael Reed (Matthew 28:18-20) February 5, 2012 a.m. (Click to Listen)

Shortly before Jesus ascended into heaven, His gave His apostles the Great Commission, in Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 15:15-16. In both places we notice the mention of baptism. Whatever the purpose of baptism, it must be important to Jesus, for He commanded it. One might ask what is baptism? What is the purpose of Baptism? Who should be baptized? Is there ever a need to be re-baptized? These and many other questions are often asked when the subject of baptism is raised. In this lesson and the ones to follow I will seek to answer each of these question as we look into God's word.

"Elders And Our Duties Towards Them" by Michael Reed (Hebrews 13:17) January 29, 2012 a.m. (Click to Listen)

Hebrews 13:17
Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you. NIV
WE ARE TO BE SUBMISSIVE...
Though elders are not mentioned by name they are the ones who "watch over your souls" - cf. Ac 20:28; 1Pe 5:12  
To be submissive (submit to them, NASB) Gr., hupeiko - "to resist no longer, but to give way, yield (of combatants); metaphorically to yield to authority and admonition, to submit" – Thayer
Not only obey in cases where no sacrifice of self is required, and where you are persuaded they are right (so the Greek, for 'obey'), But 'submit yourselves' as a matter of dutiful yielding, but also when your judgment and natural will incline you in an opposite direction."

Paul's Prayer For The Ephesians by Michael Reed (Eph 1:15-20) January 22, 2012 p.m. (Click to Listen)

Paul proceeds to reveal what sort of things he has been praying for on behalf the Ephesians. Paul does the same thing in his epistles to the Philippians and Colossians - cf. Php 1:9-11; Col 1:9-12 In noticing such prayers, I find it helpful to remember that Paul is writing by inspiration. I.e., the things mentioned were not just Paul's desire for his readers, but the desire of God as well! In most cases, what concerns are expressed in these prayers are just as applicable to us as they were to the original recipients of these epistles.
Ephesians 1:15-20
15 For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, 16 I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. 17 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. 18 I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, 19 and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, 20 which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, NIV