What actions can we take to ensure we "enlighten every man" around us? \The Verse in Focus\ “and to enlighten everyone about the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things.” — Ephesians 3:9 \Why This Matters\ Paul’s assignment wasn’t reserved for apostles alone. By grace, every believer now carries the torch: making the mystery of Christ plain so that “everyone” in our circles sees the light. The task is sweeping, but Scripture supplies clear, practical steps. \Practical Actions to Enlighten Every Man\ • Abide in the Light – John 15:5: “apart from Me you can do nothing.” – Daily time in Word and prayer keeps our lamps trimmed and burning (Psalm 119:105). – A vibrant walk with Christ gives authenticity to every conversation. • Speak the Gospel Plainly – Colossians 4:3-4: pray “that God may open to us a door for the word… that I may proclaim it clearly.” – Drop churchy jargon; spotlight the cross, resurrection, and grace. – Use everyday stories that bridge to Jesus’ story. • Live What You Say – Matthew 5:16: “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Integrity in business, purity in relationships, compassion to the needy—all preach louder than a microphone. • Engage People Personally – 1 Thessalonians 2:8: “We were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our own lives as well.” – Listen before you speak; learn names, hurts, hopes. – Hospitality—coffee tables and dinner plates—often outshine pulpits. • Answer with Gentle Confidence – 1 Peter 3:15: “Always be prepared to give a defense… yet with gentleness and respect.” – Anticipate common questions (suffering, truth, purpose) and anchor answers in Scripture. – Stay calm; the Spirit, not volume, convinces hearts. • Pray for Divine Illumination – 2 Corinthians 4:6: “For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ made His light shine in our hearts…” – Ask that the Spirit open eyes; intellectual arguments alone can’t break spiritual blindness. – Keep a running list of names and situations; intercede regularly. • Guard and Pass On Sound Doctrine – 2 Timothy 2:2: “what you have heard from me… entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” – Disciple a few who will disciple others—light multiplies exponentially. – Correct error graciously to keep the message pure (Jude 3). \Putting It All Together\ Abide in Jesus, articulate His good news, adorn it with a life of love, and ask the Spirit to ignite hearts. Do this consistently, and the promise holds: “The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining ever brighter till the full light of day” (Proverbs 4:18). |
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