The world’s most sublime and most practical book is the Bible.
Its sublimity soars far beyond the finite powers of the human mind (Romans 11:33-35), and its practicality addresses all of life’s essentials in the simplest of language (cf. Ecclesiastes 12:13-14; Matthew 7:12).
As artfully described by the apostle Paul in Ephesians 3, God’s marvelous mystery: contains the unsearchable riches of Christ (v. 8), displays the manifold/multi-faceted wisdom of God (v. 10), and accomplishes in Christ Jesus our Lord the eternal purpose (v. 11). What sublimity!
So, what down-to-earth results ought to be found in your life because of heaven’s sublime actions? Verses 12-13 record two: “in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through faith in Him. Therefore, I ask that you do not lose heart at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.”
Fellowship with God which is open, bold, unhindered, unafraid, unashamed, unfettered, and confident. The concept of freedom of speech–the inherent right of every free Greek citizen–is at the heart of parresia (“boldness”).
Every citizen in the kingdom of heaven (Ephesians 2:19) has unfettered, complete access to the One who eternally purposed the church. Every living stone in the holy temple (Ephesians 2:21) can enter the Holy of holies in heaven at any time, go to the throne of grace boldly (i.e., holding nothing back), and obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need (Hebrews 4:14-16).
Though the sublime fellowship which Adam shared with Jehovah in the Garden will never be restored until this life is over, this boldness and access with confidence will fulfill every practical need you have during your sojourn here.
Perseverance. Regardless of whether it is evil done to you or to one you love, tribulations, distresses and afflictions do not have to hinder or end your fellowship with God. What a sublime blessing! Since all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution (2 Timothy 3:12), what an equally practical blessing this is.
Oh, how sublime and how practical is God’s marvelous mystery!
