It’s a breath-taking experience to view the Taj Mahal, to see the Mona Lisa, or to read one of the great pieces of literature or poetry that has been treasured for decades, isn’t it? A masterpiece is defined as a “work of outstanding artistry, skill or workmanship.” Whether the venue is music, literature, art, architecture or even cooking, the creator was enabled to express through balance, harmony and perfected techniques the artistry and abilities that were uniquely given to him or her. The response to this kind of consummate skill or excellence is often emotional and unforgettable.
Perhaps that is why many people believe that the letter that Paul wrote to the believers in Ephesus is his “masterpiece”. In his book, Frameworks, Eric Larson explains that this letter is “a masterpiece of Christian thought, executed in a manner well- calculated to astonish all who read it. In no other Biblical letter can we both sound the depths of God’s infinite mysteries (chapters 1 – 3) and benefit from Paul’s practical, down to earth advice (chapters 4 – 6) at the same time.”
There is only one way to fully appreciate the excellence and the heart of Paul’s message to those early believers as well as to you and to me. It is to read the whole letter at one time. It will probably take you less than 20 minutes. So why not sit down and read it! Read the whole letter. Then read it again tomorrow. Let the passion, excellence, and the Spirit of God begin to saturate your mind and heart with the truths that are written there for you. It just might be unforgettable!
