April 28, 2024
The King Who Returns
in Triumph and His Gifts
(Ephesians 4:8)
Overseer Sung-Hyun Kim
Souvenir of Triumph
(Ephesians 4:8)
God not only saves us but also guides us in life after salvation. To this end, He bestows power on each of us as a gift without discrimination. Likewise, His gifts to us hold great significance.
1. Strength and Power
King David triumphed in the war that determined the nation’s fate and ascended Mount Zion. The people cheered and welcomed the king’s parade, and in celebration of his victory, the king distributed all kinds of spoils as gifts to the people. People acquired courage and strength in their lives, and they praised God with gratitude and joy. Psalms 68 describes this scene: “When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive, and gave gifts to His people. Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, who gives strength and power to His people.”
2. The Gift of Christ
It was later revealed that these words were a prophecy about Jesus Christ. Through His triumph on the cross, He shattered the power of the devil and rescued those who were held captive. He resurrected and ascended to heaven, and there, He continually has sent us gifts while commemorating His victory. Most importantly, He has sent us the Holy Spirit and continuously bestowed all kinds of gifts that empower us through the Holy Spirit’s mediation. Among these, what should be considered the most significant is the power of faith.
3. The Power of Faith
Those who lack the power of faith can be easily deceived by the temptations of the enemy and even be exploited as a worker of the enemy. Therefore, just as Paul urged his disciples, we also should be strengthened in grace. We should not limit the gifts of the Lord, who empowers us every day. By embracing this, we can accomplish the Lord’s ministry to save those still in the grasp of the enemy. Let us welcome the Lord’s guidance, which strengthens and empowers us each day.
Overseer Sung-Hyun Kim