Paul exudes Christian character when he prays and gives thanks for the Ephesians each time he thinks of them and their faith. He prays even more for the gifts of “wisdom & revelation” so that they “grow in knowledge of (Jesus)” whom God has “raised above” every name.

The Gospel has Jesus speaking in the context of fearlessness in the face of persecution and telescoping this into the background of the Last Judgement. To accept Jesus is to accept the power of the Holy Spirit at work in Him. Thus, the sin against the Holy Spirit that Jesus mentions is not just a denial of Jesus but, rather, a stubborn rejection of the Holy Spirit working in the person of Jesus and the Spirit’s capacity to lead, guide and transform the disciple. This is made aptly clear when Jesus tells the disciples “not to prepare” their defence when brought before authorities but to trust in the Spirit’s guidance.

Are you a disciple? Have you entrusted yourself to the power of the Holy Spirit?