Ephesians - session 1
Chapter 1
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As you read this letter to the church in Ephesus, you will catch the enthusiasm of our friend Paul. This letter has long been appreciated for it has inspired many Christians. Paul was aware of the growing apathy in this church, i.e. the failure of Christians to realize the glory of their inheritance and the tendency to sectarianism. He encouraged Believers to come alive in Christ, not just a member of a "home church". This letter holds a "place of supreme importance in the history of Christian Theology". [The Interpreter's Bible, vol. 10, pgs 603-605]
Ephesus was a most important city in Asia. Pagan standards of immorality were in full swing. In Chapter 1, Paul laid out the destiny of all who come to Christ. Some, even today, stumble over the word "predestined" found in Chapter 1 verse 5. This word is translated as "destined" in the Revised Standard Version of the Bible.
Ephesus was a most important city in Asia. Pagan standards of immorality were in full swing. In Chapter 1, Paul laid out the destiny of all who come to Christ. Some, even today, stumble over the word "predestined" found in Chapter 1 verse 5. This word is translated as "destined" in the Revised Standard Version of the Bible.
He destined us [planned for us] in love to be His sons, through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of His will.
Chapter 2
In chapter two, Paul wrote about the evil in our lives that causes us to "gratify the cravings of our sinful nature . . . but because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ, even when we were dead in transgressions" (Ephesians 2:3-5). Then in verse 8, Paul gave us a very telling explanation concerning our Salvation.
or it is by Grace that you have been saved, by faith, and even that is not of yourselves . . . not of your own doing . . . it came not through your own striving . . . but it is the gift of God . . . not because of works, lest any man should boast. (Ephesians 2:8, Amplified Bible)
It must be a part of the old human nature, that folks hold onto the old idea that one must earn the right to Heaven. This view of "religious theology" negates God's Grace. It seems that verse 8 implies that even our faith is a gift of God.
WHAT DO YOU THINK?
We often hear of the faith of Abraham. Yet, God spent quite a long time proving that He was faithful to Abraham, thus building faith in him to believe in God's providence.
WHAT DO YOU THINK?
We often hear of the faith of Abraham. Yet, God spent quite a long time proving that He was faithful to Abraham, thus building faith in him to believe in God's providence.
Chapter 3
In chapter three, Paul defends his right to preach, through God's revelation to him. He told of "the unsearchable riches of Christ and made plain the mystery, which for ages was kept hidden in God who created all things" (Ephesians 3:7,8). Hearing the word of God is the start, but living it, as Paul described, is vital! In chapter three, verses 14-19, there is a beautiful prayer that is well worth remembering. It is a prayer that can be used at any time--for a hurting neighbor, a child, a loved one. Sometimes one hesitates praying for a stranger, but this holds so much love it would be well received.
I pray that out of his glorious riches God will strengthen you with power through his spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may live in your hearts through faith . . . and that you, being rooted and grounded in love . . . grasp how long and wide and high and deep is the love of Christ . . . that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
Do you think that is worth memorizing?
God bless!
God bless!