Ephesians
Perfect Unity (Ephesians 4:4-6) Part 1
For the past several weeks we have been in the second half of Ephesians in which Paul focuses on the practical implications of the first half. Paul devoted much of the first three chapters to praying that the Ephesians would know God intimately and understand the grace that has brought them into union with God and each other. He continued with that same theme in chapter four calling them to personally adopt a sacrificial commitment to their calling (1) and…
Eager For Unity (Ephesians 4:2-3)
Last week we learned that we must each walk worthy of our calling personally if we are committed to maintaining unity corporately. Paul mentioned his imprisonment to exhort his readers to be prepared to sacrifice for their calling. Marius Victorinus makes the following connection, “With lowliness and meekness they learn not to be afraid to suffer. With patience they learn how to respond if they must suffer.” Pray and Read Ephesians 4:1-3. The most intense fight in MLB history was…
Worthy of the Calling (Ephesians 4:1-3)
We’ve come to the typical transition point between doctrine and practice. After praying that his readers might have a comprehension of the love of Christ, Paul exhorts them to “walk in a manner worthy” of their calling. As we grow in our understanding of what Christ has done for us, we renew our interest in obeying God’s will. Pray and Read Ephesians 4:1-3. You’ve heard of the curse of Sisyphus—After tattling on Zeus, he is condemned to chains in the…
Forgiveness (Ephesians 1:7)
Last week we began our look at the present reality of redemption. That remains the main subject of vv.7-10. This morning we will see the first benefit of redemption; namely, the forgiveness of our trespasses.