What does it mean Life from Death?
Read Ephesians 2:1-10
What are the main points you see of these verses?
The second chapter of Ephesians is an extension and elaboration of the first. In chapter 1 verses 1 to 10 the theme of redemption (1:7) is developed in terms of God’s raising man from the death of sin to the new life in Christ. It condenses the distinctive doctrinal contents for us. From verse 11 on in Chapter 1 the theme of reconciliation of 1:10, 22, 23 applies to the relationships between Jews and Gentiles in the church. D.M. Stanley drew attention to the resemblances between Ephesians 2 and the parable of the two sons in Luke 15:11-32.
Verse 1 –
Do we know that we were going to die and were going to be dead forever when we were in our sins?
“As for you” resumes the second person of 1:13, 15-18. As verse 3 makes clear, the Jews are in no better condition than the Gentiles – for man’s sinful nature is shared by all alike. Redemption has made it possible for man to be brought from death to life. This is in regard to spiritual deadness that characterizes man without God (Col 2:13). We are utterly unable to meet the requirements of the divine law (Rom 7:9). The expression is not merely figurative. This is a real and present death as Calvin insisted. The most vital part of man’s personality – the spirit – is dead to the most important factor in life – God.
Verse 2 –
Do we no longer live in these ways? What is the difference in living in these ways now versus living in these ways then? Who did we follow then versus who do we follow now?
What has been changed inside of us when we are saved?
“Transgressions” (paraptomata) are lapses, while “sins” (harmatiai) are shortcomings.
Verse 3 –
What did it mean for us when we “lived among them?”
What are those things that are cravings of our sinful nature? What are sinful desires and thoughts? Give Examples
Verse 4 –
How were we able to get out of this? Who gave us the gift?
Verses 2-4 represent a typically Pauline digression. The mention of “transgressions and sins” in verse 1 leads the apostle to supply a fuller account of the Ephesians former way of life.
To “live” (peripateo) is literally to walk about. It is the customer work for manner of life, particularly in the Psalms. The usage is carried over into the NT and is prominent in Paul’s writings. It recurs in this letter in 2:10; 4:17; and 5:2. The Ephesians’ former walk-about, Paul adds, was in accordance with the age (aion) of this work (kosmos).
Satan is the unholy spirit (1 Cor 2:12) who apes the operations of his divine counterpart being constantly at work. The verb (energountos, “operating”; NIV “at work”) is deliberately chose to imply rivalry with the Holy Spirit (Eph 1:19,20). “Sons of disobedience” is a Hebrew turn of phrase disclosing the fact that rebellion against God and refusal to believe in Him is inherent in man (Eph 5:16; Col 3:6).
The past life of Jewish Christians, like that of the Gentiles, was dominated by the appeal of fallen nature. The flesh (sarx) is not merely the body but “the whole man oriented away from God and towards its own selfish concerns: (Houlden, p 282.). The word translated “cravings” (epithymiai) is here used in its “bad” sense; it can also stand for legitimate desire. The plural suggest the multiplicity of such urges in the unredeemed personality. “Following” is actually “doing” (poiountes), and “desires” (thelemata) are rather “dictates” or demands” (literally, “things willed”). “Thoughts refers not to the mind itself but to the projects it entertains with controlled abandon.
The natural man is altogether at the mercy of the tyrant self and its rash impulses.
Because of all this, the Jewish converts were just as much in danger of judgment as anyone else. The phrase “objects [literally, children] of wrath” is a Semitism to denote those who deserve God’s punishment. “By nature” (physei) contrasts with “by grace” in v 5, 8.
If we prefer to stand on our own and refuse to accept what God has done for us in Christ, we are self-condemned.
Over man’s rejection of God, Paul sets God’s gracious acceptance of man in Christ. Though He cannot approve of sin if He is to remain righteous, God is not hostile toward those He has created. He loves them and had made possible their reconciliation to Himself. Had He decided to destroy His refractory children, he would have been entirely justified, and nothing could have averted the catastrophe (Hos 13:9). Instead, love led to “mercy” (eleos). That is God’s compassion for the helpless, issuing in action for their relief.
Verses 5 - 6
Do you deserve to be saved from this sea of sin? Yes or No? Why?
What Paul wants to say in the opening paragraph of Ephesians 2 is that God “made us alive in Christ” (synezoopoiesen, Col 2:15). This is the first of three verbs prefixd by syn- (with) that describe what God has done in Christ for every Christian. The other two are in v 6. Here Paul declares that when we were spiritually dead in transgressions, God gave us new life together with Christ. This is not the language of mysticism but of fact. The life Christians now possess is an effect of which Christ’s resurrection was the cause.
Two more verbs prefixed by syn- suggest what else God has done in Christ. He has actually raised up with Him (synegeiren Col 2:12). Christ was not only raises, He actually left the tomb and appeared to His disciples. As Paul insisted in Eph 1:20, this was a work of omnipotence. God has also enthrough us with Christ (synekathisen) “in the heavenly realms” (en tois epouraniois). Forty days after the resurrection Jesus ascended to the right hand of the Father (Eph 1:20, 21). Both of these events have their counterpart in the experience of believers. Not only do we anticipate and assure resurrection and glorification at the end of the age; we are matched by a present realization of the risen life in Christ and of participation with Him in His ascended majesty (Col 3:1-4).
Verse 7 -
Do you see what you have been given in Christ by being alive in Him? What practically have you been given? Romans 5:8 – When did God show us love?
Verse 8 –
The statement of the entire 1st chapter is summed up in verse 8 of chapter 2 – If we boast about our asking Christ into our hearts we are boasting that we did something for God rather than recognizing that it is His grace and His mercy. – Where does faith come from? Rom 10:17
Paul again reminde his readers (as in v 5) that they owe their salvation entirely to the underserved favor of God. Grace is at once that objective, operatives, and instrumental cause. He expands the previous statement in verse 8 by adding that the subjective medium of salvation is faith, which is also its necessary condition.
Faith, however, is NOT a quality, virtue, or a faculty.
It is NOT something man can produce.
It is simply a trustful response that is itself provoked by the Holy Spirit.
This is important because otherwise faith may be misinterpreted as man’s contribution to his own salvation. Paul immediately adds a rider to explain that nothing is from our own doing but everything is a gift of God.
What are works that you see people talking about in the church or elsewhere?
With typically Pauline firmness, he excludes every possibility of self-achieved salvation. As if it were insufficient that he should have insisted in verse 8 “and this is not from yourselves”, “he adds, “but not by works” (erga) as related to the law, since he is not thinking only of the Jewish Christians.
Any kind of human self-effort is comprehensively ruled out in verse 9. The reason for this Paul calls out clearly – to prevent the slightest self-congratulation. If salvation is by the sheer unmerited favor of God, boasting is altogether out of place.
Verse 10 –
Who is it that formed you? This is a big one – are you a product of your surroundings? Who created those surroundings? Do we believe this – really?
Before you knew or thought you would follow God he knew when and how you would and was prepared – not reacting to you to do so.
What are you to do? What comes to mind that you are to do now?
Verse 10 is by no means a subsidiary postscript to the paragraph. It is the outcome of the whole. It shows what salvation is for: it is intended to produce the good works that attest its reality. Works play not part at all in securing salvation. This is true specifically because the work for your salvation was completed before the work you may do was or is ever done.
Note James 2:14-26 – Paul and James are united…
The road for us is already built. What God has done for us we cannot do, we cannot justify, we cannot even boast that we accepted it. This is further reason why the Christian has nothing left to boast about. Even the good we now do has its source in God, who has made it possible.
Are there any practical applications around this study that God has revealed to you? What will you do now?
Who and what will you pray for this week?
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Beast Feast
Here is the website telling more about the Beast Feast on the 16th of May...
http://www.lenexabaptist.com/ourchurch/1stAnnualBeastFeast.html
http://www.lenexabaptist.com/ourchurch/1stAnnualBeastFeast.html
Study Notes and Questions for May 11, 2008
Study Notes and Questions for May 11, 2008
Our Status in Christ
Read Ephesians 1:10 again
What are the main points of this verse?
Paul uses the word oikonomia, which occurs nine times in the NT. Paul uses it to suggest the administration or putting into effect of God’s far-reaching redemptive plan. This takes place when the messianic age is inaugurated. Salvation history is regarded as unfolding in a series of “times” or seasons that reach their climax in the advent of Christ (Gal 4:4). The Christian era has still to run its course, however, and not until its close will God’s eternal purpose come to full fruition (Acts 1:6). “All things” is literally “to all” (Col 1:17; Heb 1:3) and includes the whole creation. Everything on heaven and on earth will be subsumed under Christ (1 Cor 15:24-28; Phil 2:10, 11). The verb for “bring together” is anakephalaioo which means to sum up together again (Rom 13:9). When a column of figures was added up, the total was placed at the top. At the end of the age everything will be seen to add up to Christ. This recognition of His preeminence was of great comfort to the Ephesians.
Read Ephesians 1:11-1:14
What stands out as primary words used in these verses?
The ultimate reconciliation is brought about in Christ and so Paul passes on to a further consideration – namely, that Christians have been chosen as heirs - given their share in the heritage. Israel was regards as the Lord’s inheritance and portion. The church as consitituting the new Israel no enters into the same privilege (Rom 8:17, Gal 3:29, Col 1:12). It is no accident that God has allotted to His new people in Christ the inheritance designed for those who recognize the Savior. In no sense are we to think that Christians have somehow usurped Jewish privileges. Before time began, God marked out those in Christ to be co-heirs with His Son. Whatever He decides is put into effect, for He is the one who ensure that everything is worked out in line with His own will.
Read verses 12 and 13 –
What does it mean to “be the praise for His glory” at the end of verse 12?
What does it mean to “hear the Word of truth”? What is truth?
What does it mean to “be included in Christ” once we hear that Word of truth?
Why do you believe it is important that we are “marked with a seal” when we believed? Can you think of any other verses that are similar to this in the bible?
Verses:
Until verse 12 Paul has written to Jews and Gentiles alike as united as one in Christ. Now he refers in turn to one class (v 12) and another class (v 13 and 14). The “first hope in Christ” were Jews who recognized their Messiah prior to the conversion of the Gentiles. This expectation of God’s coming deliverer was distinctive to the Jews. The Gentiles entertained no such prospect (read ahead in chapter 2 verse 12). Remember in verse 6 Paul shows that the adoption of Christians as sons further the praise of God’s glorious grace. Here he says that their participation in the divine inheritance will have a similar effect. The glory of God will shine through them and evoke praise from the whole universe (see 3:10).
“You also,” in contrast to “we,” clearly identifies the Gentile Christians in Ephasus. They are addressed in this manner (and so are we) to remind them that they are fully incorporated into the body of Christ. In the Christian community there are no second class citizens.
What basic expectations do you have for a Christian that is part of the body of Christ?
Hearing, faith, and salvation are immediately followed by the sealing of the Holy Spirit. It is at the moment (and was for the Ephesians) of belief that we receive the stamp of the Spirit. We are not to take what Paul is saying here as a reference to circumcision (Rom 4:11) or to the tattoing of devotees at heathen shrines. Nor does Paul primarily have water baptism primarily in mind, but rather what the water baptism symbolizes – namely, the effusion of the Holy Spirit himself. He is made available to the believe according to the promises recorded in the OT and confirmed by Jesus.
Have you accepted that God is sovereign and loving and Christ is Lord? Have you surrendered to that? Do you have the Holy Spirit as a helper to you? What circumstances or situations has this been clear that you do?
If not, what is holding you back from accepting Christ as Lord and turning from your sin?
As an adopted child of God do you have the glory of God ‘shining’ through you?
What holds you back from this?
Read verse 13 and 14 together aloud (preferably to your spouse)
What can a believer claim from these verses?
What does the last part of 14 offer as the reason for the Holy Spirit
What would be different in your life if you saw everything you do as a “praise of His glory”?
The terms used here are all around construction. The land set aside for the temple was ‘chosen’ and ‘destined’ to be the land before the temple was built.
Are there any practical applications around today’s study that God has revealed to you? What will you do now?
Who and what will you pray for this week?
Our Status in Christ
Read Ephesians 1:10 again
What are the main points of this verse?
Paul uses the word oikonomia, which occurs nine times in the NT. Paul uses it to suggest the administration or putting into effect of God’s far-reaching redemptive plan. This takes place when the messianic age is inaugurated. Salvation history is regarded as unfolding in a series of “times” or seasons that reach their climax in the advent of Christ (Gal 4:4). The Christian era has still to run its course, however, and not until its close will God’s eternal purpose come to full fruition (Acts 1:6). “All things” is literally “to all” (Col 1:17; Heb 1:3) and includes the whole creation. Everything on heaven and on earth will be subsumed under Christ (1 Cor 15:24-28; Phil 2:10, 11). The verb for “bring together” is anakephalaioo which means to sum up together again (Rom 13:9). When a column of figures was added up, the total was placed at the top. At the end of the age everything will be seen to add up to Christ. This recognition of His preeminence was of great comfort to the Ephesians.
Read Ephesians 1:11-1:14
What stands out as primary words used in these verses?
The ultimate reconciliation is brought about in Christ and so Paul passes on to a further consideration – namely, that Christians have been chosen as heirs - given their share in the heritage. Israel was regards as the Lord’s inheritance and portion. The church as consitituting the new Israel no enters into the same privilege (Rom 8:17, Gal 3:29, Col 1:12). It is no accident that God has allotted to His new people in Christ the inheritance designed for those who recognize the Savior. In no sense are we to think that Christians have somehow usurped Jewish privileges. Before time began, God marked out those in Christ to be co-heirs with His Son. Whatever He decides is put into effect, for He is the one who ensure that everything is worked out in line with His own will.
Read verses 12 and 13 –
What does it mean to “be the praise for His glory” at the end of verse 12?
What does it mean to “hear the Word of truth”? What is truth?
What does it mean to “be included in Christ” once we hear that Word of truth?
Why do you believe it is important that we are “marked with a seal” when we believed? Can you think of any other verses that are similar to this in the bible?
Verses:
Until verse 12 Paul has written to Jews and Gentiles alike as united as one in Christ. Now he refers in turn to one class (v 12) and another class (v 13 and 14). The “first hope in Christ” were Jews who recognized their Messiah prior to the conversion of the Gentiles. This expectation of God’s coming deliverer was distinctive to the Jews. The Gentiles entertained no such prospect (read ahead in chapter 2 verse 12). Remember in verse 6 Paul shows that the adoption of Christians as sons further the praise of God’s glorious grace. Here he says that their participation in the divine inheritance will have a similar effect. The glory of God will shine through them and evoke praise from the whole universe (see 3:10).
“You also,” in contrast to “we,” clearly identifies the Gentile Christians in Ephasus. They are addressed in this manner (and so are we) to remind them that they are fully incorporated into the body of Christ. In the Christian community there are no second class citizens.
What basic expectations do you have for a Christian that is part of the body of Christ?
Hearing, faith, and salvation are immediately followed by the sealing of the Holy Spirit. It is at the moment (and was for the Ephesians) of belief that we receive the stamp of the Spirit. We are not to take what Paul is saying here as a reference to circumcision (Rom 4:11) or to the tattoing of devotees at heathen shrines. Nor does Paul primarily have water baptism primarily in mind, but rather what the water baptism symbolizes – namely, the effusion of the Holy Spirit himself. He is made available to the believe according to the promises recorded in the OT and confirmed by Jesus.
Have you accepted that God is sovereign and loving and Christ is Lord? Have you surrendered to that? Do you have the Holy Spirit as a helper to you? What circumstances or situations has this been clear that you do?
If not, what is holding you back from accepting Christ as Lord and turning from your sin?
As an adopted child of God do you have the glory of God ‘shining’ through you?
What holds you back from this?
Read verse 13 and 14 together aloud (preferably to your spouse)
What can a believer claim from these verses?
What does the last part of 14 offer as the reason for the Holy Spirit
What would be different in your life if you saw everything you do as a “praise of His glory”?
The terms used here are all around construction. The land set aside for the temple was ‘chosen’ and ‘destined’ to be the land before the temple was built.
Are there any practical applications around today’s study that God has revealed to you? What will you do now?
Who and what will you pray for this week?
Friday, April 25, 2008
Study Notes and Questions for May 4, 2008
Study Notes and Questions for May 4, 2008
Read Ephesians 1:3-1:14
What is your first reaction to these verses?
How would you summarize these verses?
Start with verse 3 – RE-read it aloud. What is this verse about? Name at least 4 points in this verse:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Christian faith and life have their center in God’s Son and the Epistle therefore opens with an expression of gratitude for all that is found in Him. It is cast in the form of a Jewish berakah, or blessing.
The “Praise be to” at the beginning is eugogetos and is used exclusively of God in the NT to indicate the One who alone is worthy of worship (remember the heresy in Colossians?).
In verse 4 – Where does Paul trace every spiritual blessing to? Explain the answer.
The word “chose” here is the usual one employed in connection with God’s choice of Israel. Specifically, it implied the taking of a smaller number out of a larger.
Why would it be important for God to have chosen us before time began?
The life of Christians DEPENDS on a love that never had a beginning and never has an end. Election in Christ has a moral aim in view. It is expressed both positively and negatively. To be “holy” (hagios) means to be set apart for God in order to reflect His purity (note the word REFLECT). “Blameless” (amomos) is “free from blemish,” like the sacrificial animals presented on the altar in the old dispensation. It applied to Christ Himself (Heb 9:14; 1 Peter 1:19), to the ideal church (Eph 5:17), and to Christians in the end of the age (2 Peter 3:14; Jude 24) and also now (Phil 2:15).
Read verse 5 –
What are the main points of this verse?
What does it mean to be a son/daughter of Christ? What does it mean to be adopted?
Why does He adopt us? For what purpose?
Note what ends verse 4 and really begins verse 5 (this is why you cannot pull verses out of context and expect good things). Any interpretation of this mysterious doctrine on predestination that detracts from the Love of God is suspect.
Under Roman law, an adopted son enjoyed the same status and privileges as a real son. Christ is God’s Son “by nature”. Believers are so only by adoption and grace, yet they are co-heirs with him (Romans 8:17). The ground of this gracious action is to be discovered in the character of God Himself. Behind the fulfillment of His perfect will there lies His pleasure (eudokia) – that which brings Him satisfaction because it represents the expression of His being.
Write out verse 6 –
What is the ultimate aim of the divine plan of redemption? What is to be our response to this plan?
Read verse 7 –
What blessings flow from the matchless grace of God?
Note that all the blessings are “in Christ”. They are sourced from Christ and part of His sphere (Col 1:14). They are also enjoyed by the believer in the present. The tense is continuous – “we have an are still having.”
Redemption (apolytrosis) has to do with the emancipation either of slaves or of prisoners. The NEB has “release”. The term also implies the payment of a being “through his blood” (Col 1:20). The price paid for man’s redemption from bondage to sin was constly beyond measure. It was the very lifeblood of Christ Himself, poured out in death.
Forgiveness (aphesis) is loosing someone from what binds them. It stems from a verb meaning to send away (John 20:23). What God deals with our sin, it is dispatched into the wilderness like the scapegoat (Lev 16:20-22). Here, however, the reference is not to sin (harmartia) as in Col 1:14, but to sins (paraptoma) or derivations from the right path. The first term denotes a sinful CONDITION, the second, sinful ACTS. Forgiveness deals with both.
Are you forgiven from your condition of sin?
Do you still commit sinful acts?
Are those sinful acts forgiven? How do you know?
Summarize verse 7 – 10 –
What do these verses me to YOU and YOUR life NOW
Why do you believe that predestination is called out?
Are there any practical applications around today’s study that God has revealed to you? What will you do now?
Who and what will you pray for this week?
NOTE: Don’t become discouraged around this lesson. If predestination and God’s choosing is difficult or concerning that is OK! Theologians have been debating this for centuries now just like they have been trying to explain the Trinity of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. We will cover the fundamentals around reasons for choice and forgiveness this Sunday. Have a great week!
Andy
Read Ephesians 1:3-1:14
What is your first reaction to these verses?
How would you summarize these verses?
Start with verse 3 – RE-read it aloud. What is this verse about? Name at least 4 points in this verse:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Christian faith and life have their center in God’s Son and the Epistle therefore opens with an expression of gratitude for all that is found in Him. It is cast in the form of a Jewish berakah, or blessing.
The “Praise be to” at the beginning is eugogetos and is used exclusively of God in the NT to indicate the One who alone is worthy of worship (remember the heresy in Colossians?).
In verse 4 – Where does Paul trace every spiritual blessing to? Explain the answer.
The word “chose” here is the usual one employed in connection with God’s choice of Israel. Specifically, it implied the taking of a smaller number out of a larger.
Why would it be important for God to have chosen us before time began?
The life of Christians DEPENDS on a love that never had a beginning and never has an end. Election in Christ has a moral aim in view. It is expressed both positively and negatively. To be “holy” (hagios) means to be set apart for God in order to reflect His purity (note the word REFLECT). “Blameless” (amomos) is “free from blemish,” like the sacrificial animals presented on the altar in the old dispensation. It applied to Christ Himself (Heb 9:14; 1 Peter 1:19), to the ideal church (Eph 5:17), and to Christians in the end of the age (2 Peter 3:14; Jude 24) and also now (Phil 2:15).
Read verse 5 –
What are the main points of this verse?
What does it mean to be a son/daughter of Christ? What does it mean to be adopted?
Why does He adopt us? For what purpose?
Note what ends verse 4 and really begins verse 5 (this is why you cannot pull verses out of context and expect good things). Any interpretation of this mysterious doctrine on predestination that detracts from the Love of God is suspect.
Under Roman law, an adopted son enjoyed the same status and privileges as a real son. Christ is God’s Son “by nature”. Believers are so only by adoption and grace, yet they are co-heirs with him (Romans 8:17). The ground of this gracious action is to be discovered in the character of God Himself. Behind the fulfillment of His perfect will there lies His pleasure (eudokia) – that which brings Him satisfaction because it represents the expression of His being.
Write out verse 6 –
What is the ultimate aim of the divine plan of redemption? What is to be our response to this plan?
Read verse 7 –
What blessings flow from the matchless grace of God?
Note that all the blessings are “in Christ”. They are sourced from Christ and part of His sphere (Col 1:14). They are also enjoyed by the believer in the present. The tense is continuous – “we have an are still having.”
Redemption (apolytrosis) has to do with the emancipation either of slaves or of prisoners. The NEB has “release”. The term also implies the payment of a being “through his blood” (Col 1:20). The price paid for man’s redemption from bondage to sin was constly beyond measure. It was the very lifeblood of Christ Himself, poured out in death.
Forgiveness (aphesis) is loosing someone from what binds them. It stems from a verb meaning to send away (John 20:23). What God deals with our sin, it is dispatched into the wilderness like the scapegoat (Lev 16:20-22). Here, however, the reference is not to sin (harmartia) as in Col 1:14, but to sins (paraptoma) or derivations from the right path. The first term denotes a sinful CONDITION, the second, sinful ACTS. Forgiveness deals with both.
Are you forgiven from your condition of sin?
Do you still commit sinful acts?
Are those sinful acts forgiven? How do you know?
Summarize verse 7 – 10 –
What do these verses me to YOU and YOUR life NOW
Why do you believe that predestination is called out?
Are there any practical applications around today’s study that God has revealed to you? What will you do now?
Who and what will you pray for this week?
NOTE: Don’t become discouraged around this lesson. If predestination and God’s choosing is difficult or concerning that is OK! Theologians have been debating this for centuries now just like they have been trying to explain the Trinity of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. We will cover the fundamentals around reasons for choice and forgiveness this Sunday. Have a great week!
Andy
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Class Notes and Questions for April 29, 2008
Study Notes and Questions for April 29, 2008
Who are we accountable to?
Read Ephesians 1:1 to 1:2
Who is writing this letter beyond the name given? What does he mean when we says “an apostle of Christ Jesus”
Who is this letter intended for?
What is vs. 2 talking about? What do these words mean to YOU?
Certainly Paul adopts the conventional form of address used in letters of the period. Usually the writer identified himself, named the perspective recipients, and added some expressions of greeting.
“Apostle” is a comprehensive term for one who bears the NT message. It is applied firs the original disciples and then to other Christian missionaries. Paul claimed that, like that of the Twelve, his commission came directly from Christ (Acts 26:16-18; 1 Cor 9:1)
Who do you think of when you think Apostle?
Note that the title not only stressed the authority of the sender but also the accountability to whom they were sent by. Paul does not allude to God’s will in order to draw attention to his own status but to reflect his awareness that his mission did not arise from any qualification he himself might possess.
To whom are you accountable? Make a list here. After listing that person list WHY you are accountable to them.
“Saints” is the normal NT designation for Christians. It denotes inward, personal consecration to God.
What does it mean to be a Saint? Are you a saint?
“Faithful” is a parallel designation of believers combining the ideas of trust and fidelity.
What does Fidelity mean to you? What does it mean to your spouse?
“Grace and peace” reflect the standard greetings in Greek and Hebrew. The word here is exactly as in Romans 1:7b. Paul prefers to replace the Greek chaire (rejoice) by charis as embodying the essence of the gospel. For “peace” (Heb. Salom) Ezra 4:17; 5:7; 7:12, Daniel 4:1; 6:25, etc.
Where do you see people searching for peace? What practical steps are people taking to create or obtain peace?
Notice how Paul associates “the Lord Jesus Christ” with “God our Father” as the originator of these blessings. These do NOT come from ourselves or “inner peace”
Where has God given you Grace and Peace this week?
Are there any practical applications around today’s study that God has revealed to you? What will you do now?
Who and what will you pray for this week?
Who are we accountable to?
Read Ephesians 1:1 to 1:2
Who is writing this letter beyond the name given? What does he mean when we says “an apostle of Christ Jesus”
Who is this letter intended for?
What is vs. 2 talking about? What do these words mean to YOU?
Certainly Paul adopts the conventional form of address used in letters of the period. Usually the writer identified himself, named the perspective recipients, and added some expressions of greeting.
“Apostle” is a comprehensive term for one who bears the NT message. It is applied firs the original disciples and then to other Christian missionaries. Paul claimed that, like that of the Twelve, his commission came directly from Christ (Acts 26:16-18; 1 Cor 9:1)
Who do you think of when you think Apostle?
Note that the title not only stressed the authority of the sender but also the accountability to whom they were sent by. Paul does not allude to God’s will in order to draw attention to his own status but to reflect his awareness that his mission did not arise from any qualification he himself might possess.
To whom are you accountable? Make a list here. After listing that person list WHY you are accountable to them.
“Saints” is the normal NT designation for Christians. It denotes inward, personal consecration to God.
What does it mean to be a Saint? Are you a saint?
“Faithful” is a parallel designation of believers combining the ideas of trust and fidelity.
What does Fidelity mean to you? What does it mean to your spouse?
“Grace and peace” reflect the standard greetings in Greek and Hebrew. The word here is exactly as in Romans 1:7b. Paul prefers to replace the Greek chaire (rejoice) by charis as embodying the essence of the gospel. For “peace” (Heb. Salom) Ezra 4:17; 5:7; 7:12, Daniel 4:1; 6:25, etc.
Where do you see people searching for peace? What practical steps are people taking to create or obtain peace?
Notice how Paul associates “the Lord Jesus Christ” with “God our Father” as the originator of these blessings. These do NOT come from ourselves or “inner peace”
Where has God given you Grace and Peace this week?
Are there any practical applications around today’s study that God has revealed to you? What will you do now?
Who and what will you pray for this week?
Why Ephesians?
April 19, 2008
Why Ephesians?
The last 13 weeks we have been talking about Experiencing God through a study by the same name. This was a great follow up after our study of the Colossians and the heretical teaching they were and we are facing. Once were determined to stay away and dismiss heretical teaching, Experiencing God was great and heart opening in specifics of how we can hear and obey the will of God. This was significant in growing us toward taking action at each moment to ‘see where God is working and going there’. Turning our attention and running to meet where God is working is exciting. I know we have been challenged in our relationship with him across the seven realities that the study called out so clearly.
As we came near to the end of the study, there were many requests around topical studies of marriage and family. Certainly many parts of the Word of God reveal practical truths about marriage and family. It was not hard to pick a relevant book, however. As the Experiencing God study continued 3 things became obvious:
1) We need to continue our focus on the Word of God - the one source of written truth
2) We need to continue our focus on prayer – our personal communication and lifeline with our Lord
3) We need to continue our focus on fellowship – intentional relationships to honor and glorify the Lord
The letter to the Ephesians is very clearly a book in which the practical applications of the Word, prayer, and fellowship coincide. I believe we will be challenged to a new level of relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ as well as honoring and glorifying Him in our day-to-day relationships.
We will be studying 2 main things in Ephesians:
I. Our Standing – where are we in relation to the Lord
II. Our Condition (our struggles) – how our Standing affects our day to day lives and relationships
I DO NOT expect this study to be an easy one. I would ask that each of you pray earnestly for wisdom, both for me, as I attempt to be a witness for Christ (which, by the way, is a humbling and pretty messed up idea) and for each of the class members.
I DO expect that we will come closer to the Lord Jesus through this study. I DO expect that we will be challenged with the main question of all of the universe: “But what about you?” He asked, “Who do you say I am?” Peter Answered, “You are the Christ.” Mark 8:29 and how this affects us daily and moment by moment with our spouse, our friends, and, most importantly, our savior Jesus Christ.
I am very excited about how God can continue to mold and shape us as spouses, parents, and friends to glorify Him through this study.
Warm Regards,
Andy
Why Ephesians?
The last 13 weeks we have been talking about Experiencing God through a study by the same name. This was a great follow up after our study of the Colossians and the heretical teaching they were and we are facing. Once were determined to stay away and dismiss heretical teaching, Experiencing God was great and heart opening in specifics of how we can hear and obey the will of God. This was significant in growing us toward taking action at each moment to ‘see where God is working and going there’. Turning our attention and running to meet where God is working is exciting. I know we have been challenged in our relationship with him across the seven realities that the study called out so clearly.
As we came near to the end of the study, there were many requests around topical studies of marriage and family. Certainly many parts of the Word of God reveal practical truths about marriage and family. It was not hard to pick a relevant book, however. As the Experiencing God study continued 3 things became obvious:
1) We need to continue our focus on the Word of God - the one source of written truth
2) We need to continue our focus on prayer – our personal communication and lifeline with our Lord
3) We need to continue our focus on fellowship – intentional relationships to honor and glorify the Lord
The letter to the Ephesians is very clearly a book in which the practical applications of the Word, prayer, and fellowship coincide. I believe we will be challenged to a new level of relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ as well as honoring and glorifying Him in our day-to-day relationships.
We will be studying 2 main things in Ephesians:
I. Our Standing – where are we in relation to the Lord
II. Our Condition (our struggles) – how our Standing affects our day to day lives and relationships
I DO NOT expect this study to be an easy one. I would ask that each of you pray earnestly for wisdom, both for me, as I attempt to be a witness for Christ (which, by the way, is a humbling and pretty messed up idea) and for each of the class members.
I DO expect that we will come closer to the Lord Jesus through this study. I DO expect that we will be challenged with the main question of all of the universe: “But what about you?” He asked, “Who do you say I am?” Peter Answered, “You are the Christ.” Mark 8:29 and how this affects us daily and moment by moment with our spouse, our friends, and, most importantly, our savior Jesus Christ.
I am very excited about how God can continue to mold and shape us as spouses, parents, and friends to glorify Him through this study.
Warm Regards,
Andy
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Ephesians Summary
Author: Ephesians 1:1 identifies the author of the Book of Ephesians as the Apostle Paul.
Date of Writing: The Book of Ephesians was very likely written between 60-63 A.D.
Purpose of Writing: Paul intended all those that long for Christ-like maturity to receive this writing. Enclosed within the Book of Ephesians is the discipline needed to develop into true sons of God. Furthermore, a study in Ephesians will help to fortify and to establish the believer so he can fulfill the purpose and calling God has given. The aim of this epistle is to confirm and to equip a maturing church. It presents a balanced view of the body of Christ and its importance in God's economy.
Key Verses:
Ephesians 1:3, "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ."
Ephesians 2:8-10, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."
Ephesians 4:4-6, "There is one body and one Spirit - just as you were called to one hope when you were called - one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all."
Ephesians 6:10-11, "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes."
Brief Summary: Doctrine occupies the greatest portion of the Book of Ephesians. Half of the teaching in this epistle relates to our standing, and the remainder of it affects our condition. All too often those who teach from this book bypass all the foundational instruction and go directly to the closing chapter. It is this chapter that emphasizes the warfare or the struggle of the saints. However, to benefit fully from the contents of this epistle, one must begin at the beginning of Paul's instruction in this letter.First, the follower of Christ must fully understand who God declares him to be. He must also become grounded in the knowledge of God's accomplishment for all humanity. Next, our present existence and walk must become exercised and strengthened. This must continue until we no longer totter or stagger back and forth with every spirit of teaching and subtlety of men.Paul’s writing breaks down into three main segments.
(1) Chapters one through three introduce principles with respect to God's accomplishment.
(2) Chapters four and five put forth principles regarding our present existence.
(3) Chapter six presents principles concerning our daily struggle.Practical Application: Perhaps more than any other book of the Bible, the Book of Ephesians emphasizes the connection between sound doctrine and right practice. Far too many people ignore "theology" and instead want to only discuss things that are "practical." In Ephesians, Paul argues that theology is practical. In order to live out God's will for us in our lives practically - we must first understand who we are in Christ doctrinally.
From Gotquestions.org
Date of Writing: The Book of Ephesians was very likely written between 60-63 A.D.
Purpose of Writing: Paul intended all those that long for Christ-like maturity to receive this writing. Enclosed within the Book of Ephesians is the discipline needed to develop into true sons of God. Furthermore, a study in Ephesians will help to fortify and to establish the believer so he can fulfill the purpose and calling God has given. The aim of this epistle is to confirm and to equip a maturing church. It presents a balanced view of the body of Christ and its importance in God's economy.
Key Verses:
Ephesians 1:3, "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ."
Ephesians 2:8-10, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."
Ephesians 4:4-6, "There is one body and one Spirit - just as you were called to one hope when you were called - one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all."
Ephesians 6:10-11, "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes."
Brief Summary: Doctrine occupies the greatest portion of the Book of Ephesians. Half of the teaching in this epistle relates to our standing, and the remainder of it affects our condition. All too often those who teach from this book bypass all the foundational instruction and go directly to the closing chapter. It is this chapter that emphasizes the warfare or the struggle of the saints. However, to benefit fully from the contents of this epistle, one must begin at the beginning of Paul's instruction in this letter.First, the follower of Christ must fully understand who God declares him to be. He must also become grounded in the knowledge of God's accomplishment for all humanity. Next, our present existence and walk must become exercised and strengthened. This must continue until we no longer totter or stagger back and forth with every spirit of teaching and subtlety of men.Paul’s writing breaks down into three main segments.
(1) Chapters one through three introduce principles with respect to God's accomplishment.
(2) Chapters four and five put forth principles regarding our present existence.
(3) Chapter six presents principles concerning our daily struggle.Practical Application: Perhaps more than any other book of the Bible, the Book of Ephesians emphasizes the connection between sound doctrine and right practice. Far too many people ignore "theology" and instead want to only discuss things that are "practical." In Ephesians, Paul argues that theology is practical. In order to live out God's will for us in our lives practically - we must first understand who we are in Christ doctrinally.
From Gotquestions.org
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