This study was presented in the August 2013 Bible conference in Southern California.Though Corinth was a “problem church” for Paul, how thankful we ought to be for them, for without their problems and questions, we would not have the answers and guidance provided in this wonderful letter. As with all the epistles, the challenge is to lay hold of the character of Christ. We are to be “transformed by the renewing of [our] minds” (Rom 12:2), and to “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus” (Phi 2:5).
Key verses for this study:
- “For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.” 1Co 2:2 and
- “Therefore purge out the old leaven, that you may be a new lump, since you are truly unleavened. For indeed Christ, our Passover, was sacrificed for us.” 1Co 5:7
Gene Cunningham - June 9, 2003
Ephesians #7
Work of the Spirit in Eph 1:13-14 -- sealing and guarantee of inheritence. Rom 8:31shows we have eternal security. Eph 1:13 and Rom 10:13-17 faith comes by hearing. Spirit is inseparable from the Word (Joh 14:17, Joh 15:26; Joh 16:13). Only the Spirit gives life and can't be separated from the Son of God (Joh 6:63, Joh 14:6). Object of our faith is Jesus Christ; the Spirit sheds light. Works of the Spirit: revelation (2Ti 3:16), inspiration (1Pe 1:10-12, 2Pe 1:21), illumination (Eph 1:13) and convicting of the unsaved (Joh 16:7-11). Faith is a partnership; we're saved by grace through faith so that we'll live by grace through faith. Sealing means our eternal destiny is secure. Works of Spirit in salvation: baptism (1Co 12:13), regeneration (Tit 3:5), indwelling (Rom 8:9-11), gifting (1Co 12:4-7), sealing (Eph 1:13-14). Sealing means identification, security, and delivered to arrive safely (illustration Rom 15:28). This was promised in the old testament (Heb 6:13-18). Eph 1:14 says Holy Spirit is a down-payment and guarantee on our inheritance (2Co 1:22, 2Co 5:5, 1Pe 1:4-5). Redemption is finished(from blessing point of view) at the resurrection (Eph 1:14). We are God's "purchased possession" -- a personal treasure to be redeemed at the resurrection "to the praise of His glory".
Scripture References: Ephesians 1:14, John 14:17, John 16:7-11, Ephesians 1:14, Romans 10:13-17, Ephesians 1:13, Hebrews 6:13-18, Ephesians 1:13, John 14:6, Romans 15:28, Romans 8:31, John 6:63, Ephesians 1:13-14, Ephesians 1:13-14, John 16:13, Romans 8:9-11, John 15:26, Titus 3:5
From Series: "Ephesians"
More than any book Ephesians reveals the blessings from God based on our relationship with Jesus Christ by grace through faith. Eph 1:3 is the a key verse. Other key verses by chapter include Eph 2:8 Eph 3:19 Eph 4:1 Eph 5:18 and Eph 6:10-11.