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 #16
We need to see Jesus Christ character in order to become like Him -- to "walk worthy of our calling" (Eph 4:1-2). Mat 11:25-29 you have to become a child to believe the truth -- totally depend upon Him. "Take my yoke" - school of learning - "for I am gentle and humble in heart". Mat 12:19 He didn't quarrel nor cry out. Eph 4:1-32 is a school intended to reflect Christ's character; Eph 4:2 illustrates. "lowly" means dependent; "gentleness" refers to power under control; "long-suffering" means to have a short fuse. Luk 1:46-55 Mary expresses this character while speaking of the coming Savior.
Scripture References: Ephesians 4:1-32, Matthew 12:19, Matthew 11:25-29, Ephesians 4:1-2, Luke 1:46-55, Ephesians 4:2
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.