John’s primary PURPOSE is that believers will enter and maintain fellowship with God, with the RESULT of inner joy.“That which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ. And these things we write to you that our joy may be full … These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may [continue to] believe in the name of the Son of God.” 1Jo 1:3-4; 1Jo 5:13 (emphasis added)
This compilation of notes represents the truths found in the Epistle of First John.
Gene Cunningham - June 9, 2003
Ephesians #14
Though unworthy, the prodigal son's father restored his: robe - authority; ring - bank account; and sandals - service. Our Father pours out His Grace unconditionally to those seeking reconciliation. Eph 3:8-13 Paul considers himself much the same as the prodigal -- "less than the least of the saints" (1Co 15:9, Eph 3:8, 1Ti 1:15). We have "unsearchable riches" because of our relationship (Eph 3:8). "Fellowship" -- economy -- the law of the household in Eph 3:9, is the same word for dispensation, and speaks of stewardship. The "mystery" was hid from angels, the "manifold wisdom of God" (multi-colored Eph 3:10) -- Jesus death is His victory (Rom 8:28), power in weakness and enigma -- making sinners saints. Five works of the Holy Spirit at salvation: union (1Co 12:13), regeneration (Tit 3:5), indwelling (Rom 8:9-11), gifts (1Co 12:7), and sealing (Eph 1:13, Eph 4:30). The norm and standard (Eph 3:11) -- the cross -- the means by which He fulfills His purpose. We have bold access to Grace (Eph 2:18, Eph 3:12, Rom 5:1-2, Heb 4:16, Heb 10:19-22). In Eph 3:13 Paul encourages us not to evaluate circumstances inappropriately (2Co 4:7). The principal of the cross is our guide.
Scripture References: Ephesians 3:13, Ephesians 3:9, Ephesians 4:30, Hebrews 10:19-22, Ephesians 3:8, Ephesians 1:13, Hebrews 4:16, Ephesians 3:8, Romans 8:9-11, Romans 5:1-2, Ephesians 3:8-13, Titus 3:5, Ephesians 3:12, Romans 8:28, Ephesians 2:18, Ephesians 3:10, Ephesians 3:11
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.