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 #18
Mission report from India. Our spiritual gift establishes our place on the team (1Pe 4:7-11) -- for example, a speaking or ministry gift. Eph 4:11 lists the teaching/speaking gifts. Apostle and prophet were gifts to communicate divine truth prior to its writing. Teaching gifts are "for the equipping of the saints for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ" (Eph 4:12). The team concept is illustrated in 1Co 12:18-21. We need every member. Christ, the head, can't say He doesn't need a particular member (1Co 12:21). We are saved apart from works unto works -- we are "saved to serve" (Eph 2:8-10).
Scripture References: Ephesians 4:12, Ephesians 4:11, Ephesians 2:8-10
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.