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 #25
Old covenant practices cannot be imposed on the new (Mat 9:14-17). There's a radical difference between the body of Christ and "gentiles" (Eph 4:17-19): "futility of the mind", vacuum of soul, ignorance, licentiousness, and frantic search for happiness. We are in the school of Christ since understanding the gospel (Eph 4:20, Eph 1:13). The topic is the teacher; Christ is the teacher (Eph 4:21, Joh 14:6). School membership is exclusive (Mat 23:8). The instructor's teachings are absolutely authoritative (Joh 6:45, Joh 8:28). We have a personal mentor - the Holy Spirit (Joh 15:26, Joh 16:13-14, 1Jo 2:27). We have to give the Mentor permission (Col 3:16).
Scripture References: Matthew 23:8, Colossians 3:16, John 14:6, John 2:27, Ephesians 4:21, John 16:13-14, Ephesians 1:13, John 15:26, Ephesians 4:20, John 8:28, Ephesians 4:17-19, John 6:45, Matthew 9:14-17
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.