First and Second Peter are grouped in what are called the General Epistles, written to the Church at large. The theme of First Peter is the refining and growth potential in our sufferings, 1Pe 1:3, 1Pe 1:6; 1Pe 2:2. This epistle was written to believers scattered by persecution throughout Asia Minor (1 Pe 1:1). The date was circa 64-65 A.D.—the beginning of Nero’s persecutions. First Peter is the best known and loved of these epistles, called by E.J. Goodspeed, “One of the most moving pieces of persecution literature.” This epistle is written to suffering believers, and is styled by Isaac Walton as, “affectionate, loving, lowly, and humble.” This epistle conveys an intense expectation of the Lord’s return as seen in 1Pe 1:5, 1Pe 1:7, 1Pe 1:13, 1Pe 2:12, 1Pe 4:13, 1Pe 4:17, 1Pe 5:1, 1Pe 5:4.
Gene Cunningham - June 9, 2003
Ephesians #4
Because our connection with God is "in Christ", the Father blessed us (Eph 1:3), chose us (Eph 1:4), adopted us (Eph 1:5), and accepted us (Eph 1:6). Parallels are found in 1Pe 1:1-5 and 1Pet 1:17-2. Eph 1:4-6 expands on our blessings as believers. He chose His son to go to the cross; he chose us "in Him" as well (Eph 1:4). The purpose of that choice is that we are holy and blameless before Him. We are "holy" in that we are set apart to His purpose, also whole and complete (Col 2:9-10). Eph 1:5 has one of 5 references to "predestined"; it is never used for salvation or condemnation. We are predestined for adoption as children by Jesus Christ to Himself. "Children" is Greek word for adult son ready for inheritence and priviledge. These things are ours now "...according to the good pleasure of His will"! Eph 1:6 says we should be praising Him for these things. We are "accepted in the Beloved {Jesus Christ}". 1Ti 2:1-6 says God desires all men to be saved; He gave Himself a ransom for all. Election is first in the list of our blessings (Eph 1:3); spiritual blessing originates from Spirit of God for spiritual men (new creatures). As believers we have been born into the spiritual realm -- the "heavenlies". Our blessings nor salvation are not limited to time. Election involves God's Sovereignty and our free will (Joh 6:37). God calls and man responds.
Scripture References: John 6:37, Ephesians 1:6, Ephesians 1:3, Ephesians 1:5, Ephesians 1:6, Ephesians 1:4, Ephesians 1:5, Ephesians 1:3, Colossians 2:9-10, Ephesians 1:4, Ephesians 1:4-6
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.