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 #6
Eph 1:7-12 "redemption" means to set free a slave. Blood is idiomatic; He took our place as the perfect sacrifice. "forgiveness" includes imputation of sin to Christ and righteousness to us. 2Co 5:21 says the Father made Christ to be sin for us "according to the riches of His Grace". He made our riches to abound in Wisdom (1Co 1:18-30, Rom 1:17) -- the skill of living life God's way. Eph 1:9 "He made known to us" first through the Gospel, "the mystery of His will". Eph 1:10 the "Dispensation of the fullness of time -- the gathering of all things into Christ". Eph 1:11 "in Him" we have received an allotment (Rom 8:14, Rom 8:17; 1Pe 1:4). Eph 1:12 we are "to the praise of His Glory". 8 things about redemption in Eph 1:7-12: possession, price, subtraction, bounty, revelation, economy, inheritence, and worship.
Scripture References: Ephesians 1:10, Ephesians 1:9, Ephesians 1:7-12, Romans 1:17, Ephesians 1:12, Ephesians 1:7-12, Romans 8:17, Romans 8:14, Ephesians 1:11
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.