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 #9
Ephesians is a book of praise to God regarding His benefits to us. Ephesians 2:1-22 theme is salvation. Were were dead by nature, our way of life, and God's condemnation (Eph 2:1-5, Eph 1:12. We are spiritually dead at birth 1Co15:22. What did God do? (Eph 2:4-7). Salvation is a work for the dead in trespasses and sin (Eph 2:1-3) . Salvation is a threefold work of a triune God -- Love is an expression of Father, Mercy is the cross, Grace is applied from the Spirit (Eph 2:4-8). Salvation deals with three aspects of our experience related to time - the point of salvation, the duration of life, and eternity (Eph 2:7-10). Salvation was undertook by God for those far off and near -- Jew and Gentile (Eph 2:11-13). Salvation is building a household (Eph 2:19-22).
The anatomy of praise (Psa 103:1-22) is a recognition of God's valuable attributes, His Worth -- the reasons we appreciate Him. We need to site the reasons for our thankfulness (Psa 138:1-8). Eph 2:10 reflects the outline of Ephesians - chapters 1 through 3 "created in Christ" and chapters 4 through 6 "for good works ... that we should walk in them".
Scripture References: Ephesians 2:1-3, Psalms 138:1-8, Ephesians 2:4-7, Psalms 103:1-22, Ephesians 1:12, Ephesians 2:19-22, Ephesians 2:1-5, Ephesians 2:11-13, Ephesians 2:7-10, Ephesians 2:4-8
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.