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 #30
Jesus Christ is the standard of walking. Ephesians chapters 4-6 concerns our walk. John wrote "so that you do not sin" (1Jo 2:1-6). The only thing that'll satisfy God as payment for sin if Jesus Christ death (1Jo 2:2). Four commands regarding the Spirit: (1) "Don't grieve the Holy Spirit" -- personal sin (Eph 4:30; (2) "Be filled by the Spirit" (Eph 5:18, Col 3:16); (3) "Do not quench the Holy Spirit" -- not doing what we are commanded (1Th 5:19); (4) "Walk by the Spirit" (Gal 5:16). "Be followers of God" -- imitate Christ ((Eph 5:1-2). Paul suggests imitating him (1Co 4:16) as he imitates Christ (1Co 11:1). "Walk in love as Christ has loved us" is the way to imitate God (Eph 5:2). We don't love because people are worthy, but like the Grace and Mercy of God, love the unworthy (Rom 5:8). "As an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma" (Eph 5:2). Walk by means of the Spirit (Gal 5:16), in good works (Eph 2:10), walk worthy (Eph 4:1), not as the unbelievers (Eph 4:17), in love (Eph 5:2), walk in light (1Jo 1:7, Eph 5:8); walk in wisdom (Eph 5:15), walk by Grace through faith (Col 2:6).
Scripture References: Galatians 5:16, Ephesians 5:8, Ephesians 5:18, Ephesians 5:2, John 1:7, Ephesians 4:30, Romans 5:8, Ephesians 5:2, John 2:2, Ephesians 5:2, Ephesians 4:17, John 2:1-6, Ephesians 5:1-2, Ephesians 4:1, Colossians 2:6, Galatians 5:16, Ephesians 2:10, Ephesians 5:15, Colossians 3:16
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.