The primary focus of Paul’s epistles to the Thessalonians, written A.D. 50–51, is Christian living in light of eternity, which results in balance. The “bookends” of 1Th 1:3 and 1Th 5:8 reveal the book’s theme—the well-balanced Christian life. The book also teaches that God’s Word works through faith. Interestingly, this epistle is closely related in content to the Old Testament book of Ruth, which provides a perfect biblical illustration of the practical truths of this book.
Gene Cunningham - June 9, 2003
Ephesians #1
Eph 1:1-14 introduction -- the wealth of the believer in Christ. Ephesians was written during Paul's imprisonment (Act 18:19-21, Act 19:1-10, Col 4:7-9). Outline: (1) knowing (chapters 1-3) and (2) doing (chapters 4-6). Theme: blessings we have in Christ (Eph 1:3). Other key verses: by Grace through faith (Eph 2:8); come to know the love of Christ and be filled with the fullness of God (Eph 3:19); walk worthy of the calling with which we are called (Eph 4:1); filling by the Spirit (Eph 5:18); stand against the devil (Eph 6:10-11). Our wealth in Christ is illustrated throughout Ephesians (Eph 1:3, Eph 1:7, Eph 2:4, Eph 2:7, Eph 3:8). "Fullness" -- of times (Eph 1:10); of Him who fills all in all (Eph 1:23); of God (Eph 3:19); of Christ (Eph 4:13); filled with the Spirit (Eph 5:18). Power -- our abundant resources available (Eph 1:19). To be an apostle Paul had to have seen the resurrected Lord, exercise all spiritual gifts, and had direct revelation from God. Apostleship ended with John around A.D. 96. The Holy Spirit has five works in relation to God's Word: revelation (2Ti 3:16, Mat 4:4), inspiration (2Pe 1:21), preservation (Mat 24:35), illumination (Eph 1:18, Eph 3:19), and application (Gal 5:16). If God has poured out so many blessings on us, our resources are sufficient, and therefore, we must be thankful.
Scripture References: Ephesians 4:13, Ephesians 2:8, Ephesians 3:19, Ephesians 1:7, Ephesians 3:19, Ephesians 1:3, Ephesians 1:18, Ephesians 1:3, Ephesians 1:23, Colossians 4:7-9, Matthew 24:35, Ephesians 6:10-11, Ephesians 1:10, Acts 19:1-10, Matthew 4:4, Ephesians 5:18, Ephesians 3:8, Acts 18:19-21, Ephesians 1:19, Ephesians 4:1, Ephesians 2:7, Ephesians 1:1-14, Ephesians 5:18, Ephesians 3:19, Galatians 5:16, Ephesians 2:4
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.