The theme for the Spring 2011 Bible conference in Phoenix is found both at the beginning and end of the book (1Ti 1:18, 1Ti 6:12). In each reference, different words and phrases are used. In the first, Paul speaks of the good fight of faith as an ongoing campaign, thus reminding us that we are part of a vast and great spiritual army. In the last, his words focus on our own personal struggle, a good reminder that no one can fight our battle for us. This scope and intensity will be captured as we follow Paul’s thought through the book.
Gene Cunningham - June 9, 2003
Ephesians #38
It's impossible for natural man to understand the things of the Spirit. A spiritual man is under control of the Holy Spirit (1Co 2:9-16). Many spiritual men of the past were not accepted in their time: Oswald Chambers, C.T. Studd, and Martin Luther, but importance is intimacy with God (1Co 8:2-3). Drinking analogy to spiritual life (Luk 1:5, Act 2:12-21). "All of you believers be filled by (or controlled by) the Spirit" (Eph 5:18). At Pentecost, believers were filled (different Greek word) with the content of the Holy Spirit (Act 2:4). In Col 3:14-16, a parallel passage, we are to let the Spirit's qualities rule in our hearts. Commands related to the Spirit (1) what we should do -- "be filled by" Eph 5:18; (2) how we should do it -- "grieve not" Gal 4:30; (3) "quench not" 1Th 5:19; (4) "walk by" Gal 5:16. Character of the Spirit: Love (Gal 5:22-23), Joy (Jam 5:13) , and gratitude (Pro 3:5-6).
Scripture References: Galatians 4:30, Ephesians 5:18, Colossians 3:14-16, Proverbs 3:5-6, Acts 2:4, James 5:13, Ephesians 5:18, Galatians 5:22-23, Acts 2:12-21, Galatians 5:16, Luke 1:5
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.