The theme of 2nd Peter is the great need for personal spiritual growth in a time when false teachers and teachings were infiltrating the early church (2Pe 1:5 with 2Pe 3:18). Key words/phrases relevant to spiritual growth are “grace and peace,” which can be “multiplied” as we grow in the “knowledge” of our Lord, and exercise due “diligence” in the practice of spiritual “love.” As a method of instruction, Peter emphasizes the necessity of reminder and repetition (2Pe 1:12-13, 2Pe 1:15, 2Pe 3:1-2).
Gene Cunningham - June 9, 2003
Ephesians #29
Walking in dependence on the spirit is more than a moral life Gal 5:16-25. "Inheriting the kingdom" (Gal 5:21) refers to awards; salvation is a gift. Not all believers are joint heirs with Christ (Rom 8:17). Unsaved people are living a lie (that they don't need God). We have put away the lie (Eph 4:26) but can live like it - "Do not grieve the Spirit" (Eph 4:30). Five things happen at salvation by the Spirit: (1) baptism 1Co 12:13; (2) regeneration Joh 3:7, Titus 3:5; (3) indwelling Rom 8:9-11; (4) gifts 1Co 12:7; and (5) sealed Eph 1:13. The Holy Spirit is the guarantee of irrevocable "inheritance", common to believers 1Pe 1:24, Joh 14:3. We grieve the Spirit by doing things contrary to Truth. You still can't please God by avoiding the negatives. Doing the positives assures we "Do not quench the Spirit 1Th 5:11-19. Related commands: "Be filled by the Spirit" (Eph 5:18); with what? The Word Col 3:16. "Walk by the Spirit" (Gal 5:16). These are the only ways to "walk worthy" (Eph 4:1).
Scripture References: Ephesians 1:13, Galatians 5:21, Romans 8:9-11, Ephesians 4:1, Galatians 5:16-25, Titus 3:5, Galatians 5:16, John 3:7, Colossians 3:16, Ephesians 4:30, Ephesians 5:18, Ephesians 4:26, John 14:3, Romans 8:17
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.