Have you ever stood in great need of comfort and encouragement? If so, you know that in time of affliction, there is no thought or word that has deeper meaning, nor any possession of greater value, than that of effective and genuine comfort. The objective of this study is to equip us to have the assurance that there is comfort available, and to know how to be comforted, as well as how to be a comfort to others in the fires of affliction.
Gene Cunningham - June 9, 2003
Ephesians #22
In 2Co 5:1-9, the walk of faith includes: assurance, anticipation, aspiration to be pleasing. The Christian life is a pilgrimage (Eph 4:1). Two people walking together do so at the same pace (Amo 3:3). Life is dynamic; taking the broad way (not narrow), eventually you spiral downward like the prodigal son (Eph 4:17-19, Rom 1:18-26). We "don't walk as the Gentiles walk" (Eph 4:17). Rom 12:2 -- we are commanded not to be conformed to the world. Our soul is designed to run on truth, but can become a spiritual vacuum "futility of their mind" (Eph 4:17). Our "understanding darkened" starts with letting emotions rule (Eph 4:18, Joh 3:19). "Alienated from the life of God" equates a believers state to an unbeliever's -- the abundant life is missing -- simply not wanting the light; this is illustrated in Rom 1:18-26. The soul of a believer can become seared - "past feeling" (Eph 4:19). Following doctrines of demons because their conscience is seared (1Ti 4:2). When you choose the road, you choose where it leads.
Scripture References: Ephesians 4:17-19, John 3:19, Amos 3:3, Ephesians 4:18, Ephesians 4:1, Ephesians 4:17, Romans 12:2, Ephesians 4:17, Ephesians 4:19, Romans 1:18-26, Romans 1:18-26
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.