Ephesians is a “Prison Epistle,” along with Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon (see Eph 3:1, Eph 4:1, and Eph 6:20). Written by Paul from Rome, the epistle expands on themes in Colossians, much as Romans does to Galatians. Whereas Colossians develops the all-sufficiency of Christ to the Church, Ephesians shows the blessings of that “fullness” enjoyed by the members of God’s family. The idea of unity resulting from reconciliation runs strong through the book (Eph 1:9-10; Eph 2:16-18; Eph 3:4-6; Eph 4:3-6; Eph 5:30-32; Eph 6:18-20). It is possible that the epistle was actually a circular letter to the churches of Asia. Paul’s goal is to inform the saints of their privileged status and exhort them to live in a way worthy of their standing.
Gene Cunningham - May 23, 2000
Living Sacrifice 09
Christ did all the work and is the value we seek (Col 2:14-15); The value we have is rooted in relationship with Jesus Christ (1Co 1:15, Rom 6:5, Eph 2:4). We are counted Jesus' brethren and share in his victories -- children of the Most High God (Heb 2:9-11, Joh 1:12, 1Jo 3:1-3); Jesus Christ is Heir of all things; He is the Focus of all history; Christ designed the ages; Christ is the Revealer of God; He is co-equal with God; He is the Sustainer of all things; He is the Savior; He is the Hero of the universe (Heb 1:1-3); 7 Superiorities of Christ: (1) Superiority of his Name (Heb 2:4-5); (2) First-born - Priest, Heir, Blessings of the Father; (3) The Sovereign of the Angels (Heb 2:7); (4) He has an Eternal Throne (Heb 2:8); (5) He has an Eternal appointment (Heb 2:9, Phi 2:9); (6) He is Immutable (Heb 2:10-12); (7) Christ's finished work (Heb 2:13-14, Joh 19:30). 7 victories of Jesus Christ: (1) King of Kings (Heb 2:5); "Last Adam" (Heb 2:6-8); (3) "Lamb of God" (Heb 2:9, Joh 1:29); (4) "Captain of Salvation" (Heb 2:10) (5) "First-born of many Brethren" (Heb 2:13-14); (6) Seed of the Woman (Heb 2:14-16, Gen 3:15, Gal 3:16); (7) Faithful High Priest (Heb 2:17-18, 1Pe 2:5-9)
Scripture References: Hebrews 2:6-8, Hebrews 2:9-11, Genesis 3:15, Hebrews 2:8, Hebrews 2:5, Ephesians 2:4, Hebrews 2:14-16, Hebrews 2:7, John 19:30, Romans 6:5, Hebrews 2:13-14, Hebrews 2:4-5, Hebrews 2:13-14, Colossians 2:14-15, Hebrews 2:10, Hebrews 1:1-3, Hebrews 2:10-12, John 1:29, John 3:1-3, Hebrews 2:17-18, Philippians 2:9, Hebrews 2:9, John 1:12, Galatians 3:16, Hebrews 2:9
From Series: "Living Sacrifice (1995)"
Romans 12 and specifically Rom 12:1-2 is a pivot point between the doctrinal section and application of the book. This series methodically uses this passage to outline aspects or doctrines of the christian life -- God's provision and our prospect. Our lives can be acceptable to God if we progress on the path He intends. Living Sacrifice presents 12 doctrines: (1) redeeming time; (2) standing (positional truth); (3) self-presentation - availability; (4) approval; (5) service; (6) provision; (7) spiritual warfare; (8) conformity; (9) spiritual advance; (10) renewal; (11) divine guidance; (12) abundant life.