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 13
The grace provisions given to Israel (Rom 9:4-5). "Israel" means a prince who has power with God. Jacob's name was changed by God to Israel denote His intent with the Jews - national status adopted as "a son" (Exo 4:22, Hos 11:1). We are sons individually in a brotherhood of Jesus Christ (Rom 8:15, Eph 1:5). Paul's love for his unbelieving Israelite brothers (who were trying to kill him -- was intense compared to ours for our brothers -- this ought not to be. Israel had the shekinah glory (Rom 9:4); what they had in old testament cannot compare to the fact that we are indwelt by the Holy Spirit (1Co 3:6). We are the "temple" now -- the Kingdom on earth. Israel had the covenants: land, seed, and blessing. In applying the new covenant (blessing) to us, God has applied it to a higher degree. Israel was a priest nation -- a missionary nation. We are called individually priests (Rom 12:1, 1Pe 2:5-9) forever. Christ means bringing together the nature of God and man in one (Rom 9:5). Romans chapter 8 has two great truths: no condemnation, no separation. Romans chapters 9-11 explains God's plan for Israel, even though they had rejected the word and got into apostasy (Rom 9:6). Paul warned Timothy to preach the word because the same problems had started to occur with the early church (2Ti 4:1-3). There's always a remnant (Rom 9:27-30) which explains the Grace of God even to us -- faith is the key (Rom 10:11-17). We shouldn't boast; God has not set Israel aside. He took another tree (gentiles) and grafted us in (Rom 11:17-20). God won't spare us if He didn't spare Israel (Rom 11:21-22). We must continue under God's Grace provisions. He will restore the Jewish nation (Rom 11:23-25). How can you love braham and hate his descendants (Rom 11:28-29). There is coming a judgement to the Church -- the Rapture could be a removal of the church in disgrace.
Scripture References: Romans 11:23-25, Romans 9:4-5, Romans 12:1, Romans 11:21-22, Romans 9:4, Romans 11:17-20, Ephesians 1:5, Romans 10:11-17, Romans 8:15, Romans 9:27-30, Hosea 11:1, Romans 9:6, Romans 11:28-29, Exodus 4:22, Romans 9:5
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.