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 25
"Reasonable service" = "worship" (Rom 12:1). We dedicate our life to Him. Everything He asks, He has a right to. The first mention of the word "worship" (Gen 22:1-18). God wants to bless us through testing; requirement on us is availability (Gen 22:1). Worship involves a price; for Abraham it was Isaac. Worship involves a witness, readiness (Gen 22:3). Worship involves the mundane (e.g. chopping wood), and obedience (e.g. geographic, action, attitude - Gen 22:4-5, Heb 11:19) Jesus told the Pharisees they did not have faith like Abraham (Joh 8:56, Gal 3:8, Gen 22:4). Isaac had to trust his dad (Gen 22:6-9). "God will supply Himself a Lamb" (Gen 22:7-8, Joh 1:29, Gen 22:13). God's request of Abraham was reasonable; He provided Isaac by Grace in the first place. He was acceptable to God because of living sacrifice (Gen 22:12, Rom 12:1, Jam 2:23). We can enter to worship in the daily, mundane things. True worship results in blessing and reward.
Scripture References: Hebrews 11:19, John 1:29, Genesis 22:4-5, Genesis 22:7-8, Genesis 22:3, Genesis 22:6-9, James 2:23, Genesis 22:1, Genesis 22:4, Romans 12:1, Genesis 22:1-18, Galatians 3:8, Genesis 22:12, Romans 12:1, John 8:56, Genesis 22:13
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.