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 - February 1, 2003
Precious Promises Perilous Times #2
2Pe 1:1-4 God's grace provisions give us everything to live the life God intends -- godliness -- reflecting Christ (1Ti 3:16). God channels his blessing to us through His promises (2Pe 1:4, e.g., Rom 8:28). "Partaker" - active participant of the outworking of His nature. Three verbs "obtained" (2Pe 1:1), "called" (2Pe 1:3), "having escaped" (2Pe 1:4) all happened together. "Glory and virtue" is His life and nature powerfully displayed (2Pe 1:3). (1) Jesus Christ is the source and center of our spiritual life. (2) We enter His grace by faith and in so doing we find peace (Rom 5:1-2). (3) To grow in experiential knowledge leads to a display of Divine power. (4) The objective of the spiritual life is to become like Jesus Christ.
Conference notes for this series can be found [HERE]
Scripture References: Romans 5:1-2, Romans 8:28
From Series: "2nd Peter - Precious Promises Perilous Times - Northern VA - 2009"
These lessons were given at the Northern Virginia conference in the Spring of 2009. 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).