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 - June 10, 2003
Galatians 1
If we compromise the truth we diminish the power of the Gospel. Judiazers added keeping the law to the gospel (Acts 15:1-5). Key verse is Gal 2:16 - justification by grace through faith. Relevance in our time Gal 5:1. Outline: Chapters 1-2 Personal, Chapters 3-4 Doctrinal, Chapters 5-6 Practical. Immediate defense of his apostleship (Gal 1:1-5), also contains the gospel. Paul stresses his independent calling through the Father and Son. The message of the gospel is by Grace; Christ's act of substitution giving Himself; the result is justification - we are rescued out this present evil age. The resurrection is proof (Rom 4:24-25). Peace comes from stability which comes from the truth; Galatians had no peace (Gal 1:5-6) because some were twisting the gospel (2Co 11:4, 2Co 11:13-15) and put themselves under a curse (Gal 1:9, Gal 3:10, Deu 11:26-28, Exo 19:4). Paul got both his apostleship and message from God (Gal 1:10-12). Paul's life change gave him credibility (Gal 1:13-16). God equipped Paul like we have to be (Gal 1:17-24).
Scripture References: Galatians 2:16, Galatians 3:10, Acts 15:1-5, Galatians 1:9, Galatians 1:17-24, Galatians 1:5-6, Galatians 1:13-16, Romans 4:24-25, Galatians 1:10-12, Galatians 1:1-5, Exodus 19:4, Galatians 5:1, Deuteronomy 11:26-28
From Series: "Galatians - The Truth and Power of the Gospel - Hot Spring AR - 2009"
This series was given at Grace Bible Church of Hot Springs Arkansas in November 2009.