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 - December 2, 2006
Colossians Lesson 21
Scripture References: Luke 11:24, Romans 13:14, Romans 6:13, Colossians 3:5-17, Colossians 1:5-8, 1 Corinthians 2:16, Luke 21:28, Romans 6:11, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Isaiah 55:8-9, Romans 12:2, 1 Corinthians 10:5, Philippians 3:14, Colossians 3:9-10, Colossians 3:11-17, Jude 1:23
From Series: "Colossians - 2006"
Paul never met the Colossians but wrote to them from a Roman prison around 62 AD to counter misconceptions of his day. It magnifies the character of Jesus Christ more than any other book in the New Testament, and counters misconceptions of our day as well. The key verse may well be Col 1:18 "...that in all things, He might have preeminence."