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 11, 2018
Mystery of Godliness #2
From Series: "The Mystery of Godliness -- May 2018"
Basic Training Bible Ministries and Gene Cunningham present The Mystery of Godliness from May 11–13, 2018 in Winchester, Virginia. The statement of Paul in 1 Timothy 3:16 declares that “without controversy great is the mystery of godliness.” The “mystery” began with the birth of Jesus Christ, the eternal Word, becoming flesh. The earthly life of Christ then became the template—the standard for the Christian life lived out through the indwelling and filling ministry of the Holy Spirit. The end result, again defined by the apostle, is the resulting dynamic that “Christ lives in me” (Galatians 2:20). The objective of this study will be to bridge the gap between the historical reality of the Incarnation and the spiritual potential for every Christian.