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 9, 2003
Ephesians #6
Eph 1:7-12 "redemption" means to set free a slave. Blood is idiomatic; He took our place as the perfect sacrifice. "forgiveness" includes imputation of sin to Christ and righteousness to us. 2Co 5:21 says the Father made Christ to be sin for us "according to the riches of His Grace". He made our riches to abound in Wisdom (1Co 1:18-30, Rom 1:17) -- the skill of living life God's way. Eph 1:9 "He made known to us" first through the Gospel, "the mystery of His will". Eph 1:10 the "Dispensation of the fullness of time -- the gathering of all things into Christ". Eph 1:11 "in Him" we have received an allotment (Rom 8:14, Rom 8:17; 1Pe 1:4). Eph 1:12 we are "to the praise of His Glory". 8 things about redemption in Eph 1:7-12: possession, price, subtraction, bounty, revelation, economy, inheritence, and worship.
Scripture References: Ephesians 1:9, Ephesians 1:7-12, Romans 1:17, Ephesians 1:12, Ephesians 1:7-12, Romans 8:17, Romans 8:14, Ephesians 1:11, Ephesians 1:10
From Series: "Ephesians"
More than any book Ephesians reveals the blessings from God based on our relationship with Jesus Christ by grace through faith. Eph 1:3 is the a key verse. Other key verses by chapter include Eph 2:8 Eph 3:19 Eph 4:1 Eph 5:18 and Eph 6:10-11.