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 #10
Eph 2:8-10 Salvation is deliverance. We need daily deliverance (Jam 1:21, Rom 7:24) "the word is able to save your souls". Salvation is entirely initiated by God "by Grace" (Eph 1:4, Eph 2:8). "By Grace you have been saved...". Mercy paves the way for Grace. GRACE = "God's Riches At Christ's Expense". "... through faith..." Salvation is secured through Jesus Christ. He took the hostility for us (1Jo 3:8, Heb 2:9, 2Co 5:21). A spiritual transition took place at salvation (1Col 1:12-13, Co1 15:22, Joh 3:7). Salvation (righteousness) is given by God and received (peace) by faith (Psa 85:9-13, Joh 1:10). Salvation is a free gift "...and that not of yourself; it is a gift of God..." (Rom 6:23, Rom 3:24, Joh 1:12, Jam 1:17). "...not of works, lest any one should boast" means there's nothing we can do to earn it (Rom 4:5). Salvation empowers us to do good works (Eph 1:10). We are God's masterpiece;"...created in Christ Jesus..." (Tit 3:5, Mat 19:28, 2Co 5:17). God's goal having created us is good works (not things we do -- things God does). Walking means walk of dependence (Rom 8:4, Gal 5:16), by faith (2Co 5:7), in good works (Eph 2:10), walking worthy (Eph 4:1), and in the sphere of love (Eph 5:1), as children of light (Eph 5:8), and in wisdom (Eph 5:15-18).
Scripture References: Titus 3:5, John 3:8, Ephesians 5:1, John 1:10, Ephesians 1:10, Ephesians 2:8, Ephesians 4:1, Psalms 85:9-13, Romans 4:5, Ephesians 1:4, Ephesians 2:10, John 3:7, James 1:17, Romans 7:24, Galatians 5:16, Colossians 15:22, John 1:12, James 1:21, Romans 8:4, Colossians 1:12-13, Ephesians 5:15-18, Romans 3:24, Ephesians 2:8-10, Matthew 19:28, Hebrews 2:9, Ephesians 5:8, Romans 6:23
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.