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 #15
The two prayers in Ephesians: Eph 1:15-19 for enlightenment and Eph 3:14-21 prayer for enabling. Foundation, past work on our behalf is being rooted and grounded in Love (Eph 3:17, Eph 1:6). 4 requests: (1) to be strengthened by His Spirit -- delegate power -- to the inner man; (2) that Christ may dwell in your hearts (Joh 15:4, Joh 14:23); (3) be able to comprehend -- to latch onto -- the width, length, depth, and height -- the dimensions of the work of Christ on the cross; (4) to be filled with the fullness of God. Fullness mentioned 5 times - a) the reign Eph 4:10, b) the role of church Eph 1:23, c) the riches of His Love Eph 3:19, d) the rule of maturity (Eph 3:11, Eph 4:11-13), and the right of the Holy Spirit (Eph 5:18). Eph 3:20 is the doxology - that the operational power work in us. Paul's prayers for himself are not that God remove his circumstances Eph 6:19-20.
Scripture References: Ephesians 1:6, Ephesians 3:11, Ephesians 3:17, Ephesians 3:19, Ephesians 3:14-21, Ephesians 1:23, Ephesians 6:19-20, Ephesians 1:15-19, Ephesians 4:10, Ephesians 3:20, John 14:23, Ephesians 5:18, John 15:4, Ephesians 4:11-13
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.