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 #29
Walking in dependence on the spirit is more than a moral life Gal 5:16-25. "Inheriting the kingdom" (Gal 5:21) refers to awards; salvation is a gift. Not all believers are joint heirs with Christ (Rom 8:17). Unsaved people are living a lie (that they don't need God). We have put away the lie (Eph 4:26) but can live like it - "Do not grieve the Spirit" (Eph 4:30). Five things happen at salvation by the Spirit: (1) baptism 1Co 12:13; (2) regeneration Joh 3:7, Titus 3:5; (3) indwelling Rom 8:9-11; (4) gifts 1Co 12:7; and (5) sealed Eph 1:13. The Holy Spirit is the guarantee of irrevocable "inheritance", common to believers 1Pe 1:24, Joh 14:3. We grieve the Spirit by doing things contrary to Truth. You still can't please God by avoiding the negatives. Doing the positives assures we "Do not quench the Spirit 1Th 5:11-19. Related commands: "Be filled by the Spirit" (Eph 5:18); with what? The Word Col 3:16. "Walk by the Spirit" (Gal 5:16). These are the only ways to "walk worthy" (Eph 4:1).
Scripture References: Ephesians 4:26, John 14:3, Romans 8:17, Ephesians 1:13, Galatians 5:21, Romans 8:9-11, Ephesians 4:1, Galatians 5:16-25, Titus 3:5, Galatians 5:16, John 3:7, Colossians 3:16, Ephesians 4:30, Ephesians 5:18
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.