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 - September 11, 2000
Elijah #6
A cry for and assurance of revival (Psa 119:25-32). To Ahab the apostate, Elijah the prophet was the troublemaker (1Ki 18:17-18). Jesus tells His brothers that the world hates Him, but won't hate them (Joh 7:7, Luk 23:5). Amos was hated (Amo 7:10). Paul and Silas were troublemakers (Act 16:20, Act 17:6). If you can read these passages and not be troubled then you fit into the world too well (Mat 5:3-12, Luk 6:20-23). After the Babylonian captivity Ezra led the people back to the land during restoration (Ezr 9:4-11). Ahab was one of the kings who facilitated their destruction. Oswald Chambers led a revival among the light horseman of Australia. That calvary freed Palestine under General Allenby during WWII. Elijah took a confident stand of faith in the face of 450 false prophets (1Ki 18:19-24, Jos 1:9, 1Jo 4:4, 2Ki 6:16). The irony of Elijah's challenge to the false prophets is that Baal was "the God of fire" (1Ki 18:24-35). The "evening sacrifice" a lamb was to be offered. Elijah prepared his sacrifice in the pattern of the cross and asked the Jews to join in (1Ki 18:36-37, Heb 10:23-24). The revival started (1Ki 18:38-40).
Scripture References: Acts 17:6, Hebrews 10:23-24, Acts 16:20, John 4:4, Amos 7:10, Joshua 1:9, Luke 23:5, Ezra 9:4-11, John 7:7, Luke 6:20-23, Psalms 119:25-32, Matthew 5:3-12
From Series: "Elijah"
Elijah's life shows us the keys to spiritual power: the power of God's Word faith prayer revival and failure.