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 - February 13, 2000
Cross to the Crown #2
Discipleship a life decision (Mat 28:18-20) to "Observe" all things commanded us. Heb 10:25 "not forsaking the assembly" is one command. Without the body -- church -- we cannot: (1) submit to authority (Heb 13:17, 1Ti 5:17, Tit 1:5); (2) celebrate ordinances (1Co 11:2); (3) be greatest witness to the world (Joh 13:35); (4) someone has to go and someone send (Mat 28:18-20); (5) body functions as a team (Act 2:41-47); (6) personal responsibility -- spiritual gift for building up of the body (1Co 12:7; Eph 4:7); (7) building up of the body (Mat 15:18, Eph 4:11); (8) obey 26 one another commands. Discipleship means: (1) childlike faith (Mat 11:28-29), study of the Word for application -- become your own student -- Christ is the focus; (2) "If you abide in My Word you are My disciples" (Joh 8:30-31, Eph 3:16, Gal 2:20). The world is our biggest judge (Joh 15:6); (3) fruit bearing (Gal 5:22-23, Joh 15:8). Baptism assumes people have been brought to saving knowledge and decision for Christ (Mat 11:28). Teaching equips. Focus is "observe" -- to keep by doing -- application.
Scripture References: Ephesians 4:7, Galatians 2:20, Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 2:41-47, Ephesians 3:16, Matthew 28:18-20, John 8:30-31, Matthew 11:28, John 13:35, Matthew 11:28-29, John 15:8, Titus 1:5, Ephesians 4:11, Galatians 5:22-23, Hebrews 13:17, Matthew 15:18, John 15:6, Hebrews 10:25
From Series: "The Cross to the Crown"
To get from 'the cross to the crown' we need to make decisions to live a life of spiritual dynamics using God's provisions -- His Word and Spirit. This series given in early 2006 before Gene moved back to the States outlines ten aspects of our discipleship.