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 - December 21, 1998
Upper Room Discourse #4
In his epistle, John comments on Joh 13:34-45 -- the new commandment: (1) love perfected in us ( 1Jo 2:5-6). (2) Love is real in Him and in you (1Jo 2:7:10). (3) "In Him" with John means abide in Christ. Love perfected is the "stigmata" or mark of Christ (1Jo 3:10-12). (4) Love is manifested of Christ in our life (1Jo 3:16-17). (5) Manifest to the world (1Jo 4:12-13). (6) Love gives us boldness at the Judgment seat (1Jo 2:28, 1Jo 4:17-19). (7) Love will lead us to be intercessors for others (1Jo 5:14-15). Keeping His commands by the Holy Spirit (Joh 14:15-21). You cannot separate the work of the Spirit without scripture. Spirit is teacher (Joh 14:26-27); Spirit is witness (Joh 15:26-27, Joh 16:7-11). It's our advantage to have the Spirit as our guide (Joh 16:12-16).
Scripture References: John 4:17-19, John 16:12-16, John 13:34-45, John 2:28, John 16:7-11, John 4:12-13, John 15:26-27, John 3:16-17, John 14:26-27, John 3:10-12, John 14:15-21, John 2:7, John 5:14-15, John 2:5-6
From Series: "The Upper Room"
Originally given in Tucson AZ in August 2007 this series amplifies the crux of Christian doctrine as delivered by Jesus to His disciples in John chapters 13 through 17 - the Upper Room.