The Hidden Hand of Providence?A Study in the Book of Esther — PA Conference 2014
Gene Cunningham - June 9, 2003
Ephesians #9
Ephesians is a book of praise to God regarding His benefits to us. Ephesians 2:1-22 theme is salvation. Were were dead by nature, our way of life, and God's condemnation (Eph 2:1-5, Eph 1:12. We are spiritually dead at birth 1Co15:22. What did God do? (Eph 2:4-7). Salvation is a work for the dead in trespasses and sin (Eph 2:1-3) . Salvation is a threefold work of a triune God -- Love is an expression of Father, Mercy is the cross, Grace is applied from the Spirit (Eph 2:4-8). Salvation deals with three aspects of our experience related to time - the point of salvation, the duration of life, and eternity (Eph 2:7-10). Salvation was undertook by God for those far off and near -- Jew and Gentile (Eph 2:11-13). Salvation is building a household (Eph 2:19-22).
The anatomy of praise (Psa 103:1-22) is a recognition of God's valuable attributes, His Worth -- the reasons we appreciate Him. We need to site the reasons for our thankfulness (Psa 138:1-8). Eph 2:10 reflects the outline of Ephesians - chapters 1 through 3 "created in Christ" and chapters 4 through 6 "for good works ... that we should walk in them".
Scripture References: Ephesians 2:7-10, Ephesians 2:4-8, Ephesians 2:1-3, Psalms 138:1-8, Ephesians 2:4-7, Psalms 103:1-22, Ephesians 1:12, Ephesians 2:19-22, Ephesians 2:1-5, Ephesians 2:11-13
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.