The Scripture makes it very clear that as we focus on purity we experience power from above. Paul stressed this in his final letter to his understudy Timothy. “Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter [i.e., “iniquity”], he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work” (2Ti 2:21). How? The process is simple: God the Father works through the Son. The Son works through the Holy Spirit. The Spirit works through the Word. The Word works through the believer. The believer works through living faith.
Gene Cunningham - June 9, 2003
Ephesians #2
Eph 1:1-4 The will and work of God is highlighted in Chapter 1 (Eph 1:5, Eph 1:9, Eph 1:11). The trinity is noted in every chapter. This lesson includes biblical principles regarding church discipline -- restoring a member who is sinning (Gal 6:1-2). Method of restoring is covered in Mat 18:15-20. Private sins should be dealt with privately -- public sins publicly.Mat 15:18 "binding" on earth reflects what has been bound in heaven if handled biblically. To those that fall into sin, Satan tries to numb them to the damaging effects of sin (Rom 16:17-20). However, if you deal with it wisely (be obedient and separate as necessary), Satan will be crushed. There's a difference in dealing with family, than someone on the outside (1Co 5:9-13). "Judging" and exercising "judgement" is different; Paul says to apply scripture. Biblical separation is in order (breaking fellowship); God does the discipline (2Th 3:6-15, Eph 5:8-21). The call to a believer in darkness ("sleep-death") is to "awake" (Eph 5:14) or die the sin unto death (1Jo 5:16).
Scripture References: Ephesians 1:11, Ephesians 5:14, Ephesians 1:9, Ephesians 5:8-21, Ephesians 1:5, Romans 16:17-20, Ephesians 1:1-4, Matthew 15:18, Matthew 18:15-20, Galatians 6:1-2, John 5:16
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.