STUDIESIN

THE BOOKOF

EPHESIANS

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RUINS AT EPHESUS

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INTRODUCTION TO EPHESIANS

I. AUTHOR of the book of EPHESIANS

A. The apostle PAUL is mentioned as the AUTHOR (Ephesians 1:1; 3:1)

B. The author called himself the “PRISONER OF THE LORD” (Ephesians 3:1; 4:1; 6:20)

1. The books of EPHESIANS, PHILIPPIANS, COLOSSIANS, and PHILEMONare called the “PRISON EPISTLES.”

2. NOTE the following passages that show these epistles to be the “prison epistles”(Ephesians 3:1; 4:1; Philippians 1:12-23; Colossians 4:3; Philemon 1:1; 13,Etc.

3. OBSERVE Paul’s imprisonment in Acts 27, 28.

4. Paul was IMPRISONED at least on FOUR DIFFERENT OCCASIONS andPLACES:

a. He was imprisoned in PHILIPPI (Acts 16:23-25)

b. Paul was imprisoned in JERUSALEM (Acts 21:33-23:32)

c. He was imprisoned in CAESAREA (Acts 23:33-26:32)

d. After the shipwreck, Paul was imprisoned in ROME (Acts 27:1-28:31)

5. The MOST LIKELY IMPRISONMENT in the PRISON EPISTLES is theimprisonment in ROME (Bruce, page 12)

C. HOW the apostle Paul is DESCRIBED in the book of EPHESIANS

1. He is described as an “APOSTLE” of Christ (Ephesians 1:1)

2. He is described as a “PRISONER” (Ephesians 3:1; 4:1)

3. Paul is described as the one who PROCLAIMED THE GOSPEL to the GENTILES (Ephesians 3:1-9)

4. He is described as the one who taught the ESSENTIALS of CHRISTIAN LIVING(Ephesians 4:17-32). He said, “This I say therefore and affirm with the Lord…”

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II. The PEOPLE WHO RECEIVED the book of EPHESIANS

A. There is a papyrus manuscript dated about 200 A. D. that does NOT contain the phrase“in Ephesus” in Ephesians 1:1.

B. The VATICAN and SINAIITIC MANUSCRIPTS of the FOURTH CENTURY alsoDO NOT have this phrase, “at Ephesus” or “in Ephesus.”

C. Marcion, a false teacher who wrote about 140 A. D., thought that this book was the letterto the LAODICEANS mentioned in Colossians (See Colossians 4:16)

D. The letter that is called “Ephesians” may be a GENERAL letter sent to several congregations in ASIA MINOR, and the church at Ephesus could be a MAJORRECIPIENT. It is noted that PETER wrote to congregations in several provinces(I Peter 1:1).

E. Please NOTE that there is only A SMALL AMOUNT OF PERSONAL INFORMATIONABOUT SPECIFIC PEOPLE in the book of EPHESIANS. See Ephesians 6:21, 22.

F. Whether the book was written ONLY to EPHESUS or to SEVERAL CHURCHES in that area, the book is a GREAT MASTERPIECE of the inspired apostle Paul.

G. NOTICE this statement by Boles; “….It is logical that it (Ephesians) would have been sent first to the leading City (Ephesus – Editor) (in Asia Minor), and from there copies would be circulated. It is likely, then, that Paul did send this epistle to the Ephesians, but, not to them alone” (Boles, page 183, Bruce, page 13).).

H. Observe also that inspired epistles were circulated among the churches (Colossians 4:16)

III. The DATE of the book of EPHESIANS

A. The book would be written approximately 62-64 A. D. F. F. Bruce suggests 60, 61 A. D.. during Paul’s ROMAN IMPRISONMENT (Bruce, page 12)

B. It is dated during the ROMAN IMPRISONMENT of Paul that is recorded in Acts 28:16-31.

IV. The EMPHASIS on the “CHURCH” in the book of EPHESIANS

A. This emphasis on the CHURCH in Ephesians is an emphasis on the “CHURCHUNIVERSAL.” It is the CHURCH as the UNIVERSAL “BODY” of Christ.

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B. FIGURES OF SPEECH in Ephesians that describe the “CHURCH”

1. In Ephesians, the CHURCH is compared to a PHYSICAL BODY(Ephesians 1:22, 23; 2:16; 4:4, 12, 16; 5:23, 30)

2. In Ephesians, the CHURCH is compared to a “BUILDING,” therefore,an ARCHITECTURAL FIGURE (Ephesians 2:19-22)

3. In this book, the CHURCH is emphasized as a FAMILY. It is the “BRIDE”of Christ (Ephesians 5:22-33)

V. The UNITY THAT MUST BE FOUND IN THE CHURCH

A. In Ephesians, the CHURCH is pictured as composed of BOTH JEWS AND GENTILES UNITED IN CHRIST (Ephesians 2:11-22)

B. The CHURCH is a UNIFIED BODY in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 1:22, 23;2:14-16; 4:1-6)

C. There are several uses of the word, “ONE” in the text of EPHESIANS

1. “ONE” new man (2:15)

2. “ONE” body (2:16; 4:4), “ONE” Spirit, (2:18; 4:4), “ONE” hope (4:4),“ONE” Lord (4:5), “ONE” faith (4:5), “ONE” baptism (4:5), “ONE”God and Father (4:6)

D. NOTE ALSO the use of the words, “EACH ONE,” “EACH PART,” etc.(4:7; 4:16; 5:33). These expressions emphasize UNITY!

E. UNITY is also emphasized by the words, “TOGETHR” or “WITH,” etc.

1. “ALIVE TOGETHER” (3:5), 2. “HEIRS TOGETHER” (3:6), “Fellow heirs”3. “MEMBERS TOGETHER” (3:6), “Fellow members of the body”4. “PARTNERS” (3:6), “Fellow partakers of the promise….”

F. The word, “UNITY” is found TWICE in Ephesians, (4:3, 13). The UNITY of Christians is emphasized much in Ephesians and throughout the New Testament..

G. The word, “PEACE” is also emphasized in the book of EPHESIANS

1. Bringing JEWS and GENTILES together in Christ and in “PEACE” (2:14-17)

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2. The “BOND OF PEACE” (4:3)

3. The “GOSPEL OF PEACE” (6:15)

VI. EPHESIANS has many SIMILARITIES to the book of COLOSSIANS

A. About 1/3 of the words in Colossians are also found in EPHESIANS (Weed, page 111)

B. EXAMINE the following SIMILARITIES in EPHESIANS and COLOSSIANS:

EPHESIANS COLOSSIANS

2:12 1:21 2:14 1:20 3:5, 6 1:26, 27 5:20 3:17, etc. etc.

VII. Consider the USAGE of the word, “MYSTERY” in the book of EPHESIANS

A. A “MYSTERY” in the Scriptures refers to that which was “formerly CONCEALED,”but is NOW “REVEALED.” NOTE how the prophets of the Old Testament did NOTunderstand God’s great salvation through Christ (I Peter 1:10-12)

B. The word, “MYSTERY” is used in Ephesians to refer to GOD’S GREAT PURPOSEIN CHRIST (Ephesians 1:9)

C. It refers to the UNITING OF JEWS AND GENTILES IN CHRIST (Ephesians 3:4-6)

D. It is used in the COMPARISON of MARRIAGE to the relationship of CHRIST andHIS CHURCH (Ephesians 5:32). Note Ephesians 5:22-33.

VIII. SOME NOTES concerning the CITY OF EPHESUS

A. Ephesus was the leading city in the Roman Province of ASIA.

B. It was located at the intersection of TWO TRADE ROUTES. Therefore, it was aleading commercial center.

C. The temple and worship of ARTEMIS (Diana) was located there. Note Acts 19.

D. The great “stadium” or amphitheatre in Ephesus would seat between 25,000 and50,000 people. That theatre is still there in the ruins of Ephesus.

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E. Some estimates suggest that as many as 330,000 people lived there in the days of Paul.This included a large number of Jewish people.

F. The Scriptures teach that the apostle Paul taught for two years in the lecture hall ofTYRANNUS (Acts 19:9, 10).

G. A RIOT took place that was caused by the loss of business in the making of images of ARTEMIS (Acts 19:20-41).

IX. NOTE a possible SERIES OF CHRONOLOGICAL EVENTS concerning EPHESIANS,COLOSSIANS, and PHILEMON

A. During his imprisonment in ROME, Paul converted a RUNAWAY SLAVE namedONESIMUS. See the book of PHILEMON.

B. A FALSE TEACHING was brought into the church in COLOSSEE. Paul wrote thebook of COLOSSIANS. Study Colossians 1:3-12 concerning information fromEpaphras (Colossians 2:8, etc.) Colossee was the “home town” of Onesimus (Colossians 4:9).

C. Paul sent ONESIMUS back to Philemon, no longer as a slave, but as a belovedbrother (Philemon 9-17)

D. Perhaps, Paul then wrote EPHESIANS, intending for it to be circulated among thechurches of Asia Minor (Boles, page 185).

AN OUTLINE OF THE BOOK OF EPHESIANS

God’s Wonderful Plan For The Salvation Of Man (Ephesians 1:1-3:21)

I. God’s Spiritual Blessings In Christ (1:1-23)

A. Salutation (1:1, 2)B. The PRESENT BLESSINGS in Christ (1:3-14)C. Possible Blessings in Christ (1:15-23)

II. The Salvation Which Comes From God (2:1-22)

A. Salvation From SIN (2:1-10)B. Salvation From ENMITY and SEPARATION (Jew and Gentile) (2:11-22)

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III. God’s PARTICIPATION In This SALVATION (Ephesians 3:1-21)

A. The Lord was working THROUGH PAUL (3:1-13)B. God is AT WORK in ALL OF HIS DISCIPLES (3:14-21)

RESPONSIBILITIES of ALL DISCIPLES (Ephesians 4:1-6:24)

I. The Christian’s LIFE in the CHURCH (4:1-16)

A. UNITY in the BODY (4:1-6)B. Different RESPONSIBILITIES in the BODY (4:7-11)C. The NEED for MATURITY in the BODY (4:12-16)

II. The PERSONAL LIFE of the DISCIPLE (Ephesians 4:17-5:21)

A. “OUT WITH THE OLD MAN!” The “NEW MAN” in Christ (4:17-24)B. The LIFE OF ALL MEMBERS in ONE BODY (4:25-32)C. Walking In LOVE (5:1, 2)D. Walking In LIGHT (5:3-14)E. Walking In WISDOM (5:15-21)

III. The DISCIPLE in his DOMESTIC LIFE (Ephesians 5:22-6:9)

A. HUSBANDS and WIVES (5:22-33)B. CHILDREN and their PARENTS (6:1-4)C. SLAVES and their MASTERS (6:5-9)

IV. The SPIRITUAL WARFARE of the DISCIPLE of CHRIST (Ephesians 6:10-24)

A. The ENEMY which we must FACE (6:10-12)B. The ARMOR of the Lord (6:13-18)C. The FAREWELL of the apostle Paul (6:19-24) (Boles, pages 187, 188)

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REVIEW QUESTIONS ON THE INTRODUCTION TO EPHESIANS

1. Please give the names of the FOUR “PRISON EPISTLES.”

2. Describe FOUR OCCASIONS when Paul was IMPRISONED.

3. How does PAUL DESCRIBE HIMSELF in the book of Ephesians?

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4. WHY do Biblical scholars feel that the book of “Ephesians” may be a GENERALEPISTLE that was sent to several congregations in the Province of Asia?

5. What is the suggested DATE of the writing of the book of Ephesians?

6. What “FIGURES OF SPEECH” are used in Ephesians to describe the “CHURCH?”

7. Please identify and DISCUSS several passages in Ephesians that emphasize the ”UNITY” ofthe CHURCH.

8. DISCUSS HOW the word, “PEACE” is used in the book of Ephesians.

9. Which New Testament book is so VERY SIMILAR to Ephesians in a number of verses?

10. How is the word, “MYSTERY” used in Ephesians? What great TRUTH does it include?

11. Please DESCRIBE the CITY of EPHESUS which existed in Paul’s day.

12. What are the TWO MAJOR DIVISIONS into which we divided the book of Ephesians?

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NOTES ON THE BOOK OF EPHESIANS

GOD’S GREAT PLAN FOR MAN’S SALVATION THROUGH CHRIST(Ephesians 1:1-3:21)

I. The SPIRITUAL BLESSINGS of God “in Christ” (Ephesians 1:1-23)

A. The GREETING of the apostle Paul (Ephesians 1:1, 2)

1. Paul was an “APOSTLE” (1:1). This word means one who is “sent forth” ona mission. NOTE Mark 3:14. Paul was “sent forth” to the GENTILES(Acts 26:16-18; Romans 15:16-18)

2. His calling was according “by the will o God” (1:1)

a. He had been the “chief” of sinners, SAVED BY THE GRACE OF GOD(I Timothy 1:12-16)

b. Consider Paul’s feelings about this as noted in Ephesians 3:6-8; I Corinthians 15:8-10 and I Timothy 1:1. Paul was a “SINNERSAVED BY GRACE”

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3. NOTE that TIMOTHY is NOT MENTIONED in this greeting as he is in the Colossian epistle (Colossians 1:1).

4. Paul was writing to “SAINTS,” or “holy ones,” those purified by the blood of Jesus (1:1). (Arndt and Gingrich Greek Lexicon, pages 9, 10). NOTE:In the following pages, this GREEK Lexicon will be abbreviated “A. and G.”

a. The Greek word for “SAINTS,” (hagioi) may be used as an ADJECTIVE to mean “HOLY,” those consecrated to God through Jesus’ blood(I Peter 1:15, 16).

b. But, this word is also used as a NOUN and is translated “SAINTS” or “HOLY ONES” (Philippians 1:1)

c. Observe that Christians are called “SAINTS” several times in the book of EPHESIANS (1:1; 1:15; 2:19; 3:8; 3:18; 4:12; 5:3; 6:18).

5. These “saints” are also “FAITHFUL BRETHREN” (1:1)

a. The word, “pistis” (faithful) comes from the word which means to “believein.” These brothers in Christ are “believers.” They are “trustworthy.” (A. and G. pages 670, 671)

b. “Believers were OBEDIENT “believers” (Acts 2:36-38, 44-47)

c. “Believing” in the Scriptures describes those who FOLLOW JESUS(John 3:36)

6. These “faithful brothers,” who were “saints,” were “IN CHRIST JESUS” (1:1)

a. Please COUNT the number of times that the phrase “IN CHRIST” or“IN HIM,” or “IN THE BELOVED,” or similar terms are found inEphesians 1:1-14. HOW MANY DID YOU FIND?

b. This phrase, “IN CHRIST” means “THROUGH CHRIST,” through WHAT JESUS DID FOR MAN’S SALVATION.

c. BUT, this phrase, “IN CHRIST” also means “in a relationship with Christ.” Examine II Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 1:14; II Timothy 2:10; I John 5:11, 12, etc.

d. NOTE ALSO that people are “baptized into Christ” (Romans 6:1-4;Galatians 3:26, 27).

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7. Concerning the phrase “at Ephesus” or “in Ephesus,” PLEASE SEE THEINTRODUCTION TO THIS STUDY.

8. Consider the words, “GRACE” and “PEACE” (Ephesians 1:2)

a. A common greeting in the Greek world was “chairein” as seen inActs 23:26.

b. However, the word here is “charis,” the word for “GRACE.” This refersto “God’s favor” which man does NOT DESERVE or MERIT. Seeits use in Ephesians 2:8, Romans 3:24, etc..

c. The word “PEACE” is “eirene” which would seem to be equivalent to the Hebrew word, “shalom.” It desires “well being of the soul” for the ones addressed (Judges 6:24). (Boles, page 189).

9. Note the beautiful thought of the “FATHER-HOOD,” of God in Ephesians

a. “Grace” and “Peace” from God, the “FATHER….” (1:1)

b. Observe the various times in Ephesians when the word “FATHER” is used(1:1; 1:2; 1:3, 1:17; 2:18; 3:14; 5:20; 6:23).

c. The “FATHER OF GLORY” is the One who RAISED Jesus from the dead, and made Him to be “HEAD” over all things to the CHURCH (Ephesians 1:17; 1:20; 1:22, 23)

d. There is ONE “FATHER” (Ephesians 4:6)

10. See also the emphasis on the “LORDSHIP” of Jesus in Ephesians

a. “Grace” and “Peace” from …. The Lord Jesus Christ (1:2)

b. “JESUS IS LORD” (Examine Ephesians 1:2, 3, 15, 17; 3:11; 4:1, 5, etc.)

c. The word, “LORD” was used also as the “OWNER OF A SLAVE.”The word, “Master” in Ephesians 6:5 is the word “kurios,” LORD.(A. and G. pages 459, 460).

d. WE ARE TO BE THE “SLAVES” OF THE “LORD” (II Corinthians4:5; II Timothy 2:24; Philippians 1:1, etc.)

B. The BLESSINGS which disciples NOW have “IN CHRIST” (Ephesians 1:2-14)

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1. It is true that material, PHYSICAL BLESSINGS come from GOD! (James 1:17;Deuteronomy 28:1-14).

2. NOTE: Ephesians 1:3-14, ALL OF THESE VERSES, consist of only ONEBEAUTIFUL SENTENCE in the Greek text.

3. Consider ALL of the SPIRITUAL BLESSINGS that are mentioned in theseTWELVE verses (Ephesians 1:3-14)

a. Christians are “CHOSEN,” the “ELECT” of God, CHOSEN “IN HIM”(1:4)

b. They are “PREDESTINED” to be the “adopted children of God (1:5)

c. Disciples are given “GRACE” by God (1:6)

d. Christians are “REDEEMED” and this redemption is “IN CHRIST”(1:7)

e. The Lord has “revealed” the “MYSTERY” of His will to them (1:9)

f. Christians have obtained the promise of the “INHERITANCE” (1:11)

g. They have been “sealed” with the HOLY SPIRIT of promise (1:13, 14)

3. The word, “BLESSED” (eulogetes), to “speak well,” means “PRAISE” be to God! (1:3). We PRAISE GOD for His GRACE, HIS GREATNESS, HISPOWER, etc. (A. and G. page 323).

4. These “SPIRITUAL BLESSINGS” are to be found “IN CHRIST!” (1:3)

a. “IN CHRIST” means “THROUGH CHRIST,” that is, through Jesus’SACRIFICE

b. BUT, ALSO, this phrase means that, when a person is “in Christ,” he is“incorporated into Jesus’ body, the church” (Weed, page 124).

c. NOTE the phrase “IN WHOM” that is used in Ephesians 1:7 and Colossians 1:14.

5. These “SPIRITUAL BLESSINGS” are found “in the heavenly places,” “theheavenlies.” This phrase is found FIVE times in the book of Ephesians(1:3; 1:20; 2:6: 3:10; 6:12). (Bruce, page 27).

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a. There is a great “spiritual realm,” an “eternal realm”

b. Christ RULES in the “heavenly places” (Ephesians 1:20)

c. Christians are SEATED with Christ in the “heavenly places” (2:6)

d. The CHURCH is to show God’s WISDOM to those who are in the“heavenly places” (3:10)

e. The Christian’s BATTLE against wickedness is in the “heavenly places” (6:12)

6. God’s PLAN to SAVE MEN THROUGH CHRIST was formed “BEFORE THE FOUNDATION OF THE WORLD” (Ephesians 1:4).

a. See this ETERNAL PLAN discussed in I Peter 1:20, Titus 1:2, 3 and herein Ephesians 3:10, 11.

b. PLEASE NOTE THIS IMPORTANT PRINCIPLE: God did NOT “ELECT” us, or “CHOSE” us arbitrarily WITHOUT the EXERCISE of our FREE WILL. We have the POWER to CHOOSE! (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:14-16; Luke 24:44-49;Luke 13:5; Acts 2:36-38; Acts 17:30, etc.)

c. God “FOREKNEW” those who would “CHOOSE” to come to Him.Someone has said, “GOD CHOOSES THOSE WHO CHOOSECHRIST!”

d. GOD HAS A WONDERFUL GOAL: He wants to present us toHimself “BLAMELESS” and “HOLY!” Note I Peter 1:15, 16.GOD WANTS A “HOLY PEOPLE!”

e. Therefore, OUR ETERNAL DESTINY DEPENDS ON OUR RESPONSE TO JESUS!

7. The phrase, “IN LOVE” (en agape) found in 1:4 may actually fit better into 1:5. That is, “IN LOVE, He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ….” (Bruce, pages 28, 29) This is God’s Will! He wants ALL TO BE SAVED! (I Timothy 2:3, 4; II Peter 3:9).

a. The word “PREDESTINED” (prooridzo) means to “set boundaries in advance.” God set the plan into action that, ALL WHO WILL

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COME TO CHRIST WILL BE SAVED! God “CHOSE” all of thosewho are “IN CHRIST!” (Boles, page 203)

b. NOTE AGAIN: The phrase, “IN CHRIST,” or “IN HIM,” or “IN THEBELOVED” is found about ELEVEN TIMES in Ephesians 1:1-14.It is only “THROUGH HIM” and “IN HIM” that mankind is saved.

8. The GOAL IS: “TO THE PRAISE OF THE GLORY OF HIS GRACE”(Ephesians 1:6). This GRACE was “bestowed on us in the Beloved” (Jesus).

a. Notice that this joyous statement, “To the praise of His glory” is also found in 1:12, 14.

b. Everything in SALVATION is centered “in the BELOVED!” NOTE: “This is My Beloved Son in whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17; 17:5). NOTE the “kingdom of God’s dear Son” (Colossians 1:13).

9. Man’s “REDEMPTION” is “IN CHRIST” (1:7). Note: “In whom….”

a. To “REDEEM” is to PAY THE PRICE TO FREE A SLAVE. TheSINNER is set free from the “SLAVERY” of sin (Romans 6:16-18)(A. and G. page 95).

b. The “PRICE” that Jesus paid to “REDEEM” the SINNER is the BLOODof Jesus (I Peter 1:18, 19). He gave His life as a “RANSOM” (Matthew 20:28)

c. AN IMPORTANT POINT: The payment for SIN WAS NOT MADE TOSATAN!

d. JESUS PAID THE PRICE OF HIS OWN BLOOD TO SATISFY GOD’SJUSTICE! (Boles, page 206)

e. “Forgiveness” of “trespasses” is the total “blotting out” of man’stransgressions (1:7) (See Colossians 1:14)

f. God has a “WEALTH” of GRACE! (1:7). The “RICHES” of His GRACE! Observe the “RICHES of His grace” also in 2:7, the “WEALTH” of His GLORY (3:16), and the “WEALTH” of HisKINDNESS (Romans 2:4).

10. God’s GRACE has been POURED OUT ON HIS PEOPLE “OVER-FLOWINGLY” (Ephesians 1:8).

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a. Where SIN ABOUNDED, GRACE “ABOUNDED” EVEN MORE!(Romans 5:20)

b. See again the “RICHES” of God’s GRACE in the previous verse (Ephesians 1:7)

11. God has BLESSED man so much by REVEALING the “MYSTERY” of the ages, SALVATION IN CHRIST (Ephesians 1:9)

a. The word, “MYSTERY,” (musterion), means a “SECRET.” It was a“Secret” until GOD CHOSE TO REVEAL IT (Ephesians 3:4, 5, 9).

b. NO ONE knew in “ages past” what God’s MYSTERY REALLY MEANT. Examine SALVATION through Christ that was NOT understood by the prophets of long ago (I Peter 1:10-12)

c. God’s “KIND INTENTION” (eudokia) is also seen in Ephesians 1:5. Itwas truly God’s “PLEASURE” to save man through Christ.

12. The word, “ADMINISTRATION” (“oikonomia”) (1:10) comes from a word which refers to the “wise ruling or governing of a FAMILY (Boles, page 208). (Also A. and G. page 562). God’s “MASTER PLAN” was to go into effect in harmony and according to God’s TIMETABLE. Study this thought in Galatians 4:4 and Titus 1:2, 3.

a. God’s PLAN was to “SUM UP” all things in Christ! Truly, as Jesus saidon the CROSS, “IT IS FINISHED!” (John 19:30)

b. JESUS is “HEAD” over ALL THINGS concerning the CHURCH(Ephesians 1:22, 23)

c. “ALL THINGS” can be “RECONCILED” only through Christ(Colossians 1:20)

13. Christians have obtained an “INHERITANCE” (Ephesians 1:11)

a. The American Standard Version translates it, “In whom also we weremade a heritage…”

b. This verse, (1:11) may also convey the idea that disciples are “theinheritance of God.” Study Deuteronomy 9:26 and 32:9. It is truethat God “inherits His people.” (Bruce affirms this, page 33).

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c. We, as Christians, are a people for “GOD’S POSSESSION”(Titus 2:14). TRULY, “WE GET HEAVEN, AND GOD GETS US” (Boles, page 209).

d. The word, “PREDESTINED” in this passage is the same Greek wordthat is found in 1:5. God has determined the “boundaries” of HisWill. People are “CHOSEN” “IN CHRIST!”

e. GOD IS IN COMPLETE CONTROL! Everything is in harmony withHis WILL!

14. Consider those “WHO WERE THE FIRST TO HOPE IN CHRIST” (1:12)

a. The Scriptures say that CHRIST IS “OUR HOPE” (Colossians 1:27;I Timothy 1:1)

b. The JEWS were the “FIRST” to receive this “HOPE” (Romans 1:15)

c. THEN, the “GENTILES” (Ephesians 2:11-22). (Bruce, page 34).

d. We “PRAISE” the splendor, the glory of GOD’S GRACE! NOTEAGAIN: Ephesians 1:6 and 14.

15. The phrase, “YOU ALSO….” may refer to GENTILES! (1:13). ExamineEphesians 2:11-18. BOTH JEWS AND GENTILES SHARE IN THE GREAT “MYSTERY” OF GOD!

a. GENTILES are “fellow members,” and “fellow heirs” and “fellowpartakers” of the PROMISE IN CHRIST JESUS THROUGH THEGOSPEL! (3:5, 6)

b. ALL DISCIPLES “LISTENED” to the “MESSAGE” of “TRUTH!”

c. This “MESSAGE” is the “GOSPEL OF YOUR SALVATION!” Studyalso Romans 1:16; I Corinthians 15:1-4; Acts 19:10.

d. This “MESSAGE” was “BELIEVED!” Biblical belief is always aRESPONSIVE TRUST, and NOT JUST A “MENTAL ACCEPTANCE” IN ONE’S MIND! (John 3:36).

e. These “BELIEVERS,” these “DISCIPLES,” were “SEALED” with theHOLY SPIRIT OF PROMISE! (Acts 2:38; 5:32; II Corinthians1:21, 22; Galatians 4:4-6; Romans 8:9-11, etc.).

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16. The HOLY SPIRIT is a “PLEDGE” of our INHERITANCE (1:14)

a. The word, “PLEDGE” is similar to a “DOWN PAYMENT” on a purchasesuch as a PIECE OF LAND. It is similar to some PRECIOUSPOSSESSION that is given to the SELLER until the FULL PRICEis completely paid (A. and G. page 109).

b. The Greek word for “PLEDGE” is the modern Greek word for anENGAGEMENT RING (Bruce, page 37). Therefore, the presenceof the Holy Spirit is a “FORETASTE OF HEAVEN!”

c. Christians look forward to God’s “full redemption” and God’s “possession” of His people. BECAUSE OF THIS, WE “PRAISE GOD!”

C. POTENTIAL FUTURE BLESSINGS “IN CHRIST” (Ephesians 1:15-23)

1. Paul desired EVEN MORE BLESSINGS FOR HIS BROTHERS ANDSISTERS!

2. The apostle Paul had HEARD of their FAITH and LOVE for the SAINTS(Ephesians 1:15).

a. It is to be noted that Paul HAD NOT SEEN the EPHESIAN ChristiansFOR A FEW YEARS!

b. ALSO, this epistle would possibly be READ THROUGHOUT ASIAMINOR to people whom PAUL DID NOT KNOW!

c. NOTE: Our “FAITH” and “LOVE FOR ALL THE SAINTS” are sovery important in our Christian “WALK!” (II Thessalonians 1:3;Philemon 5; Colossians 1:4).

d. Observe how important BROTHERLY LOVE really is: (John 13:34, 35;Hebrews 13:1; I John 3:14-19; 4:9-11; 4:18-21, etc.)

3. PAUL PRAYED SO VERY MUCH FOR HIS BRETHREN (Ephesians 1:16).

a. Perhaps, five or six years had passed since Paul had LAST SEEN hisbrothers and sisters in Christ at Ephesus, BUT, HE WAS STILLPRAYING FOR THEM!

b. Notice the PRAYER LIFE of the APOSTLE PAUL

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(1) He taught Christians to PRAY (I Thessalonians 5:17;I Timothy 2:1, 2)

(2) He PRAYED so much for his brothers and sisters (Romans 1:8;Philippians 1:3; Colossians 1:3; I Thessalonians 1:2; II Thessalonians 1:3; Philemon 4).

4. Paul PRAYED to the “FATHER” of the LORD JESUS CHRIST (1:17)

a. JESUS called God, “MY FATHER,” and “MY GOD” (John 20:17)

b. God is the “FATHER” whom Jesus “REVEALED” (John 1:18)

c. God is the “FATHER OF GLORY!” (See also Ephesians 1:6)

d. Paul prayed that his READERS would be blessed with a “spirit ofwisdom and revelation,” that they WOULD KNOW THE LORDBETTER!

e. Some writers believe that the word, “SPIRIT” here refers to the HolySpirit rather than an “attitude” or “disposition.” Certainly, it is truethat the Holy Spirit has “REVEALED” the Will of God (Ephesians3:4, 5; I Peter 1:10-12, etc.).

5. Paul PRAYED that his READERS (listeners) would have BETTER SPIRITUAL“EYESIGHT!” (Ephesians 1:18).

a. Paul wanted them to KNOW CLEARLY the “HOPE” to which the Lordhad called them. Certainly, they were walking “by faith” (II Corinthians 5:7).

b. Our HOPE for the future will produce “STEADFASTNESS” in ourChristian “WALK!” (I Thessalonians 1:3).

c. With reference to this, please examine Titus 1:2, 3; Romans 8:24, 25;and Ephesians 4:4, the “ONE HOPE!” IF WE UNDERSTAND OUR“HOPE” MORE CLEARLY, WE WILL BE HAPPIER HERE ONEARTH!

d. We truly need to see the “GLORY” of God’s “INHERITANCE!” He inherits us. God sees the CHURCH as a BEAUTIFUL “BRIDE!”(Ephesians 5:27) (Boles, page 215)

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6. Paul ALSO PRAYED that the BRETHREN would KNOW GOD’S POWER!(Ephesians 1:19).

a. God’s “INCOMPARABLE” POWER works in the BELIEVER! Studyalso Philippians 2:12, 13.

b. The word, “POWER” here is “dunamis” from which we get the Englishword, “DYNAMITE!” See this word also in Romans 1:16.

c. God, in His power, raised us to a “NEW LIFE” at our baptism(Romans 6:1-5).

d. May we also see GOD’S POWER at work in OUR SERVICE to Him(Ephesians 3:20, 21).

7. GOD’S POWER was seen MOST OF ALL in the RESURRECTION of JESUS(Ephesians 1:20).

a. The RESURRECTION of Jesus is the “HEART” of OUR MESSAGE(I Corinthians 15:1-4; Acts 17:30, 31; Romans 10:9; I Thessalonians1:8-10, etc.)

b. Jesus ASCENDED to “SIT” at the “RIGHT HAND OF THE FATHER”Jesus RULES in the “heavenly places!” (Acts 2:33-36; Hebrews 1:1-3; NOTE also Psalm 110:1).

c. The RESURRECTION OF JESUS is the FOUNDATION of our HOPE!(I Corinthians 15:12-19; I Peter 1:3, 4).

d. Jesus RULES in the “HEAVENLY PLACES!” Examine again Ephesians1:3 and 2:6. Even though Jesus RULES, there is still the SPIRITUALBATTLE that we must fight against Satan (Ephesians 6:12)

8. JESUS is EXALTED ABOVE “ALL RULE AND AUTHORITY AND POWERAND DOMINION,” BOTH HUMAN AND HEAVENLY! (Ephesians 1:21).

a. JESUS has a “NAME” that is SUPERIOR to EVERY NAME! NotePhilippians 2:9-11.

b. That “SUPERIORITY” is evident, NOT ONLY in “this age,” BUT ALSO,in the “age to come,” HEAVEN! This is true in spite of the fact thatSatan is called the “god of this age” (II Corinthians 4:4; John 12:31).

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9. JESUS is SUPREME IN GOD’S PLAN AS THE “HEAD” OF THE BODY, THECHURCH (Ephesians 1:22, 23).

a. ALL THINGS are in “SUBJECTION” to JESUS! This word, “subjection” is “hupotasso.” Note this word being used in Ephesians 5:21 (A. and G. pages 855, 856)..

b. The “HEAD” and the “BODY” receive great EMPHASIS in BOTH of theepistles to the Ephesians and Colossians (Ephesians 4:4; 5:22-33; Colossians 1:13-18; 1:24, etc.)

c. The VARIOUS MEMBERS of the “BODY” and their FUNCTIONSare emphasized in I Corinthians 12:12-31 and Romans 12:4-8.

d. Paul emphasized the “SUPREMACY” of CHRIST in Colossians 1:12-18.

(1) JESUS is “SUPREME” in “REDEMPTION” (Colossians 1:12-14)

(2) JESUS is “SUPREME” in CREATION (Colossians 1:15-17)

(3) JESUS is “SUPREME,” He is “PRE-EMINENT” in theCHURCH (Colossians 1:18)

e. The word, “CHURCH” (ekklesia) is used in Ephesians 1:22 in the“UNIVERSAL” SENSE. That is, it refers to GOD’S PEOPLE EVERYWHERE THROUGHOUT THE WORLD. See also Matthew 16:18.

f. NOTE the word “CHURCH” used in a LOCAL SENSE in Scripture suchas I Corinthians 1:2, “To the church of God which is at Corinth….”

g. The CHURCH is the “FULNESS” (pleroma) of CHRIST (1:23). This word means, “that which makes something full or complete” (A. and G. page 678). The Lord WORKS THROUGH HIS BODY! The church “complements” Christ, as the “BODY” does the “HEAD” (Bruce, page 45). The Lord depends on His people to serve and function as they should!

h. The word, “FULNESS” can also be understood “as that which is filled.”We can be “filled by Christ.” NOTE that we can also be “filled byGod” (Ephesians 3:19).

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REVIEW QUESTIONS ON EPHESIANS CHAPTER ONE

1. Paul called himself an “apostle” (Ephesians 1:1). What does this word mean?

2. Discuss the meaning of the word, “SAINTS” (1:1) which is used several times in Ephesians.

3. How many times is the phrase, “IN CHRIST,” “IN HIM,” “IN THE BELOVED,” or similar phrases used in Ephesians 1:3-14?

4. Give TWO meanings of the phrase, “IN CHRIST.”

5. Please discuss the “FATHER-HOOD” of God as it is found in Ephesians.

6. Discuss the ”LORDSHIP” of Jesus as it is found in Ephesians.

7. LIST all the “SPIRITUAL BLESSINGS” that you can find in Ephesians 1:3-14.

8. What is the meaning of the word, “BLESSED” that is found in Ephesians 1:3?

9. Please DISCUSS how the phrase, “HEAVENLY PLACES” is used in Ephesians.These usages help us to understand the meaning of the phrase.

10. Discuss HOW God “CHOOSES” us, and HOW His “CHOOSING” is related to our“FREE WILL.”

11. Give the meaning of the words, (1) “Predestined” (1:5, 11), (2) “Redemption” (1:7), and (3) “Administration” (1:10).

12. What “PRICE” was paid to obtain man’s “REDEMPTION?” See also I Peter 1:18, 19.

13. Please REVIEW the meaning of God’s great “MYSTERY” as noted in Ephesians1:9 and 3:1-11.

14. WHO were the ”FIRST” people to “HOPE” “IN CHRIST?” (1:12).

15. From Ephesians 1:13, what is the TRUE MESSAGE that we MUST PREACH?

16. WHO is the “DOWN PAYMENT” of our INHERITANCE? (1:13, 14).

17. From 1:15-23, please discover the wonderful things for which PAUL PRAYED.

18. How was GOD’S POWER displayed in a wonderful way? (1:20).

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19. As “HEAD” of the “BODY,” (1:22, 23), all things are in SUBJECTION to Christ.According to Colossians 1:12-18, in WHAT THREE AREAS is Jesus SUPREME?

20. What is the meaning of the word, “FULNESS” in Ephesians 1:23?

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NOTES ON EPHESIANS CHAPTER TWO

II. THE SALVATION THAT COMES FROM GOD (Ephesians 2:1-22)

A. SALVATION FROM SIN! (Ephesians 2:1-10).

1. The phrase, “AS FOR YOU….” in 2:1 probably refers primarily to GentileChristians.

a. They had been spiritually “DEAD” in their “trespasses” and “sins.”

b. They had been “ALIENATED” from God by their SIN (Isaiah 59:1, 2).The meaning of the word, “DEAD” suggests “SEPARATED.” This is seen in James 2:26, “The body WITHOUT the spirit is dead….”NOTE: The woman living in sin is “DEAD” while “she lives”(I Timothy 5:6).

c. NOTE: God’s POWER RAISED JESUS FROM PHYSICAL DEATH!GOD’S POWER CAN RAISE US FROM “SPIRITUAL DEATH!”(Ephesians 1:19, 20; Romans 6:1-5; Colossians 2:11-13).

d. The word, “trespasses” (paraptoma) means a failure to walk the right path.

e. “SINS” (hamartiai) literally means “MISSING THE MARK.” (2:1).“Every departure from the way of righteousness” (Arndt and Gingrich, page 42).

2. Their SINFUL ACTS had been a “WAY OF LIFE” (A. and G. page 655).They had “WALKED” (peripateo) in SIN. God wants us to “WALK” in righteousness (Ephesians 2:2). Study I John 2:6.

a. They had “WALKED” according to the “age of this world.”

b. NOTE: The word, “WORLD” (kosmos) is often used in Scripture for

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the “EVIL WORLD” of the PRESENT TIME. In this “WALK,” people are NOT CONCERNED about ETERNITY (I John 2:15-17).

c. The “RULER” of the “POWER OF THE AIR” is really SATAN. StudyJohn 12:31; 14:30; 16:11; II Corinthians 4:4.

d. An ATTITUDE of “DISOBEDIENCE” had been at work in their lives

3. Paul said that “ALL OF US” had been living like this (Ephesians 2:3)

a. The apostle Paul had pointed out to the Roman Christians that theGENTILES had been in SIN (Romans 1:18-32).

b. The JEWS also had been “WITHOUT EXCUSE” in their sin(Romans 2:1-3:23).

c. Paul spoke of “INDULGING THE DESIRES OF THE FLESH AND OFTHE MIND….” The MIND can sin through ANGER, PRIDE, IMMORAL DESIRES, etc. (Matthew 5:27, 28, Colossians 3:5-10, etc.)

d. Therefore, ALL WERE OBJECTS OF GOD’S “WRATH” (Romans 1:18; John 3:36). NOTE: “….The wrath of God abides (remains) on him!”

4. NOTICE THE CONDEMNATION OF MAN IN THESE VERSES ABOVE:

a. They were ‘DEAD” through SIN (2:1)

b. This was a “WAY OF LIFE” in which they walked (2:2)

c. They followed the WAY OF THE WORLD (2:2)

d. They followed EVIL SATAN (2:2)

e. They SHARED a “DISOBEDIENT SPIRIT” (2:2)

f. They all LIVED by SINFUL DESIRES (2:3)

g. These were SINFUL DESIRES of both BODY and MIND (2:3)(Boles, page 223)

5. BUT NOW --- EXAMINE GOD’S ATTITUDE (Ephesians 2:4)

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a. We NOTICE GOD’S GREAT LOVE (agape). FOR US! (Romans 5:8;I John 4:9, 10; John 3:16)

b. God is “RICH IN MERCY” TOWARD THOSE WHO ARE HELPLESS!God has great “PITY” on SINNERS! We do NOT “deserve” to besaved! It is “NOT on the basis of deeds which we have done….,”but on the basis of HIS MERCY! (Titus 3:5).

6. GOD made us “ALIVE” in CHRIST! (Ephesians 2:5).

a. NOTE: The “Prodigal Son” had been “DEAD” in that “far country” of SIN, but when he returned to his Father, he was “ALIVE!” (Luke 15:24, 32).

b. God had the POWER to RAISE JESUS FROM THE DEAD. We haveseen this in Ephesians 1:19-21. God has the POWER to make people,WHO ARE “DEAD” IN SIN, TO BE MADE “ALIVE” WITH CHRIST! The SINNER who is “DEAD” can “pass out of death into life” (See John 5:24).

c. ALL OF THIS is because of GOD’S GRACE! (2:5, 8). The verb, “YOUHAVE BEEN SAVED” is in the “perfect” tense in Greek which pointsout that the Ephesian disciples “HAD BEEN SAVED IN THE PAST BY GOD’S GRACE, AND THAT SAVED CONDITION CONTINUED UNTIL THE PRESENT WHEN PAUL WROTE! Study God’s GRACE also in Romans 3:24-31.

7. It is observed that the expression, “WITH CHRIST” or “WITH HIM” is found THREE TIMES in 2:5, 6. The disciples of Christ are in a wonderful “UNION” WITH CHRIST!

8. This great FELLOWSHIP with Christ is “in the heavenly places inChrist Jesus” (2:6). A QUESTION TO CONSIDER: AreChristians truly “Seated with Christ in the heavenly places NOW?” YES!Examine Ephesians 1:3 again.

9. The FUTURE is WONDERFUL! (Ephesians 2:7).

a. The “AGES TO COME” are ETERNITY! See Ephesians 1:21.

b. God will SHOW “THE SURPASSING RICHES OF HIS GRACE INKINDNESS TOWARD US IN CHRIST JESUS!”

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c. NOTE ONCE AGAIN that God’s GREAT LOVING-KINDNESS is ONLY “IN CHRIST JESUS!” Read Ephesians 1:3-14 again.

10. SALVATION is by “GRACE THROUGH FAITH” (Ephesians 2:8)

a. The “GRACE” of God is God’s “UNMERITED FAVOR.” The word,“charis” (grace), is related to the word, “charisma” (GIFT). Grace,therefore, is God’s “FAVOR” which man does NOT DFESERVE.

b. Thus, SALVATION is a “GIFT” that is NOT EARNED! It is NOT “SALARY” (Romans 4:1-4; Romans 6:23).

c. “FAITH” is man’s ACTIVE RESPONSE to the “RICHES” of God’sGRACE! (Ephesians 3:12, 17; John 3:36).

11. WHEN MAN OBEYS GOD, HE HAS NO REASON TO “BOAST!” (2:9)

a. Paul had just said in 2:8 , “….and that not of yourselves, it is the giftof God.”

b. Then, Paul said, “Not as a result of works THAT NO ONE SHOULDBOAST” (2:9). THIS PASSAGE IS VERY CLEAR: We cannotclaim that WE DID IT BY OURSELVES! It is GOD’S GIFT! Itis GOD’S GRACE, GOD’S FAVOR!

c. The Jerusalem Bible says in this passage, “SO THAT NOBODY CAN CLAIM THE CREDIT.”

d. God SAVES the SINNER, “NOT ON THE BASIS OF DEEDS WHICH WE HAVE DONE IN RIGHTEOUSNESS, BUT ACCORDING TO HIS MERCY, BY THE WASHING OF REGENERATION AND RENEWING BY THE HOLY SPIRIT” (Titus 3:5). Man’s OBEDIENCE is the RESPONSE OF FAITH! (Examine Romans 4:1-4; 3:24-27; Galatians 6:14).

e. The word, “WORKS” in Ephesians 2:9 refers to “MERITORIOUS WORKS” which are done by one who is seeking to “EARN” SALVATION. In that situation, if that could be done, HE COULD BOAST that he, by his “WORKS,” DESERVES TO BE SAVED. God would be “in debt” to him. THIS CANNOT BE!

12. “WORKS” OF SERVICE are a RESULT OF SALVATION (Ephesians 2:10).

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a. As a “NEW CREATURE,” a disciple of Jesus is God’s “workmanship,”the “PRODUCT of God,” the “WORK” of God.

b. “In the old order, sin produces death; In the new order, life producesgood works” (Boles, page, 227).

c. Disciples of Jesus must ALWAYS PRODUCE “FRUIT” (John 15:5, 8)

d. Our FAITH must ALWAYS be expressed in OUR ACTIONS (James2:14-26).

e. Our “WORKS” as disciples are prepared by God for us to do!(Titus 2:14). THEREFORE, “GOOD WORKS” ARE A PART OFGOD’S ETERNAL PLAN!

f. AGAIN, WE NOTE: ALL OF THIS IS “IN CHRIST JESUS!”

g. THIS IS THE “WAY OF LIFE” of the disciple. The disciple should practice “good works” in his daily life. He should “WALK” (peripatesomen) IN THEM!

B. SALVATION FROM SEPARATION (Jew and Gentile Alienation) (Ephesians 2:11-22).

1. God has CONQUERED SIN through the death of the Lord Jesus Christ. Hehas also CONQUERED DIVISION AMONG MEN

a. AN IMPORTANT PRINCIPLE: “IN CHRIST” there is neither Jew norGentile (Galatians 3:28).

b. The JEWS had really DESPISED the Gentiles and called them“FORESKIN” (Uncircumcised) (2:11). (Boles, page 229)

2. GENTILES were “ON THE OUTSIDE” (Excluded, Alienated) (2:12)

a. Gentiles had been “SEPARATED from Christ” even though God intended that “ALL NATIONS” should be blessed IN CHRIST (Genesis 12:1-3; (Galatians 3:8-16).

b. Gentiles were “OUTSIDE” the “CITIZENSHIP” of ISRAEL. The JEWSwere God’s SPECIAL PEOPLE (Read Romans 3:1, 2; Note God’schoosing of Israel as His “kingdom of priests” and a “holy nation” (Exodus 19:1-6)

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c. Gentiles were “STRANGERS” to the “COVENANTS OF PROMISE.”EXAMINE the THREE PART PROMISE that God made to Abraham,(1) A great nation, (2) The land o Canaan, and (3) The spiritual promise to “bless all nations” through a descendant of Abraham(Genesis 12:1-7). NOW, See the promise of a NEW COVENANT(Jeremiah 31:31-34).

d. Gentiles were “WITHOUT HOPE” and “WITHOUT GOD” in theirIDOLATRY. They DID NOT KNOW GOD! Truly, CHRIST ISTHE ONLY “HOPE” OF BOTH JEWS AND GENTILES (I Timothy 1:1).

3. Now, “IN CHRIST,” Gentiles are brought ‘NEAR” (Ephesians 2:13)

a. The Gentiles had been “FAR AWAY.” NOTE that Peter stated thison the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:39).

b. Observe that Saul of Tarsus (the apostle Paul) was to be sent to the“FAR AWAY” Gentiles (Acts 22:21).

c. The GENTILES were able to “DRAW NEAR” THROUGH THE BLOOD of Jesus (2:13). Study also John 1:29 and I John 3:1, 3.

4. CHRIST IS “OUR PEACE!” (Ephesians 2:14).

a. Jesus is the SOURCE of OUR PEACE WITH GOD (Romans 5:1)

b. Jesus is ALSO the SOURCE OF PEACE BETWEEN JEWS ANDGENTILES.

c. AN IMPORTANT PRINCIPLE: When a person is “RIGHT WITH GOD,” HE MUST ALSO “GET RIGHT” WITH OTHER PEOPLE!

(1) NOTE: Christians are a “NEW RACE OF PEOPLE,” A“CHOSEN RACE” (I Peter 2:9, 10).

(2) NOTE AGAIN: One scholar states that EARLY DISCIPLES called themselves a “THIRD RACE” (Boles, page 232).

d. NOW, there is to be the “UNITY OF THE SPIRIT” among ALL ofGod’s people, NO MATTER WHAT THEIR BACKGROUND MAY BE! (Ephesians 4:1-6; Galatians 3:26-29).

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5. The “BARRIER” WAS ELIMINATED (Ephesians 2:15).

a. The “BARRIER” was the LAW OF MOSES which isolated the JEWSFROM THE GENTILES. The Law DID set forth the hope of theMESSIAH who would UNITE MEN “IN HIM.”

b. It is remembered that there was even a PHYSICAL, DIVIDING WALLin the TEMPLE in Jerusalem. The GENTILES were NOT permittedto enter where the JEWS COULD GO.

c. The Law of Moses COMPLETED ITS TASK of being a “SCHOOLMASTER,” A “TUTOR” to bring men to Christ(Galatians 3:24, 25). NOW, MEN ARE NO LONGER UNDERTHAT “TUTOR!”

d. BUT, it is so true that the Law of Moses “POINTED” people to Christ(Romans 3:31; Galatians 3:19-25).

e. At the TIME OF THIS WRITING, the apostle Paul was a “PRISONER”FOR THE SAKE OF GENTILES (Ephesians 3:1).

f. JEWS and GENTILES can NOW BE “ONE NEW MAN,” bringing“PEACE!” THE OLD HOSTILITY IS GONE!

g. “Establishing peace” or “making peace” in this passage is in a CONTINUOUS action in the Greek, “continuing to make peace.”

6. BOTH JEWS AND GENTILES can be “RECONCILED” to God in “ONE BODY” (Ephesians 2:16).

a. The word, “RECONCILE” (apokatallaxe) means to bring men back toGod, to establish again a relationship that was broken by sin (Colossians 1:20-22).

b. God is NOT RECONCILED TO US, but we are RECONCILED TO GOD!(II Corinthians 5:18, 19).

c. As “ONE NEW MAN,” both JEWISH and GENTILE Christians areincorporated into “ONE BODY,” the church (Ephesians 4:4)

d. AND, ALL OF THIS IS “THROUGH THE CROSS” OF CHRIST! (Ephesians 2:16). Read Romans 5:9, 10.

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e. Therefore, HOSTILITY has been “ELIMINATED!” The HOSTILITY that existed BETWEEN GOD AND MAN, and BETWEEN MAN AND MAN IS GONE!

7. JESUS, the MESSIAH PREACHED “PEACE!” (2:17) Read Isaiah 57:19, thepassage quoted here.

a. In this verse (2:17), those who were “FAR AWAY” were the GENTILES

b. Those who were “NEAR” were the JEWS

c. NOTE: Even though the Jews were “NEAR,” it is clearly seen from a study of the book of ACTS that many Jews REJECTED CHRIST!

d. In harmony with the voice of Isaiah, it must be said that JESUS IS THE“PRINCE OF PEACE!” (Isaiah 9:6)

8. “ACCESS” to GOD is through CHRIST “BY ONE SPIRIT” (Ephesians 2:18).

a. The reference to “one Spirit” may be the Holy Spirit “nurturing” this great UNITY of Jewish and Gentiles disciples in one body.(Weed, page 143).

b. If this be true, then, it is quite interesting that, in this verse (2:18) , all THREE “PERSONS” in the GODHEAD are mentioned. See this also in Ephesians 3:14-17; 4:1-6; and 1:12-14.

c. Another possibility is that the two groups, Jewish and Gentile Christiansnow have a “common spirit” or “disposition,” in the one body.

d. Man’s right to APPROACH GOD is through (1) Jesus’ blood (2:13) (2) His flesh (2:15), (3) and, His CROSS (2:16).

e. The word, “ACCESS” in this verse really means to be “brought before”such as people being brought into the presence of a king (Weed, page143). This is a beautiful thought. Man can “approach” God!

9. These JEWISH and GENTILE disciples, UNITED in “ONE BODY” are theKINGDOM, the HOUSE OF GOD (Ephesians 2:19).

a. Formerly, the Gentiles had been “STRANGERS” and “ALIENS.” The word, “ALIENS” (paroikoi) literally translated, is “beside the house.”

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b. BOTH Jewish and Gentile Christians are NOW “FELLOWCITIZENS”(sumpolitai). They have been “translated” into the kingdom of God’s Son. NOTE Colossians 1:13.

c. NOTE THE WORD “SAINTS” (hagioi) here. Those who are “fellow-citizens,” those in the kingdom, those of the “household of God” are“saints.” Notice Ephesians 1:1; 1:15; 3:8; 3:18; 5:3; 6:18, etc.

d. Observe that the word, “SAINTS” is from the same root word in Greekas the word, “SANCTIFIED.” See this word in I Corinthians 6:9-11.

e. These “FELLOW-CITIZENS” are also GOD’S FAMILY, the“HOUSEHOLD OF GOD.” Those who had been “ALIENS”(“beside the house”) are NOW “IN THE HOUSE” (I Timothy 3:15).

f. Thus, those who are “IN CHRIST,” those who are “FELLOW-CITIZENS,” and those in the “FAMILY,” are the beloved “CHILDREN” of God (Ephesians 5:1; Galatians 6:10; I John 3:1, etc.).

10. The “CHURCH” is NOT ONLY GOD’S KINGDOM, AND FAMILY, but it also “GOD’S BUILDING!” (Ephesians 2:20). Study I Peter 2:4-10.

a. This “BUILDING” has a SOLID FOUNDATION, the foundation of the“APOSTLES” and “PROPHETS.”

b. NOTE the foundation of the APOSTLES in the foundation of the“HEAVENLY JERUSALEM” (Revelation 21:14).

c. The “AUTHORITY” OF THE apostles lies in their MESSAGE whichwas revealed through the HOLY SPIRIT (Ephesians 3:4, 5).

d. The “PROPHETS” were New Testament “SPOKESMEN” who had theMIRACULOUS GIFT OF PROPHECY (I Corinthians 12:10;14:1-19, etc.)

e. Saul (Paul), Barnabas, and others were New Testament “PROPHETS”(Acts 13:1-3).

f. In God’s “BUILDING,” CHRIST is the “CHIEF CORNER STONE.”The “Corner Stone” was the most important stone in a building, andall measurements were made from it. Note Isaiah 28:16.

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g. Some writers believe that “CORNER STONE” should be translated,“CAPSTONE,” the highest stone in the building. See also I Peter 2:6, 7.

11. CHRIST “FITS” EVERYTHING TOGETHER! He UNIFIES, and “RULES”over this “SPIRITUAL BUILDING!” (Ephesians 2:21).

a. Examine Ephesians 4:15, 16 concerning the relationship of the “HEAD” tothe “BODY.”

b. In Christ, the WHOLE BUILDING is “JOINED TOGETHER”(sunarmologeo) and growing into a “HOLY TEMPLE” IN THE LORD.

c. IN EARLIER VERSES (2:11-18), it is clearly seen that JEWISH andGENTILE CHRISTIANS are united together in “ONE BODY,”“ONE BUILDING.!

d. The word, “TEMPLE” here is “naos” the word that is used in Scripturefor the “INNER, HOLY SANCTUARY OF THE TEMPLE” thelocation of the HOLY PLACE and the MOST HOLY PLACE. Theouter buildings and courts of the temple were the “hieron.”

e. Therefore, the “CHURCH” is God’s “naos,” God’s TEMPLE(I Corinthians 3:16, 17; II Corinthians 6:16; I Peter 2:5). HERE,GOD MEETS HIS PEOPLE!

f. Therefore, IN THESE VERSES, the “CHURCH” is described as:

(1) The KINGDOM of the Lord

(2) The FAMILY of the Lord

(3) The TEMPLE of the Lord

12. GOD DWELLS IN HIS TEMPLE (Ephesians 2:22).

a. God’s people, JEW and GENTILE, are “LIVING STONES” in God’sTemple (I Peter 2:4-8). JEWS are NOT “ONE WALL” in God’s“naos,” (Temple), and GENTILES “ANOTHER WALL. All of God’s CHILDREN are “BUILT TOGETHER” in God’s building.

b. Through the work of His Spirit, when one keeps God’s Will, the

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Father and the Son will make their “HOME IN HIM.” God’s “DWELLING!”

REVIEW QUESTIONS ON EPHESIANS CHAPTER TWO

1. What is the meaning of the phrase, “DEAD IN SIN?”

2. What is the literal meaning of the Greek word for “SIN?”

3. What does the Scripture mean when it speaks of “WALKING” in a certain way?See Ephesians 2:1, 2; I John 2:6.

4. DESCRIBE man’s condition WITHOUT CHRIST as noted in Ephesians 2:1-3.

5. DESCRIBE God’s attitude concerning sinners as seen in Ephesians 2:4-7.

6. What does the LORD REALLY MEAN when He says, “SALVATION IS A GIFT?”(Ephesians 2:8; Romans 6:23).

7. WHY is it true that WE CANNOT “BOAST” of our SALVATION? (Ephesians2:8, 9; Romans 4:1-4, etc.).

8. There are TWO kinds of “WORKS” discussed in Scripture. One should NOT bepracticed. One of them should be practiced. Please DISCUSS BOTH.

9. In Ephesians 2:11, 12, what was the CONDITION of GENTILES who were WITHOUT CHRIST?

10. DISCUSS the SIN of DISCRIMINATION among disciples of different ETHNIC,RACIAL, SOCIAL, and EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUNDS. Please includeEphesians 2:14-18; Galatians 3:28; Colossians 3:11.

11. In what way is JESUS OUR “PEACE?” (Ephesians 2:14).

12. What is the meaning of the word, “RECONCILED?”

13. Under WHAT FIGURES did Paul describe the “CHURCH,” the body of Christin Ephesians 2:19-22? That is, what are other terms that describe the church?

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NOTES ON EPHESIANS CHAPTER THREE

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III. GOD’S PARTICIPATION in this SALVATION “IN CHRIST ” (Ephesians 3:1-21)

A. The LORD GOD was working THROUGH PAUL (Ephesians 3:1-13)

1. The phrase, “FOR THIS REASON” (3:1) refers back to the previous chapter.

a. “For this reason” refers to Paul’s teaching that SIN and SEPARATION had been overcome (2:1-22)

b. “For this reason” refers to what had been said about JESUS, the “ChiefCorner Stone” (2;19-22)

c. “For this reason” refers to incorporation of people into the KINGDOM,the HOUSEHOLD OF GOD, and TEMPLE of the Lord

2. Paul was the “PRISONER” of Christ for the sake of the GENTILES (Ephesians 3:1)

a. The church in the Province of ASIA, where this epistle was evidently going, may have been primarily Gentile in background.

b. Paul was a “prisoner of Christ” in ROME. It is true that he expected tobe released from this imprisonment (Philippians 2:23, 24; Philemon 22).. As a “prisoner” of Christ, if Christ wanted Paul tobe released, NO ONE COULD STOP IT!

c. Paul’s CALLING BY GOD had been for the sake of GENTILES (Acts 26:16-18; Romans 15:15, 16)

3. Some MAY NOT HAVE HEARD of the “STEWARDSHIP” (oikonomia)given to Paul (3:2)

a. “STEWARDSHIP” means a JOB given to a SERVANT by the OWNERof a house (I Corinthians 4:1, 2; 9:17; Colossians 1:25).

b. Paul was a “STEWARD” of the wonderful GRACE OF GOD! Oneimportant principle to recognize is that GOD’S GRACE INVOLVESthe Christian’s RESPONSIBILITY! (I Corinthians 15:10; Ephesians 2:8-10)

4. God had REVEALED to Paul the “MYSTERY” (musterion) of the GOSPEL(Ephesians 3:3) (A. and G. page 532).

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a. Observe that PART of the “MYSTERY” that had been “HIDDEN FORAGES” (Titus 1:2, 3) included the SALVATION of GENTILES(Ephesians 3:6)

b. Paul had received the “MYSTERY” by “REVELATION” from the LORD (Read Galatians 1:11, 12)

c. When Paul said in this verse that he had WRITTEN “BEFORE BRIEFLY,” he may be speaking of what he had said in the FIRST TWO CHAPTERS of Ephesians. However, some writers believe that Paul may have been speaking of the book of Colossians which, perhaps, had already been in circulation among the churches.

5. When the RECIPIENTS would READ, they would UNDERSTAND Paul’s“INSIGHT” into the “MYSTERY” of Christ (Ephesians 3:4).

a. Letters from inspired men like Paul WERE READ IN PUBLIC in thedifferent congregations (Colossians 4:16; I Thessalonians 5:27, etc.)

b. NOTE THIS IMPORTANT POINT: From this Scripture, it is clearlyseen that the “MYSTERY” of the GOSPEL CAN BEUNDERSTOOD BY PEOPLE!

6. The “MYSTERY” was “HIDDEN” in EARLIER GENERATIONS (3:5)

a. OLD Testament PROPHETS DID NOT KNOW THE “MYSTERY”(I Peter 1:10-12)

b. A “PROPHET” was a “SPOKESMAN” for another (Exodus 4:16; 7:1)

c. Jesus had promised the HOLY SPIRIT to the APOSTLES to “GUIDETHEM INTO ALL TRUTH” (John 14:26; 16:13)

d. In this passage, (3:5), Paul stated that, NOW, the “MYSTERY” had beenREVEALED to the “holy apostles and prophets” by the guidance ofthe HOLY SPIRIT.

7. The SPECIFIC PART of the “MYSTERY” which Paul discussed here was theInclusion of the GENTILES in God’s plan of SALVATION (3:6)

a. GENTILES are ”FELLOW-HEIRS” Study Galatians 3:26-29,Romans 8:16, 17; Hebrews 11:9..

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b. GENTILES are “FELLOW-MEMBERS” of the “BODY,” the “CHURCH!” (Ephesians 2:11-16)

c. GENTILES are “FELLOW-PARTAKERS” of the PROMISE in Christthrough the GOSPEL. Truly, the “SEED” of Abraham is “BLESSING” ALL NATIONS through the GOSPEL! (Genesis 12:1-3; Galatians 3:8-16).

8. PAUL’S “MINISTRY” concerning the “MYSTERY” (Ephesians 3:7-9). Godwas working THROUGH PAUL!

a. Paul was a “diakonos,” a “minister,” a “servant,” who was makingknown the “MYSTERY” to Gentiles (3:7) Observe that TIMOTHYwas a “MINISTER” (diakonos) (I Timothy 4:6).

b. Paul’s “MINISTRY” came to him by the “GRACE OF GOD (3:7). Read I Timothy 1:14.

c. God’s POWER was at work in PAUL and his MINISTRY (3:7)(II Corinthians 12:9, 10)

d. In CONTRAST to God’s POWER working through him, PAUL stillconsidered himself “THE LEAST OF THE LEAST!” (3:8). StudyPaul’s FEELINGS ABOUT HIMSELF in I Corinthians 15:9;II Corinthians 12:11; I Timothy 1:15.

e. AGAIN, Paul REPEATED that his “ministry” to preach to the GENTILEScame to him by GOD’S GRACE (3:8). See also 3:2, 7 for his emphasis on “GOD’S GRACE.”

f. One cannot “fathom” the DEPTH of the “RICHES OF CHRIST!” It islike an OCEAN whose depth CANNOT BE MEASURED! StudyI Corinthians 2:9 where Paul said, “EYE HAS NOT SEEN…..” theGREAT THINGS that God had prepared for man in the gospel. WHAT A WONDERFUL “TREASURE!” (Colossians 2:3). NO SINNER IS SO EVIL THAT HE CANNOT BE TOUCHED BY CHRIST AND HIS SACRIFICE!

g. We see that Paul mentioned again his MINISTRY to preach to the GENTILES (3:8). (Acts 22:21; 26:17)

h. Paul’s task was to “BRING TO LIGHT” the “STEWARDSHIP,” theRESPONSIBILITY (oikonomia) concerning HOW God’s Plan

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was to be fulfilled (3:9). See the definition of “stewardship” in thenotes on Ephesians 3:2.

i. AGAIN, Paul emphasized that the “MYSTERY” had been “HIDDEN” for AGES by God, the CREATOR (3:9). It had been “HIDDEN”from ANGELS, from SATAN, etc. (Colossians 1:26; I Peter 1:10-12)

9. God USES THE CHURCH to show His WISDOM (Ephesians 3:10)

a. The CHURCH EXISTS, NOT JUST FOR US, but also for GOD’SGLORY, and to show forth HIS WISDOM!

b. People “IN THE WORLD,” many times, consider the GOSPEL as“FOOLISHNESS” (I Corinthians 1:21-24).

c. The “MANIFOLD WISDOM” (polipoikilos sophia) (Arndt and Gingrich,page 694) means WISDOM in ALL OF ITS MANY SIDES, its different aspects, its beauty.

d. “RULERS and AUTHORITIES” in “heavenly places” may mean the following:

(1) Leaders on earth(2) Good angels(3) Evil angels (Here, because of Ephesians 6:12, it may refer to

evil angels) (Boles, page 250, 251). (Bruce feels that they areprobably BOTH GOOD and BAD” spirit beings (page 64).

e. HOWEVER, the CHURCH, by its very EXISTENCE and its WORK, can show God’s wisdom TO ALL CREATION, including “goodangels.” We must EMPHASIZE here Romans 11:33

10. This was GOD’S ETERNAL PURPOSE, HIS “PURPOSE OF THE AGES”(Ephesians 3:11).

a. FROM ETERNITY, God has worked EVERYTHING according to HisWill (Ephesians 1:11).

b. This Scripture shows that the CHURCH was in the ETERNAL PLAN ofGod. The CHURCH was NOT a NEW IDEA at the time when theJews REJECTED Jesus during His personal ministry as is OFTENTAUGHT BY THE THEORY OF PRE-MILLENNIALISM.

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c. EVERYTHING in God’s Plan was brought to “COMPLETION” or“PERFECTION” “CARRIED OUT IN CHRIST JESUS OUR LORD”(Examine II Corinthians 1:19, 20).

11. Because of this MARVELOUS PLAN, Paul had “BOLDNESS” and “CONFIDENT ACCESS” “through the FAITH of Him” (Jesus) (Ephesians 3:12).

a. “BOLDNESS” is the courage to SPEAK FREELY. Notice the “boldness”of the apostles in the Jerusalem church (Acts 4:12, 13; 29, 31).

b. The word, “ACCESS” was used by Paul in 2:18 to show that the GENTILES also COULD APPROACH GOD through Christ

c. God’s people CAN APPROACH THE THRONE OF GRACE WITHBOLDNESS (Hebrews 4:14-16).

d. The Greek text literally says in this verse, “Through the faith of Him” (“dia tes pisteos autou”) which suggests that access to God is made possible through the FAITHFULNESS of Christ in His greatsacrifice (Study Hebrews 5:8, 9).

12. Because of this, Paul did NOT WANT the Ephesians to be DISCOURAGEDbecause of HIS “TRIBULATION” (3:13). PAUL WAS IN PRISON!

a. Paul also ENCOURAGED the PHILIPPIANS and the COLOSSIANSconcerning his IMPRISONMENT (Philippians 1:12-14; 2:17, 18;Colossians 1:24)

b. The phrase, “NOT TO LOSE HEART” is also found in Luke 18:1 whereJesus taught the DISCIPLES to PRAY and “NOT LOSE HEART.”Study also II Corinthians 4:1, 16. GOD DOES NOT ABANDON HISCHILDREN!

c. ALL OF THIS would be an encouragement to the READERS and wouldlead to “GLORY” (I Peter 1:7-9).

B. God is WORKING IN ALL DISCIPLES (Ephesians 3:14-21)

1. Paul now CONTINUED HIS PRAYER that was begun in Ephesians 1:15, 16.(Ephesians 3:14).

2. In the Greek text, Ephesians 3:14-21 is ONE LONG, EXTENDED SENTENCE

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3. “KNEELING” was a customary POSTURE for PRAYER (3:14) NOTE ALSO Acts 7:60; 20:36; 21:5.

4. Paul “BOWED HIS KNEES” before the FATHER (3:14). Notice how often Paul called God, “FATHER” in Ephesians (1:2, 3, 17; 2:18; 4:6; 5:20; 6:23)

5. GOD, the CREATOR (3:9) is the source of the WHOLE HUMAN FAMILY!(3:15). EVERY CREATED BEING, in heaven and on earth, receives itsNAME and EXISTENCE from God!

6. Paul PRAYED that the READERS would be STRENGTHENED WITH POWER (Ephesians 3:16). NOTE also I Corinthians 16:13.

a. This comes from the “RICHES” of God’s GLORY! God’s blessings have NO END! (Ephesians 1:7, 18; 2:4). “RICHES!” “RICHES!”

b. In the OLD TESTAMENT, there are examples of “POWER” that camethrough the HOLY SPIRIT (Judges 6:34; 14:5; 14:19; 15:14).

c. Paul said that the POWER of the HOLY SPIRIT is for the “INNERMAN.” Note carefully Romans 15:13. Note also the “POWER” ofCHRIST (II Corinthians 12:9; Philippians 4:13). Read alsoI Timothy 1:12 and II Timothy 4:17.

d. The apostle affirmed that, even though the “OUTER MAN” is “decaying,”the “INNER MAN” is being renewed day by day (II Corinthians 4:16).

8. Paul desired and prayed that CHRIST WOULD “DWELL IN THEIR HEARTSBY FAITH” (3:17). NOTE: “Christ in you…..” (Colossians 1:27). Readalso John 14:23. Again, “….Christ lives in me…..” (Galatians 2:20).

a. Paul desired that his READERS would be “ROOTED” and “GROUNDED” IN LOVE (agape)

b. THERE ARE TWO FIGURES FOUND HERE:

(1) “ROOTED” refers to the SOLID ROOTS of a TREE

(2) “GROUNDED” suggests the SOLID FOUNDATION of a BUILDING

c. “AGAPE” (Love) was also SO IMPORTANT to JESUS

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(1) It was a “FOUNDATION” COMMAND to the Lord. “LOVE GOD with all your heart…..” AND “LOVE YOURNEIGHBOR as yourself” (Matthew 22:37-40)

(2) The “BADGE” of DISCIPLESHIP is the LOVE that discipleshave for each other (John 13:34, 35).

9. Paul PRAYED that the READERS, WITH ALL THE SAINTS,” COULD GRASP THE LOVE OF CHRIST (Ephesians 3:18, 19).

a. We have seen that the “RICHES” of Christ are “UNFATHOMAABLE”(Ephesians 3:8).

b. Note also, that, in this passage, the LOVE OF CHRIST is SO GREAT! It is HARD TO GRASP!

c. Can we GRASP the BREADTH, LENGTH, HEIGHT, and DEPTH ofGOD’S and CHRIST’S LOVE? (John 3:16; Romans 5:8, 9; Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 5:25)

d. NOTE THIS QUOTE: “It is a love too deep for the mind to plumbits depth; A love too high to be surpassed; A love too broad toexclude any who come to him; A love too long to be outlasted”(Boles, page 259).

10. “LOVE” SURPASSES KNOWLEDGE! (3:19). See I Corinthians 8:1-3where “KNOWLEDGE PUFFS UP, BUT LOVE BUILDS UP!”

a. Here, the KNOWLEDGE discussed is NOT a knowledge of just FACTS,but a KNOWLEDGE that has been EXPERIENCED.

b. Paul wanted them to have a TRUE KNOWLEDGE of the “MYSTERY”of CHRIST (Colossians 2:2). BUT, THE LOVE OF CHRISTSURPASSES KNOWLEDGE! Here is where true “fullness” lies!

11. Paul’s PRAYER, therefore, CONTAINS AT LEAST THREE REQUESTS

a. That the READERS BE STRENGTHENED (3:16). Note 6:10.

b. That CHRIST would DWELL in them by FAITH (3:17)

c. That they may FULLY UNDERSTAND the LOVE OF CHRIST(3:18, 19) (Weed, pages 154, 155).

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12. THE CONCLUSION: Paul wanted them to be FILLED WITH THE “FULNESS (pleroma) OF GOD!” (Ephesians 3:19)

a. This word, “pleroma” suggests COMPLETENESS, FINALITY.

b. Read the following verses that mention “FULNESS” as seen inEphesians and Colossians: Ephesians 1:10, 23; 4:13; Colossians1:19; 2:9.

c. It suggests that Christians can come to SPIRITUAL MANHOOD, toSPIRITUAL MATURITY, and be no longer CHILDREN(Ephesians 4:13)

13. PRAISE TO THE LORD! A “DOXOLOGY!” (Ephesians 3:20, 21)

a. The FIRST HALF of Ephesians is CONCLUDING with BOTH A PRAYER and a WORD OF PRAISE! Note that this praise is in the middle of the book!

b. See this also in OTHER WRITINGS of Paul

(1) PRAISE: (Romans 11:33-36)

(2) PRAYER: (I Thessalonians 3:11-13; II Thessalonians 2:16, 17)

c. God’s POWER can do so much BEYOND ANYTHING WE CAN IMAGINE 3:20). It is “beyond an over-flowing!” (huperexperissou). It is “infinitely more than….” we can comprehend (A, and G, page 848). Read II Corinthians 13:4 concerning the POWER of God.

d. God’s POWER is at work among His children (Philippians 2:13)

e. God is GLORIFIED in His children (Philippians 1:11; II Thessalonians1:12)

f. May God be GLORIFIED in the (1) CHURCH and in (2) CHRISTJESUS (Ephesians 3:21).

g. God’s GREAT REDEMPTION PLAN GIVES HIM GLORY!

h. The CHURCH as the CLIMAX of His Plan shows God’s WISDOMand, therefore, gives Him glory (Note Ephesians 3:10, 11).

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i. NOTE other “DOXOLOGIES” (Words of Praise) in Romans 16:25-27;Jude 24, 25; I Timothy 1:17, but SHORTER ONES in Philippians4:20; I Peter 4:11; Revelation 1:6.

j. “TO GOD BE THE GLORY!” May this GLORY be given “unto allgenerations OF THE AGE OF THE AGES” (Forever and ever) (3:21).

REVIEW QUESTIONS ON EPHESIANS CHAPTER THREE

1. In what way was Paul a “PRISONER OF CHRIST?” (Ephesians 3:1).

2. What is the meaning of the word, “STEWARDSHIP?” (3:1, 2).

3. What did God’s “MYSTERY” in the gospel include? (3:6).

4. Please give an adequate definition of the word, “MYSTERY.”

5. HOW was the “HIDDEN MYSTERY” revealed to man? (Ephesians 3:4, 5).

6. Paul was a “diakonos.” What does this mean? (3:7).

7. Paul’s SPECIFIC MINISTRY was to evangelize AMONG WHAT PEOPLE? (3:8, 9).

8. In what way would Ephesians 3:10, 11 SPEAK AGAINST the theory ofPRE-MILLENNIALISM?

9. LIST the things for which PAUL PRAYED in Ephesians 3:14-19.

10. WHO is the SOURCE of the WHOLE HUMAN FAMILY? (3:15).

11. HOW does Christ DWELL IN THE HEART of Christians? (3:17).

12. IN WHAT did Paul want disciples to be “ROOTED” and “GROUNDED?” (3:17).

13. According to Paul, HOW GREAT is the LOVE OF CHRIST? (3:18, 19).

14. What is it that “SURPASSES KNOWLEDGE?” (3:19).

15. What is a “DOXOLOGY?” (3:20, 21).

16. May GOD “BE GLORIFIED” in the _______________ and in _______________(3:21).

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____________________________________________

NOTES ON EPHESIANS CHAPTER FOUR

RESPONSIBILITIES OF DISCIPLES

THE RESPONSE OF THE DISCIPLE TO HIS SALVATION

(Ephesian 4:1-6:24)

I. The LIFE of the DISCIPLE in the CHURCH, THE BODY OF CHRIST (Ephesians 4:1-16)

A. The NEED for UNITY in the BODY OF CHRIST (Ephesians 4:1-6)

1. If we CHOOSE to be “IN CHRIST,” we have RESONSIBILITIES!

2. The word, “THEREFORE” (4:1) is a CONCLUSION to what Paul has said.The statement, “I, therefore, EXHORT YOU….” is the same in Greek asPaul’s STATEMENT in Romans 12:1. He is stating a CONCLUSION fromwhat has been taught PREVIOUSLY IN BOTH CHAPTERS!

3. In the FIRST THREE CHAPTERS OF EPHESIANS, Paul has taught much about GOD’S SALVATION “IN CHRIST!” On the basis of that GREAT SALVATION, he will now “EXHORT” them to LIVE IN HARMONY WITHTHAT MESSAGE!

4. BECAUSE of CHRIST, Paul was a “PRISONER” (Ephesians 4:1).

5. Paul “URGED,” he “PLEADED” (parakaleo) with them to LIVE IN HARMONY WITH THE “CALLING” OF THE LORD. See this also in Colossians 1:10; I Thessalonians 2:12; and Philippians 1:27. The word, “parakaleo” in its root meaning suggests to “call to one’s side,” “summon” (A. and G. page 622). It means to “BEG,” to “URGE,” to “EXHORT.”

a. IF A PERSON ACCEPTS THIS GREAT “CALLING,” HE MUST LIVE IN HARMONY WITH THAT CALLING!

b. Disciples MUST LIVE IN A MANNER “WORTHY OF”

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(1) WORTHY of the LORD (Colossians 1:10)

(2) WORTHY of the GOSPEL (Philippians 1:27)

(3) WORTHY of “YOUR CALLING” (Ephesians 4:1)

c. The word, “WALK” (peripateo) refers to OUR CONDUCT!(I John 2:6).

d. The word, “WORTHY” does NOT MEAN that we “DESERVE” ourSALVATION. It does mean that God has MADE US WORTHYTHROUGH JESUS’ SACRIFICE (See II Thessalonians 1:5).

6. CHARACTERISTICS of the “WALK” of the TRUE DISCIPLE (Ephesians 4:2, 3).

a. WALK IN “HUMILITY” --- In “LOWLINESS OF MIND!” “Walk”WITHOUT PRIDE! (Philippians 2:1-3; Colossians 3:12-15)

b. “GENTLENESS” --- Gentleness is a POWER or STRENGTH that isUNDER CONTROL. Gentleness does NOT mean weakness. (ReadGalatians 5:23).

c. “PATIENCE” --- (makrothumia). Someone has said that this word means, “to have a LONG TEMPER” concerning the weaknesses of another person (Note Galatians 5:23 again). It means, “patience toward others” (Arndt and Gingrich, page 489). GOD HAS BEEN PATIENT WITH US! Let us be PATIENT with others (II Peter 3:9).

d. “FORBEARING” --- (anechomai). “Putting up with….” It means to“ENDURE,” “BEAR WITH” (A. and G. page 65). StudyPhilippians 4:5.

e. Observe an EXCELLENT DESCRIPTION of the words Paul used above,and HOW they CAN BE DEMONSTRATED.

(1) “HUMILITY” --- “I may be wrong….”

(2) “GENTLENESS” --- “I’m willing to listen and change”

(3) “PATIENCE” --- “I will give you time to think it through”

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(4) “BEARING WITH” --- “I will put up with you even when wedisagree”

(5) “EAGERNESS” --- (“Giving Diligence). “I really want this towork” (Boles, page 266).

f. ALL OF THESE EXHORTATIONS given by Paul are to be done “INLOVE” (4:2). Notice this same thought in I Corinthians 16:14.

g. The words, “GIVING DILIGENCE” mean “TO DO YOUR BEST” toPRESERVE UNITY. This is the same Greek word, (“spoudadzo”) that is translated “MAKE EVERY EFFORT” in II Timothy 4:9, 21. Also, the same word is translated “BE DILIGENT” in II Timothy 2:15. “Be zealous or eager” (A. and G. page 771).

h. The “UNITY OF THE SPIRIT” means that the HOLY SPIRIT is the“SOURCE” of UNITY. UNITY comes from the SPIRIT (4:3)

i. The UNITY in the CHURCH that God desires can only be preservedWHEN GOD’S PEOPLE have THESE QUALITIES GIVEN ABOVE BY PAUL!

j. There will be a “BOND OF PEACE” and LOVE when THESE QUALITIES ABOUND~ (Colossians 3:14)

7. GOD’S BASIS FOR UNITY IN THE BODY OF CHRIST, THE CHURCH (Ephesians 4:4-6).

a. ONE “BODY” --- One UNITED FAMILY! ONE UNIVERSAL CHURCH! (4:4). (Ephesians 2:15, 16; 5:22-33; Matthew 16:18; Acts 20:28)

b. ONE “SPIRIT” --- The HOLY SPIRIT BY WHOM PEOPLE AREBAPTIZED INTO THE ONE BODY (I Corinthians 12:13). See “THE SAME SPIRIT” in I Corinthians 12:4. Also, when one is“baptized into Christ,” he receives the “GIFT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT” (Acts 2:38; 5:32).

c. ONE “HOPE” OF OUR CALLING --- The “ONE BODY” SHARES AMUTUAL HOPE --- ETERNAL LIFE! (Examine Ephesians 1:18;I Peter 1:13; Titus 1:2; Romans 8:24, 25; I John 3:2).

d. ONE “LORD” (4:5) --- ONE “MASTER!” “It is not difficult to

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understand why ‘one faith’ and ‘one baptism’ are attached to ‘oneLord.’ He is the object of the people’s faith (Eph. 3:12) and it is intoHim that they have been baptized (Romans 6:3).” (F. F. Bruce quotedin Boles, page 268). See the “LORDSHIP” of Jesus emphasized inActs 2:36-38; Romans 14:8, 9; Philippians 2:9-11; I Peter 3:15, etc.).

e. ONE “FAITH” --- The word, “FAITH” is used in BOTH an OBJECTIVE and SUBJECTIVE SENSE in Scripture. In the “Objective” sense it means the “BODY OF TRUTH” that we believe (Jude 3; Ephesians 4:13, etc.. In the “Subjective” sense it refers to our TRUST IN, and COMMITMENT to Jesus (Ephesians 2:8; 3:17). Weed feels that, in this passage, it means “THE BODY OF TRUTH” God has revealed (Weed, page 158). Bruce feels that “FAITH” here is “TRUST.”

f. ONE “BAPTISM” --- In the first century, there was NO QUESTION ORDOUBT about the meaning of the word, “BAPTISM.”

(1) It was an IMMERSION IN WATER (Acts 8:35-39; Romans 6:1-4; Colossians 2:11, 12)

(2) After the MESSAGE about CHRIST AS LORD WAS “BELIEVED,” and people REPENTED AND WERE BAPTIZED, they would be FORGIVEN through Jesus’ blood and would receive the gift of the OLY SPIRIT (Acts 2:36-38).

g. ONE “GOD AND FATHER” (Ephesians 4:6).

(1) NOTE the “ASCENDING ORDER” of the “GODHEAD” in this Scripture: First, the “ONE SPIRIT” (4:4). Then, the “ONELORD,” (4:5), and finally, the “ONE GOD and FATHER” (4:6). NOTE ALSO the “SPIRIT…..CHRIST….. FATHER” in3:16-19.

(2) AN INTERESTING THOUGHT: The ONE GOD sent the ONE LORD to the earth. After He died, was resurrected, and ascended, He sent the ONE SPIRIT who revealed the ONE FAITH. When people accept the ONE FAITH, and obey the ONE BAPTISM, they are added to the ONE BODY, and have the ONE HOPE!

(3) God is “OVER ALL,” “THROUGH ALL,” and “IN ALL!” Godthe Father is Supreme! See also Romans 11:36.

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B. VARIOUS “GIFTS” and RESPONSIBILITIES IN ONE BODY (Ephesians 4:7-11)

1. Through “GRACE,” EACH PART OF THE “BODY” HAS A “GIFT” (4:7)CONSIDER that the word, “GRACE” and the word, “GIFT” come from thesame Greek word, “charis” (grace) and “charisma” (gift).

2. AN IMPORTANT THOUGHT: Different “GIFTS” in the “BODY” of ChristDO NOT DESTROY UNITY. But, they can PROMOTE UNITY!(Romans 12:4-7; I Corinthians 12:12-27).

3. Each disciple should use WHATEVER GIFT HE HAS TO SERVE OTHERS(I Peter 4:10, 11).

4. When a KING “came home” in VICTORY, he would RECEIVE GIFTS!When JESUS ASCENDED TO HEAVEN, HE “GAVE GIFTS!” (4:8)In this verse, Paul quoted Psalm 68:18 as an illustration

a. In the OLD TESTAMENT, it is true that God led His people to VICTORY over their enemies (Judges 5:12, etc.)

b. Psalm 68 is EMPHASIZING THE “GIVING” OF GOD (Psalm 68:1-6;10, 11, 19, 35)

c. BY HIS DEATH, JESUS DEFEATED SATAN AND ALL HIS EVIL SPIRITS! IN HIS VICTORY, “HE LED THEM CAPTIVE!”(Colossians 2:15; John 12:31-33; Hebrews 2:14, etc.).

d. When JESUS ASCENDED, IN HIS VICTORY, “HE LED HIS CAPTIVES” IN TRIUMPH! (4:8).

e. HE ALSO “GAVE GIFTS TO MEN!”

5. PAUL applied this to CHRIST (Ephesians 4:9, 10).

a. The ONE WHO ASCENDED ALSO DESCENDED! (4:9) See this also in John 3:13.

b. The ONE WHO DESCENDED ALSO ASCENDED (4:10)

c. The “LOWER PARTS OF THE EARTH” may be speaking of JESUS’INCARNATION (John 1:14; Philippians 2:7, 8; Hebrews 2:14)However, some writers think that Paul is speaking about Jesus’redemption and rule that “penetrates even the realm of death…..”

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and the “powers of the underworld” (Weed, page 161). Nevertheless,JESUS HAS GAINED THE VICTORY! Bruce agrees, page 83.

6. CONSIDER THIS: This passage shows THE PRE-EXISTENCE OF CHRIST!JESUS “DESCENDED” FROM HEAVEN BEFORE HE “ASCENDED!”

a. IN THE BEGINNING, the “WORD” was “FACE TO FACE” withGod (John 1:1)

b. “ALL THINGS” were CREATED THROUGH CHRIST (John 1:1-3;(Colossians 1:15-17; Hebrews 1:1-3, etc.).

c. Jesus CAME FROM HEAVEN TO DO THE WILL OF THE FATHER(John 6:38)

d. MANY PASSAGES teach that JESUS WAS SENT FROM HEAVEN toEarth (John 6:41, 42, 50, 51; 12:49, etc.).

e. Jesus Himself said, “BEFORE ABRAHAM WAS BORN, I AM” (John 8:58).

f. JESUS was “BEFORE ALL THINGS!” (Colossians 1:17).

g. Before His BETRAYAL, Jesus PRAYED, “And now, glorify Thou Metogether with Thyself, Father, WITH THE GLORY WHICH I HADWITH THEE BEFORE THE WORLD WAS” (John 17:5).

7. Jesus ASCENDED “HIGHER THAN ALL THE HEAVENS” (Ephesians 4:10)

a. He is AT THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD “in heavenly places” (Ephesians 1:20, Acts 2:33; Hebrews 1:1-3, etc.).

b. This was done so that HE MIGHT FILL ALL THINGS!

c. IN HEAVEN, WHAT DOES JESUS DO?

(1) He is our FAITHFUL HIGH PRIEST! (Hebrews 4:14-16;10:21, 22)

(2) He “INTERCEDES” IN BEHALF OF THE CHURCH!(Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25;

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(3) He UPHOLDS THE UNIVERSE “BY THE WORD OF HIS POWER” (Hebrews 1:3)

(4) “….IN HIM ALL THINGS HOLD TOGETHER” (Colossians 1:17).

8. Paul GAVE SOME SPECIFIC “GIFTS” and “MINISTRIES” within the“BODY” (Ephesians 4:11).

a. APOSTLES --- One who was “SENT OUT!”

(1) The word “apostle” is used in BOTH a GENERAL and aSPECIFIC sense. The 12 apostles had a “specific ministry,”with “specific qualifications.” Note Acts 1:21, 22.

(2) However, with a “general” meaning, the word “apostle” can beused for “MESSENGERS” who are “SENT OUT” by congregations for a certain ministry (II Corinthians 8:23)

(3) The 12APOSTLES were “INSPIRED” by the HOLY SPIRIT(John 14:26; 16:13).

(4) The “TWELVE” were “EYE WITNESSES” of Jesus, includingHis RESURRECTION (Acts 1:21, 22; 2:32, etc.).

(5) They were the FIRST among other leaders (I Corinthians 12:28)

(6) They were a “FOUNDATION” because of their message(Ephesians 2:20-22).

b. “PROPHETS” --- “Spokesmen” for God

(1) OLD TESTAMENT “PROPHETS” were “SPOKESMEN!” (Exodus 4:15, 16; 7:1). AARON was the “prophet,” (spokesman) of MOSES.

(2) In the NEW TESTAMENT, “prophets” are associated with“apostles” (Ephesians 2:20; 3:5).

(3) They delivered “INSPIRED WORDS” from GOD to MAN(I Corinthians 12:10, 28; 14:29-32)

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(4) SAUL (Paul), BARNABAS, and OTHERS were “PROPHETS”(Acts 13:1-3).

(5) The GIFT of PROPHECY was NOT A PERMANENT MINISTRYIT WAS TO “CEASE!” (I Corinthians 13:8-10).

c. “EVANGELISTS” --- Those who proclaim “GOOD NEWS”

(1) The words, “EVANGELIST,” “EVANGELIZE,” and “GOSPEL”are all from the same root word in Greek which means to “announce something good.”

(2) “EVANGELISTS” could be “PREACHERS who travelled.”However, PHILIP (Acts 21:8), and TIMOTHY (II Timothy 4:5) WORKED WITH EXISTING CHURCHES.

(3) The MINISTRY of the “EVANGELIST is an “ON-GOINGWORK” WHICH WILL NEVER CEASE (Matthew 28:20).

d. “PASTORS AND TEACHERS”

(1) It seems that the two words, “PASTORS” and “TEACHERS”should be “linked” together as ONE MINISTRY. However,some scholars make them TWO separate ministries.

(2) “PASTORS” (Shepherds), “ELDERS,” and “OVERSEERS”(Bishops) refer to the SAME MEN in the New Testament(Acts 20:17-28; I Peter 5:1-4; Titus 1:5-9).

C. The GREAT NEED for MATURITY in the BODY OF CHRIST, the CHURCH(Ephesians 4:12-16).

1. The GREAT TASK of the ministries noted in the previous verse, Ephesians 4:11, is to PREPARE the PEOPLE OF GOD for MINISTRY (Ephesians 4:12).

2. The literal translation of this statement is, “TOWARD THE EQUIPPING

OF THE SAINTS, UNTO WORK OF MINISTRY (Service).”

3. The VERB form of “EQUIPPING” (katartismos) is found in a number ofScriptures (A. and G. pages 417, 418).

a. It is used for “TEACHING” or being “FULLY TRAINED” (Luke 6:40)

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b. The word is used for “COMPLETING” “WHAT IS LACKING”(I Thessalonians 3:10)

c. It means, “TO PREPARE FOR USE” (Hebrews 10:5).

d. It means to “FORM, MOLD, or SHAPE” such as the “WORLDS WEREPREPARED….” (Hebrews 11:3).

e. It also means to “EQUIP” with EVERYTHING GOOD (Hebrews 13:21, etc.).

4. QUESTION: ARE GOSPEL PREACHERS DOING THIS TODAY IN THECONREGATIONS WHERE THEY PREACH? Please discuss this.

5. THOSE who are to be “EQUIPPED” are “SAINTS,” those “SANCTIFIED, those who are “SET APART” for God’s work (See Ephesians 1:1; 1:18, etc.)

6. The word, “SERVICE” or “MINISTRY” (diakonia), originally meant ”TABLE SERVING” such as a “WAITER” in a RESTAURANT would do.NOTE the BIBLICAL USAGE of this word:

a. It refers to “PROVIDING FOOD” (Luke 8:3). The “WAITERS” atthe WEDDING FEAST are “diakonoi” (John 2:5)

b. “WAITING ON TABLES” (Acts 6:2)

c. HELPING those who are HUNGRY, NAKED, etc (Matthew 25:44)

d. FAMINE RELIEF (Romans 15:25)

e. “DEACONS” (diakonoi) appointed to serve (I Timothy 3:10)

7. The PURPOSE of the “EQUIPPING” of the “saints” is the “BUILDING UP”of the BODY OF CHRIST (Ephesians 4:13).

a. EVERY PART of the BODY MUST “MATURE” (4:16)

b. NOTE: This MATURITY will produce GREAT CONCERN forOTHERS, NOT SELFISHNESS (Philippians 2:4).

8. The Lord wants a “BODY” WORKING TOGETHR IN “UNITY” (4:13)

a. The word, “MATURE” (teleios) in this verse suggests the idea of

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“FULL-GROWN” disciples, members of the BODY. SeePhilippians 3:15 The word, “teleion” here is translated “PERFECT,” that is, “MATURE.” The word does NOT mean that a disciple of Jesus will be SINLESS! (I John 1:7-10).

b. Therefore, the Lord’s “BODY” should be composed of MANY MEMBERS who are continually MATURING in their FAITH and KNOWLEDGE (Read Ephesians 3:18, 19 concerning being “filled up”).

c. “The image here is of the church as a corporate personality whose various parts, when working properly, contribute to its completeness” (“fullness of Christ”) (Weed, page 163).

9. MATURE CHRISTIANS can DISTINGUISH between TRUTH and ERROR(Ephesians 4:14).

a. “MATURE CHRISTIANS” are NO LONGER “CHILDREN!”

b. “MATURE CHRISTIANS” are NO LONGER LIKE “BABIES”(I Corinthians 3:1, 2). NOTE ALSO Hebrews 5:12-14.

c. “MATURE CHRISTIANS” can avoid FALSE TEACHING

(1) We know that there was a FALSE PHILOSOPHY being taughtat Colossee (Colossians 2:8). Other churches like Ephesus must also guard against false teaching.

(2) IMMATURE CHRISTIANS can be “TOSSED TO AND FRO”by MANY FALSE TEACHINGS. Note “TO AND FRO”in James 1:6 and “carried along by winds” in Jude 12, 13.

(3) Paul refused to “PEDDLE” or CORRUPT the Word of the Lord(II Corinthians 2:17). Read also Hebrews 13:9.

(4) Paul had warned the Ephesians elders about teaching “PERVERSE” teachings (Acts 20:30). MANY YEARS LATER, the church at EPHESUS had “TESTED” FALSE APOSTLES and found truly to be FALSE (Revelation 2:1, 2)

10. MATURE DISCIPLES must “LIVE BY THE TRUTH” in LOVE (JerusalemBible) (Ephesians 4:15).

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a. Observe the EMPHASIS on “TRUTH” in the book of Ephesians(Ephesians 4:21, 24; 5:9). FALSE TEACHING must be met andOVERCOME with “TRUTH” (Ephesians 6:14, 17).

b. Observe also the use of the expression, “IN LOVE” found in Ephesians(1:4, 5; 3:17; 4:2; 5:2). MATURE CHRISTIANS will alwaysSPEAK WHAT IS “TRUE,” BUT, THEY WILL DO IT “IN LOVE!”

c. MATURE CHRISTIANS will “GROW UP” in every way “INTO HIM,”the “HEAD” OF THE BODY!

(1) EVERYTHING FOCUSES ON THE “HEAD!” (See Ephesians1:22).

(2) NOTICE how EVERYTHING ALSO CENTERS AROUND THE “HEAD” in Colossians 2:19.

11. EVERY MEMBER is connected WITH EVERY OTHER MEMBER (Ephesians 4:16).

a. They ALL DEPEND ON EACH OTHER (I Corinthians 12:20-27)

b. ALL THE MEMBERS ARE “NOURISHED TOGETHER” and ALLGROW TOGETHER. The words, “joined” and “knit” are in a construction that shows a CONTINUOUS PROCESS. They CONTINUE to be “joined” and “knit” together.

c. EACH PART of the BODY WORKS “ACCORDING TO ITS SEPARATEFUNCTION” (Jerusalem Bible translation). NOTE that “LEADERS”in a congregation CANNOT DO ALL THE WORK! Each part, EACH MEMBER has a MINISTRY (Romans 12:4-7).

d. AND SO, THE ENTIRE BODY MATURES in an ENVIRONMENT ofLOVE! (Weed, page 165).

II. PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITIES of EVERY DISCIPLE --- The HOLY LIFE that MUSTBE LIVED (Ephesians 4:17-5:21).

A. EACH must live as a “NEW MAN” IN CHRIST (Ephesians 4:17-24).

1. NOTE the word, “THEREFORE,” in 4:17 and 4:25. This suggests a CONCLUSION to what the apostle Paul has JUST TAUGHT!

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2. Paul is teaching that MEMBERS OF THE LORD’S “BODY” must NOT“WALK” (Live) as the “GENTILES” DO (Ephesians 4:17).

a. Observe the SIMILARITY of Paul’s statements in this passage to thosefound in Colossians 3:1-17.

b. The “FUTILE” life of the “Gentiles” is described in Romans 1:21-24. Their “FOOLISH” heart was “DARKENED.” They had a “DISTORTED” mind. Their mind was “CALLOUSED!” (4:19). They were “DARKENED” in their “UNDERSTANDING!” (4:18).

c. It SEEMS that the brethren who RECEIVED this letter, Ephesians, werePRIMARILY GENTILES (Ephesians 2:11; 3:1)

d. Gentiles had lived in “FUTILE” IDOLATRY. Their IDOL WORSHIPwas “VAIN,” “EMPTY,” “USELESS” (Acts 14:15; I Thessalonians1:9; I Peter 1:18).

3. CONSIDER the SAD CONDITION of the GENTILES (Ephesians 4:18).

a. “INTELLECTUALLY, THEY ARE IN THE DARK” (Jerusalem BibleTranslation).

b. They were “EXCLUDED” from the “LIFE OF GOD” (Read Colossians1:21).

c. They were “IGNORANT!” Their “IGNORANCE” came out of a “PERVERTED MIND!” The Jerusalem Bible says, “HAVING SHUTTHEIR HEARTS!” Examine Romans 1:28.

(1) In the Old Testament period, A WILFUL IGNORANCE ISOBSERVED (Romans 11:25; II Chronicles 36:13).

(2) The “BIBLE HEART” includes the (1) INTELLECT (Matthew13:15), the (2) EMOTIONS (Matthew 22:37), the (3)CONSCIENCE (Acts 2:37), and (4) The WILL(II Corinthians 9:7).

4. The GENTILE “CALLOUSNESS” or HARDNESS produced IMPURITY (4:19)Examine I Peter 4:3. The word, “IMPURITY” (aselgeia) used here may alsobe seen in Mark 7:22; Galatians 5:19; Romans 13:13 and II Corinthians 12:21.

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5. The GENTILE CHRISTIANS to whom Paul is writing MUST REALIZE thatIMMORALITY is NOT COMPATIBLE with the LORD JESUS CHRIST (Ephesians 4:20)

a. They DID NOT “LEARN” CHRIST in this way!

b. To “LEARN CHRIST” is NOT LIMITED to a “MENTAL ACCEPTANCE!” It also involves a CHANGE OF LIFESTYLE! “LEARN” of Christ! (Matthew 11:29).

c. To “LEARN CHRIST” involved their ACCEPTANCE and OBEDIENCEof the “GOSPEL” (Colossians 1:23, 28; 2:6). There is a NEED forMATURITY, and COMPLETENESS! “Walk in Him!”

6. Paul DID NOT DOUBT that they had HEARD and ACCEPTED CHRIST (4:21). He is emphasizing that they DID HEAR and ACCEPT JESUS. This is a similar phrase to his statement, “IF YOU WERE RAISED WITH CHRIST….” (Colossians 3:1). THEY WERE “RAISED….!”

a. The Lord “INSTRUCTS” His people through the preached Word(I Corinthians 9:14).

b. NOTE VERY CLEARLY that “TRUTH IS IN JESUS” (John 8:31, 32;14:6).

7. They MUST “PUT OFF” the OLD SINFUL “MAN!” (Ephesians 4:22).

a. They had “DIED” to the OLD LIFE OF SIN! (Colossians 2:12; 3:1-17;Romans 6:1-6, etc.).

b. NOTE that this statement is made in the CONTEXT of “BAPTISM INTOCHRIST!” There must be a “DEATH” to SIN (Romans 6:1-6).

c. The “OLD SELF” is in the process of “CORRUPTION” or “DECAY!”It is “SINKING TOWARD DEATH” (New English Bible).

d. That “OLD MAN” is characterized by “DECEITFUL LUSTS” orDESIRES (II Peter 1:4). Christians have escaped the “corruption”that is in the world “by lust.”

8. Paul wanted them to have a “NEW MIND” (Ephesians 4:23, 24).(Study also Romans 12:1, 2; 8:7)

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a. NOTE AGAIN that BAPTIMS is in the CONTEXT of the “NEW SELF”(Romans 6:1-4; Galatians 3:26, 27; Colossians 3:5, 8, 10, 12).

b. This “NEW NATURE” is in harmony with the “LIKENESS OF GOD”(Read Romans 13:14).

c. The LORD DESIRES TRUE “HOLINESS” and ‘RIGHTEOUSNESS”(Examine Luke 1:75; Hebrews 12:14).

B. SPECIFIC COMMANDS TO THE MEMBERS OF THE “ONE BODY” (Ephesians 4:25-32).

1. The word, “THEREFORE” again introduces the apostle’s inspired ethical commands that come out of the teaching on the “NEW MAN.” (4:25)

a. The SIN of LYING was a NORMAL ACTIVITY among GENTILES(Romans 1:25; Colossians 3:9, 10; Titus 1:12).

b. Christians MUST NOT LIE!

b. The statement to “SPEAK TRUTH WITH HIS NEIGHBOR” seems torefer back to Zechariah 8:16. This is so important also within theBODY of our Lord where our relationships must be so close!

2. When ONE IS ANGRY, “DO NOT SIN!” (Ephesians 4:26)

a. ANGER IS NOT NECESSARILY A SIN! Jesus was ANGRY over theHYPOCRISY and “HARDNESS OF HEART” of the Jews. BUT, HEDID NOT SIN! (Read II Corinthians 5:20, 21; I Peter 2:21, 22;Hebrews 4:14-16, etc.).

b. ANGER CAN LEAD TO SIN! NOTE Ephesians 4:31; Romans 12:19; James 1:19.

c. “LET NOT THE SUN GO DOWN ON YOUR ANGER” means that the day of ANGER is the SAME DAY when RECONCILIATION should take place with the person who is the RECIPIENT OF ONE’S ANGER.(Weed, page 169).

3. DO NOT GIVE THE DEVIL AN OPPORTUNITY TO LEAD YOU INTO SIN!(Ephesians 4:27)

a. CONSIDER James 4:7. RESIST THE DEVIL!

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b. CONTINUAL ANGER WILL “GIVE THE DEVIL A FOOTHOLD” in the life of a person (Jerusalem Bible)

c. Observe that Paul called Elymas a “SON OF THE DEVIL” in Acts 13:10.

4. DO NOT STEAL! (Ephesians 4:28). This means that the ONE WHO IS STEALING MUST STOP his stealing!

a. Each one should “LABOR” with their hands to HELP THOSE WHO ARE IN NEED! (Romans 12:13; Titus 3:14).

b. SLAVES were NOT TO “PILFER” FROM THEIR MASTERS!(Titus 2:9, 10).

c. ALL CHRISTIANS MUST LEARN TO “HELP OTHERS!” (Acts11:27-30; II Corinthians 8:1-5)

d. Paul WORKED WITH HIS HANDS as a “TENTMAKER” (Acts 18:3;20:34; II Thessalonians 3:6- 12, etc.).

5. Christians should ALWAYS speak GRACIOUS and WHOLESOME WORDS (Ephesians 4:29).

a. We should ALWAYS SPEAK words that will “EDIFY” or “BUILD UP”and “BENEFIT” “STRENGTHEN, “ESTABLISH” (A. and G. page 561). See this word, “oikodomen” (Edification) as it is usedin Romans 15:2 and I Corinthians 14:12. Let us ENCOURAGE OTHERS!

b. The word for “UNWHOLESOME” or “EVIL TALK” means “ROTTEN”or “WORTHLESS” TALK (Matthew 15:11, 18; James 3:10). Christians MUST AVOID “UNWHOLESOME” TALK!

c. Paul was deeply concerned about STRENGTHENING the whole CHURCH (Ephesians 4:16; II Corinthians 12:19; Romans 1:11, 12)

d. Our SPEECH should ALWAYS BE GRACIOUS, “SEASONED WITHSALT” (Pleasant to taste) (Colossians 4:6).

6. “DO NOT GRIEVE” the HOLY SPIRIT (Ephesians 4:30).

a. This statement literally means, “STOP GRIEVING” the Holy Spirit.

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b. NOTE that this is evidently a quotation from Isaiah 63:10.

c. CONSIDER these statements about the HOLY SPIRIT:

(1) The Holy Spirit “TEACHES” (John 14:26)

(2) The Holy Spirit “SPEAKS” (I Timothy 4:1)

(3) The Holy Spirit “INTERCEDES” (Romans 8:26, 27)

d. Through WRONG TALKING, LYING, STEALING, etc., the Holy Spiritcan be “GRIEVED!” NOTE ALSO that the Holy Spirit can be“INSULTED” (Hebrews 10:29).

e. Disciples of Jesus have the “SEAL” of the HOLY SPIRIT(Read Ephesians 1:13, 14; II Corinthians 1:21, 22).

f. The “DAY OF REDEMPTION” is at the END OF THIS AGE(Read Romans 8:23).

7. AS A “NEW MAN,” A “NEW CREATION” in Christ, they must “PUT AWAY”the FOLLOWING: (Ephesians 4:31).

a. “BITTERNESS” (pikria). The New English Bible translates it “SPITE.”(Romans 3:14; James 3:14)

b. “PUT AWAY” “WRATH” and “ANGER!” The difference between thesetwo words seems to be that “WRATH” is a “SUDDEN BURST” of anger, and that the word for ANGER is a MORE PROLONGED anger.

c. “CLAMOR” (krauge) is translated “ANGRY SHOUTING” in the NewEnglish Bible. Read Acts 23:9 where there was a great “UPROAR.”

d. “SLANDER” (blasphemia). This is “slanderous” speech, “speakingagainst” another person. Study also Colossians 3:8

e. “MALICE” (kakia). “Bad feelings of every kind” (New English Bible).It suggests a terrible attitude that seeks to HURT SOMEONE!(I Peter 2:1).

8. SOME POSITIVE ATTITUDES TO DEMONSTRATE (Ephesians 4:32).

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a. CONSIDER that this verse is one of the “ONE ANOTHER” Scriptures.Examine John 13:34, 35; Galatians 6:2; 5:13; I Peter 1:22, etc.).

b. AN IMPORTANT PRINCIPLE: Christians MUST DEMONSTRATEthe SAME ATTITUDE AS “GOD IN CHRIST” demonstrated in forgiving US! NOTE ALSO that Christians must “WALK IN LOVE”JUST AS CHRIST “LOVED YOU!” (Ephesians 5:2)

c. The word, “KIND” (chrestoi) means to be helpful and benevolent. It isalso translated “GENEROUS” (New English Bible). NOTE thatKINDNESS needs to be EXPRESSED in what we DO TO HELPOTHERS! See also that GOD has shown KINDNESS to us(Ephesians 2:7)

d. Be “TENDERHEARTED” (eusplagchnoi) is to show COMPASSION toward OTHERS (I Peter 3:8).

e. TO BE FORGIVEN, CHRISTIANS MUST FORGIVE! (Matthew 6:14, 15; 18:21-35). The word here is “charizomenoi” which meansto “extend GRACE!” EXTEND GRACE! FORGIVE OTHERS!

REVIEW QUESTIONS ON EPHESIANS CHAPTER FOUR

1. What are the characteristics of those who “WALK” in harmony with their callingthat are urged by Paul in Ephesians 4:1-3?

2. What is the real meaning of “being diligent” in Ephesians 4:3?

3. List the “SEVEN ONES” of Ephesians 4:4-6 and discuss their meaning.

4. What is the CONNECTION between the word, “GRACE” and he word “GIFT?”

5. What does Ephesians 4:9, 10 teach about the PRE-EXISTENCE of Christ?

6. Discuss OTHER Scriptures which teach the PRE-EXISTENCE of Christ.

7. After Jesus’ ASCENSION, what ministry does He have?

8. Please discuss the meaning of EACH of the “GIFTS” in Ephesians 4:11.

9. What is the RESPONSIBILITY of those who have these “GIFTS?” See 4:12.Is this RESPONSIBILITY being fulfilled widely in the church today?

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10. Please DISCUSS: At what point can a congregation be considered “MATURE?”Ephesians 4:13-16.

11. Discuss the pagan “MIND” and practice of the Gentiles that is seen in Ephesians 4:17-20.

12. In what way is BAPTISM connected with the “NEW MIND” of the disciple? SeeEphesians 4:22-24.

13. Give the characteristics and actions of the “NEW MAN” which Paul discusses inEphesians 4:25-32.

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NOTES ON EPHESIANS CHAPTER FIVE

C. “WALKING IN LOVE” (Ephesians 5:1, 2).

1. Again, the word, “THEREFORE” suggests a CONCLUSION! Because disciplesof Jesus are “NEW CREATURES,” they must “WALK IN LOVE” (5:1, 2).The CONCLUSION comes out of what Paul said in 4:20-32.

2. Christians are “BELOVED CHILDREN.” They are “ADOPTED” by the FATHER (Ephesians 1:5). Consider also the “SONS OF GOD” (Galatians 3:26, 27).

3. OUR ACTIONS should be like the FATHER’S ACTIONS ! IMITATE HIM!

a. The FATHER is “KIND” to UNGRATEFUL PEOPLE! (Luke 6:35).We SHOULD DO THE SAME!

b. The FATHER is “MERCIFUL!” (Luke 6:36) Disciples should DO THE SAME!

4. “IMITATE” the FATHER! Consider this principle concerning “IMITATION” also in I Corinthians 11:1; I Thessalonians 1:6; 2:14; II Thessalonians 3:7, 9; I Corinthians 4:16. In I Thessalonians 1:6, BOTH THE LORD AND PAUL were to be IMITATED!

5. The word, “WALK” (peripateo) in Scripture is used for our “MANNER OF LIFE,” the “WAY WE LIVE!” (Ephesians 2:2, 10; 4:1, 17; 5:2, 8, 15).

6. JESUS is the PERFECT EXAMPLE of “WALKING IN LOVE” (5:2)

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a. His SUPREME LOVE is found in HIS SACRIFICIAL DEATH(John 15:13; Ephesians 1:5; 2:4; 3:17-19; I John 4:10).

b. His SACRIFICE DEMONSTRATES quite clearly His GREAT LOVE(Ephesians 5:25, 26; Galatians 2:20).

D. WALKING IN “LIGHT” (Ephesians 5:3-14)

1. NOTE that Paul states in this paragraph, “WALK AS CHILDREN OF LIGHT”(Ephesians 5:8).

2. EVIL THINGS should NOT “EVEN BE NAMED” among the disciples of Jesus(Ephesians 5:3)

a. “NOT BEING NAMED” may mean that EVIL THINGS should NOT EVEN BE DISCUSSED IN CONVERSATION! Read Ephesians 5:12.

b. These “EVIL THINGS” are NOT PROPER for God’s “HOLY PEOPLE”(“Saints”). Again, see the word, “SAINTS” used for Christians inEphesians 1:18; 3:18; 6:18, etc..

c. Paul mentioned THREE EVIL PRACTICES in Ephesians 5:3.

(1) SEXUAL IMMORALITY (porneia). This is any SEXUALINTERCOURSE OUTSIDE OF BIBLICAL MARRIAGE(Colossians 3:5; I Corinthians 6:9-11; Galatians 5:19)

(2) Any kind of “IMPURITY’ (akatharsia) where the person isNOT FIT to come into the PRESENCE OF GOD (Boles, page297). (Ephesians 4:19; Galatians 5:19).

(3) GREED (Covetousness) (pleonexia). In this CONTEXT, this may mean “Greed” for another person SEXUALLY (Boles,page 297).

d. These EVIL PRACTICES are NOT “FITTING,” or “PROPER” (prepei)for GOD’S “HOLY” PEOPLE” (Saints) (5:3). NOTE the word “FITTING” in Titus 2:1.

3. There are OTHER SINS which are NOT “PROPER” for “SAINTS” (5:4, 5)

a. “OBSCENITY” (aischrotes) is that which is “SHAMEFUL.” It is“UGLINESS” (Arndt and Gingrich, page 24). It is similar

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to “SHAMEFUL SPEAKING” in Colossians 3:8. DIRTY, FILTHYSPEAKING!

b. “SILLY TALK” is FOOLISH TALKING (morologia) (Arndt and Gingrich, page 533). This refers to the TALKING OF FOOLISH PEOPLE! It is talk which is NOT WISE. NOTE: “The fool has said…..” (Psalm 14:1).

c. “COARSE JESTING” would seem to be JOKING that “RAISES A LAUGH AT THE EXPENSE OF SOMEONE’S GOOD NAME” (Boles, page 298).

4. The OPPOSITE of these SINS is the GIVING OF THANKS (5:4). NOTE thatPaul gave an ALTERNATIVE to what is EVIL. DO NOT DO THIS! BUT,DO THIS! Give thanks! He also gave an alternative in 4:29. DO THESETHINGS WHICH ARE FAR BETTER THAN THE WRONG ACTIONS!

5. It is CERTAIN that those who practice those EVIL THINGS described aboveCANNOT inherit “GOD’S KINGDOM” (Ephesians 5:5).

a. Notice that Paul REPEATED the SINS mentioned in 5:3.

b. “GREED” (Covetousness) is REALLY “IDOLATRY.” Read alsoColossians 3:5.

c. In IDOLATRY, the follower of a particular “god” could “BRIBE” that“god” by gifts and sacrifices to DO WHAT THE FOLLOWER DESIRES.

d. Those who PRACTICE THE EVIL NOTED ABOVE are NOT BEINGRULED by the FATHER and by JESUS CHRIST. They CANNOTINHERIT the KINGDOM! (Galatians 5:21).

6. The READERS of the book of EPHESIANS MUST NOT BE DECEIVED bythose who teach that these sins will NOT BE PUNISHED! (Ephesians 5:6).

a. We DO NOT KNOW who these people might be! Were they earlyGNOSTICS who taught immorality? Were they unbelieving GENTILES? Were they unbelieving JEWS? We are not certain.

b. CONSIDER the emphasis on BEING DECEIVED in other Scripture(Romans 16:18; Galatians 6:7, 8; Colossians 2:4, 8).

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c. Whoever they were, it must be seen that GOD’S WRATH WILL COME!(Romans 1:18; 12:19; Hebrews 3:13, 14).

d. GOD’S WRATH will come on those WHOSE LIFE IS DISOBEDIENT!(Romans 2:4-9).

7. DO NOT “SHARE” WITH THEM IN THEIR SINS! (Ephesians 5:7)

a. Christians MUST NOT be “PARTNERS” (summetochoi) with those who PRACTICE THESE SINS!

b. This word for “PARTNERS” means “CASTING ONE’S LOT WITH THEM” (Arndt and Gingrich, page 786). It is used in a GOOD sensein Ephesians 3:6 where it means “FELLOW-PARTAKERS” in thegreat “PROMISE” in Christ.

8. Disciples MUST “WALK” as “CHILDREN OF LIGHT!” (Ephesians 5:8).

a. They were formerly, “DARKNESS” under SATAN, the “PRINCE”of DARKNESS (Ephesians 2:1-3; Colossians 1:13). Christians are“SONS OF LIGHT,” NOT “DARKNESS” (I Thessalonians 5:4, 5)

b. BUT NOW, they are “LIGHT” and must “WALK” as “CHILDREN OFLIGHT!” (Matthew 5:14-16; I John 1:4-7; 2:8-11)

c. Paul’s MINISTRY, at the time he became a Christian, was to TURN PEOPL FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT (Acts 26:16-18). Read I Peter 2:9.

9. The “HARVEST” or “FRUIT” that will be produced by “WALKING ASCHILDREN OF LIGHT” IS THE FOLLOWING: (Ephesians 5:9).

a. GOODNESS: This is UPRIGHTNESS and is also used for a spirit ofGENEROSITY! (Romans 15:14; Galatians 5:22)

b. RIGHTEOUSNESS: That which is JUST and RIGHT LIVING beforeBOTH GOD AND MAN. NOTE Ephesians 4:24 concerning “createdin righteousness….”. Read also Hosea 10:12.

c. TRUTH: The disciple will place an EMPHASIS on what is CORRECT and REAL! See Ephesians 4:24 again, “Created in righteousness andholiness of the truth.”

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10. The disciple will be “TESTING” and “PROVING” (Approving) what is“PLEASING TO THE LORD” (Ephesians 5:10).

a. This phrase “TRYING TO LEARN” (dokimazontes) means to “PROVE” what is pleasing to the Lord.

b. This same word is used for the word, “PROVE” in Romans 12:2. The New English Bible translates this Scripture, (5:10) “MAKE SURE WHAT WOULD HAVE THE LORD’S APPROVAL.”

c. JESUS ALWAYS “PLEASED” HIS FATHER! (John 8:29)

d. OUR MOTIVATION for PLEASING THE LORD should be LOVE,NOT GUILTY DREAD! (I John 4:18).

11. The disciple of Jesus must RUN AWAY from EVIL and even EXPOSE IT (Ephesians 5:11)

a. Disciples are NOT to have “FELLOWSHIP” with the “works” ofDARKNESS. The word, “FELLOWSHIP” is the beautiful word “sugkoinoneite” to “PARTNER” with, “SHARE” with. DO NOT BE PARTNERS WITH EVIL!

b. Disciples are to “EXPOSE” (elegchete) the SIN TO THE ONE WHOIS COMMITTING THAT SIN! Are we willing to do this?

c. This word, “EXPOSE” means “Bring to light,” “set forth,” “reprove,”“correct” (Arndt and Gingrich, pages 248, 249). It means to CONVICT A PERSON OF SIN! See the use of this word in Titus 1:9, 13; I Timothy 5:20.

d. A SIMILAR EXPRESSION would be “SHOW HIM HIS FAULT”(Matthew 18:15).

12. IT IS SHAMEFUL EVEN TO MENTION THE EVIL THINGS DONE (5:12)HOWEVER, SIN MUCT BE CONFRONTED! NOTE that EVIL ACTSARE DONE IN SECRET! (John 3:20).

13. WHEN “EXPOSED” (Reproved) BY LIGHT, ALL THINGS BECOME VISIBLE (5:13). This is a difficult passage!

a. LIGHT will “REPROVE’ what is EVIL, and ILLUMINATE WHAT ISGOOD.

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b. This passage may mean that, WHEN EVIL IS “EXPOSED,” the ONEDOING THAT EVIL CHANGES HIS LIFE, and that which wasEVIL BECOMES “LIGHT.” (Bruce, page 107)

c. The “ORDER” of EVENTS here seems to be that there is first “DARKNESS.” Then, “EXPOSING” or REPROVING is done, “CORRECTION” of wrong takes place, and, then, there is “LIGHT.”

14. In 5:14, Paul may be QUOTING from Isaiah 60:1 or 26:19 (5:14). NOTE that Paul had already discussed being “DEAD IN SIN,” but then, being made“ALIVE” in Christ (Ephesians 2:1). One writer suggests that this verse may be an EARLY HYMN sung at BAPTISM (Weed, page 176).

E. WALKING IN “WISDOM” (Ephesians 5:15-21)

1. Paul wanted Christians to be “WISE” concerning what is GOOD, and“INNOCENT” concerning what is EVIL. Note Romans 16:19. Study also Matthew 10:16.

2. Here in the Ephesians text, (5:15), he encouraged his readers to “LOOKCAREFULLY” HOW YOU WALK! They needed to be WISE! They must SEE WHAT THE LORD’S WILL REALLY IS!

3. They were to “MAKE THE MOST” of THEIR TIME! (Ephesians 5:16). This is also WISE!

a. In USING OUR TIME WISELY, we must LOOK FOR EVERY OPPORTUNITY TO “DO GOOD!” (Colossians 4:5; Galatians 6:10)

b. The “DAYS ARE EVIL!” The days were “EVIL” at that time. They are also EVIL TODAY! Notice this idea in Acts 2:40. Galatians 1:4; I John 5:19.

4. “DO NOT BE FOOLISH!” (5:17). The Jerusalem Bible translates, “DON’TBE THOUGHTLESS!”

a. “UNDERSTAND” THE WILL OF THE LORD! Paul wanted hisreaders to have an “INSIGHT” concerning the wonderful “MYSTERY” of God (Ephesians 3:4).

b. NOTE additional Scriptures concerning the NEED for a CORRECTUNDERSTANDING OF THE LORD’S WILL (Colossians 1:9; 2:2).

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5. Paul urged, “DO NOT BE DRUNK WITH WINE….!” (Ephesians 5:18).

a. Religions such as the cult of Dionysius used DRINKING, DANCING, etc.to produce INTOXICATION. They were seeking COMMUNICATION with some “deity” (Weed, page 177).

b. This PRACTICE is “DEBAUCHERY!” (asotia) The Jerusalem Bible translates, “Debasement.” Arndt and Gingrich use the words, “DEBAUCHERY, DISSIPATION, PROFLIGACY” (page 119). Read also I Peter 4:3, 4. This is “LOOSE LIVING.”

c. We remember that the “PRODIGAL SON” went to a “far country” andwasted his inheritance in “RIOTOUS LIVING.” This is a similarconcept and a related Greek word (Luke 15:13.). This is NOT theway to “UNDERSTAND GOD’S WILL!”

d. Paul urged them to be “FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT” (5:18)(See Acts 6:3; 7:55; 9:17; 13:9). Notice also the “SPIRIT-FILLEDLIFE” in Galatians 5:22, 23. The “SPIRIT-FILLED LIFE” will alsobe described by Paul in the verses below (Ephesians 5:19-21)

6. The COMMAND to be “FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT” is immediately followedby FIVE GREEK PARTICIPLES that help us to see HOW the “SPIRIT-FILLED” CHRISTIAN WILL LIVE (Ephesians 5:19-21).

a. The FIVE PARTICIPLES ARE: (1) “Speaking,” (2) “Singing” (3)“Making melody,” (4) “Giving Thanks,” and (5) “Being subject to one another.”

b. It is NOTED very quickly that the “SPIRIT-FILLED LIFE” is NOTlived ALONE, BY ONESELF, BUT WITH GOD’S PEOPLE (5:19)Notice the phrase “….TO ONE ANOTHER!” We speak “to oneanother in Psalms, Hymns, etc. (Boles, page 308).

7. The THREE TYPES of SONGS given here probably are NOT GIVEN as threecompletely different types of songs (5:19) (Kittel, Vol. 1, page 164).

a. HOWEVER, the word “PSALMS” (psalmois) may refer to the Psalms of David.

b. “HYMNS” (humnois) may be songs of PRAISE TO GOD

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c. “SPIRITUAL SONGS” (hodais pneumatikais) may be a general termfor songs based in the spiritual realm. Arndt and Gingrich says,“SACRED SONG,” “SONG OF PRAISE TO GOD”

d. Consider also Colossians 3:16.

8. IT IS NOTED IN THIS SCRIPTURE and IN COLOSSIANS 3:16, as well asother Scriptures, that THERE ARE TWO FUNDAMENTAL PURPOSESFOR CHRISTIANS SINGING in the CHURCH ASSEMBLY:

a. One is to PRAISE GOD! See also James 5:13; Hebrews 13:15, etc.

b. A SECOND PURPOSE is the “EDIFICATION,” the “ENCOURAGEMENT” OF OTHERS. Others need to be “STRENGTHENED, BUILT UP!” This is also taught in Colossians 3:16. NOTE I Corinthians 14:3, 12, 26.

9. Christians “MAKE MELODY” (psallontes) with the “INSTRUMENT” of the HEART (Ephesians 5:19).

a. This word, “psallontes,” from “psallo,” is translated “SING” or “SINGPRAISE” in I Corinthians 14:15; Romans 15:9 and James 5:13. IN THE NEW TESTAMENT, IT DOES NOT CONTAIN ANY REFERENCE TO A MECHANICAL INSTRUMENT OF MUSIC.

b. F. F. Bruce wrote that “MAKING MELODY” here has the meaning of“singing psalms” which it has in I Corinthians 14:15 and James 5:13. It DOES NOT include a mechanical instrument of music. Notice thisquotation: “Such melody, to be acceptable to the Lord, must springfrom the heart” (Bruce, page 111). (Underlining by Editor).

c. These words suggest, “The total involvement” of the disciple in the“thanksgiving offered through worship” (Weed, page 178).

10. The disciple of Jesus is always “GIVING THANKS” TO THE FATHERWHETHER IN THE CHURCH ASSEMBLY, OR IN DAILY LIFE (5:20).

a. In Colossians 3:16, Paul stated that SINGING SHOULD BE DONE WITH “THANKSGIVING.”

b. NOTE CAREFULLY: The SIN OF “UNTHANKFULNESS” is found inMIDDLE OF SOME TERRIBLE SINS! (Romans 1:18-32 but,

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especially Romans 1:21 AND II Timothy 3:1-9, but, especially II Timothy 3:2).

c. CONSIDER “THANKFULNESS” also as seen in Colossians 3:17; 4:2;I Thessalonians 5:18.

d. THANKSGIVING is to be done “THROUGH HIM” (Christ), OR “INTHE NAME OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST” TO GOD, EVENTHE FATHER! See “THROUGH HIM” in Colossians 3:17. IT ISTHROUGH JESUS THAT WE ADDRESS THE FATHER! In all ofthis, RECOGNIZE WHAT JESUS HAS DONE FOR MANKIND!ACCESS IS AVAILABLE TO THE FATHER (Ephesians 2:18)

11. CHRISTIANS are “TO BE IN SUBJECTION TO ONE ANOTHER” (Ephesians 5:21).

a. Some writers place 5:21 in the FOLLOWING SECTION (5:22-6:9) WHICH IS CONCERNED WITH HOUSEHOLD ETHICS(Weed, page 178).

b. The word, “hupotasso” means “SUBORDINATION,” “TO BE SUBJECTTO SOMEONE” (Arndt and Gingrich, pages 855, 856).

c. It is used in Scripture for “SUBJECTION” to RULERS (Romans 13:1-7;Titus 3:1).

d. It is used for “SUBJECTION” of WIVES to HUSBANDS (Ephesians 5:22-24; Colossians 3:18; Titus 2:5)

e. Again, for disciples to be “SUBJECT” to MATURE CHRISTIANS(I Corinthians 16:15, 16).

f. But, also, for the YOUNGER to be “SUBJECT” to the OLDER (I Peter 5:5).

g. BUT, in this Scripture, the apostle taught Christians TO BE “SUBJECT”TO EACH OTHER! (Ephesians 5:21).

(1) This suggests a wonderful RESPONSIBILITY toward OURBROTHERS AND SISTERS and a DEEP CONCERN for theirSPIRITUAL WELFARE!

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(2) WE NEED EACH OTHER, WE NEED TO HELP EACH OTHER, WE NEED TO SERVE EACH OTHER! (I Corinthians 12:20-25; Galatians 5:13, etc.).

(3) Disciples who have the “MIND OF CHRIST” will SERVE THEIRBROTHERS AND SISTERS JUST AS JESUS SERVED US!(Philippians 2:5-8; Matthew 20:20-28; II Corinthians 4:5)

(4) “SUBJECTING” OURSELVES to the NEEDS of our BROTHERSwill be done out of a REVERENCE for CHRIST (5:21).

(5) This word, “REVERENCE” is “phobos,” the word for “FEAR.”It is used for “GODLY FEAR” (II Corinthians 7:1; Acts9:31; I Peter 1:17). Wives should “RESPECT” their husbands.

III. The DISCIPLE OF CHRIST in his “DOMESTIC LIFE” (Ephesians 5:22-6:9).

A. HUSBANDS and WIVES (Ephesians 5:22-33)

1. The WIFE should VERY WILLINGLY “SUBMIT” to her husband. WHY?Because she is SUBMITTING to God’s Will for the FAMILY and the ROLES that God has assigned to HUSBAND and WIFE.

2. The WIFE is NOT INFERIOR! (Galatians 3:28). God has ordained particulartasks for MEN and WOMEN in the FAMILY (I Corinthians 7:17;11:3; Titus 2:4, 5)

3. The “SUBJECTION” of the woman is “qualified” just as “SUBMISSION” to the SECULAR GOVERNMENT is “qualified.” A person would NOT be inSUBJECTION if commanded to something CONTRARY TO GOD’S WILL(Acts 4:19, 20; 5:29).

4. “AS TO THE LORD” suggests that “SUBJECTION” to the HUSBAND is aPART of OBEDIENCE TO CHRIST (5:22)

5. CONSIDER: “ALL THINGS” in the CHURCH are “SUBJECT” to CHRISTand HE IS “HEAD!” (Ephesians 1:22, 23).

6. In the physical FAMILY, the WIFE is “SUBJECT” to the HUSBAND, and he isthe “HEAD” of the FAMILY! (Ephesians 5:22, 23).

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7. JESUS is BOTH “HEAD” of the CHURCH, and He is “SAVIOR” of His BODY(5:23).

8. Again, the comparison of CHRIST and the SUBJECTION of the CHURCH toHIM is APPLIED to the WIFE and her responsibility to the HUSBAND(5:24)

9. The HUSBAND should have a “SACRIFICIAL” LOVE for his WIFE (5:25)

a. The word for “LOVE” in this passage is “agape.”

b. The COMMAND for the HUSBAND to “LOVE” HIS WIFE is foundTHREE TIMES in this paragraph (Ephesians 5:25, 28, 33)

c/ This “agape” (Love) is a LOVE LIKE GOD’S LOVE!

(1) It is a LOVE THAT SEEKS THE VERY BEST FOR THE ONE WHO IS LOVED! (John 3:16; Romans 5:8, 9; Galatians2:20). See God’s “agape” and Jesus’ “agape” in these passages.

(2) It is a LOVE that will meet the NEEDS of ANOTHER even whenthat person is NOT LOVELY AND GOOD. That is the NATURE OF THE LOVE OF GOD!

10. BEFORE PROCEEDING FURTHER, NOTE HOW PRECIOUS THE CHURCH REALLY IS:

a. Jesus is the “SAVIOR” of the BODY, the CHURCH (Ephesians 5:23)

b. Jesus gave HIMSELF for the CHURCH (Ephesians 5:25)

c. The CHURCH was “PURCHASED” with the BLOOD of JESUS(Acts 20:28)

d. The people in the CHURCH are the people in the KINGDOM which was“purchased” with the BLOOD OF CHRIST (Revelation 5:9, 10).

11. The kind of LOVE Christ had, A “SELF-GIVING” LOVE, which is the kind of LOVE that a HUSBAND MUST HAVE, is a love that makes theWIFE’S SUBJECTION BOTH POSSIBLE AND BEAUTIFUL!

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12. CHRIST “SANCTIFIES’ (Makes Holy) and “CLEANSES” the CHURCH (Ephesians 5:26).

a. The word, “SANCTIFIED” is the SAME ROOT WORD as the word,“SAINTS” (hagiase) . The church at CORINTH had been “SANCTIFIED” (Set Apart, Made Holy” (I Corinthians 6:11)

b. The CHURCH is “SANCTIFIED” and “CLEANSED” by the “WASHING (loutro) OF WATER WITH THE WORD” (5:26)

(1) This “WASHING” would refer to their BAPTISM “INTO CHRIST” (John 3:1-5; Acts 2:36-38; 22:14-16).

(2) Compare this to the “WASHING OF REGENERATION” of Titus 3:5.

c. The phrase, “WITH THE WORD” or “IN THE WORD” (en hremati)is difficult to interpret. IT MAY MEAN:

(1) It may mean the GOSPEL preached BEFOE BAPTISM(Romans 10:17).

(2) It may mean a STATEMENT BEFORE BAPTISM such as “IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER, SON AND HOLY SPIRIT” (Matthew 28:19).

(3) It could possibly refer to a CONFESSION of faith in Jesus BEFORE BAPTISM (Romans 10:9).

(4) It could mean God’s PROMISE to the one being BAPTIZED suchas the PROMISES in Acts 2:38. Weed suggests that one of these LAST TWO IS MORE LIKELY THE MEANING (Weed, page 180).

13. AT THE END OF TIME, Christ wants the church PRESENTED in “Splendor” WITHOUT “SPOT” OR “WRINKLE” (Ephesians 5:27)

a. The CHURCH is the “BRIDE” OF CHRIST, AND THE “BRIDE” MUSTBE “HOLY!” (II Corinthians 11:3; I Peter 1:15, 16; Revelation7:13, 14; 19:7, 8; 21:2, 9, 10).

b. These words, WITHOUT “SPOT and “WRINKLE,” and “HOLY and“BLAMELESS” remind us of the PASSOVER and other sacrifices

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of the Old Testament that must be PERFECT, without DEFECT(Exodus 12:5).

c. See also the “HOLY,” “BLAMELESS” CHURCH MENTIONED BY PAUL in Colossians 1:22.

14. Paul returned to the COMPARISON of CHRIST and the CHURCH, andHUSBAND and WIFE HUSBANDS SHOULD LOVE THEIR WIVES“AS THEIR OWN BODIES” (Ephesians 5:28)

a. Paul is NOT SAYING that the HUSBAND should be guilty of “SELF-EXALTATION” or “ADORING HIMSELF.” The MAN will“TAKE CARE” of HIMSELF, “CARE” FOR HIMSELF, PROVIDEFOR AND PROTECT HIMSELF. He should DO THE SAME for HISWIFE!

b. This points out the VERY CLOSE RELATIONSHIP that HUSBANDS and WIVES SHOULD HAVE. NOTE Genesis 2:23, 24 and the expressions, “BONE OF MY BONE….,” “CLEAVE,” and “ONE FLESH!”

15. A MAN will “NOURISH” (ektrephei) and “CHERISHES” (thalpei) HIS OWNFLESH (5:29). This is the way that CHRIST FEELS CONCERNING THE CHURCH! To “NOURISH” and “CHERISH” is to CARE FOR andPROTECT!

a. The word for “BRING THEM UP” in Ephesians 6:4 concerning children is the SAME WORD as the word, “NOURISHES” here (Bauer, page246).

b. The word, “CHERISHES” (thalpo) literally means to “KEEP WARM” (Bauer, page 350). Note also I Thessalonians 2:7 where it is translated, “TENDERLY CARES FOR.”

c. Christ DOES THE SAME THING for the CHURCH. HE “NOURISHES”AND “CHERISHES!”

16. This CLOSENESS and TENDER CARE is also seen in 5:30. “WE AREMEMBERS OF HIS BODY!” (Ephesians 1:22, 23; 4:11-16; I Corinthians12:12-27)

17. Paul then QUOTED Genesis 2:24 (5:31). The HUSBAND “CLEAVES” to hisWIFE. They are “ONE FLESH,” sharing BODIES, MIND, FUTURE

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HOPES, ASPIRATIONS, etc. The word, “CLEAVE” literally means “TO GIVE TOGETHER.”

18. THESE GREAT TEACHINGS OF PAUL involved a “GREAT MYSTERY”(Ephesians 5:32).

a. BUT, PAUL WAS SPEAKING OF THE CLOSE RELATIONSHIPOF CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH!

b. AN INTERESTING QUESTION: Is it true that GOD’S WILL for an“IDEAL MARRIAGE” was a “FORESHADOWING” of the RELATIONSHIP OF CHRIST to the CHURCH?

c. IF OUR MARRIAGE IS RIGHT IN GOD’S SIGHT, IT WILL HELP US TO SEE WHAT THE RELATIONSHIP SHOULD BE BETWEEN CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH!

19. FINALLY, Paul drew a CONCLUSION as he made an APPLICATION tothe RELATIONSHIP of HUSBAND and WIFE (Ephesians 5:33).

a. EVERY HUSBAND should have a “SELF-GIVING” LOVE (agapato)for HIS WIFE a LOVE LIKE JESUS HAD FOR HIS CHURCH

b. AND, that the WIFE should “RESPECT” HER HUSBAND! The wordfor “RESPECT” or “REVERENCE” is literally “FEAR” (phobetai).NOTE the RESPECT that Sarah had for Abraham (I Peter 3:6)

c. The MORE that HUSBANDS LOVE their WIVES, the MORE THEY WILL BE RESPECTED! The MORE that WIVES RESPECTtheir HUSBANDS, the MORE THEY WILL BE LOVED!

REVIEW QUESTIONS ON EPHESIANS CHAPTER FIVE

1. In what way should disciples of Jesus “IMITATE” the Father in heaven? (5:1, 2 and other Scriptures suggested in the Notes).

2. How is the word, “WALK” used in 5:2, 8, 15? What is its meaning?

3. Who is the PERFECT EXAMPLE of Biblical LOVE as noted in 5:2?

4. What is the meaning of “WALKING IN LIGHT?” (5:3-14).

5. Discuss the EVIL actions of 5:3-10 which are the OPPOSITE of “walking in LIGHT.”

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6. In what way is “GREED” (Covetousness) actually “IDOLATRY?” See also Colossians 3:5.

7. What is the meaning of “PARTAKERS” in Ephesians 5:7?

8. What is the “HARVEST” that is reaped from “WALKING IN LIGHT?” (5:9).

9. What BEAUTIFUL PRINCIPLE of LIFE do you see in Ephesians 5:10?

10. What MUST BE the Christian’s attitude toward EVIL? (Ephesians 5:11).

11. What are the SPECIFIC ACTIONS, noted by Paul in 5:15-21, of those who “WALKWISELY?”

12. What are the FIVE ACTIONS (Greek participles) found in Ephesians 5:19-21 which describe those who are “FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT?”

13. What are the possible meanings of the THREE TYPES OF SONGS in Ephesians 5:19 and Colossians 3:16?

14. What are TWO PRIMARY PURPOSES of SINGING in our worship?

15. What is the meaning of the word, “psallo” in Ephesians 5:19 and other Scriptures?

16. Please DISCUSS the very serious nature of the SIN of “UNTHANKFULNESS.”

17. Show the various usages of the word, “SUBJECTION” in different Scriptures.

18. What is the responsibility of WIVES toward their HUSBANDS? (5:22-24). Doesthis suggest that the wife is “INFERIOR?”

19. What is the RESPONSIBILITY of HUSBANDS toward their WIVES? (5:25-33).

20. Show the GREAT VALUE and PRECIOUSNESS of the CHURCH as seen inEphesians 5:22-33.

21. Describe the real meaning of “agape” (love) as seen in this, and many other Scriptures.

22. What is the meaning of “WASHING OF WATER WITH THE WORD?” (5:26).

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NOTES ON EPHESIANS CHAPTER SIX

B. PARENTS and THEIR CHILDREN (Ephesians 6:1-4).

1. There are many “ETHICAL LISTS” that speak of the Christian’s BEHAVIORthat are found in New Testament Scriptures (Ephesians 5:22-6:9; Colossians 3:18-4:1; I Peter 2:18-3:7; Titus 2:1-10; I Timothy 6:1, 2)

2. In this text, CHILDREN MUST OBEY THEIR PARENTS (6:1). Read alsoColossians 3:20. Our relationship to Christ DEMANDS obedience to parents.

a. Jesus OBEYED HIS PARENTS (Luke 2:51)

b. OBEDIENCE TO PARENTS IS “RIGHT!” It is COMMANDED of God.Examine the requirement for the HONORING of parents in the OldTestament (Exodus 20:12; Deuteronomy 5:16)

c. OBEDIENCE TO PARENTS is “WELL-PLEASING” to the Lord

d. DISOBEDIENCE to PARENTS is found in lists of TERRIBLE SINS(Romans 1:30; II Timothy 3:2).

3. CONSIDER that there are FOUR REASONS in these verses FOR CHILDRENTO OBEY THEIR PARENTS: (Boles, page 324).

a. It is “IN THE LORD”

b. It is “RIGHT”

c. It was a COMMAND in the Old Testament also

d. There was a “PROMISE” connected with the COMMAND

4. There was TERRIBLE PUNISHMENT for CHILDREN who DISOBEYEDtheir PARENTS in the nation of ISRAEL (Deuteronomy 21:18-21).

5. CONSIDER that, in the TEN COMMANDMENTS, HONORING PARENTSis the ONLY COMMAND that had a PROMISE attached to it (Ephesians 6:2, 3). (Exodus 20:1-17; Deuteronomy 5:1-21).

a. In the Old Testament, this PROMISE was connected with LIVING INPROMISED LAND OF CANAAN (Deuteronomy 5:16).

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b. TODAY, there is NO PROMISE of LAND, or RICHES! However,OBEDIENT CHILDREN can mature to be SUCCESSFUL,PRODUCTIVE ADULTS.

6. Parents SHOULD NOT “EXASPERATE” their children (6:4). The word“EXASPERATE” (parorgizete) means, “enrage,” “make angry” (Bauer, page 629). Read also Colossians 3:21.

a. The word, “DISCIPLINE” or “NURTURE” (paideia) is a beautifulword that means the entire “TRAINING” of the child

(1) It is used for “EDUCATION” or “instruction) (Acts 7:22)

(2) It is used for “CORRECTION” of wrong doing (II Timothy 2:25)

(3) It is also used for “DISCIPLINE” or “PUNISHMENT”

(4) It is also used to refer to the entire “TRAINING” of a person(II Timothy 3:16 – “Training in righteousness”).

b. The word, “ADMONITION” (nouthesia) can mean “INSTRUCTION”or “WARNING” (Arndt and Gingrich, page 546). Read Titus 3:10 where this last meaning is observed.

C. SLAVES and their MASTERS (Ephesians 6:5-9). Examine also Colossians 3:22-4:1;I Timothy 6:1, 2; Titus 2:9, 10; I Peter 2:18).

1. It has been estimated that as many as ONE THIRD of the population of the Cityof ROME in the first century were SLAVES. Probably, a large portion ofthe members of the CHURCH were SLAVES at that time.

2. Christian SLAVES needed to realize that they were “FREE IN CHRIST,”(I Corinthians 7:22; Galatians 5:1), but they still had RESPONSIBILITIES toward their “MASTERS.”

3. The Greek word for “MASTERS” is “kurioi,” (6:5) the word for “LORD” in many Scriptures. Thus, the word, “LORD” referred to the “OWNER OF A SLAVE!”

a. Paul spoke of the “LORD’S BOND-SERVANT” OR “SLAVE” (doulos)(II Timothy 2:24). Timothy was the “SLAVE” of his “MASTER,”the LORD Jesus Christ.

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b. CONSIDER that JESUS is our “OWNER,” OUR “LORD” as seen inthe following Scriptures: (Acts 2:36; 10:36; Romans 14:8, 9; Philippians 2:9-11; II Corinthians 4:5; I Peter 3:15).

4. SLAVES must OBEY “MASTERS” (OWNERS, “LORDS”) (Ephesians 6:5).

a. “WITH FEAR AND TREMBLING” suggest an “ANXIOUSNESS TO DO RIGHT in the service of the “OWNER” (Weed, page 184).

b. SLAVES must be “FAITHFUL” to Masters just as they are to CHRIST!

c. “SINGLENESS OF HEART” means NOT to have DIVIDED LOYALTYExamine Colossians 3:22, 23.

5. SERVING MASTERS faithfully is DOING THE WILL OF GOD (Ephesians 6:6).

a. SLAVES must have a HIGH MOTIVATION!

(1) They SERVE “AS TO CHRIST” (6:5)

(2) They SERVE “AS SLAVES OF CHRIST” (6:6)

(3) They SERVE “AS TO THE LORD” (6:7)

b. They are to SERVE “not by way of eye service as men-pleasers.”“OBEY THEM NOT ONLY TO WIN THEIR FAVOR WHENTHEIR EYE IS ON YOU….” (Boles, page 329). Read alsoColossians 3:22)

c. They SHOULD SERVE “FROM THE HEART!” The text literally says,“OUT OF THE SOUL!” (ek psuches). They will do this “AS SLAVESOF CHRIST” (Note I Corinthians 7:20-22).

6. They should SERVE “WHOLEHEARTEDLY” WITH “GOOD WILL!” (6:7) This is literally “WITH A GOOD MIND.” (Arndt and Gingrich, page 323). They are serving AS IF THEY ARE SERVING THE LORD AND NOT MAN!

A GOOD QUESTION TO DISCUSS: IF THEIR MASTERS ARE PAGANS,WHAT SHOULD THEY DO? Please DISCUSS this!

7. The LORD WILL REWARD whether the SERVANT is a SLAVE or FREE(6:8). WITH THE LORD, THERE IS NO DISTINCTION (Galatians 3:28).

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THEY ARE SLAVES OF CHRIST! (Colossians 3:24). Read also Matthew 5:12).

8. MASTERS must do THE SAME! (Ephesians 6:9)

a. MASTERS should NOT “THREATEN!” (Arndt and Gingrich, page 82).They should “STOP THREATENING!” Note this word in Acts 4:17where it is translated, “WARN.”

b. These MASTERS must REMEMBER that “THEIR MASTER” is inHEAVEN (Colossians 4:1)

c. Their MASTER IN HEAVEN shows NO PARTIALITY (Acts 10:34;Galatians 2:6)

WOULD THIS TEACHING APPLY TO EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES TODAY?

IV. The SPIRITUAL WARFARE of the disciple of Christ (Ephesians 6:10-24)

A. The ENEMY that must be CONFRONTED (Ephesians 6:10-12).

1. Before examining this section, PLEASE READ II Corinthians 10:1-5. Our weapons are NOT physical, NOT CARNAL WEAPONS

2. There is a GREAT SPIRITUAL BATTLE that is RAGING in this world, aBATTLE BETWEEN GOOD AND EVIL (Romans 13:12; I Thessalonians5:4, 5, 8; I Timothy 6:12; II Timothy 2:3; Revelation 2:10).

3. The disciple of the Lord must be “MADE STRONG” so that he can “FIGHTTHE GOOD FIGHT OF FAITH” (Ephesians 6:10)

4. GOD provides the STRENGTH and POWER for the GREAT BATTLE! Dependon Him! (Ephesians 1:19; 3:20, 21; II Corinthians 6:7; Philippians 4:13;II Timothy 2:1).. The phrase “IN THE LORD” stresses again the thoughtconcerning “IN CHRIST,” and “IN HIS BODY” (Ephesians 4:15, 16).

5. The “ARMOR OF GOD” will PROTECT against the “SCHEMES” of Satan(Ephesians 6:11).

a. In the Old Testament, GOD is pictured as a “WARRIOR.” An exampleof this is Isaiah 42:13.

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b. The “WHOLE ARMOR,” THE “FULL EQUIPMENT” protects theChristian from the “SCHEMES” of the Devil.

(1) The word, “panoplia” refers to the FULL, COMPLETE ARMORof the SOLDIER. We get the English word, “PANOPLY”from this GREEK word. This word refers to a “HEAVY ARMED SOLDIER” (A. and G. page 612).

(2) The battle is against the “WILES” or “SCHEMES” of the DEVIL.The word for “WILES” is “methodeias” which means“scheming, craftiness” (A. and G. page 500).Observe “DECEITFUL SCHEMING” in Ephesians 4:14.

(3) The Greek word for “DEVIL” is “diabolos” which actually means “SLANDERER” (A. and G. page 181).Consult I Timothy 3:7; II Timothy 2:26; I Peter 5:8;(II Corinthians 11:14 for further descriptions of Satan.

6. The STRUGGLE, the BATTLE is NOT PHYSICAL, BUT SPIRITUAL (Ephesians 6:12).

a. The STRUGGLE is NOT AGAINST “FLESH” and “BLOOD.” NoteII Corinthians 10:3-5 again.

b. CONSIDER how SATAN is described in different Scriptures (John 12:31; 14:30; 16:11; The “ruler” of this world, II Corinthians 4:4, the “god of this world”).

c. The expressions, “RULERS,” “FORCES OF THIS DARKNESS,” and“SPIRITUAL FORCES OF WICKEDNESS” seem to refer to SATANand his FORCES. “ANGELIC/ DEMONIC HOSTS WHO SERVETHE DEVIL” (Boles, page 335).

d. The STRUGGLE is “IN THE HEAVENLY PLACES!” BUT, CHRISTIANS ARE SEATED WTH CHRIST “IN THE HEAVENLIES” (2:6). Consult the following Scriptures again that mention “heavenly places,” or, the “heavenlies.” (Ephesians 1:3, 10, 20; 2:6; 3:10; 4:10). There is the SPIRITUAL REALM where fellowship with the Lord is enjoyed, but ALSO, where the STRUGGLE WITH EVIL REMAINS! AN INTERESTING STATEMENT: “Christians have one foot in Heaven….” (Boles , page 335).

B. The ARMOR of the LORD (Ephesians 6:13-18)

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1. The GOAL is to “RESIST” and to “STAND FIRM ” in the Lord (6:13)

a. Examine other Scriptures where Christians are ENCOURAGED to“RESIST” and “STAND FIRM” (I Corinthians 15:58; James 4:7)

b. The phrase, “EVIL DAY” is evidently speaking of periods of time whenthe STRUGGLE is heavier. Consider Ephesians 5:16. The New English Bible translates this, “When things are at their worst.”

2. NOW, CONSIDER THE “PANOPLY” OF GOD (The “FULL ARMOR”)(Ephesians 6:14-18).

a. Paul AGAIN USED THE ENCOURAGEMENT, “STAND FIRM” (6:14)

(1) “STAND FIRM” (6:11)

(2) “RESIST” (6:13)

(3) “STAND FIRM” (6:13)

(4) “STAND FIRM” (6:14). Examine also I Corinthians 16:13;Philippians 1:27, 28; Romans 5:2.

b. The “BELT” of TRUTH (6:14). Here, the word may refer to INTEGRITY and truthfulness in one’s life. The DEVIL is the “father of lies” (John 8:44). The Objective Truth of GOD’S WORD will be seen in 6:17.

c. The “BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS” (6:14). NOTE howthis expression is used for GOD in Isaiah 59:17. The PERSONALRIGHTEOUSNESS of the Christian is evidently meant here(Ephesians 4:24; 5:9; Philippians 1:11).

d. The “FOOTWEAR” worn by the Christian “warrior” is the “gospel ofPEACE!” (6:15). “The gospel of peace makes us ready for war” (Boles, page 339). The GOSPEL BRINGS PEACE with God! (Romans 5:1, 2. The gospel brings PEACE among MEN! Note the previous study of Ephesians 2:11-16).

e. The “SHIELD OF FAITH” (Ephesians 6:16).

(1) The word for “SHIELD” is “thureon” which is a similar wordto “thura,” the word for door (Arndt and Gingrich, page 366).

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The Roman shield was a rectangular shield, evidently shaped like a door, that protected much of the body .

(2) The Christian’s “SHIELD” is his FAITH, his TRUST and CONFIDENCE in the Lord. This is the “VICTORY”(I John 5:4).

(3) This “SHIELD” can deflect all the “FLAMING ARROWS” (Arndt and Gingrich, page 138) of the “EVIL ONE”NOTE: Our Faith can deflect ALL THE TEMPTATIONS“SHOT AT US” by Satan, discouragement, worldliness,doubt, etc..

f. The “HELMET OF SALVATION” (6:17). Paul evidently is recallingIsaiah 59:17. The Christian’s PROTECTION, his “helmet,” in the great spiritual battle is the “hope of salvation” (I Thessalonians 5:8).

g. The “SWORD OF THE SPIRIT WHICH IS THE WORD OF GOD” (Ephesians 6:17).

(1) Consider how the WORD of God is compared to a SWORD(Hebrews 4:12).

(2) Examine the emphasis on the GOSPEL in the following Scriptures:(Ephesians 1:13; 3:6; Colossians 1:5, 6; Romans 10:17).

(3) The “WORD OF GOD” is the Holy Spirit’s “SWORD!”(Examine John 14:26; 16:13; I Timothy 4:1, etc.).

h. The NEED FOR MUCH PRAYER (Ephesians 6:18).

(1) Praying “in the Spirit” suggests BOTH DEPENDENCE on God, and the GUIDANCE of the Holy Spirit. Review 6:11once more. Pray CONTINUALLY! (I Thessalonians 5:17;Philippians 4:6, 7; See also Luke 18:1).

(2) In the great SPIRITUAL WARFARE, there is the NEED for“ALERTNESS” (agrupnountes). This word means to “keeponeself aware,” “keep on the alert” (Mark 13:33), “keep watch,” “guard,” “care for” (Hebrews 13:17) where leaders “watch” for souls” (Arndt and Gingrich, pages 13, 14).

(3) In this BATTLE, “PERSEVERANCE” (proskarteresai) is so very

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essential! This is the same word as “DEVOTE” (Acts 2:42;Colossians 4:2; Romans 12:12). Please observe the emphasison PRAYER in these Scriptures. “DEVOTE YOURSELVES TO PRAYER!” This includes PRAYER FOR ALL THE “SAINTS!” Review the several times in Ephesians where theword, “SAINTS” refers to Christians.

C. Paul’s “GOODBY.” His “FAREWELL” (Ephesians 6:19-24).

1. Paul wanted them to PRAY for the “SAINTS,” but HE also needed THEIR PRAYERS for HIMSELF (Ephesians 6:19).

a. How many Christians received this epistle of Ephesians? WE DO NOTKNOW, but there must have been MANY. Paul wanted the PRAYERS of MANY. He had also asked the PHILIPPIANS to PRAY FOR HIM (Philippians 1:19). Note also that he asked the COLOSSIANSto PRAY that he would have an “open door” for evangelism (Colossians 4:3).

b. We REMEMBER that, at this time, Paul was a PRISONER who wasuncertain whether he would LIVE or DIE! Read Philippians 1:20-25.And yet, HE DID NOT ASK THEM TO PRAY FOR HIS RELEASE FROM PRISON!

c. In this passage of Scripture, he asked them to PRAY that he would be given the RIGHT WORDS, and that he would have OPPORTUNITY to preach (6:19) (See Colossians 4:2-4).

d. Paul wanted to SPEAK WITH “BOLDNESS” Note that he said this inBOTH VERSES, Ephesians 6:19, 20. Paul stated to the Thessaloniansthat he had spoken the word with BOLDNESS to them (I Thessalonians 2:2). Consider the BOLDNESS of the other APOSTLES in Jerusalem (Acts 4:12, 13; 4:29-31)

e. CONSIDER: Should WE ALSO PRAY FOR THAT BOLDNESS?

f. Paul’s MESSAGE was the “MYSTERY OF THE GOSPEL,” God’s WAYOF SALVATION THROUGH CHRIST! (Ephesians 3:3-5, 9).

1. Paul was a PRISONER in BEHALF OF THE GOSPEL (Ephesians 6:20).

a. He wanted to “PEOCLAIM” (parresiasomai) the gospel

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“WITHOUT FEAR.” This word means to “speak freely, fearlessly.” Note its use in Acts 9:27; 18:26; 19:8.

b. It is interesting to NOTE that Luke records Paul’s BOLD PREACHING while in prison in Acts 28:30, 31.

2. Paul would send TYCHICUS to visit them (Ephesians 6:21, 22).

a. Note that TYCHICUS was with Paul earlier on the THIRD MISSIONJOURNEY (Acts 20:4).

b. NEAR FTHE END OF PAUL’S LIFE, he sent TYCHICUS to Ephesus(II Timothy 4:12).

c. ONESIUMS, the converted SLAVE, was the travel companion ofTYCHICUS (Colossians 4:7-9). TYCHICUS would deliverinformation to them CONCERNING PAUL.

d. Paul wanted TYCHICUS to “COMFORT THEIR HEARTS” (Ephesians 6:22).

(1) The word for “COMFORT” here is the beautiful word, “parakaleo.” The root meaning of this word is to “callto one’s side.” It is the common word for “EXHORT” or“ENCOURAGE” (I Thessalonians 3:2). It is also the word for “URGE” or “IMPLORE (I Corinthians 1:10).

(2) However, NOTE the usage of this word in the Scripture for “COMFORT” or “words of comfort” (Acts 20:12 at the raisingof Eutychus, II Corinthians 1:6; 7:13; 13:11). (A. and G. pages 622, 623).

4. Paul’s “FAREWELL” (Ephesians 6:23, 24).

a. Because Paul did NOT mention MANY DEAR FRIENDS at Ephesus inthis “FAREWELL” or in the rest of the letter, it seems to suggest thatthis book of Ephesians would be going to several congregations, certainly including Ephesus.

b. The word “PEACE” (eirene) here (6:23) has been a MAJOR TOPIC in the epistle (Ephesians 1:2; 2:14-17; 4:3, etc.). It may mean, “MAY YOU ALL, BOTH JEWISH AND GENTILES DISCIPLES, HAVE

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PEACE AMONG YOURSELVES.” Certainly, Paul wants them all to have a feeling of “WELL BEING” about their salvation also.

c. Paul also DESIRED that the BROTHERS would have “LOVE” and “FAITH” (6:23). NOTE that “FAITH, PEACE, and LOVE” are found here instead of “FAITH, HOPE, and LOVE” such as in I Corinthians 13:13.

d. NOTE ONCE AGAIN the emphasis on the “FATHER” in heaven and theLORD JESUS CHRIST (6:23). (Ephesians 4:4-6, etc.).

e. May God’s GRACE be with all those who LOVE the LORD with an“UNDYING” LOVE! (“agap e ” LOVE) (6:24). The word, “aphtharsia” is translated “IMPERISHABLE”” (I Corinthians 15:42, 50) (A. and G. pages 124, 125).

(1) This same word is also translated “IMMORTALITY” (Romans2:7; II Timothy 1:10).

(2) An “UNDYING LOVE” is so essential for eternal salvation. Paulsaid in I Corinthians 16:22, “If anyone does not love (philei)the Lord, let him be accursed….” The word, “LOVE” here isfrom “phileo” ANOTHER GREEK WORD, NOT “agape,” andyet, Paul’s point is clearly made, IF WE DO NOT LOVE THELORD, WE WILL BE ACCURSED!

REVIEW QUESTIONS ON EPHESIANS CHAPTER SIX

1. What are FOUR REASONS given in 6:1-3 for children to OBEY PARENTS?

2. HOW is the word, “NURTURE,” or “DISCIPLINE” used in Scripture? What are thedifferent meanings of this word, “paideia?” See Ephesians 6:4.

3. Discuss HOW the word for “MASTERS” of slaves is related to the word, “LORD”(Ephesians 6:5).

4. What is the meaning of the phrase, “EYE-SERVICE AS MEN-PLEASERS?” (6:6;Colossians 3:22).

5. Discuss whether or not Paul’s teaching about MASTERS and SLAVES wouldeliminate the practice of SLAVERY.

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6. Describe the “spiritual BATTLE” that Christians must fight. Who is the great ENEMY? Who are the helpers of this great enemy? (Ephesians 6:10-12).

7. WHO provides the STRENGTH in our SPIRITUAL BATTLE?

8. LIST the various parts of the Christian’s “PANOPLY” (Armor) and DISCUSS each(6:13-17).

9. What are the GREAT NEEDS of the Christian in this “SPIRITUAL BATTLE?” (6:18).

10. Please discuss Paul’s desire for BOLDNESS in his teaching, plus the BOLDNESSof the EARLY CHURCH, and OUR NEED for BOLDNESS (6:19, 20).

11. What PERSON would be SENT by Paul to ENCOURAGE the brethren and give aREPORT of Paul’s condition? (6:21, 22).

12. How IMPORTANT is our “UNDYING LOVE?” If we DO NOT HAVE that love, what are the consequences? (Ephesians 6:24; I Corinthians 16:22).

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A FEW RESEARCH MATERIALS

Arndt, William F., and Gingrich, F. Wilbur. A Greek-English Lexicon of the New TestamentAnd Other Early Christian Literature. Grand Rapids: Zondervan Publishing House, 1963. NOTE: The Arndt and Gingrich Lexicon is abbreviated in the text of this booklet as “A. and G.”

Bauer, Walter, A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early ChristianLiterature. Chicago and London: University of Chicago Press, 1979.

Bruce, F. F.. The Epistle To The Ephesians. London: Fleming H. Revell Company, 1961.

Boles, Kenneth L., Galatians And Ephesians. Joplin, Missouri: College Press, 1993.

Jerusalem Bible. London: Darton, Longman, & Todd. 1966.

Kittel, G. (Editor). Theological Dictionary of the New Testament. Grand Rapids, Michigan:Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1964.

Nestle, Eberhard, Novum Testamentum Graece . (Nestle’s Greek Text of the New Testament).Printed in Germany, 1964.

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New American Standard Bible, The Lockman Foundation. La Habra, California: 1977.

New English Bible. The New Testament in Four Versions. New York: The Iverson-FordAssociates, 1963.

Thayer, J. H.. The New Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon. Peabody, Massachusetts:Hendrickson Publishers, 1979.

Weed, Michael R.. The Letters of Paul To The Ephesians, The Colossians And Philemon.Austin, Texas: R. B. Sweet Co. Inc., 1971.

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