Introduction
Ephesus was the queen city of Asia Minor with a population of about 340,000 people. It was the capital of the province of Asia. There was no city like Ephesus. It was known for the great temple of Diana with 127 columns. Diana was called the goddess mother of everything. This temple was considered one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. This city had an open–air theatre with the seating capacity of 25000. Those seats were made of marble stones. It was a city of culture, religion, philosophy and worldwide commerce.
How the Church of Ephesus was formed?
During the second missionary journey, Paul made a brief visit to Ephesus. He left Priscilla and Aquila there to work in his absence and promised to return later (Act 18:18-21). On his third missionary journey, Paul stayed in Ephesus for about three years evangelizing the city and surrounding regions (Acts 19:1-20). During this time this church was founded. On his way to Jerusalem, Paul met the elders of the church at Miletus and warned them about false teachers (Act 20:17-38). Timothy, Onesiphorus, Tychicus and Apostle John labored at Ephesus. From here gospel spreads all over Asia Minor.
Authorship:
The writer identifies himself as Paul (1:1; 3:1). It is one of the four prison epistles (4:1; 6:20). Paul was imprisoned three times, at Caesarea for two years, again in Rome for about two years and lastly in Rome for some time. Paul wrote Ephesians during his first Roman imprisonment in A.D. 61-63. Some scholars suggest that it was a circular letter sent to the churches of Asia Minor. Some of the oldest manuscripts do not have the title “Who are in Ephesus”. Also the epistle lacks any personal greetings. Colossians 4:16 also may suggest that it was a circular letter. The recipients are those who are in Christ.
Purpose:
The epistle of Ephesians was written to share the great truth about the relationship between Christ and the church. The church is the divine institution set forth to fulfill God’s purpose in Christ (1:9, 10). The church is the fullness of Christ (1:23). It is the body of which Christ is the head. This epistle was written to strengthen the believers in their faith. This Epistle has some comparisons with the epistle to Colossians. In Ephesians the emphasis is on the dignity of the church. In Colossians the emphasis is the deity of Christ and in Ephesians we see the completeness of church in Christ. Ephesians considers the church’s oneness with Christ. Ephesians speaks of the believers being in Christ. In Colossians the emphasis is Christ being in the believers. Ephesians Chapter 1-3 summarizes believer’s spiritual standing and all the blessings they have in Christ. Chapter 4-6 explains how Christians should live in the world. The epistle of Ephesians begins with believer's spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus (1:3). So this epistle is called "The heavenly epistle".
How the Church of Ephesus was formed?
During the second missionary journey, Paul made a brief visit to Ephesus. He left Priscilla and Aquila there to work in his absence and promised to return later (Act 18:18-21). On his third missionary journey, Paul stayed in Ephesus for about three years evangelizing the city and surrounding regions (Acts 19:1-20). During this time this church was founded. On his way to Jerusalem, Paul met the elders of the church at Miletus and warned them about false teachers (Act 20:17-38). Timothy, Onesiphorus, Tychicus and Apostle John labored at Ephesus. From here gospel spreads all over Asia Minor.
Authorship:
The writer identifies himself as Paul (1:1; 3:1). It is one of the four prison epistles (4:1; 6:20). Paul was imprisoned three times, at Caesarea for two years, again in Rome for about two years and lastly in Rome for some time. Paul wrote Ephesians during his first Roman imprisonment in A.D. 61-63. Some scholars suggest that it was a circular letter sent to the churches of Asia Minor. Some of the oldest manuscripts do not have the title “Who are in Ephesus”. Also the epistle lacks any personal greetings. Colossians 4:16 also may suggest that it was a circular letter. The recipients are those who are in Christ.
Purpose:
The epistle of Ephesians was written to share the great truth about the relationship between Christ and the church. The church is the divine institution set forth to fulfill God’s purpose in Christ (1:9, 10). The church is the fullness of Christ (1:23). It is the body of which Christ is the head. This epistle was written to strengthen the believers in their faith. This Epistle has some comparisons with the epistle to Colossians. In Ephesians the emphasis is on the dignity of the church. In Colossians the emphasis is the deity of Christ and in Ephesians we see the completeness of church in Christ. Ephesians considers the church’s oneness with Christ. Ephesians speaks of the believers being in Christ. In Colossians the emphasis is Christ being in the believers. Ephesians Chapter 1-3 summarizes believer’s spiritual standing and all the blessings they have in Christ. Chapter 4-6 explains how Christians should live in the world. The epistle of Ephesians begins with believer's spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus (1:3). So this epistle is called "The heavenly epistle".
Chapter 1
Greetings:
Read Ephesians 1:1, 2)
The Epistle to the Ephesians is a prison epistle written by Paul. The writer identifies himself as Paul, an Apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God. Paul was directly commissioned and equipped by Christ to serve God. Paul was always conscious of the origin of his calling and the divine grace that sustained him throughout his ministry (1 Cor 15:10). This letter was addressed to the saints. Every Christian in Christ is a saint. Saints are sinners saved by the grace of God and set apart for God’s use. We are saints because of what Christ has done for us. Saints are not some special religious group. Nine times believers are called saints in this letter. They are believers in Christ and who are in-dwelt by the Holy Spirit to enjoy vital union with Christ. Scholars suggest that Paul uses the phrases “in Christ’ more than 30 times in Ephesians. Saints are not sinless or perfect people but faithful followers of Christ. Faithful, simply means "full of faith in Jesus Christ". Paul uses a standard greeting in this epistle. "Grace and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ". Grace is the unmerited favor of God in Christ. It is the extravagant goodness of God lavished upon us in Christ Jesus. Only those who experience the grace of God can find peace with God and peace of God. We can never exhaust God's grace or comprehend it fully. Grace is primarily the gentile greeting. Peace is a Jewish greeting. Peace does not mean absence of trouble but tranquility. The only way to experience grace and peace is through faith in Christ. They come from our heavenly Father and Lord Jesus Christ. A Christian is a person who trusts in Christ and made holy by God
The Spiritual Blessings in Christ:
Read Ephesians 1:3-14)
Paul begins the epistle by describing the spiritual blessings believers have in Christ. God has a master plan for our salvation in terms of past, present and future. These are the blessings of grace. Everything in the scripture ultimately points us to the grace of God in Christ. Christians have been blessed with every spiritual blessing because we are united to Christ by faith. Since we belong to Christ, we inherit all the blessings of salvation. Our blessings are not primarily earthly blessings but spiritual in nature. They are heavenly blessings. Our names are written in heaven (Luke 10:20), our citizenship is in heaven (Phil 3:20), our inheritance is in heaven (1 Pet 1:4), and our hope is laid up for us in heaven (Col 1:5). Paul describes six spiritual blessings of salvation in Chapter 1:4-14.
These blessings include:
Prayer for Spiritual Wisdom and Power:
Read Ephesians 1:15-23)
There are two prayers in Ephesians. Paul was a man of prayer. Prayer is likened to breathing for physical life. It is our lifeline to God. Paul’s first prayer is given in chapter one verses 15-23. Paul starts his prayer with thanksgiving (1:16). He makes three requests that can help believers to grow in their spiritual life. They were the recipients of the overflowing grace of God (1:3-14). Their faith in Christ saved them and that faith manifested by love. Love is the outgrowth of faith (John 13:35; 15:12). Almost ten years have passed-by since Paul left Ephesus. Paul might have heard about the quality of their faith and love for other believers from Epaphras (Col 1:4, 7, 8). This motivated Paul to pray for them. Someone has said “Faith and love are likened to the two pillars at Solomon’s Temple” (1 King 7:21). Faith and love are the marks of true Christians. Paul prayer was addressed to God, the Father of all glory (1:17; Jam 2:1).
What is the Church?
The church is the body of Christ. It is not a building of bricks and mortar. The word, church is used about 110 times in the New Testament. It means, called out assembly of believers and mostly refers to local churches (Matt 16:18). The church is closely associated with Christ in His glory, dominion and purpose. Christ is the head of the church. The church is the fullness of Christ, who fills all in all (Ephesians 1:23). The church should be the complete expression of Christ in its purpose and mission (Ephesians 4:13). Christ accomplishes his plans for the world through the church. The church is the household of God, the pillar and ground of the truth (1 Tim 3:15). The Church is supposed to be the community of fellowship and a network to support each other. The church is not a dead organization but a living organism in which Christ dwells and works. As Christians we are the church, the body of which Christ is the head. The church celebrates truth because it is founded on truth (1 Tim 3:15). Truth about what? Truth is personified in Jesus Christ (John 1:14). He is the truth about God (John 14:1011). Man was created to live in the moral likeness of God. God is not a physical being. Jesus said "I am the truth" (John 14:6). Only truth can regenerate, transform and liberate us from sin (James 1:18; John 17:17; 8:32). Jesus came not only to save sinners but also to reveal the nature of true humanity as God intended it to be. Nothing is more fulfilling than embracing the truth. The church celebrates God as our Father, Christ as our Savior and fellow believers as brothers and sisters in Christ. There is no greater calling than to become part of the church.
Read Ephesians 1:1, 2)
The Epistle to the Ephesians is a prison epistle written by Paul. The writer identifies himself as Paul, an Apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God. Paul was directly commissioned and equipped by Christ to serve God. Paul was always conscious of the origin of his calling and the divine grace that sustained him throughout his ministry (1 Cor 15:10). This letter was addressed to the saints. Every Christian in Christ is a saint. Saints are sinners saved by the grace of God and set apart for God’s use. We are saints because of what Christ has done for us. Saints are not some special religious group. Nine times believers are called saints in this letter. They are believers in Christ and who are in-dwelt by the Holy Spirit to enjoy vital union with Christ. Scholars suggest that Paul uses the phrases “in Christ’ more than 30 times in Ephesians. Saints are not sinless or perfect people but faithful followers of Christ. Faithful, simply means "full of faith in Jesus Christ". Paul uses a standard greeting in this epistle. "Grace and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ". Grace is the unmerited favor of God in Christ. It is the extravagant goodness of God lavished upon us in Christ Jesus. Only those who experience the grace of God can find peace with God and peace of God. We can never exhaust God's grace or comprehend it fully. Grace is primarily the gentile greeting. Peace is a Jewish greeting. Peace does not mean absence of trouble but tranquility. The only way to experience grace and peace is through faith in Christ. They come from our heavenly Father and Lord Jesus Christ. A Christian is a person who trusts in Christ and made holy by God
The Spiritual Blessings in Christ:
Read Ephesians 1:3-14)
Paul begins the epistle by describing the spiritual blessings believers have in Christ. God has a master plan for our salvation in terms of past, present and future. These are the blessings of grace. Everything in the scripture ultimately points us to the grace of God in Christ. Christians have been blessed with every spiritual blessing because we are united to Christ by faith. Since we belong to Christ, we inherit all the blessings of salvation. Our blessings are not primarily earthly blessings but spiritual in nature. They are heavenly blessings. Our names are written in heaven (Luke 10:20), our citizenship is in heaven (Phil 3:20), our inheritance is in heaven (1 Pet 1:4), and our hope is laid up for us in heaven (Col 1:5). Paul describes six spiritual blessings of salvation in Chapter 1:4-14.
These blessings include:
- We are chosen to be holy and blameless before the foundation of the world (Ep 1:4). The election and predestination trace their origin to God. Election means to pick out or to choose. God has chosen us in Christ Jesus before the foundation of the world (1:4). He has chosen us so that we should be holy and blameless before him in love. They begin now, but are not fully achieved until we are with Him. God is sovereign and has the right to make His choices (Rom 9:20). God was not obligated to choose any one of us. It is God’s love moved Him to bring us into His family. Election and human responsibility have their solution in God. "They don’t need to be reconciled because they are friends". It is the clear teaching of the Scripture. Meanwhile every human being is urged to accept God’s salvation (John 6:37; Rom 10:13). The ground of this invitation is the work of God in Christ Jesus. Divine election and human freedom to chose are humanly irreconcilable. Someone has said "Election and human responsibility are like two parallel lines meeting in infinity" It is amazing and undeserving that our salvation was planned even before the foundation of the world in Christ (Rom 11:29). It was God’s eternal plan. The fall of man was no surprise to God. Our redemption was not God’s after- thought. There is no scriptural support for election to damnation. Christ died for the whole world (John 1:29; 1 John 2;2). God has chosen us to become like His Son Jesus Christ (Rom 8:29). Blamelessness does not mean sinless but without blemish and living in a higher spiritual plane. The believers are called to pursue peace and live a holy life because without holiness no one will see the Lord (Heb 12:14). Have you responded to God's gracious invitation by believing in Jesus Christ?
- We are Predestined for adoption in God’s family (Ep 1:5). The purpose of predestination was that we should experience son-ship in the family of God. We are adopted as adult sons to enjoy the privileges of son-ship (Gal 4:5; Rom 8:15). The future aspect of adoption is to receive a glorified body when Christ returns (Rom 8:22, 23). This is our eternal position in Christ. Our salvation includes foreknowledge, predestination, calling, justification and glorification. There is a link from eternity past to eternity future in God’s salvation. God knows and loves everyone (John 3:16). But God’s foreknowledge is His intimate knowledge of those who believe in Christ (Rom 5:8). When God foreknew, He predestined us to be conformed to His Son (Rom 8:29). This happens before we were born (Acts 4:28). God does not manipulate us like puppets. When we are quickened by the Holy Spirit to believe in Christ, we are made righteous ( Ep 2:8). It is an imputed righteousness. Glorification is the final step of salvation. When Christ returns, we will be glorified (1 John 3:2; Col 3:4). The fact of election and predestination can’t be known until after a person is saved (1 Thess 1:4-7; 2 Pet 1:10, 11). The believers are accepted into God’s family because of their union with Christ. God does this, “to the praise of the glory of his grace” (Ep 1:6).
- We have redemption in Christ: Ep 1:7. Our redemption is through the blood of Jesus Christ. Redemption means to purchase from bondage of sin by paying a ransom and set free. Believers are set free from the slavery of self, Satan and world. Christ’s blood is the ransom price paid for our redemption (1 Pet 1:18-20). “Our salvation is not a matter of human attainment but it is by divine atonement”. All our blessings are made available through the precious blood of Christ. We are redeemed, justified, forgiven and cleansed by the blood of Christ (1:7; Rom 5:9; Col 1:14; 1 John 1:7). We have access into the presence of God by His blood (Heb 10:19).
- We have forgiveness of sin in Christ. Ep 1:7. Forgiveness means to carry away or remove our sin from us. God’s forgiveness is free, full and final. This reminds us of the scapegoat on the Day of Atonement carrying away the sins of Israel (Leviticus 16:22; John 1:29). God has blotted out our sin for his own sake (Isaiah 43:25). He removed our sins from us (Psalms 103:11-12). He has cast our sins behind his back (Isaiah 38:17). He has cast them into the depth of the sea (Mica 7:19). He remembers them no more (Heb 8:12). Forgiveness is not redemption but the result of it. Forgiveness is according to the riches of God’s grace. God’s grace is infinite, boundless and beyond human comprehension. It is unsearchable and glorious (3:8, 16). It is far greater than all our sins (Rom 5:20). God lavished on us his overflowing grace in all wisdom and prudence (1:8; Rom 5:20). Wisdom is the God given insight to understand God’s plan for the church and the universe in Christ (1 Cor 1:24). Prudence is the, spiritual discernment to apply the God-given insight in life.
- We have an Eternal Inheritance in Christ: Ep 1:9-12. God has a master plan for the universe which was hidden for ages but now revealed in the person of Christ (Rom 16:25). It was a mystery. Mystery is the sacred secret once hidden but now revealed. Sin separated man from God and brought corruption and fragmentation in the universe. But God will restore everything to himself in Christ in His appointed time (Col 1:20). In Christ believers have obtained an inheritance. We are heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ (Rom 8:19). God purchased the church by the blood of Christ and made us part of his inheritance. Christ is God's love-gift to us and we are His love-gift to Christ (John 17:6; Ephesians 5:27). God rejoices over his inheritance (Deut 32:9; Zephaniah 3:17). Our eternal inheritance was predestined even before the foundation of the world (1:4, 11). God works all things according to his eternal council and purpose. God has a sovereign plan for this universe. God wants us to acknowledge our blessings in Christ and praise Him for his grace.
- Believers are sealed with the Holy Spirit: Ep 1:13, 14. Our inheritance in Christ is certain because God has sealed us with His Spirit. All believers receive this seal when they get saved (Rom 8:9; 1 Cor 12:3). The entire process of salvation is described in verse 13. First we heard the gospel, subsequently we trusted Christ and we are sealed by the Holy Spirit. Sealing with the Spirit is not something addition or subsequent to salvation, it happens at the moment we get saved. Believing in Christ is the connecting link between God and man. Seal is the mark of ownership and guarantees our salvation (1 Cor 6:19-20; Phil 1:6; John 14:16-17; Rom 8:9). Sealing is also the picture of the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit within the believers. He is the down-payment of our eternal inheritance. These are the blessings of God’s grace. Father has chosen us, adopted us and accepted us in the beloved. Son has redeemed us, forgiven us and revealed God’s sovereign plan for the church and the universe. The Holy Spirit has sealed us and become the guarantee of our salvation. Someone has said “The Creator reveals His wisdom and power, Christ reveals His love and grace through the church”. Our union with Christ is a profoundly important spiritual reality. We are elected in Christ (1:4). We have adoption in Christ (1:5). We have redemption and forgiveness in Christ (1:7). God has revealed his mysterious plan regarding future in Christ (1:9). At the right time God will bring everything together under his authority in Christ (1:10). God has blessed us with his blessings for the praise of the glory of His grace.
Prayer for Spiritual Wisdom and Power:
Read Ephesians 1:15-23)
There are two prayers in Ephesians. Paul was a man of prayer. Prayer is likened to breathing for physical life. It is our lifeline to God. Paul’s first prayer is given in chapter one verses 15-23. Paul starts his prayer with thanksgiving (1:16). He makes three requests that can help believers to grow in their spiritual life. They were the recipients of the overflowing grace of God (1:3-14). Their faith in Christ saved them and that faith manifested by love. Love is the outgrowth of faith (John 13:35; 15:12). Almost ten years have passed-by since Paul left Ephesus. Paul might have heard about the quality of their faith and love for other believers from Epaphras (Col 1:4, 7, 8). This motivated Paul to pray for them. Someone has said “Faith and love are likened to the two pillars at Solomon’s Temple” (1 King 7:21). Faith and love are the marks of true Christians. Paul prayer was addressed to God, the Father of all glory (1:17; Jam 2:1).
- That God may give them the Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Christ. Man is guilty of willful ignorance of God and under condemnation (Rom 1:21-24). To know God intimately, we have to believe the Bible. Knowing God personally is salvation (John 17:3). Knowing God in experience is sanctification (Phi 3:10). Knowing God perfectly is glorification (1 John 3:2). Saved people needs illumination of the scripture to know Christ. This comes from the Holy Spirit (John 14:26). The Spirit knows the deeper things of God (1 Cor 2:11). Wisdom is the God-given illumination of truth and the practicality of His will. It is the ability to apply the revealed truth in daily life. The knowledge of God comes from the word of God and through the ministry of the Holy Spirit (2 Pet 3:18). Divine Wisdom and insight are essential to know God better (1:17-19).
- That we may know the hope of His calling (Ep 1:18). Paul prays that our heart should be enlightened to know what is the hope of to which God has called us. It is dangerous thing not to be enlightened (2 Pet 1:9, 10). We should desire that our inner man should be enlightened by the Holy Spirit (1:18; Psalms 25:14; Jeremiah 29:13). God’s call is a call by the gospel to new life in Christ (Gal 1:15; 2 Thess 2:14). It is a high calling to be like Christ (Phil 3:13-14). Also it is a holy calling to live a separated life for Christ (2 Tim 1:9). It gives hope to live for the glorious future awaiting us (1 Pet 5:10). Faith, hope and love are the powerful pillars of Christian life (Col 1:3-6). These three virtues comes from God. They work in harmony in christian life. Hope connects us with our future inheritance and reinforces our experience of faith. Love is our daily experience. Paul includes these three in his prayer.
- That they may know His glorious inheritance in the saints (Ep 1:18). God owns this universe but His precious possession is the church (Acts 20:28). The believers are his glorious inheritance. God gets glory from the church because of what He has invested in it. He bought us with a great price (1 Cor 6:19, 20). God has revealed His wisdom, purpose and glory through the church (3:9-11; 18-19). The church is His inheritance and the trophy of His grace (1:11). Christ will be glorified in the church fully when He returns (2 Thess 1:10; John 17:22). The purpose of illumination was that believers would know the hope of their calling. It is a call to new life in Christ.
- That we may know the exceeding greatness of His power toward us (Ep 1:19). This is the sane power that raised Jesus from the dead. In creation and miracles, God displayed his power. But His greatest display of power is seen in the resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ (Acts 2:24). It was the first such event in the history (1 Cor 15:23). It is the divine declaration that Christ is the Lord of all (Acts 17:31). It is the proof that Jesus is the Son of God (Rom 1:4). It also guarantees our resurrection (Rom 1:14; 8:11). It is the attestation of God’s acceptance of Christ’s sacrifice. Christ is seated at the right hand in the heavenly places. This is a reference to Christ’s ascension and exaltation. The same power that raised Christ from the dead is available to us (Phi 2:8-11). Heaven is not a spiritual state but a place (John 14:3). Christ has been exalted over all other powers in the universe (1:21-22). Right hand signifies of honor, privilege and power (Matt 26:64; Psalms 16:11). Christ is head-over all things to the church. Also the church is closely associated with Christ in the universal dominion. Christ is exalted over all things.
- The Church is the fullness of Christ who fills all in all (Ep 1:23). The union of Christ and the church is real. He is working everything for the benefit of the church. Church is the living organism (4:15). God accomplishes His plan through the church today. Believers are not only the members of the church, they are members one to another in the body (Rom 12:4-5). Christ is the full expression of God and He is the head of the church (Col 2:9). Church should be filled with all the fullness of Christ (3:19). Out of His fullness, church receives grace to fulfill its mission.
- Without divine illumination and power, it is impossible to appreciate our spiritual blessings. Only God’s power enables us to use our inheritance in Christ for His glory and for our blessing. Satan always will try to deprive us of our inheritance in Christ (1:20-21; 6:11-12). Satan knows that our flesh is weak and the spirit is willing. We can never defeat Satan in our own strength (Rev 12:11). What made the difference among apostle was the resurrection power of Christ (Acts 1:8). There is a power shortage in our personal life as well as in the church today. Until we experience God’s presence and power in life, we will not be effective in our ministry. Only by God’s enabling grace we can lay hold of our spiritual wealth in Christ (1 Cor 15:10).
What is the Church?
The church is the body of Christ. It is not a building of bricks and mortar. The word, church is used about 110 times in the New Testament. It means, called out assembly of believers and mostly refers to local churches (Matt 16:18). The church is closely associated with Christ in His glory, dominion and purpose. Christ is the head of the church. The church is the fullness of Christ, who fills all in all (Ephesians 1:23). The church should be the complete expression of Christ in its purpose and mission (Ephesians 4:13). Christ accomplishes his plans for the world through the church. The church is the household of God, the pillar and ground of the truth (1 Tim 3:15). The Church is supposed to be the community of fellowship and a network to support each other. The church is not a dead organization but a living organism in which Christ dwells and works. As Christians we are the church, the body of which Christ is the head. The church celebrates truth because it is founded on truth (1 Tim 3:15). Truth about what? Truth is personified in Jesus Christ (John 1:14). He is the truth about God (John 14:1011). Man was created to live in the moral likeness of God. God is not a physical being. Jesus said "I am the truth" (John 14:6). Only truth can regenerate, transform and liberate us from sin (James 1:18; John 17:17; 8:32). Jesus came not only to save sinners but also to reveal the nature of true humanity as God intended it to be. Nothing is more fulfilling than embracing the truth. The church celebrates God as our Father, Christ as our Savior and fellow believers as brothers and sisters in Christ. There is no greater calling than to become part of the church.
Chapter 2
Apart from Christ we are spiritually dead:
(Read Ephesians 2:1-3)
Ephesians 2:1-3 gives a summary of the human condition and explains what we are by nature. We are dead in trespasses and sins (2:1). It is a universal human problem. Unsaved are physically, emotionally and intellectually alive but spiritually dead. There is nothing more hopeless than a life of walking dead. A sinner is unable to respond to spiritual things because he is separated from God (Isaiah 59:2; 1 Cor 2:14). Trespass refers to open violation of God’s Law. Sin is anything that misses God’s perfect goal or missing the mark God sets (Rom 3:23). We are guilty of the sin of commission and sin of omission (James 4:17; Rom 14:23). Sinners live as if God does not exist. Unsaved people are disobedient and follow the world's standards. The world is under the control of Satan. Satan is the prince of the world (John 12:31; 2 Cor 4:4). By nature we are children of wrath and by deeds children of disobedience (2:3; Gen: 3:6). Satan uses the world, devil and flesh to deceive us and to disobey God. Sinners are under the wrath of God and are already condemned (John 3:18, 36). The reason God delay the final judgment is because he is patient and desires that none should perish (Rom 2:4; 2 Pet 3:8, 9). God is merciful and wants all to be saved (1 Tim 2:4).
Made us alive with Christ:
(Read Ephesians 2:4-6)
There was nothing we could do to earn our salvation. Salvation is deliverance from sin and its consequences (Col 1:13). It is also entering into the blessings of God in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2:4-10 explains what God has done on behalf of sinner to save them. Salvation is free gift of God (Jonah 2:9). God is rich in mercy because He is rich in love. His love is so great that He gave his only begotten Son to save us (John 3:16). By nature God is love (1 John 4:8). Love is one of his relational attributes. When God relates his love to us, it becomes grace and mercy. Sinners do not receive what they deserve because God is merciful. They receive what they don’t deserve because of God’s grace. Sinners are saved by God’s grace and mercy (2:4). We are saved by grace through faith in Christ. God’s grace does the work and faith accepts it. The same power that raised Christ from the dead has made us alive in Christ (2:5-6). It happens when we believe in Christ (John 5:24). Our union with Christ enables us to share His resurrection life (1:19-20). Believers are seated with Christ in the heavenly places (2:6). Our union with Christ made it possible. Verse 8 tells us, how we are saved and verse 9 tells us how we not are saved. Verse 10 tells us why we are saved. Someone has said “Grace is God’s provision and faith is man’s appropriation”. We receive what God has already done for us in Christ. We can’t earn salvation by good work. We are saved by grace. If we add anything to grace it is no more grace. If we are saved by work, we have reason to boast. Only in God we should boast because he is the Savior (1 Cor 1:31; Jeremiah 9:24).
The Purpose of Salvation:
(Read Ephesians 2:7-10)
God saved us to display the exceeding riches of His grace. The purpose of redemption is not simply to rescue us from hell but to transform us to the image of Christ (Rom 8:29). For all eternity the Church will be the trophies of God grace. Thus God will be glorified for his grace. We are saved for good works (2:10). Good works demonstrate the reality of our salvation. It is not the root but the fruit of salvation. Paul says that even our faith is a gift from God, leaving no room for us to boast. God can’t work in us unless He first works for us. He works in us through the Holy Spirit both to will and to do His pleasure (Phil 2:13). Also we are created by him and for him (Col 1:16). Good works are prepared by God and we must not minimize the importance of them. We are exhorted to abound in good works (2 Cor 9:8; Col 1:10; Titus 2:14). We should stir up one another unto love and good works (Heb 10:24; 13:16). Good works are not manufactured by us but the evidence of our salvation. This is not only the saving grace but also the sustaining and strengthening grace (1 Cor 15:10). Unsaved may not recognize our good works but will be forced to glorify God when Christ judges the world (1 Pet 2:12). Let your light shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven (Matt 5:16). Pray that we may demonstrate the reality of salvation by the way we live.
In Christ, we are God’s Family:
(Read Ephesians 2:11-20)
Paul wants the gentile believers to know that they have been blessed with all spiritual blessings in Christ. Once they were separated from God and one another (Gen 3:23). It seems impossible for gentiles to draw near to God (2:11-13). Jews and gentiles were divided by ethnicity, nationality and by race. They had no knowledge of true God and without hope. Their sin was willful and they refused to honor God (Rom 1:18-23). They were at enmity with God. Jews were proud of their covenant relationship with God. God chose them to be the nation through whom the Christ would come. Their blessings made them proud. The gentiles were filled with despair because of lack of knowledge of true God. There was hostility between Jews and gentiles. But they have been brought near by the blood of Christ. By his death Christ established a new unity and peace. Gentiles are no longer strangers but members of God’s family. Their hostility towards each other is removed (2:14). They are reconciled to God by means of Christ’s death (2 Cor 5:19). Peace is the first word the risen Savior spoken to his disciples after his resurrection (John 20:19). He is our peace.
The Church is God's Temple:
(Read Ephesians 2:21-22)
In the Old Testament time, the temple was the physical representation of God's presence. But in the New Testament, God dwells in his people. In Christ all believers are joined together, becoming a holy temple (2:21). The church is now the temple of God (2 Cor 6:16; 1 Pet 2:5). The temple imagery stretches from Genesis to Revelation (Rev 21:16). Christ is the chief corner stone of the church and built upon the foundation of him (1 Cor 3:11). In Christ all believers are united and formed into one building by the Holy Spirit. The church has a distinct calling, destiny and purpose. What a privilege to be considered the temple of God. Remembering our past condition will help us to appreciate more fully our privileges in Christ. The cross of Christ is the means of reconciliation for those who trust in Christ in this divided world. Have you accepted Christ as your personal Savior and appreciate his unfailing love?
(Read Ephesians 2:1-3)
Ephesians 2:1-3 gives a summary of the human condition and explains what we are by nature. We are dead in trespasses and sins (2:1). It is a universal human problem. Unsaved are physically, emotionally and intellectually alive but spiritually dead. There is nothing more hopeless than a life of walking dead. A sinner is unable to respond to spiritual things because he is separated from God (Isaiah 59:2; 1 Cor 2:14). Trespass refers to open violation of God’s Law. Sin is anything that misses God’s perfect goal or missing the mark God sets (Rom 3:23). We are guilty of the sin of commission and sin of omission (James 4:17; Rom 14:23). Sinners live as if God does not exist. Unsaved people are disobedient and follow the world's standards. The world is under the control of Satan. Satan is the prince of the world (John 12:31; 2 Cor 4:4). By nature we are children of wrath and by deeds children of disobedience (2:3; Gen: 3:6). Satan uses the world, devil and flesh to deceive us and to disobey God. Sinners are under the wrath of God and are already condemned (John 3:18, 36). The reason God delay the final judgment is because he is patient and desires that none should perish (Rom 2:4; 2 Pet 3:8, 9). God is merciful and wants all to be saved (1 Tim 2:4).
Made us alive with Christ:
(Read Ephesians 2:4-6)
There was nothing we could do to earn our salvation. Salvation is deliverance from sin and its consequences (Col 1:13). It is also entering into the blessings of God in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2:4-10 explains what God has done on behalf of sinner to save them. Salvation is free gift of God (Jonah 2:9). God is rich in mercy because He is rich in love. His love is so great that He gave his only begotten Son to save us (John 3:16). By nature God is love (1 John 4:8). Love is one of his relational attributes. When God relates his love to us, it becomes grace and mercy. Sinners do not receive what they deserve because God is merciful. They receive what they don’t deserve because of God’s grace. Sinners are saved by God’s grace and mercy (2:4). We are saved by grace through faith in Christ. God’s grace does the work and faith accepts it. The same power that raised Christ from the dead has made us alive in Christ (2:5-6). It happens when we believe in Christ (John 5:24). Our union with Christ enables us to share His resurrection life (1:19-20). Believers are seated with Christ in the heavenly places (2:6). Our union with Christ made it possible. Verse 8 tells us, how we are saved and verse 9 tells us how we not are saved. Verse 10 tells us why we are saved. Someone has said “Grace is God’s provision and faith is man’s appropriation”. We receive what God has already done for us in Christ. We can’t earn salvation by good work. We are saved by grace. If we add anything to grace it is no more grace. If we are saved by work, we have reason to boast. Only in God we should boast because he is the Savior (1 Cor 1:31; Jeremiah 9:24).
The Purpose of Salvation:
(Read Ephesians 2:7-10)
God saved us to display the exceeding riches of His grace. The purpose of redemption is not simply to rescue us from hell but to transform us to the image of Christ (Rom 8:29). For all eternity the Church will be the trophies of God grace. Thus God will be glorified for his grace. We are saved for good works (2:10). Good works demonstrate the reality of our salvation. It is not the root but the fruit of salvation. Paul says that even our faith is a gift from God, leaving no room for us to boast. God can’t work in us unless He first works for us. He works in us through the Holy Spirit both to will and to do His pleasure (Phil 2:13). Also we are created by him and for him (Col 1:16). Good works are prepared by God and we must not minimize the importance of them. We are exhorted to abound in good works (2 Cor 9:8; Col 1:10; Titus 2:14). We should stir up one another unto love and good works (Heb 10:24; 13:16). Good works are not manufactured by us but the evidence of our salvation. This is not only the saving grace but also the sustaining and strengthening grace (1 Cor 15:10). Unsaved may not recognize our good works but will be forced to glorify God when Christ judges the world (1 Pet 2:12). Let your light shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven (Matt 5:16). Pray that we may demonstrate the reality of salvation by the way we live.
In Christ, we are God’s Family:
(Read Ephesians 2:11-20)
Paul wants the gentile believers to know that they have been blessed with all spiritual blessings in Christ. Once they were separated from God and one another (Gen 3:23). It seems impossible for gentiles to draw near to God (2:11-13). Jews and gentiles were divided by ethnicity, nationality and by race. They had no knowledge of true God and without hope. Their sin was willful and they refused to honor God (Rom 1:18-23). They were at enmity with God. Jews were proud of their covenant relationship with God. God chose them to be the nation through whom the Christ would come. Their blessings made them proud. The gentiles were filled with despair because of lack of knowledge of true God. There was hostility between Jews and gentiles. But they have been brought near by the blood of Christ. By his death Christ established a new unity and peace. Gentiles are no longer strangers but members of God’s family. Their hostility towards each other is removed (2:14). They are reconciled to God by means of Christ’s death (2 Cor 5:19). Peace is the first word the risen Savior spoken to his disciples after his resurrection (John 20:19). He is our peace.
The Church is God's Temple:
(Read Ephesians 2:21-22)
In the Old Testament time, the temple was the physical representation of God's presence. But in the New Testament, God dwells in his people. In Christ all believers are joined together, becoming a holy temple (2:21). The church is now the temple of God (2 Cor 6:16; 1 Pet 2:5). The temple imagery stretches from Genesis to Revelation (Rev 21:16). Christ is the chief corner stone of the church and built upon the foundation of him (1 Cor 3:11). In Christ all believers are united and formed into one building by the Holy Spirit. The church has a distinct calling, destiny and purpose. What a privilege to be considered the temple of God. Remembering our past condition will help us to appreciate more fully our privileges in Christ. The cross of Christ is the means of reconciliation for those who trust in Christ in this divided world. Have you accepted Christ as your personal Savior and appreciate his unfailing love?
Chapter 3
The Mystery of the Gospel:
(Read Ephesians 3:1-13)
Paul identifies himself as a prisoner for Christ on behalf of gentiles. He was painfully aware of the opposition of Jews and their unwilling to accept him as an apostle (2 Cor 10:10). Paul admits that God had given him a thorn in his flesh to keep him humble (2 Cor 12:7-9). His ministry was purely based on the grace of God (1 Cor 15:10). Paul does not want the Ephesians to be overly concerned about his suffering for the gospel. He rejoices that the mystery of the gospel is made known to him by revelation. The word “Mystery” is used seven times in this letter. Mystery is the spiritual truth once unknown but now revealed to the apostles through inspiration of the Lord (John 14:26). In the Old Testament it was revealed partially in types and symbols. Paul refers to this as the mystery of the gospel, the unsearchable riches in Christ. That is Jews and gentiles are united in the church and they are joint-heirs with Christ (3:6; Rom 8:17). They are partakers of God’s promises in Christ. Paul preached the mystery of the gospel. He Says, “I am the least of all saints, I am least of all apostles and I am chief of all sinners” (3:8; 1 Cor 15:9; 1 Tim 1:15). Paul never got over his own unworthiness for his calling to preach the gospel. He never thought of himself more highly than he ought to think (Rom 12:3). We will never understand God’s grace fully. God reveals His manifold wisdom and grace in Christ through the church. In fact church is an object lesson to angels about the salvation of gentiles and Jews (Pet 1:12; 1 Cor 4:9). Angels rejoice when sinners repent and watch over the activities of local church (Luke 15:10;1 Cor 11:10). The church is part of God’s eternal plan in Christ. Paul was committed to guard and share this truth to faithful men (1 Tim 1:11, 2 Tim 2:2). Because of what Christ has done for us, we have full access to God (Heb 4:16). We should not take this privilege lightly. Those who spend time in God’s presence will never be the same. Difficulties are not reasons for abandoning the faith in Christ. Paul’s trials did not mean that he was out of the will of God. They were divine appointments for the furtherance of the gospel (Phil 1:12). The suffering we face for the gospel is nothing in comparison to the glorious inheritance we are going receive when Christ returns.
Prayer for Spiritual Strength:
(Read Ephesians 3:14-16)
In Paul’s second prayer for Ephesians, he asks for the spiritual strength for their inner man. This prayer serves as a link between the teaching of this letter and the practical application of it. The first three chapters are about what God has done for us in Christ. The last three chapters are about all that we can do in response. Paul began his prayer with the phrase “For this reason”. It simply means in view of God’s great plan for this universe and the church. In Christ we are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit (2:22). Paul bows his knees before the Father. He was humble and submissive before God. God claims fatherhood of all men because of his creation (Luke 3:38; Acts 17:29). But by redemption God is the Father of all true believers. This relationship speaks of acceptance and compassion (Psalms 103:12-13). God has only one family, some are in heaven and others are here on earth. All are not God’s children (2:2-3). Paul prays that believers would be filled with the fullness of God's love and strength in their inner man. There is a reference to Trinity in this prayer. One God, eternally existing in three distinct Persons. We are saved by God. The Father planned the salvation, the Son accomplished it on the cross and the Spirit applies it. Paul prays for divine strength to understand God’s great love for them in Christ. This strength is given in proportion to His riches in glory (Phil 4:19). Our inner-man is made alive at our salvation by the Holy Spirit (2:5).
God’s Surpassing Love:
(Read Ephesians 3:17-21)
Paul's main request is that the Spirit may strengthen our inner man more and more. (3:16). Christ may be enthroned in our hearts through faith that we being rooted and grounded in Christ’s love (3:17-19). We need inner strength to understand the unfathomable love of Christ. We must be rooted in Christ to receive nourishment and to become fruitful (John 15:1-5). We must be grounded in God’s love to remain faithful in times of trials and tribulations (Jude 1:21). God’s love is so vast that we need strength to comprehend it. It is more than head knowledge. Isolated Christians can never comprehend the depth of God’s love (Heb 10:24, 25). This love is the surpassing knowledge that fills us with the fullness of God (3:19; Rom 35-39). This happens when we are filled with the Holy Spirit (5:18). The measure of the fullness of God is, Christ himself (4:11-13). The resource is the grace of God. The channel is by faith. God’s love is immeasurable so that we can never understand it fully by human reasoning but only by the Holy Spirit. Someone has said “Our understanding of God’s love is partial and progressive. It's breadth extends to all people; its length extends to all time; its depth extends to the lowest sinner; it's height extends to the highest heaven”. We will never know anything about Christianity until we know the love of Christ. Paul concludes his prayer by praising God for God’s steadfast love. Paul prays that Ephesians might know the mighty power that works in them to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think (3:20). This is the power that raised Christ from the dead. This is the power that saved us and keeps us from falling (Jude 1:24). We should never underestimate the power that works within us and in the church. Pray that God will grant us His power to become better followers of Christ. We spiritually grow only when this love fills our heart.
(Read Ephesians 3:1-13)
Paul identifies himself as a prisoner for Christ on behalf of gentiles. He was painfully aware of the opposition of Jews and their unwilling to accept him as an apostle (2 Cor 10:10). Paul admits that God had given him a thorn in his flesh to keep him humble (2 Cor 12:7-9). His ministry was purely based on the grace of God (1 Cor 15:10). Paul does not want the Ephesians to be overly concerned about his suffering for the gospel. He rejoices that the mystery of the gospel is made known to him by revelation. The word “Mystery” is used seven times in this letter. Mystery is the spiritual truth once unknown but now revealed to the apostles through inspiration of the Lord (John 14:26). In the Old Testament it was revealed partially in types and symbols. Paul refers to this as the mystery of the gospel, the unsearchable riches in Christ. That is Jews and gentiles are united in the church and they are joint-heirs with Christ (3:6; Rom 8:17). They are partakers of God’s promises in Christ. Paul preached the mystery of the gospel. He Says, “I am the least of all saints, I am least of all apostles and I am chief of all sinners” (3:8; 1 Cor 15:9; 1 Tim 1:15). Paul never got over his own unworthiness for his calling to preach the gospel. He never thought of himself more highly than he ought to think (Rom 12:3). We will never understand God’s grace fully. God reveals His manifold wisdom and grace in Christ through the church. In fact church is an object lesson to angels about the salvation of gentiles and Jews (Pet 1:12; 1 Cor 4:9). Angels rejoice when sinners repent and watch over the activities of local church (Luke 15:10;1 Cor 11:10). The church is part of God’s eternal plan in Christ. Paul was committed to guard and share this truth to faithful men (1 Tim 1:11, 2 Tim 2:2). Because of what Christ has done for us, we have full access to God (Heb 4:16). We should not take this privilege lightly. Those who spend time in God’s presence will never be the same. Difficulties are not reasons for abandoning the faith in Christ. Paul’s trials did not mean that he was out of the will of God. They were divine appointments for the furtherance of the gospel (Phil 1:12). The suffering we face for the gospel is nothing in comparison to the glorious inheritance we are going receive when Christ returns.
Prayer for Spiritual Strength:
(Read Ephesians 3:14-16)
In Paul’s second prayer for Ephesians, he asks for the spiritual strength for their inner man. This prayer serves as a link between the teaching of this letter and the practical application of it. The first three chapters are about what God has done for us in Christ. The last three chapters are about all that we can do in response. Paul began his prayer with the phrase “For this reason”. It simply means in view of God’s great plan for this universe and the church. In Christ we are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit (2:22). Paul bows his knees before the Father. He was humble and submissive before God. God claims fatherhood of all men because of his creation (Luke 3:38; Acts 17:29). But by redemption God is the Father of all true believers. This relationship speaks of acceptance and compassion (Psalms 103:12-13). God has only one family, some are in heaven and others are here on earth. All are not God’s children (2:2-3). Paul prays that believers would be filled with the fullness of God's love and strength in their inner man. There is a reference to Trinity in this prayer. One God, eternally existing in three distinct Persons. We are saved by God. The Father planned the salvation, the Son accomplished it on the cross and the Spirit applies it. Paul prays for divine strength to understand God’s great love for them in Christ. This strength is given in proportion to His riches in glory (Phil 4:19). Our inner-man is made alive at our salvation by the Holy Spirit (2:5).
God’s Surpassing Love:
(Read Ephesians 3:17-21)
Paul's main request is that the Spirit may strengthen our inner man more and more. (3:16). Christ may be enthroned in our hearts through faith that we being rooted and grounded in Christ’s love (3:17-19). We need inner strength to understand the unfathomable love of Christ. We must be rooted in Christ to receive nourishment and to become fruitful (John 15:1-5). We must be grounded in God’s love to remain faithful in times of trials and tribulations (Jude 1:21). God’s love is so vast that we need strength to comprehend it. It is more than head knowledge. Isolated Christians can never comprehend the depth of God’s love (Heb 10:24, 25). This love is the surpassing knowledge that fills us with the fullness of God (3:19; Rom 35-39). This happens when we are filled with the Holy Spirit (5:18). The measure of the fullness of God is, Christ himself (4:11-13). The resource is the grace of God. The channel is by faith. God’s love is immeasurable so that we can never understand it fully by human reasoning but only by the Holy Spirit. Someone has said “Our understanding of God’s love is partial and progressive. It's breadth extends to all people; its length extends to all time; its depth extends to the lowest sinner; it's height extends to the highest heaven”. We will never know anything about Christianity until we know the love of Christ. Paul concludes his prayer by praising God for God’s steadfast love. Paul prays that Ephesians might know the mighty power that works in them to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think (3:20). This is the power that raised Christ from the dead. This is the power that saved us and keeps us from falling (Jude 1:24). We should never underestimate the power that works within us and in the church. Pray that God will grant us His power to become better followers of Christ. We spiritually grow only when this love fills our heart.
Chapter 4
The Unity of the Church:
(Read Ephesians 4:1)
Chapters 4, makes the transition from doctrine to practice. Paul explains how our salvation works out in daily life. Before the foundation of the world, God planned our salvation. In Chapter 4: 1-16, the emphasis is the unity of the body of Christ. Our unity in the church reflects the unity in the trinity. That was the underlying theme of the high priestly prayer of Jesus Christ (John 17:20-23). This unity can’t be superimposed upon us. It is not an organizational unity but an organic and spiritual unity. Unity is not uniformity. Someone has said “Unity can include diversity, in fact unity demands diversity”. The unity we have in Christ is a unity of purpose. That purpose is to be a blessing to one another. Then only we can become a blessing to the world. Paul is urging us to live worthy of our calling (4:1). We are called to live worthy of the gospel (Phi 1:27; Rom 16:2; Col 1:10). Our unity comes when we learn, how to live together depending upon the grace of God. In this passage, Paul describes the necessary graces to preserve unity and the ground of it. We have to guard the unity already existing in Christ. We are one body, we have one Spirit, we have one hope, we have one Lord, we have one faith, we have one baptism, and we have one God and Father of all (4:4-6). The unity does not requires us to have the same opinion but it looks out for the interests of others above our own interests.
Our unity is produced and maintained by the Holy Spirit.
(Read Ephesians 4:2-3)
We should find “Unity in essential truths, liberty in doubtful things and in all things charity”. To keep unity we must live in humility. We should not think more highly than we ought to. Humility is putting Christ first, others second and self last (Rom 12:3). Secondly we must be meek. Meekness is not weakness but it is power under control. It is accepting what God permits without disputing (Gal 6:1-2; Numbers 12:3). Meek people will never insist upon their own rights. Thirdly we must be long suffering to maintain unity. It is suffering without retaliation (1 Pet 2:21-23). It is willingness to go the extra mile with those who hurt us. The next grace is forbearance. It is bearing with one another in love. Love is the motivational force for forbearance. When others hurt or misunderstand us, we do not react in kind (1 Cor 13:4, 7). Finally we must be eager to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (4:3). It should be our fixed determination despite the pressures exert on us. Peace with God and with one another is the unifying bond that holds us together. Christian unity makes sacrifices for the sake of loving and serving others. They look out for the interest of others above their own interests. Pray that the Lord would strengthen the unity among Christians.
The Ground of Unity:
(Read Ephesians 4:4-6)
Christian unity is built upon sound doctrines. Unity on anything else is on a shaky ground. Paul gives 7 spiritual realities that unite all believers (4:4). There is one body and one Spirit. The Church is a living organism made of true believers. At conversion believers are united to Christ and one another by the baptism of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 12:13). This one body is the model for all local churches. They have one Spirit who dwells in them. They are regenerated and connected to the head by the Holy Spirit. The church has one hope of the glorious reality of Christ’s return. Believers would live in anticipation of the return of Christ, redeeming the time and serving one another. We have one Lord, Jesus Christ who loved us and gave himself for us. “If He is not Lord of all, He is not Lord at all” (Rom 10:9-13). One of the greatest hindrances to Christianity is the lack of unity among them. The church has one faith. This is the once for all given body of truth (Jude 1:3). This body of truth should be guarded and passed on to next generation faithfully (2 Tim 2:2). The church has one baptism. This is the Spirit’s baptism that takes place at conversion and it is not a second blessing. The water baptism is the outward expression of our identification with Christ (Rom 6:3-6). We have one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all. This speaks of our marvelous relationship in the family of God. God is our Father (Matt 6:9). He is sovereign over all and in all (Heb 13:5). This speaks of His personal relationship with believers. Purity alone will not bring unity but also speaking truth in love (4:15). The lack of unity and division are the result of sin among the believers. We must be quick to forgive one another and make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. The unity of the church is precious to Christ and should be precious to us as well (John 17:11).
Spiritual Gifts:
(Read Ephesians 4:7-10)
The risen Christ has given the church gifted teachers and leaders. Chapter 4:8 is a quotation from Psalm 68:18. It gives the picture of the triumphal return of the King and giving gifts to service men. Christ ascended to heaven victoriously accomplishing his mission. The captives are most probably the Old Testament saints in Sheol (Luke 16:23). The purpose of Christ ascension is to fill us with his blessings to bring the church into maturity. The maturity is described here as the fullness of Christ (4:13). Matured Christians show doctrinal stability and grow in the knowledge of Christ (4:14-15). God would use gifted men to strengthen the church (4:16). There is variety of spiritual gifts (1 Cor 12:4-11; Rom 12:3-8; Ephesians 4:11). Each believer is gifted. They should not despise it by not using it (1 Thess 5:20; 1 Tim 4:14). Gifts are the given to edify one another in the church. They are not the natural talents but the God given ability to serve others in love. By active involvement in the church one can discover his gift.
The Gifted men given to the church:
(Read Ephesians 4:11-16)
Christ gave the church some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelist, and some pastors and teachers (4:11). Apostles and prophets were chosen and commissioned by Christ to preach the gospel and establish the churches (2:20). The Bible does not teach apostolic succession. They were men who had seen the risen Christ and received power to do miracles. Prophets were the forth tellers who had received direct revelation from God and deep insight to interpret it. Evangelists are those who called to preach the gospel. They help to build the church by winning the lost. Pastor-teachers refer to one office with two functions. They shepherd believers by example and through the ministry of the word. All pastors have the responsibility to teach and guard believers from error. Teachers are the gift to the church to teach the word of God so that the church may grow in the knowledge of Christ. They are gifted to equip the saints for the work of the ministry until they measure up to maturity and unity in Christ (4:12-13). So that believers no more remain children in faith, carried away by every wind of doctrine (4:14). The evidence of maturity is Christ-likeness. They will be able to make spiritual discernment and speak the truth in love ( 4:15; Heb 5:12). Spiritual maturity brings unity and harmony in the church (4:16). Love is the distinguishing mark of matured church and believers.
Live as New Creation:
(Read Ephesians 4:17-31
Paul exhorts Christians to live in purity. Since we have become new creation in Christ, we should no longer live like gentiles. They are darkened in their understanding of God and are hopelessly confused. They are alienated from God because of the hardness of their hearts. They are greedy and given to every kind of impurity. Those who are in Christ think differently because they have a new nature (4:23). Since we have a new identity with Christ, we should turn away from our old ways and live a righteous life. They become “new man” in Christ. Our obedience reflects our identity with Christ. Paul highlights five areas of life that could grieve the Holy Spirit. Since we became new creation in Christ Jesus, we need to grow knowing Christ (Phil 3:10). We must replace falsehood with truth (4:25). Don’t sin by uncontrollable anger (4:26-27). Anger is an emotional outburst caused by irritation and a momentary insanity. We must deal with it before it becomes sin. The habit of holding anger overnight can cripple us. A soft answer turns away wrath. Christians must replace stealing with hard and ethical work (4:28)." Lazy believer robs himself, others and God". Those who steal are controlled by Satan (John 10:10). We must replace corrupt communication with wholesome talk (4:29-30). Fill our mind with good thoughts because out of the abundance of heart, mouth speaks (Matt 12:34). Our speech may minister grace to others (Col 4:6). We should replace bitterness with compassion (4:31-32). Bitterness is the settled hostility towards others. It can lead to anger, harsh word and slander. Evil speaking is the deliberate insult with abusive words. We should avoid these evil behaviors because they grieve the Holy Spirit.
Christians must be kind to one another:
(Read Ephesians 4:32
Kindness is the outward expression of love. Tenderhearted people will put kindness into action. Believers should forgive one another in light of God’s forgiveness towards them in Christ. Forgiveness is not probation but pardoning the guilty unconditionally. Unforgiving spirit will lead to settled bitterness. If you are unable to forgive, you have lost sight of the forgiveness Christ has provided. A forgiving heart is a forgiven heart. Unforgiving spirit is self destructive and a joy killer. Forgiveness results in reconciliation and restored fellowship. The motivation for these actions is our desire to become like Christ (4:25). Unforgiving spirit grieves the Holy Spirit (4:30). "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ forgave you" (4:32). Pray that God helps us to appreciate his mercy more deeply so that we will be motivated to forgive others.
(Read Ephesians 4:1)
Chapters 4, makes the transition from doctrine to practice. Paul explains how our salvation works out in daily life. Before the foundation of the world, God planned our salvation. In Chapter 4: 1-16, the emphasis is the unity of the body of Christ. Our unity in the church reflects the unity in the trinity. That was the underlying theme of the high priestly prayer of Jesus Christ (John 17:20-23). This unity can’t be superimposed upon us. It is not an organizational unity but an organic and spiritual unity. Unity is not uniformity. Someone has said “Unity can include diversity, in fact unity demands diversity”. The unity we have in Christ is a unity of purpose. That purpose is to be a blessing to one another. Then only we can become a blessing to the world. Paul is urging us to live worthy of our calling (4:1). We are called to live worthy of the gospel (Phi 1:27; Rom 16:2; Col 1:10). Our unity comes when we learn, how to live together depending upon the grace of God. In this passage, Paul describes the necessary graces to preserve unity and the ground of it. We have to guard the unity already existing in Christ. We are one body, we have one Spirit, we have one hope, we have one Lord, we have one faith, we have one baptism, and we have one God and Father of all (4:4-6). The unity does not requires us to have the same opinion but it looks out for the interests of others above our own interests.
Our unity is produced and maintained by the Holy Spirit.
(Read Ephesians 4:2-3)
We should find “Unity in essential truths, liberty in doubtful things and in all things charity”. To keep unity we must live in humility. We should not think more highly than we ought to. Humility is putting Christ first, others second and self last (Rom 12:3). Secondly we must be meek. Meekness is not weakness but it is power under control. It is accepting what God permits without disputing (Gal 6:1-2; Numbers 12:3). Meek people will never insist upon their own rights. Thirdly we must be long suffering to maintain unity. It is suffering without retaliation (1 Pet 2:21-23). It is willingness to go the extra mile with those who hurt us. The next grace is forbearance. It is bearing with one another in love. Love is the motivational force for forbearance. When others hurt or misunderstand us, we do not react in kind (1 Cor 13:4, 7). Finally we must be eager to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (4:3). It should be our fixed determination despite the pressures exert on us. Peace with God and with one another is the unifying bond that holds us together. Christian unity makes sacrifices for the sake of loving and serving others. They look out for the interest of others above their own interests. Pray that the Lord would strengthen the unity among Christians.
The Ground of Unity:
(Read Ephesians 4:4-6)
Christian unity is built upon sound doctrines. Unity on anything else is on a shaky ground. Paul gives 7 spiritual realities that unite all believers (4:4). There is one body and one Spirit. The Church is a living organism made of true believers. At conversion believers are united to Christ and one another by the baptism of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 12:13). This one body is the model for all local churches. They have one Spirit who dwells in them. They are regenerated and connected to the head by the Holy Spirit. The church has one hope of the glorious reality of Christ’s return. Believers would live in anticipation of the return of Christ, redeeming the time and serving one another. We have one Lord, Jesus Christ who loved us and gave himself for us. “If He is not Lord of all, He is not Lord at all” (Rom 10:9-13). One of the greatest hindrances to Christianity is the lack of unity among them. The church has one faith. This is the once for all given body of truth (Jude 1:3). This body of truth should be guarded and passed on to next generation faithfully (2 Tim 2:2). The church has one baptism. This is the Spirit’s baptism that takes place at conversion and it is not a second blessing. The water baptism is the outward expression of our identification with Christ (Rom 6:3-6). We have one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all. This speaks of our marvelous relationship in the family of God. God is our Father (Matt 6:9). He is sovereign over all and in all (Heb 13:5). This speaks of His personal relationship with believers. Purity alone will not bring unity but also speaking truth in love (4:15). The lack of unity and division are the result of sin among the believers. We must be quick to forgive one another and make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. The unity of the church is precious to Christ and should be precious to us as well (John 17:11).
Spiritual Gifts:
(Read Ephesians 4:7-10)
The risen Christ has given the church gifted teachers and leaders. Chapter 4:8 is a quotation from Psalm 68:18. It gives the picture of the triumphal return of the King and giving gifts to service men. Christ ascended to heaven victoriously accomplishing his mission. The captives are most probably the Old Testament saints in Sheol (Luke 16:23). The purpose of Christ ascension is to fill us with his blessings to bring the church into maturity. The maturity is described here as the fullness of Christ (4:13). Matured Christians show doctrinal stability and grow in the knowledge of Christ (4:14-15). God would use gifted men to strengthen the church (4:16). There is variety of spiritual gifts (1 Cor 12:4-11; Rom 12:3-8; Ephesians 4:11). Each believer is gifted. They should not despise it by not using it (1 Thess 5:20; 1 Tim 4:14). Gifts are the given to edify one another in the church. They are not the natural talents but the God given ability to serve others in love. By active involvement in the church one can discover his gift.
The Gifted men given to the church:
(Read Ephesians 4:11-16)
Christ gave the church some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelist, and some pastors and teachers (4:11). Apostles and prophets were chosen and commissioned by Christ to preach the gospel and establish the churches (2:20). The Bible does not teach apostolic succession. They were men who had seen the risen Christ and received power to do miracles. Prophets were the forth tellers who had received direct revelation from God and deep insight to interpret it. Evangelists are those who called to preach the gospel. They help to build the church by winning the lost. Pastor-teachers refer to one office with two functions. They shepherd believers by example and through the ministry of the word. All pastors have the responsibility to teach and guard believers from error. Teachers are the gift to the church to teach the word of God so that the church may grow in the knowledge of Christ. They are gifted to equip the saints for the work of the ministry until they measure up to maturity and unity in Christ (4:12-13). So that believers no more remain children in faith, carried away by every wind of doctrine (4:14). The evidence of maturity is Christ-likeness. They will be able to make spiritual discernment and speak the truth in love ( 4:15; Heb 5:12). Spiritual maturity brings unity and harmony in the church (4:16). Love is the distinguishing mark of matured church and believers.
Live as New Creation:
(Read Ephesians 4:17-31
Paul exhorts Christians to live in purity. Since we have become new creation in Christ, we should no longer live like gentiles. They are darkened in their understanding of God and are hopelessly confused. They are alienated from God because of the hardness of their hearts. They are greedy and given to every kind of impurity. Those who are in Christ think differently because they have a new nature (4:23). Since we have a new identity with Christ, we should turn away from our old ways and live a righteous life. They become “new man” in Christ. Our obedience reflects our identity with Christ. Paul highlights five areas of life that could grieve the Holy Spirit. Since we became new creation in Christ Jesus, we need to grow knowing Christ (Phil 3:10). We must replace falsehood with truth (4:25). Don’t sin by uncontrollable anger (4:26-27). Anger is an emotional outburst caused by irritation and a momentary insanity. We must deal with it before it becomes sin. The habit of holding anger overnight can cripple us. A soft answer turns away wrath. Christians must replace stealing with hard and ethical work (4:28)." Lazy believer robs himself, others and God". Those who steal are controlled by Satan (John 10:10). We must replace corrupt communication with wholesome talk (4:29-30). Fill our mind with good thoughts because out of the abundance of heart, mouth speaks (Matt 12:34). Our speech may minister grace to others (Col 4:6). We should replace bitterness with compassion (4:31-32). Bitterness is the settled hostility towards others. It can lead to anger, harsh word and slander. Evil speaking is the deliberate insult with abusive words. We should avoid these evil behaviors because they grieve the Holy Spirit.
Christians must be kind to one another:
(Read Ephesians 4:32
Kindness is the outward expression of love. Tenderhearted people will put kindness into action. Believers should forgive one another in light of God’s forgiveness towards them in Christ. Forgiveness is not probation but pardoning the guilty unconditionally. Unforgiving spirit will lead to settled bitterness. If you are unable to forgive, you have lost sight of the forgiveness Christ has provided. A forgiving heart is a forgiven heart. Unforgiving spirit is self destructive and a joy killer. Forgiveness results in reconciliation and restored fellowship. The motivation for these actions is our desire to become like Christ (4:25). Unforgiving spirit grieves the Holy Spirit (4:30). "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ forgave you" (4:32). Pray that God helps us to appreciate his mercy more deeply so that we will be motivated to forgive others.
Chapter 5
Be Imitators of God:
(Read Ephesians 5:1-7)
As children of God we ought to obey God, our heavenly Father (5:1). Paul’s argument is that children are like their father. He gives two motivations to imitate God, their identity in Christ and the future judgment of Christ. How do we imitate an invisible God and please Him? The Bible says, “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalms 46:10). God does not ask us to do something he wouldn’t help us accomplish. He revealed himself in Jesus Christ (John 1:18). Christ is the express image of God and he pleased to dwell in us (Col 1:19; Heb 1:3). There is a difference between imitating Jesus and duplicating Jesus. No one can duplicate his death (Heb 7:27). To imitate Christ, we must model Christ’s love and follow his footsteps (1 John 4:8). The Holy Spirit implanted his love in our heart to follow Christ (Rom 5:5). In John 13, Jesus sets an example for his disciples to follow his example. The Old Testament sacrifices typify Christ’s death on the cross (Leviticus 1-7). The burnt offering pictures Christ’s total devotion to the Father. The meal offering shows his perfect character. The peace offering typifies that Christ is our peace. These are sweet smelling sacrifices. The sin and trespass offerings show his atoning death on the cross. There is no sweetness or beauty in these two offerings (Isaiah 53:2-5). Those who trust in the grace of God will turn their lives from sin and lead a life of obedience. God gives us a desire and strength to obey him.
Walk as Children of light:
(Read Ephesians 5:8-17)
Our motivation to follow Christ is our identity in Christ as beloved children of God and the coming judgment (5:3, 6, 8). The behaviors mentioned in verses 3-5 are to be detested. Christians are saints and separated to live for Christ. Those who are truly saved by grace will turn away from sin and pursue holiness. The faith that saved us is not a fruitless faith. Those who bear good fruit have no need to fear judgment. Those who choose to live in sin have no assurance of salvation. Those who willfully practice sins will have no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ (5:5). Once we were full of darkness but now we are light in the Lord. Therefore walk as children of light (5:8). Walking in love and light do not come naturally. The Christians must pay careful attention how they live. Do not live like fools, but like those who are wise (5:15). Because we live in a dark world, we need frequent reminders to be watchful (5:14). Make the best use of our time and opportunity serving Christ because the days are evil (5:16). Do not be thoughtless but understand what the Lord wants you to do. Wisdom and love grow as we seek them in Christ.
Be Filled with the Spirit:
(Read Ephesians 5:18-21)
Paul urges believers to be filled with the Holy Spirit. We should shun the foolish ideas of the world and exercise good judgment knowing the will of God. The entrance of the word of God enables us to understand the will of God (Psalms 119:130). When we are filled by the Spirit we live in a way that pleases God. Then our lives will be marked by the fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:22-23). Intoxication by strong drinks will lead to abusive behavior. It can destroy Christian testimony. For Christ to dwell in our hearts we must be controlled by the word of God (Col 3:16). Paul gives four results of being filled with the Spirit. Spirit filled Christians address one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs. They sing and make melody in their hearts to the Lord. They are thankful people. Also they submit to one another out of reverence to Christ (5:19-21). The natural man does not have the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 2:14). The believers are baptized into the body of Christ (1 Cor 12:13). Paul explains the filling of the Spirit in verses 18-21. It is to be repeated and is an ongoing Christian experience (Act 13:9). Filling is a passive verb. You can’t fill yourself but ask God to fill you with the Spirit (Acts 9:17). Every believer has the Holy Spirit but the Holy Spirit does not have every believer. Unbelief and disobedience can hinder the filling of Spirit (Acts 7:51; Ephesians 4:29-30; 1 Thess 5:19). Only when we confess our sins and forsake, we will be filled by the Spirit (1 John 1:7-9; Luke 11:11, 13). Spirit filled believers will submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Pray that God would give us a desire to be filled with the Holy Spirit.
Harmony in Christian Marriage:
(Read Ephesians 5:22-33)
Marriage is a symbolic of the union between Christ and the church. Marriage has many purposes. There is an emotional purpose (Gen 2:18). There is a social purpose of bringing forth children into the world (Gen 1:28). Also it has physical purpose of finding natural fulfillment. God divinely ordained marriage and blessed it (Gen 1:27-28). Most of all, marriage has spiritual purpose. The ultimate example and meaning of marriage is seen in the relationship between Christ and the church. Christ provide the model of sacrificial, loving, strong and tender leadership. The church is submissive, gracious, trusting and respectful to Christ. Paul had much more to say to the husbands than wives. In Christ, husband sees a model for sacrificial love and tender care for wife. Here love is a verb and not a noun. It is also sanctifying love which has a cleansing effect on wife (5:26-27). Christ’s love is also a satisfying love. In marriage couples find mutual satisfaction and nourishment (5:29). Adam gave his rib to get a bride but Christ gave all (John 19:34). A loving husband will do whatever necessary to protect and cherish his wife. The purpose of Christ’s death was to cleanse and to sanctify the church by the washing by God’s word (5:26). The washing of water refers to “the washing of regeneration (Titus 3:5). The Holy Spirit uses the Word of God to accomplish this in the church and in marriage (1 Pet 1:23). Husband should bring godliness in marriage by confessing sins and getting closer to the Lord. Like Christ, husband should nourish and cherish his wife to present her without blemish to God (5:27-30; Jude 24). Like the union between Christ and the church, marriage is an inseparable union (5:31).
The Church’s Submission to Christ.
(Read Ephesians 5:22)
Paul instructs wives to submit to their husband as to the Lord (5:22). Submission is a difficult concept to understand in our culture today. It is confused with subservience. Submission does not mean accepting abuse. When a wife knows that her husband truly loves her like Christ loved the church, her resistance to submission disappears. It is a respectful submission to husband. Submission is a military term, means stand in line or in order. Christ is the head of the church. Likewise husband is head of the family. Headship means accountability for the family (Heb 13:7). This is God’s order and plan for the marriage. Someone has said “Christian submission is reciprocal, mutual, voluntary and personal”. This is a great mystery but it is revealed in the Word of God to illustrate the union between Christ and the church (5:32). So husbands should love wives as Christ loved the church and the wives should respect their husbands. Many marriages are failing because couples fail to understand the biblical definition and meaning of marriage.
(Read Ephesians 5:1-7)
As children of God we ought to obey God, our heavenly Father (5:1). Paul’s argument is that children are like their father. He gives two motivations to imitate God, their identity in Christ and the future judgment of Christ. How do we imitate an invisible God and please Him? The Bible says, “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalms 46:10). God does not ask us to do something he wouldn’t help us accomplish. He revealed himself in Jesus Christ (John 1:18). Christ is the express image of God and he pleased to dwell in us (Col 1:19; Heb 1:3). There is a difference between imitating Jesus and duplicating Jesus. No one can duplicate his death (Heb 7:27). To imitate Christ, we must model Christ’s love and follow his footsteps (1 John 4:8). The Holy Spirit implanted his love in our heart to follow Christ (Rom 5:5). In John 13, Jesus sets an example for his disciples to follow his example. The Old Testament sacrifices typify Christ’s death on the cross (Leviticus 1-7). The burnt offering pictures Christ’s total devotion to the Father. The meal offering shows his perfect character. The peace offering typifies that Christ is our peace. These are sweet smelling sacrifices. The sin and trespass offerings show his atoning death on the cross. There is no sweetness or beauty in these two offerings (Isaiah 53:2-5). Those who trust in the grace of God will turn their lives from sin and lead a life of obedience. God gives us a desire and strength to obey him.
Walk as Children of light:
(Read Ephesians 5:8-17)
Our motivation to follow Christ is our identity in Christ as beloved children of God and the coming judgment (5:3, 6, 8). The behaviors mentioned in verses 3-5 are to be detested. Christians are saints and separated to live for Christ. Those who are truly saved by grace will turn away from sin and pursue holiness. The faith that saved us is not a fruitless faith. Those who bear good fruit have no need to fear judgment. Those who choose to live in sin have no assurance of salvation. Those who willfully practice sins will have no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ (5:5). Once we were full of darkness but now we are light in the Lord. Therefore walk as children of light (5:8). Walking in love and light do not come naturally. The Christians must pay careful attention how they live. Do not live like fools, but like those who are wise (5:15). Because we live in a dark world, we need frequent reminders to be watchful (5:14). Make the best use of our time and opportunity serving Christ because the days are evil (5:16). Do not be thoughtless but understand what the Lord wants you to do. Wisdom and love grow as we seek them in Christ.
Be Filled with the Spirit:
(Read Ephesians 5:18-21)
Paul urges believers to be filled with the Holy Spirit. We should shun the foolish ideas of the world and exercise good judgment knowing the will of God. The entrance of the word of God enables us to understand the will of God (Psalms 119:130). When we are filled by the Spirit we live in a way that pleases God. Then our lives will be marked by the fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:22-23). Intoxication by strong drinks will lead to abusive behavior. It can destroy Christian testimony. For Christ to dwell in our hearts we must be controlled by the word of God (Col 3:16). Paul gives four results of being filled with the Spirit. Spirit filled Christians address one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs. They sing and make melody in their hearts to the Lord. They are thankful people. Also they submit to one another out of reverence to Christ (5:19-21). The natural man does not have the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 2:14). The believers are baptized into the body of Christ (1 Cor 12:13). Paul explains the filling of the Spirit in verses 18-21. It is to be repeated and is an ongoing Christian experience (Act 13:9). Filling is a passive verb. You can’t fill yourself but ask God to fill you with the Spirit (Acts 9:17). Every believer has the Holy Spirit but the Holy Spirit does not have every believer. Unbelief and disobedience can hinder the filling of Spirit (Acts 7:51; Ephesians 4:29-30; 1 Thess 5:19). Only when we confess our sins and forsake, we will be filled by the Spirit (1 John 1:7-9; Luke 11:11, 13). Spirit filled believers will submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Pray that God would give us a desire to be filled with the Holy Spirit.
Harmony in Christian Marriage:
(Read Ephesians 5:22-33)
Marriage is a symbolic of the union between Christ and the church. Marriage has many purposes. There is an emotional purpose (Gen 2:18). There is a social purpose of bringing forth children into the world (Gen 1:28). Also it has physical purpose of finding natural fulfillment. God divinely ordained marriage and blessed it (Gen 1:27-28). Most of all, marriage has spiritual purpose. The ultimate example and meaning of marriage is seen in the relationship between Christ and the church. Christ provide the model of sacrificial, loving, strong and tender leadership. The church is submissive, gracious, trusting and respectful to Christ. Paul had much more to say to the husbands than wives. In Christ, husband sees a model for sacrificial love and tender care for wife. Here love is a verb and not a noun. It is also sanctifying love which has a cleansing effect on wife (5:26-27). Christ’s love is also a satisfying love. In marriage couples find mutual satisfaction and nourishment (5:29). Adam gave his rib to get a bride but Christ gave all (John 19:34). A loving husband will do whatever necessary to protect and cherish his wife. The purpose of Christ’s death was to cleanse and to sanctify the church by the washing by God’s word (5:26). The washing of water refers to “the washing of regeneration (Titus 3:5). The Holy Spirit uses the Word of God to accomplish this in the church and in marriage (1 Pet 1:23). Husband should bring godliness in marriage by confessing sins and getting closer to the Lord. Like Christ, husband should nourish and cherish his wife to present her without blemish to God (5:27-30; Jude 24). Like the union between Christ and the church, marriage is an inseparable union (5:31).
The Church’s Submission to Christ.
(Read Ephesians 5:22)
Paul instructs wives to submit to their husband as to the Lord (5:22). Submission is a difficult concept to understand in our culture today. It is confused with subservience. Submission does not mean accepting abuse. When a wife knows that her husband truly loves her like Christ loved the church, her resistance to submission disappears. It is a respectful submission to husband. Submission is a military term, means stand in line or in order. Christ is the head of the church. Likewise husband is head of the family. Headship means accountability for the family (Heb 13:7). This is God’s order and plan for the marriage. Someone has said “Christian submission is reciprocal, mutual, voluntary and personal”. This is a great mystery but it is revealed in the Word of God to illustrate the union between Christ and the church (5:32). So husbands should love wives as Christ loved the church and the wives should respect their husbands. Many marriages are failing because couples fail to understand the biblical definition and meaning of marriage.
Chapter 6
Children obey your Parents:
(Read Ephesians 6:1-4)
Because of the gospel of Christ, the children should obey their parents. This is God’s plan for the family and the primary responsibility of children connected to the fifth commandment (Ex 20:12). This is the right thing to do. Secondly, it pleases God (Col 3:20). Thirdly, if children honor their parents, things will go well for them. Fourthly, children who obey their parents have long life on earth (6:1-3). Disobeying parent is a sin (2 Tim 3:2). There is a spiritual purpose in being an obedient child. It is more than an accepted custom. Obedience carries the idea of obeying promptly, habitually and cheerfully. To honor means to have an attitude of love and respect by caring. God gives negative and positive instructions to fathers. They should not deliberately provoke their children to anger. Parents often provoke children by inconsistent behavior, unfair discipline, showing favoritism and becoming insensitive to their needs. Children will get angry and parents need to know how to deal with it. Discipline has to do with correction in mind and not emotion (Pro 23:13). Parents should instruct and discipline their children. Failing to do that will bring tragic results. It brought disgrace to David and Eli. Favoritism brought division in the Isaac’s and Jacob’s families. When children are provoked they will be discouraged and rebel against parents.
Servants and Masters:
(Read Ephesians 6:5-9)
In Paul’s day, the slave/master relationship was an extension of home life. Slavery in the context of American history means, one race enslaving another race. But that is not the context of slavery in the Bible. In the first century many Christians were slaves. History shows that where gospel was proclaimed, Christian brotherhood prevailed and slavery disappeared. The slaves, Paul addressing were people who became slave under Roman authority with little reference to race. They should obey their earthly masters in the Lord with respect and fear (6:5). They should serve them sincerely as they would serve Christ. They should not work to please masters to gain their praise. The Lord will reward them for their work. Masters should treat their slaves with fairness and do not threaten them. They should remember that they have a master in heaven and there is no partiality with him. There is no area of life or work, this principle of “in Chris” is irrelevant. Both the slave and free will be judged by the perfect standards of God. There is no respect of person with God. The gospel instructs and transforms everything in life.
Put on the Whole Armor of God:
(Read Ephesians 6:10-13)
The Christian life is a spiritual battle. The devil is the ultimate enemy and he will attack us when it is least expected. We do not underestimate his power and his deceptive schemes. Satan even appears as angel of light (2 Cor 11:14). The Christians must stand against the schemes of the devil because it is an ongoing battle (6:11). When Christians are weak, lonely and tried, they are more vulnerable to Satan’s attack. We should be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might to resist Devil. We can’t have victory over Satan by our own strength. We are exhorted to stand against the schemes of Satan knowing that Christ has already won the victory over him. We are not sent without divine assistance. The Holy Spirit who is in us is greater than the Satan who controls the world system (1 John 4:4). Our standing is almost entirely defensive and the only offensive weapon is the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God (6:17). The battle is real though it is invisible, demonic, vicious and against God. Christians must put on the whole armor of God to stand against the spiritual forces of evil. Satan’s strategy is to keep us under the fear death (Heb 2:14). Christ has died to destroy the power of devil and death.
The Pieces of Armor of God:
(Read Ephesians 6:14-20.)
Christians must fasten their waist with the belt of truth: 6:14.
Roman soldiers used to wear heavy duty belt. The belt of truth is the objective facts about God. Christ is the embodiment of truth (John 14:6). Truthfulness is essential in our fight against devil. Unless we practice personal integrity, we can’t win the battle. Lack of integrity made King David ineffective until he repented (Psalms 32; 51:10-13).
Christians should put on the breastplate of righteousness: 6:14.
(Read Ephesians 6:14)
The breastplate was to cover the front of the body from neck down to the thigh. It was designed to protect the soldier’s vital organs. By virtue of our union with Christ, we have a righteous standing before holy God (1 Cor 1:30; 2 Cor 5:21). This would motivate us to live a righteous life. Practical righteousness is the strong defense against Satan’s attack (Rev 12:9-10). Without it we are vulnerable and will be defeated.
Put on the shoe of the gospel of peace:
(Read Ephesians 6:15)
The Roman soldiers used to wear sandals studded with sharp nails. This made Caesar’s army successful in the battle. When we stand firm on the gospel, we have peace with God. It gives us advantage over Satan. How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace (Rom 10:15). Witnessing Christians are the victorious Christians.
The Shield of Faith to stop the fiery arrows of the Devil:
(Read Ephesians 6:16)
The shield is for full protection of the body. When soldiers hold the shield together, they act like a wall. Believers are not in the spiritual battle alone. This shield is made with leather to protect the soldier from fiery arrows. Satan fires the arrows of doubts, temptations and sinful passion to destroy the testimony and effectiveness of believers. They must be extinguished by faith (1 John 5:4). The shield is our faith in God and in his promises (Gen 15:1; Isaiah 26:3; Phil 4:6-8). This is not the saving faith but the living faith.
Put on the Helmet of Salvation:
(Read Ephesians 6:17)
This helmet was made of iron and designed to protect the soldier's head. If we don’t have the assurance of salvation, Satan can attack our mind with doubts. Without a renewed and Spirit controlled mind, we are useless. We must renew our minds daily with God’s unchanging promises to protect us from Satan’s attack (2 Tim 1:12; 1 John 5:11-13).
Take the Sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
(Read Ephesians 6:17)
This sword is for hand to hand conflict. It is an offensive weapon. It is the sword of the Spirit because it is inspired of the God (2 Tim 3:16-17; Heb 4:12). We need to develop skill to use the Word to counter attach of Satan effectively (2 Tim 2:15). It comes only by our commitment to the Word of God. It was our Lord’s powerful weapon against Satan in the wilderness (Matt 4:4-10). The spiritual sword should not be used in physical strength. But when it is used in the power of the Holy Spirit, it will bring life and healing to those who believe. In reality Christ is the whole armor of God. He is the truth (John 14:6), our righteousness ((2 Cor 5:21), our peace (Ephesians 2:14); our shield (Gal 2:20), our salvation (Luke 2:30) and the sword of the Spirit (John 1:14). Paul exhorts us to put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh to fulfill its evil desires (Rom 13:14).
Christians should pray in Spirit:
(Read Ephesians 6:18-20)
Prayer and the Word of God can’t be separated. Prayer is the energy that enables us to use the armor of God effectively. Moses prayed when Joshua fought against the Amalekites (Ex 17:8-16). Prayer is not getting man’s will done in heaven but God’s will done on earth. Prayer includes adoration, confession, thanksgiving, petition, intercession and supplication for all believers. Praying in the Spirit means to pray according to the will of God (Rom 8:26-27; John 14:13). Paul requests prayer for himself. He is Christ's ambassador to speak for him and to make his message known to the lost world (2 Cor 5:20). Paul seeks prayer support to preach the gospel boldly. Are you ready to share the gospel?
Conclusion:
(Read Ephesians 6:21-24)
Paul concludes the letter of Ephesians with a reference to believer’s love for Christ. He sent Tychicus, the bearer of this letter to inform his readers how he is getting along. Paul wanted to encourage their troubled hearts. The Christians should encourage one another because we are in a battle. Tichicus was a beloved brother and faithful fellow worker. Ephesians gives God’s great plan for Christian living. Those who love the Lord will guard their tongues and live worthy of their calling. They honor their spouses, obey their parents and stand against the devil (4-6). Before time began we are elected by a loving and all-wise God (1:3-23). We are made alive in Christ. It is a sovereign act of God (2:1-2). Also we are united in Christ as a family in the church (2:4-3:21). We are called to walk worthy of our calling in unity (4:1-6). We should be eager to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace by submitting to Christ’s Lordship. We should live a Spirit controlled life before the watching world (5:15-6:9). We also must be properly equipped to battle against Satan (6:10-20). Paul concludes the epistle by wishing grace to all who love the Lord Jesus Christ. God does all things to the praise of the glory of His grace. Pray that God makes his power and grace evident in your life. God bless you all.
(Read Ephesians 6:1-4)
Because of the gospel of Christ, the children should obey their parents. This is God’s plan for the family and the primary responsibility of children connected to the fifth commandment (Ex 20:12). This is the right thing to do. Secondly, it pleases God (Col 3:20). Thirdly, if children honor their parents, things will go well for them. Fourthly, children who obey their parents have long life on earth (6:1-3). Disobeying parent is a sin (2 Tim 3:2). There is a spiritual purpose in being an obedient child. It is more than an accepted custom. Obedience carries the idea of obeying promptly, habitually and cheerfully. To honor means to have an attitude of love and respect by caring. God gives negative and positive instructions to fathers. They should not deliberately provoke their children to anger. Parents often provoke children by inconsistent behavior, unfair discipline, showing favoritism and becoming insensitive to their needs. Children will get angry and parents need to know how to deal with it. Discipline has to do with correction in mind and not emotion (Pro 23:13). Parents should instruct and discipline their children. Failing to do that will bring tragic results. It brought disgrace to David and Eli. Favoritism brought division in the Isaac’s and Jacob’s families. When children are provoked they will be discouraged and rebel against parents.
Servants and Masters:
(Read Ephesians 6:5-9)
In Paul’s day, the slave/master relationship was an extension of home life. Slavery in the context of American history means, one race enslaving another race. But that is not the context of slavery in the Bible. In the first century many Christians were slaves. History shows that where gospel was proclaimed, Christian brotherhood prevailed and slavery disappeared. The slaves, Paul addressing were people who became slave under Roman authority with little reference to race. They should obey their earthly masters in the Lord with respect and fear (6:5). They should serve them sincerely as they would serve Christ. They should not work to please masters to gain their praise. The Lord will reward them for their work. Masters should treat their slaves with fairness and do not threaten them. They should remember that they have a master in heaven and there is no partiality with him. There is no area of life or work, this principle of “in Chris” is irrelevant. Both the slave and free will be judged by the perfect standards of God. There is no respect of person with God. The gospel instructs and transforms everything in life.
Put on the Whole Armor of God:
(Read Ephesians 6:10-13)
The Christian life is a spiritual battle. The devil is the ultimate enemy and he will attack us when it is least expected. We do not underestimate his power and his deceptive schemes. Satan even appears as angel of light (2 Cor 11:14). The Christians must stand against the schemes of the devil because it is an ongoing battle (6:11). When Christians are weak, lonely and tried, they are more vulnerable to Satan’s attack. We should be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might to resist Devil. We can’t have victory over Satan by our own strength. We are exhorted to stand against the schemes of Satan knowing that Christ has already won the victory over him. We are not sent without divine assistance. The Holy Spirit who is in us is greater than the Satan who controls the world system (1 John 4:4). Our standing is almost entirely defensive and the only offensive weapon is the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God (6:17). The battle is real though it is invisible, demonic, vicious and against God. Christians must put on the whole armor of God to stand against the spiritual forces of evil. Satan’s strategy is to keep us under the fear death (Heb 2:14). Christ has died to destroy the power of devil and death.
The Pieces of Armor of God:
(Read Ephesians 6:14-20.)
Christians must fasten their waist with the belt of truth: 6:14.
Roman soldiers used to wear heavy duty belt. The belt of truth is the objective facts about God. Christ is the embodiment of truth (John 14:6). Truthfulness is essential in our fight against devil. Unless we practice personal integrity, we can’t win the battle. Lack of integrity made King David ineffective until he repented (Psalms 32; 51:10-13).
Christians should put on the breastplate of righteousness: 6:14.
(Read Ephesians 6:14)
The breastplate was to cover the front of the body from neck down to the thigh. It was designed to protect the soldier’s vital organs. By virtue of our union with Christ, we have a righteous standing before holy God (1 Cor 1:30; 2 Cor 5:21). This would motivate us to live a righteous life. Practical righteousness is the strong defense against Satan’s attack (Rev 12:9-10). Without it we are vulnerable and will be defeated.
Put on the shoe of the gospel of peace:
(Read Ephesians 6:15)
The Roman soldiers used to wear sandals studded with sharp nails. This made Caesar’s army successful in the battle. When we stand firm on the gospel, we have peace with God. It gives us advantage over Satan. How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace (Rom 10:15). Witnessing Christians are the victorious Christians.
The Shield of Faith to stop the fiery arrows of the Devil:
(Read Ephesians 6:16)
The shield is for full protection of the body. When soldiers hold the shield together, they act like a wall. Believers are not in the spiritual battle alone. This shield is made with leather to protect the soldier from fiery arrows. Satan fires the arrows of doubts, temptations and sinful passion to destroy the testimony and effectiveness of believers. They must be extinguished by faith (1 John 5:4). The shield is our faith in God and in his promises (Gen 15:1; Isaiah 26:3; Phil 4:6-8). This is not the saving faith but the living faith.
Put on the Helmet of Salvation:
(Read Ephesians 6:17)
This helmet was made of iron and designed to protect the soldier's head. If we don’t have the assurance of salvation, Satan can attack our mind with doubts. Without a renewed and Spirit controlled mind, we are useless. We must renew our minds daily with God’s unchanging promises to protect us from Satan’s attack (2 Tim 1:12; 1 John 5:11-13).
Take the Sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
(Read Ephesians 6:17)
This sword is for hand to hand conflict. It is an offensive weapon. It is the sword of the Spirit because it is inspired of the God (2 Tim 3:16-17; Heb 4:12). We need to develop skill to use the Word to counter attach of Satan effectively (2 Tim 2:15). It comes only by our commitment to the Word of God. It was our Lord’s powerful weapon against Satan in the wilderness (Matt 4:4-10). The spiritual sword should not be used in physical strength. But when it is used in the power of the Holy Spirit, it will bring life and healing to those who believe. In reality Christ is the whole armor of God. He is the truth (John 14:6), our righteousness ((2 Cor 5:21), our peace (Ephesians 2:14); our shield (Gal 2:20), our salvation (Luke 2:30) and the sword of the Spirit (John 1:14). Paul exhorts us to put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh to fulfill its evil desires (Rom 13:14).
Christians should pray in Spirit:
(Read Ephesians 6:18-20)
Prayer and the Word of God can’t be separated. Prayer is the energy that enables us to use the armor of God effectively. Moses prayed when Joshua fought against the Amalekites (Ex 17:8-16). Prayer is not getting man’s will done in heaven but God’s will done on earth. Prayer includes adoration, confession, thanksgiving, petition, intercession and supplication for all believers. Praying in the Spirit means to pray according to the will of God (Rom 8:26-27; John 14:13). Paul requests prayer for himself. He is Christ's ambassador to speak for him and to make his message known to the lost world (2 Cor 5:20). Paul seeks prayer support to preach the gospel boldly. Are you ready to share the gospel?
Conclusion:
(Read Ephesians 6:21-24)
Paul concludes the letter of Ephesians with a reference to believer’s love for Christ. He sent Tychicus, the bearer of this letter to inform his readers how he is getting along. Paul wanted to encourage their troubled hearts. The Christians should encourage one another because we are in a battle. Tichicus was a beloved brother and faithful fellow worker. Ephesians gives God’s great plan for Christian living. Those who love the Lord will guard their tongues and live worthy of their calling. They honor their spouses, obey their parents and stand against the devil (4-6). Before time began we are elected by a loving and all-wise God (1:3-23). We are made alive in Christ. It is a sovereign act of God (2:1-2). Also we are united in Christ as a family in the church (2:4-3:21). We are called to walk worthy of our calling in unity (4:1-6). We should be eager to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace by submitting to Christ’s Lordship. We should live a Spirit controlled life before the watching world (5:15-6:9). We also must be properly equipped to battle against Satan (6:10-20). Paul concludes the epistle by wishing grace to all who love the Lord Jesus Christ. God does all things to the praise of the glory of His grace. Pray that God makes his power and grace evident in your life. God bless you all.
