Eph 3:14-16 - Bowing Before the Father

14 For this reason I bow my knees before the Father,
15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name,
16 that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man,

Paul’s Prayer: That You May Be Strengthened With Power

Vs. 14 - “For this reason I bow my knees before the Father,” -

“For this reason” - This does not refer to the previous statements, but to the following prayer starting in verse 16. Paul is earnestly praying to God, the Lord Almighty. He is not sitting in a church pew, or an easy chair in his front room. Paul is humbly asking the Lord to bless these people. 

Vs. 15 - "from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name," - 

This verse is in praise of God the Father. It might read better: “From whom the whole family” In other words, the household of God, the body of believers, which received its name from God (Acts 11:26).

Vs. 16 - “that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man,”

The prayer is threefold:

(1) Strengthened  by the Holy Spirit - vs, 16; 
(2) Christ dwells within us - vs. 17;
(3) To know the love of Christ - vss. 18-19.

Paul prays first that our inner man (our spirit, our emotions, our mind) be strengthened through the Holy Spirit. (See: Rom 8:16; Eph 1:18-20). Strengthened with God’s power, in proportion to the the riches of Christ (See: Eph 1:3-8). These riches are NOT diminished in any way. How do we know this? The answer: Christ is alive - resurrected from the dead - undiminished in any way. He lives, seated next to God the Father, and all things have been given to Him. (John 13:3)

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Eph. 3:11-13 - Boldness and Confident Acces

11 This was in accordance with the eternal purpose which He carried out in Christ Jesus our Lord,
12 in whom we have boldness and confident access through faith in Him.
13 Therefore I ask you not to lose heart at my tribulations on your behalf, for they are your glory.

***

Do Not Lose Heart

Vs. 11 - “This was in accordance with the eternal purpose which He carried out in Christ Jesus our Lord,”

Note: the wisdom of God was revealed (from v. 10) in Christ Jesus our Lord (v. 11). And God had planned it to happen and to be revealed in just this way.

Vs. 12 - “in whom we have boldness and confident access through faith in Him.”

This verse illustrated one of those interesting paradoxes (not the right word to describe this phenomenon) of the faith. We are in Christ, yet we have access through our faith in Christ. We are in Christ; Christ is in us (Col 1:27). Our access to God the Father is through Christ (John 14:6). though faith in Christ (John 3:16, 18, 6:29). Because of God’s love for His own, we are allowed to come into His presence, and boldly, with confidence, because of Christ (Heb 4:16, 10:19, 35; 1 John 2:28; 2 Cor 3:4; Eph 2:18).

Vs. 13 - “Therefore I ask you not to lose heart at my tribulations on your behalf, for they are your glory.”

“Therefore”- looks to the phase “Because of our bold confidence access God the Father” (v. 12).

"not to lose heart at my tribulations" - With the possible exception of verse 3:1 this is the only mention (in this letter) of any trouble for Paul. It is very possible that Paul had written of his predicament before. No doubt that the circumstances of a well-known early church figure as Paul was well known anyway (See: Col 1:24ff; Phil 2:17)

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Eph. 3:8-10 - Very Least of All Saints

8 To me, the very least of all saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unfathomable riches of Christ,
9 and to bring to light what is the administration of the mystery which for ages has been hidden in God who created all things;
10 so that the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known through the church to the rulers and the authorities in the heavenly places.

Unfathomable Riches of Christ

Vs. 8 - “To me, the very least of all saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unfathomable riches of Christ,”

“Very least of all the saints” - Paul had a lot to be proud of; yet in view of Christ, and His sinless perfection — nothing to be proud of. (See: 1 Cor 15:9; 2 Cor 12:11; 1 Tim 1:15; Phil 3:8) I wish I did not have the problem of self pride! Paul is not expressing a false humility.

“This grace was given” - This privilege, the unmerited favor from God, to trust in Paul to spread the Gospel to the Gentiles.

“Unfathomable riches of Christ” - A fathom is a depth measurement, thereby the riches are bottomless, to much to measure. The KJV says “unsearchable” - which is literally “not tracked out”. The implication is clear! In Christ we have so much, that the full measure will never be known to us.

Vs. 9 - “and to bring to light what is the administration of the mystery which for ages has been hidden in God who created all things;”

“bring to light... administration... mystery” - To help men see how God’s plan works. From verse 8, Paul was given two tasks: (1) Preach to the Gentiles; (2) To point out the working out of God’s mystery.

“Which for ages” - (Col 1:26) - It was not until Christ was crucified, glorified, that it became clear that salvation was available to all - both Jew and Gentile. But this was alluded to in the Old Testament (Psa 86:9; Isa 9:2, 42:1, 49:6, 55:5, 60:3; Hos 2:23; Mal 1:11). Surely leaders of the Jews knew that salvation was to be available to the Gentiles, but...
Even the verses listed above do not convey just how the Gentiles would have (or gain) such direct access to God. Knowing how people think, the Jews probably felt, to the last, that any access to God would be through Judaism. They did not heed Jesus’ warning (Matt 21:43).

Vs. 10 - “so that the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known through the church to the rulers and the authorities in the heavenly places.”

In this verse we see the purpose of exposing God’s working out of His plan. If I understand this verse, God hid His plan of salvation for everyone for many generations, even hundreds of years. The method (acceptance of Christ as Savior - see Rom 10:9-10; Heb 11:6) was not fully explained nor revealed. And the fact that now all may come, in Him, was especially astonishing. Through the church the gospel is spread.
God’s wisdom, through the teaching by example, through the teaching of the prophets, by “types”, etc., all point to Christ. Hindsight is 20/20 vision. As we look back and have had 2000+ years to analyze we see the teaching that brings us to Christ. God’s purpose was to reveal, through the church, that salvation is open to all. God’s purpose was to reveal to Satan and his cohorts, that salvation was now simple - in Christ. We may never know, but I can’t help but believe that Satan was shocked, dismayed, stunned to hear God’s Good News.

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Eph. 3:4-7 - The Mystery of Christ

4 By referring to this, when you read you can understand my insight into the mystery of Christ,
5 which in other generations was not made known to the sons of men, as it has now been revealed to His holy apostles and prophets in the Spirit;
6 to be specific, that the Gentiles are fellow heirs and fellow members of the body, and fellow partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel,
7 of which I was made a minister, according to the gift of God’s grace which was given to me according to the working of His power.
*** 

Gentiles are Fellow Heirs

Vs. 4 - "By referring to this, when you read you can understand my insight into the mystery of Christ,"

“By referring to this, when you read” - As you read the other letter (or previous information in this letter) Paul says you will begin to understand how I know what I know. (See: 1 Pet 1:10-12; Col 1:26-27)

Vs. 5 - “which in other generations was not made known to the sons of men, as it has now been revealed to His holy apostles and prophets in the Spirit;” - 

God’s Holy Spirit, working in and through the believers in Christ (specifically - through the apostle Paul) began to reveal the “mystery” of salvation for all who come. (Acts 13:46-48, 15:7-19).

Vs. 6 - “to be specific, that the Gentiles are fellow heirs and fellow members of the body, and fellow partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel,”

“Gentiles are fellow heirs and fellow members of the body” - (See: Eph 2:11-15; Gal 3:26-29; Col 3:11) The mystery - and it is still is - the gospel is an open book, to all who will look in. Christ is the only way (John14:6; Acts 4:12), but no one will be turned away (John 6:37-40).

Vs. 7 - “of which I was made a minister, according to the gift of God’s grace which was given to me according to the working of His power.”

“I was made a minister, according to the gift of God’s grace” - God’s power worked; God’s grace bestowed; as a result of the two working together Paul responded, and preached the gospel (See: 1 Cor 15:3-6; John 3:16) to the Gentiles.

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Ephesians 3:1-3 - We Are All Joint Heirs With Christ

Chapter 3 - Outline
1-3: - Paul has a secret
4-7: - The Mystery of Christ
8-10: - Servant of the Gospel
11-13: - Eternal purpose
14-16: - Bow My Knees Before the Father
17-19: - A prayer
20-21: - Benediction

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Verses 3:1-13 are a continuation of the thought that Gentiles are joint heirs. Verses 14-21 are a prayer.

Eph. 3:1-3 - Stewardship of God’s Grace

1 For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles--
2 if indeed you have heard of the stewardship of God’s grace which was given to me for you;
3 that by revelation there was made known to me the mystery, as I wrote before in brief.

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Made Known the Mystery
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Vs. 1 - “For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles--“

“prisoner of Christ Jesus” - This might have a double meaning. Does Paul mean here (as in some cross references) that because of his faith in Jesus he is now a prisoner in the Roman jails? Or, does he use this as an illustration; as he is a “bond-servant”, a “slave”, a “servant” of Jesus Christ, Lord of All?

I think both are possible. Note Paul’s mission has to carry the claims of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles. Proclaiming these truths did land Paul in jail. But, by the same token, Christ’s claim on Paul was that he should spend his life sharing to the Gentiles.

And that indeed is our call - where Christ is such a central figure in our lives that we do His bidding; our lives committed to Him so that He has complete say in our actions, etc.

Vs. 2 - “if indeed you have heard of the stewardship of God’s grace which was given to me for you;”

Paul was called by Christ to take the gospel to the Gentiles. (See: Acts 9:1-19; 22:6-16; 26:14-18) Paul was not shy about telling how he was changed from an enemy of Christ and Christians to a tireless advocate of salvation through faith the the Lord Jesus Christ. He was changed from a travelling executioner a missionay extrodinaire.

Vs. 3 - “that by revelation there was made known to me the mystery, as I wrote before in brief.”

Paul did not learn about the Lord Jesus from men (Gal 1:12, 16) but directly from Jesus. It is not directly mentioned in Acts 9:26-31, but it seems that Paul went away to be taught what the Gospel was all about. He had believed that Jesus was a heretic as were his followers. Paul was a terror, hunting down and arresting believers. He was a stout believer in God there on the road to Damascus, just not of Jesus. Notice that Paul did not wonder who it was that struck him blind and called to him. He knew it was God. Paul's question, "Who are you, Lord?" is not questioning if it is God who is calling to him. He is confused, because he thinks he is defending God. Paul is dumbfounded, what does the Lord mean by his statement? The answer from God, "I, Jesus, am the Lord you worship and are now attacking!" Note that Paul does not argue with God. There's no, "Yeah, but..." Paul understood that God had accosted him. If God says that Jesus is God (which is what was said), that settles it for Paul. Now, he may not have had a fully develped theology at this point, but he believed and was saved. A little later, as has been noted, Paul gets some serious one-on-one tutoring.
He understands there is more than the miracle of God’s love shown through Jesus - but that the Gentiles were heir to grace also.

“Mystery” - A previously unrevealed fact, that God now makes known. There are a couple places in the OT prophetic writings where it is said that those who are not God's people will be His people. (Hos 1:10, 2:23)

“As I wrote in brief” - In this letter, or in another letter? I don’t know, it could easily be either. Salvation has come to all people - Jews and Gentiles. No longer does a person need to convert Judaism to come to God. The path is direct. “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved. “ (Acts 16:31; Rom10:9)

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Eph. 2:19-22 - No Longer Strangers and Aliens

19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God’s household,
20 having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the corner stone,
21 in whom the whole building, being fitted together, is growing into a holy temple in the Lord,
22 in whom you also are being built together into a dwelling of God in the Spirit.

***

We Are God's Dwelling Place

Vs. 19 - "So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God’s household," -

“So then... no longer... aliens” - Because of Christ’s work (2:11-18).

“Fellow citizens... of God’s households” - Members of God’s house are believers. Non-believers are not spiritually co-equal. Every believer has the same standing - in Christ (Col. 1:13-14). Non-believers have no standing.

“Saints” - Holy ones = true believers. (See: Psa 27:4). Note it is “with the saints”. The original first followers and believers were Jewish. We Gentiles are co-equal in Christ.

Vs. 20 -  “ having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the corner stone,” - 

“Having been built... prophets” - This household, all the members of God’s family (see end of v. 19), See: 1 Cor 3:9ff; Matt 16:16ff. The church is founded upon the teachings of the prophets and the apostles that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, and our personal Savior. See: Acts 5:12. This is the foundation - 1 Pet 1:10-12.

“Christ Jesus... cornerstone” - A cornerstone is: 

(1) a stone joining two walls together;
(2) the starting point of a building or construction;  

(3) something of fundamental importance.

Christ is all three in the life of the church.

(1) He joins the Jew and Gentile together into one faith;
(2) Jesus is the beginning of the church. (Col 2:18-29)
(3) Jesus is so fundamental that without Him we are nothing, (1 Cor 15:17, 19)

Vs. 21 - “ in whom the whole building, being fitted together, is growing into a holy temple in the Lord,” - 

“in whom the whole building” - In Christ the entire church is “growing into a holy temple” (Col 2:19). Note that we are fitted together - not just helter-skelter, but neatly. We each have our place and our job to make the church function smoothly, with one purpose - to glorify God. (1 Cor 3:16ff).

Vs. 22 - “ “ in whom you also are being built together into a dwelling of God in the Spirit.” - 

 “built together into a dwelling of God in the Spirit.” - God dwells in the church in HIs Holy Spirit, and in Christ the church has its existence. Note: the church has no existence outside of Christ, who is God. Yet, the church is formed for the purpose to provide a dwelling place for the Spirit of God. A true picture of God beginning and completing a work. (Phil 1:6).

Verse 11-22 are an essay on the equality of our position in Christ. Our relationship to God does not depend on who we are, or what we do - it depends upon Christ. “In Him all things come together; He is before and in all things.” (Col. 1:15-20)

*** End of Chapter ***

Eph. 2:17-18 - He Preached Peace and Access

17 AND HE CAME AND PREACHED PEACE TO YOU WHO WERE FAR AWAY, AND PEACE TO THOSE WHO WERE NEAR;
18 for through Him we both have our access in one Spirit to the Father.

***

Peace - Both Far and Near

Vs. 17 - This is a quote from Isaiah;  See: Isa 57:19; Matt 2:33-46; Eph 2:12-13. 

“Near” = Jews. The Jews had the advantage over the Gentiles. Unfortunately they did not grasp that 'near' position. God chose the descendants of Abraham to be the vehicle that brought the savior, Jesus Christ, into the world. But they almost squandered that advantage by dismissing the Lord and not following his commands. Although they were 'closer' to God, there was no discernible difference between Jews and Gentiles. Now they would raise their hand and object to that statement - they have the Passover, and Pentecost, and the temple, and the Laws handed down in the desert during the exile. Some believed that doing the rituals (sacrifices) and celebrating the holy days made them good enough. To bring that to ‘today’ - if you celebrate Christmas, does that make your life acceptable to the Lord? How about showing up at Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Easter? These do not evidence a heart given to Jesus. 

“Far” = Gentiles. The Gentiles were enemies - they were the "heathens" - i.e., anyone who was not Jewish. That meant every nation, every people surrounding Judah/Israel were heathens. It also meant the heathens did not worship the Lord, the God of Israel. Note: Christ preached peace with God to both.

Vs. 18 - “for through Him “ - This all happens through Christ alone. We have no power to make this happen.

 “access in one Spirit” - We have access to the Father through Jesus Christ in one Spirit — “we” is both Jew and Gentile. (See: Eph 4:4 John 14:26, 15:26; Rom 5:5; 1 Cor 12:13 ) There is only one Holy Spirit, given to us as a pledge, a guarantee of our hope in glory. In one Spirit we can worship God, because of Christ!

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Eph. 2:14-16 - He is our Peace

14 For He Himself is our peace, who made both groups into one and broke down the barrier of the dividing wall,
15 by abolishing in His flesh the enmity, which is the Law of commandments contained in ordinances, so that in Himself He might make the two into one new man, thus establishing peace,
16 and might reconcile them both in one body to God through the cross, by it having put to death the enmity.

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Jews and Gentiles Reconciled

Vs. 14 - “ For He Himself is our peace, who made both groups into one and broke down the barrier of the dividing wall, ” - 

“He... is our peace” - There are several ramifications of being in God's peace because of what Christ has done for us: 

(1) All of the universe was put on peaceful basis with God;
(2) We have been put at peace with God, being no longer enemies (Col 1:19-22);
(3) Jesus and Gentiles have been brought to a peaceful co-existence in Christ. There is no other way to God (Acts 4:!2; John 14:6; Col 3:10-11).

“Made both groups into one” - (Eph 2:11-13; Col 2:13) Paul begins to deal with what is obviously a major problem at Ephesus. In fact, Eph 2:11-3:21 deals with the problem, namely: That Jewish Christians in Ephesus were separating themselves from their Gentile brethren. Paul writes that no matter whether we be Jews or Gentiles we all have the same position in Christ. The unity of the believers! With this concept in mind (i.e., unity of believers in Christ) the next verses - through 3:21 - are clarified.

“Broke down the barrier” - Note there were two walls: (1) Between man and God; (2) between Jew and Gentile. Jews hated the Gentiles, and I’m pretty sure the Gentiles return the feelings (probably because of the Jews’ attitude, and more likely goaded on by Satan’s hatred of Jesus). The Jews are a proud people, and it chafed to be conquered and abused by the likes of the Assyrians, Babylonians, Greeks and Romans. 

Vs. 15 - “ by abolishing in His flesh the enmity, which is the Law of commandments contained in ordinances, so that in Himself He might make the two into one new man, thus establishing peace, ” - 

 “By abolishing... the enmity” - This phrase explains how Christ removed the barrier. “Enmity” means the reason for opposition, or hatred. Christ’s physical sacrifice was the completion, fulfillment of the Law. The hatred between the Jew and Gentile was not caused by the Law, but it was part of the friction.

An imagined dialogue:
Jews, “We have the only way to God.”
Gentiles: “So?”
Jews: “If you want to get to God, you’ve got to go through us!”
Gentiles: “Surely, there must be another.”
Jews: “No way, we’ve got it. If you want to get to God, you’ve got to go through us!”
Gentiles: “Hey! Don’t get snotty!”
Jews: “Snotty! Listen, we’ve got...”
Gentiles: “You can take your law...”

And so, in the normal course of events, the Jews mocked and ridiculed the Gentiles because of their “despicable condition”. The Gentiles got mad at the Jews for being so haughty, so mad that many would in no way want to seek God.

There is a parallel here: Christians must not treat with disdain those who don't know Christ, nor pity them. (People do not want to be pitied, especially if they think everything is okay with themselves. They also don't want to be pitied if they know they are in bad straights.) That is why “Jesus loves you and has a wonderful plan for your life” (See note 1) is such a powerful statement. It helps to move people from fear and anger to being welcomed and loved.

“Which is the Law... ordinances” - Again, the Law was not the problem, but it appears to be so. The Law does not cause people to sin, but points out our sin. (See: Rom 3:21-22, 7:7) Christ did away with that method of knowing God (John 14:6). He did away with the Law (Acts 4:12).

“That in Himself... thus establishing peace” - See Col 3:10-11; John 17:21. Now, there are no privileged, except those in Christ, and those people did nothing to earn that privilege. (The TV series, “Downton Abbey”, provides a clear delineation between the “titled” family and all others. A baby born in the to title has all the rights and privileges; the staff working for the titled family do not. Apparently you cannot even marry into a titled family and thereby gain the title.

Since there is no reason to boast, except in Christ, and since our access to God is in Christ (He is our life), both Jew and Gentile now have the same standing. I cannot brag about having a “better position”, etc. Christ is the establishing of peace - there is no distinction between us (See: Gal 3:28; 1 Cor 12:13).

Vs. 16 - “and might reconcile them both in one body to God through the cross, by it having put to death the enmity.“ - 

“And might reconcile them both...” - (a continuation from verse 15) - It is in Himself that both sides are brought together in peace.

“Reconcile” - to turn hatred to friendship; to bring two groups at loggerheads to a place of common agreement; to bring an end tomthe hostility between them. Christ turns the enmity between Jew and Gentile to friendship

“In one body to God” - I think there are couple of possible views here: (1) Both Jews and Gentiles have now been put on friendly terms with God in Christ’s body. (2) Now having no stance of their own, Jews and Gentiles have been put on friendly terms with each other in Christ’s sacrifice.

“Through the cross” - See: Col 1:20, 2:14. Any hatred between us and others must end at the cross. Admittedly, this message was in particular to the problem generated by Jewish and Gentile Christians. This deep-seated, long-standing hatred had to be overcome. But the message applies to you and me. Any enmity between you and me cannot, must not be nurtured, indeed should not exist! Is there any discord, no matter how small, between me and another? I must confess that sin, seek forgiveness, and make restitution. Any grudge, etc., means I am harboring, or pridefully demanding a right that does not exist. Is there a “special understanding”, a way to God? No! Paul says there is only “Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Col 1:27).

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Note 1: Law 1 of “Four Spiritual Laws”.

Eph. 2:11-13 - Once Upon a Time

11 Therefore remember that formerly you, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called "Uncircumcision" by the so-called "Circumcision," which is performed in the flesh by human hands--
12 remember that you were at that time separate from Christ, excluded from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world.
13 But now in Christ Jesus you who formerly were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.

***

Vs. 11 - “ Therefore remember that formerly you, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called "Uncircumcision" by the so-called "Circumcision," which is performed in the flesh by human hands-- ” - Paul continues on in his drive to instill in our minds our position in Christ. Verses 11-22 explain the household of God, the unity of the believers, whether Jew or Gentile. If we are in Christ; if He is our only means of salvation then there is no distinction between any of us.

“You Gentiles” - See: Eph 5:8; 1 Cor 12:2; 1 Pet 4:3. It is very difficult for us to realize just what a Gentile is, to a Jew. Everything that a Jew was to be (with respect to reverence to God) the Gentile was not. Gentiles were despised, etc., etc., etc. There are probably not enough words to describe just how low the Gentile was in the Jewish estimation.

“Uncircumcision... circumcision” - Again, to us for whom circumcision is merely a medical decision, this doesn’t seem like such a big deal. But it must have been - but we don’t see it from the viewpoint of the Jew. To be uncircumcised meant that one was a Gentile - therefore lower than dirt!

Part of these verses are aimed at getting the Christians together. If the Jewish Christians (“circumcised”) were deriding the non-Jewish Christians (“uncircumcision”) because of their low initial position as Gentiles, then these verses are to show that we all have the same salvation - Jesus Christ!

“By human hands” - How important was this circumcision question? Picture people asking “Are you circumcised?”, or nowadays, “Have you been baptized?” See? We look at the outside, God looks at the heart. (1 Sam 16:7)
Paul is saying that this physical ritual - circumcision - cannot be that important, because it was done to man, by man. (See: Rom 2:25-29) Our hearts’ condition and attitude is the important thing. Circumcision does not change the spiritual condition, it only shows that your parents were obedient to God’s commands. It is not a predictor of your behavior or spiritual condition.

Vs. 12 - “ remember that you were at that time separate from Christ, excluded from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world.” - 

 “remember that you were at that time”  - Before Christ’s work on the cross, when circumcision or uncircumcision might have made a difference. Before Christ’s sacrifice, and before they had believed in Him, they were cut off, “separated” from any relationship with Him.

“Excluded... strangers” - (See: Rom 9:4; Matt 21:33-46) The Jews were God’s chosen people, through whom the whole world was to be blest. There were covenants made between God and man, based on the promises made.

“Having no hope and without God” - What else could be expected? The Gentiles were completely forsaken, without hope not knowing God. Christ had not yet removed the barriers; and the Gentiles, not having any part in the promises, not understanding or having any part in the covenants had no direct access to God, therefore: no hope.

Vs. 13 - “ But now in Christ Jesus you who formerly were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. “ - 

 “But now... “ - Then - you had no hope. Now - there is life.

“In Christ Jesus... by the blood of Christ” - We, who were not part of the covenant were “far off” (Isa 57:19). But in Christ, by the blood of Christ, we have been allowed to come to the presence of God. (Rom 3:25; Col 1:20; Heb 9:14, 22 ). We are no longer slaves, but are friends. (See: John 15:14-15)

***

Eph. 2:8-10 - Grace by Faith

8 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God;
9 not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.
10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.

Any man that says he wants to be judged on his deeds does not really understand his total inadequacy!

Vs. 8 - “ For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God;” - 

“For by grace you have been saved...” - A continuation of the same thoughts seen in the previous verses. In verse 7 we saw that God is demonstrating His limitless grace to us in Christ. For it is by this limitless grace we have any hope at all. We do not merit salvation (See: Psa 103:8-12; 130:3-4; 49:7-9)

“Saved” - What disaster are we saved from? Answer: eternal separation from God. Our knowledge and understanding is limited. We do not see God in His glory. Based on the beauty of the world we can see, the visions seen by the prophets, and God's own descriptions, we can believe that this worldly beauty pales by comparison. Some of the worst punishment we can think of is the 'super-max' prisons where the convicted criminal hour after hour, day after day, year after year in a single cell. Eternal separation from God is much, much worse than that. And to know there is no end to the aloneness, no end to lack of hope, no end to loss of love. It would drive you insane, and there is no relief or end to the insanity.

“Saved through faith” - (See: John 6:29; 3:16-18, 36; Col 1:4-5; 2:12) God’s grace has decreed (through the scriptures) by believing in Christ we are saved (See: Rom 10:8-10).

“That not of yourselves” - The salvation? Or the faith? If indeed salvation is by faith, why would we have to work to acquire faith? That makes no sense. But, if the salvation is not of ourselves, a result of faith, then the admonition to not work for salvation but believe makes sense.

“It is the gift of God” - Salvation is a gift. That is the concept of grace, salvation in not earned, it is given to us by God.

Vs. 9 - “ not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.” -

“Not as a result of works” - Salvation, the gift, remember! (Tit 3:5; 2 Tim 1:9)

“No one should boast” - See: 1 Cor 1:29-30. If indeed we can do nothing to gain salvation; if indeed Christ has done it all then there is nothing to get puffed up about, to feel pride in our own accomplishments.

Vs. 10 - “ For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.” -  

“His workmanship” - This further seals the grace/gift theme.

(1) We are undeserving
(2) God’s grace saves us
(3) We have no reason for self-pride
(4) We are created by Christ (v. 10)

As a result of His work we are saved, we are made into what He desires.

“Created... for good works... walk in them” - This is the beginning of a new train of thought that will be dealt with later by Paul. Simply put: saved to serve. As far as I know, Jesus never called anyone to just be saved. Each was called to serve, to fill a purpose. We too, have not been saved merely to be saved. We have been saved for the purpose of serving and glorifying the Lord! God decided long ago that we were to serve Him as He saved us.

“Walk” - This is to be one of the key words (another key word!) of this letter. Chapters 4 & 5 are devoted to directing, and teaching, and training believers in the way they should, because they are new creatures.

***

 

Eph. 2:4-7 - God rich in Mercy

4 But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us,
5 even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved),
6 and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus,
7 so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.

Christ is the author and authority in our lives.

Vs. 4 - “ But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us,”

“But God, being rich in mercy" - See: Rom 5:8; 1 John 4:10, 16, 19; Eph. 1:7; Titus 3:5. Despite our rotten condition, our rotten attitudes and our sinful nature God loved us enough to send His Son! “It is a hard saying, who can understand it!” It baffles why He would do it.

Vs. 5 - “ even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved),” - 

“Even when... dead... transgression” - See: Col 2:13-14; Rom 5:6-10. Because of God’s love (v. 4) He has taken our sin upon Himself, the whole burden. There is no penalty we need to pay for. We were dead, or doomed to the second death (eternal separation from God) because of that nature. Now we have eternal life in Christ (Gal 2:20; Col 1:13, 2:4) when we believe and confess Him as our savior.

“Alive together with Christ” - See: Col 1:18, 2:13, 3:1, 5; 1 Cor 15:4, 12-17, 20; Heb 1:3; Rom 8:11. Paul is setting the stage, previously and now:

    (1) There Christ is - exalted (vss. 1:19-23).
    (2) Here we are - debased (vss. 2:1-3).
    (3) We cannot get there from where we are (v. 3).
    (4) God has done it all - (vss. 2:4-5) - in Christ.

The verses from 1 Cor 15 and Col 1:18 stick in my mind - If Christ is not alive, in heaven, we have no hope.

Christ is alive, the first of many to be as He is. Our death was our transgression; our life is Christ.

“By grace” - It is not pity that God shows toward us. It is His love; it is His concern. Most likely we will see grace as God’s mercy in place of God’s judgment against us. (I will have to do a word study on “grace”)

Vs. 6 - “ and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus,” - 

“raised us up with Him” - See: Col 2:12; John 12:32, 3:18. In verse 5 we see that we’ve been given life. In verse 6 we begin to see our spiritual heritage. Verse 6 may not mean we have been resurrected as Jesus was, many of us have not died, and yet we have eternal life.

The problem we have in trying to understand this is that we are temporal creatures - our lives are lived out in a time-line. God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit are eternal. In God’s economy, when Christ died on the cross we died with Him. When Christ raised from the dead, we also (those who believe in Him) were resurrected. “It is finished!” Our life is hidden with God in Christ!

Paul was writing to living people, and is helping them see they are in Christ, and His power and glory protects and saves them. And, since this is the Bible, God’s word to us, we in the 21st century A.D., are included in His death and life. We were all ‘future’ when He was crucified. It is as though we were standing on Calvary that day - we died when He died.
We are “raised up” - our lives and our inheritance is in Christ. Christ is in heaven, “raised up”, incorruptible, and waiting there for us. We too are to reckon our selves as dead to this world and raised up out of it.

“Seated us... in Christ” - Again the key - in Christ. We are next to God the Father in heaven. We are there in Christ. The the book “Sit, Walk, Stand” by Watchman Nee, we see the key word is “seated” - a position of rest and symbol of power. Note that Christ’s atoning work is finished and He is now ‘resting’ in the presence of God, with all authority vested in Him.
Note: the Christian starts from the position of rest in Christ.
We do not start with Christ in order to go to something better.
We start in Christ.
We walk in Christ.
We end in Christ. (See: Col 3:34).
Christ is the author and authority in our lives.

Vs. 7 - “ so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.” - 

“...the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.” - Now we begin to see how verses 4-6 tie together. In fact, vss. 1:19-2:6 all fit into a pattern:

    (1) So that God could demonstrate for all time to come how unlimited his love, mercy and grace are;
    (2) He sacrificed Himself in Jesus Christ in our place;
    (3) And raised Jesus from the dead, and raised Him up to heaven;
    (4) And gave us every spiritual blessing in and through Christ;
    (5) Despite the fact we were totally undeserving.

Again we see a key word and a key phrase. (1) The phrase: “in Christ Jesus”. (2) The word: “grace”. They are key to these thoughts - we received God’s grace in Christ and no where else. This emphasizes that our life is in Christ Jesus and we can do nothing to earn it - it is a gift. See: "It is a true saying, in which all may put their faith, that Christ Jesus came into the world to give salvation to sinners, of whom I am the chief:  But for this reason I was given mercy, so that in me, the chief of sinners, Jesus Christ might make clear all his mercy, as an example to those who in the future would have faith in him to eternal life." (1 Tim 1:15-16)

***

 

Eph. 2:1-3 - Dead in Your Trespasses

Chapter 2 - Outline
1-3: - Former condition - separated
4-7: - Rich in Mercy
8-10: - New condition - saved by grace
11-13: - Gentiles especially separated
14-16: - One from Two
17-18: - He preached peace
19-22: - No longer foreigners
***

Eph. 2:1-3 - Your 'Normal' Condition

1 And you were dead in your trespasses and sins,
2 in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience.
3 Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest.

***

Vs. 1 - "And you were dead in your trespasses and sins" - Paul is setting the scene:  telling us of our position when not in Christ, versus being in Christ. As he finished the previous chapter, Paul tells of Christ’s position - greater than all and above, seated at the right hand of God. There is none other like Him, now or ever! He is alive in heaven.
On the the other hand, we are dead! Dead in our transgression and sin - not because of our sinning, [We sin because we are sinners.] (See: Rom 5:16-19; Col 2:13; 1 Cor 15:21-22)

“Sins and trespasses” - (i.e., transgressions) were our way of life, before Christ filled us.

Vs. 2 - “ in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience.” - This is where you are without Christ in your life.

“Formerly walked” - our way of life, attitude, as a non-believer.

“According to the course of this world...” - (See: Rom 13:13; Col 2:8, 3:5-6; Gal 5:19-21; Jam 3:14-16; 1 Pet 2:1, 4:3; 2 Cor 4:4) The natural order of this physical world is corrupted (Jer 17:9) by sin. Until we are made a new creature in Christ, we too walk and act as the natural man.  (See: 2 Cor 5:17)

“According to the prince of the power of the air” - See: John 12:31, 14:30, 16:11, 17:15; 2 Cor 4:5; 1 John 2:13, 4:4, 5:18-19; Matt 5:37, 13:19; 2 Thes 3:3. —- 

Here we see another name for Satan, the “evil one”, “ruler of the world”. He has been defeated in Christ - in effect, Satan is free on bail, awaiting final sentencing. Satan is confined to this universe, which is to be judged by Christ.

“Sons of disobedience” - The evil one has control of some people. These people disobey God. Paul is further defining the source of the evil in this world. The same prince of the air is the spirit who leads people to sin (2 Cor 4:4). Just as we who believe in Jesus are “sons of righteousness” or “saints of the light”, those who follow Satan are sons of disobedience.

Vs. 3 - "Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest.”

“Among them” - The sons of disobedience as defined above.

“We all formerly lived” - See: 1 Cor 6:11; Col 3:7; 1 Pet 4:3; Rom 3:23 - Before Christ Jesus became Lord in our lives, we were unsaved sinners - no matter how good we tried to be.

“Lust of flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and mind” - See: Rom 1:18-32; Ga; 5:16-21; Col 1:21; 2 Pet 2:12-19 - a fairly complete listing of the problems of the world.

“By nature, children of wrath” - See: Eph 5:6; Col 3:6. Not only children of disobedience, but destined to suffer the wrath of God.

***

 

Eph. 1:20-23 - Hope, Riches, Glory, and Power

20 which He brought about in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places,
21 far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.
22 And He put all things in subjection under His feet, and gave Him as head over all things to the church,
23 which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.

***

seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places

V. 20 - "which He brought about in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places”

Our hope is in Christ’s resurrection. His riches - our belief and faith and ourselves - His power to us, are all proportional to the work done in Christ. Paul defines this work in the next few phrases:

(1) Raised Christ from the dead;
(2) Seated Him at His right hand. That’s all.

God conquered death through Christ, and offered it to all. This might (conquering of death) is ours in Christ. The hope is ours in proportion to the amount Christ is in control of our lives!

V. 21 - “far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.”

This verse deals with Christ and where He is as a result of being raised from the dead. (See: Rom 8:38, 13:1; Col 1:16, 2:10, 15; 1 Cor 15:24) There may be rulers or kings who exercise absolute authority over their subjects - Jesus Christ is greater than these! There may be those whose authority has been gained or taken from others and is undeniable. Christ is greater than these. There may be those who power is undisputed (all of the above exist in the physical and spiritual worlds). Christ is greater than these! There are dominions and kingdoms in this world, and in the spiritual world we cannot see, and Jesus Christ is greater than these!

“Every name that is named...” - People honor others. There are names which bring awe to our minds and command our respect. Statues; Buildings; Cities named after them; States named after them. No matter how much honor is bestowed upon another, either now or in any future time — Christ is greater than all! There are not enough superlatives to describe Christ.

V. 22 - “And He put all things in subjection under His feet, and gave Him as head over all things to the church,”

God put everything under Christ’s feet. Really, picture a king on a throne - all of his subjects bow at his feet. This is the image presented here - everything has been put under Christ’s control and authority. (See: 1 Cor 15:27; Matt 28:18; Phil 2:9-11; Rom 14:!1; Col 1:18)

“Gave Him as head over all things to the church” - There is no other leader or authority for the church. (See: Col 1:18, 2:19, 3:11; John 15:4-5) Christ is the first of all those to be raised from the dead to eternal life. (See: Rev 1:8, 17-18, 2:1-2, 8, 12, for Christ position). Since we know his position - then we also know that any endeavor must be blessed, originated by Him, or it will not bring glory to Christ and God. The church, the body of believers, exists for really two reasons: (1) to bring glory to Christ and God, and (2) to bring people to a saving knowledge of Christ. Indeed as a person comes to Christ, it brings glory to Him.

V. 23 - “which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.”

The church is Christ’s body (1 Cor 12:27). One of those interesting analogies - Christ the head, we the body; Christ the bridegroom, we the bride, etc. His body, the church, is the completion of Christ. We in ourselves can not do anything to make Christ better, etc. But in the church, in us, God has brought about, accomplished all that He set out to do in Christ. The reason: we do not do it, but Christ does (John 15:5) Christ begins the work in us, and completes the work in us. In Christ, God gives everyone who believes everything they need for the Christian life.

***
End of chapter

Eph 1:15-19 - I Have Heard of Your Faith

15 - For this reason I too, having heard of the faith in the Lord Jesus which exists among you and your love for all the saints,
16 do not cease giving thanks for you, while making mention of you in my prayers;
17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him.
18 I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints,
19 and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of the strength of His might

***

Your Heart May Be Enlightened

V. 15-16 - “For this reason...” - Really, the 16th verse needs to be inserted so the sentence would read like this: “For this reason I do not cease to give thanks for you, while mentioning you in my prayers, since I have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and the love you have for all the saints.” (See: Col 1:4) Paul prayed about them, and as he learned that they were saved, he thanked God (probably continually).

V. 17 - "may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him. - Here we see the purpose of Paul’s prayers: That those Paul was writing to, might be given wisdom and the knowledge of God. Paul was also writing for us, the believers in this day and age. But that is not all, that God may through His Spirit, reveal Himself to us, which will have more of an impact on the reality of our lives. This is a relationship-building process. Our life in Christ usually does not instantly change our human behavior - it is a growing process as we trust Him and learn to listen to His leading through the Holy Spirit. The more we ‘walk’ with Him, the more our lives are conformed to His desire for us. 

The word “knowledge” in this verse is referring to a “true knowledge”, or rather, an intimate knowledge, a personal knowledge gained not by study, nor by reading, etc., but by spending time with Christ and God. God reveals Himself to us as we seek Him. (See: John 8:55; Col 1:10) This is an important concept - we must spend time with Jesus to get to know Him better. That is not an earth shaking revelation. But we need to continually remind ourselves of our complete dependence on the Lord. 

The word “spirit” in “spirit of wisdom” does not necessarily mean that an infusion of a spirit (an angel or the Holy Spirit) be shed upon us. Know that when you accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, you are given the Holy Spirit.  “Spirit” here can be read a “rational soul” or a “mental disposition”. For example, God has given us a “sound mind” (2 Tim 1:7 (KJV)). Paul is asking that God give us mental disposition toward wisdom, and toward accepting a revelation of Himself to us. You know God can show Himself and His will to us and we don’t pay attention! Again, He reveals Himself to us when we seek His face - not just a general idea of who He is, but Him personally - not remote and academic but a personal interaction.

V. 18 - "Eyes of your heart” - the KJV says “the eyes of your understanding”. I thank that says it pretty well. We memorize, or learn something “by heart”. The GNMM translation says “may your minds be opened to see His light”. This is part of the revelation of God to us.

Now to look at the goal(s) of the enlightenment. There are primarily three: (1) An understanding of the hope; (2) an understanding of the riches; (3) to come to understand His power working for us.

(1) “What is the hope of His calling”? See: 1 Cor 15:12-28; Eph 1:3; Rom 1:16-18; 1 Pet 1:3-4. Our hope is that Christ did indeed conquer death, and that by faith in Him we too may have life eternal.

(2) “The riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints” - The phrase “riches of the glory” is interesting. How do you put a value on glory? Think of the fame and glory men seek here on earth. Men will do almost anything to gain recognition! The glory of God is so much beyond our understanding. This verse seems to say that Jesus has a glorious and precious inheritance that is in those who believe in Him. Note this does not read like Col 1:12 (which says the saints are receiving an inheritance). This indicates that Christ Himself is receiving an inheritance, and the inheritance is we true believers! The Lord wants us to know how valuable we are to Him. He has given us to His Son, Jesus. (See: John 6:39-40, 10:29; 2 Pet 3:9; 2 Cor 2:14-16)

What possible reason could God have for wanting us to know how valuable we are? Ponder that.

V. 19 - "what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe." - This verse shows the third goal of the enlightenment mentioned in verse 18:

(3) “Understand His power working for us”: When God reveals Himself to us, we begin to understand the magnitude of God’s care for us. [Note: God wants us to know how valuable we are! When does a person begin to consider suicide, etc? When he feels that no one cares, that the world would be better without his presence. When we know someone cares for us, we can care for ourselves.] There is no way that we can completely understand God’s might. Note also to whom this power is directed - those of us who believe in Christ.

“These are in accordance...” - Why in plural? GNMM simply says that “this power in us,” indicating that it is only the greatness of His power. I think the 'these' refers to the three concepts just listed: hope of his calling, the riches of his glory, and the surpassing greatness of his power, and his power is indeed unlimited bcause He is the Lord God. Jesus does this because He can, He wants to shower his love on those who believe in Him.

Conclusion: Our hope, His riches, His power toward us are all the result of God’s working through Christ.

***

 

Eph 1:7-14 - In Him

7 In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace
8 which He lavished on us. In all wisdom and insight
9 He made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His kind intention which He purposed in Him
10 with a view to an administration suitable to the fullness of the times, that is, the summing up of all things in Christ, things in the heavens and things on the earth. In Him
11 also we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to His purpose who works all things after the counsel of His will,
12 to the end that we who were the first to hope in Christ would be to the praise of His glory.
13 In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation--having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise,
14 who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of God’s own possession, to the praise of His glory.

***

He Has Lavished on Us Through Jesus Christ

V. 7 - “Redemption” - Forgiveness, bought at a price. The price - His Blood! Redemption denotes also a setting free. Our sins are forgiven. We are set free from the penalty of death.

"forgiveness of our trespasses" - This is not new. God has offered to forgive those who repent and turn to Him from the beginning. Solomon's prayer at the dedication of the temple echoes this. "When they (your people) sin against you -- for there is no one who does not sin -- and you are angry with them... when they come to their senses - and repent and petition you saying: 'We have sinned and done wrong; we have been wicked'... may you hear their prayer and petitions in heaven, your dwelling place, and uphold their cause. May you forgive your people who sinned against you." (2 Chr 6:36-39 (CSB)) Solomon is not begging in this prayer, he is reminding people the characteristics of God - that He does not approve of sin, but will hear our confession and forgive trespasses if we turn to Him. 

“According to the riches of His grace” - This is the source of our redemption - the riches of His grace! That means we do not need to work our way into His favor. We do not need to come up with a payment or sacrifice to cover our failure. By His grace God provided the payment, the sacrifice for our sin. He took our sin upon Himself, because He knew we could not.

V. 8 - He lavished this grace upon us. He gave everything so that we might come to know Him.

V. 9-10 - “He made known to us the mystery of His will,” - Through Christ, God brought about His will and purpose. In His wisdom, and His insight, both of which are far and above anything we can know (See: 1 Cor. 1:18-31). There are verses in Job, Psalms, and Proverbs that show and say the wisdom and knowledge of Jesus and God is beyond ours. (Thank God for that!)

“According to His kind intention” - Note in vss. 5, 6, 7, and 9 that all these things have either been due to God’s good pleasure, or freely bestowed because of His grace. The point to be made here is that none of these things were done grudgingly, but willingly with love toward us.

The mystery has been revealed in Christ. This was God’s purpose. It also included the plan that when everything was just right... (i.e., when the world conditions, the body of believers, etc., were in proposer relationship - whatever that may be - it is God’s plan and He knows just what He is looking for; not only that, He is guiding all things toward that end) He is going to bring everything together in and under Christ Jesus. See: Col. 1:16-18, 2:10, 3:11b; 2 Tim. 1:!2; Heb. 1:13, 2:7,8; Phil. 2:9-11. All things, not only on earth, but things in heaven, too, will be subjected to Christ. He who has suffered all is fully deserving of having all things under subjection to Himself.  Note: “In Christ”, again!

V. 11 - “ we have obtained an inheritance ” - In Him (Christ) are the heirs given all the spiritual blessings. (See: Col. 1:12, 14; Rom. 8:16, 17; 1 Pet. 1:4; Acts 20:32; Heb. 9:15)

“Having been predestined according to His purpose” - This really is the definition of ‘predestination’ - it is according to His purpose. Note that God planned all these things (God planned how we would come to a right relationship with HIm) long before the world was formed (See verse 4).

“Who works all things... counsel” - See Heb. 6:17. God, the Trinity, worked it all out, decided how it would be done (“it” being the salvation of souls, Christ’s life, death, sacrifice and resurrection). And then He committed Himself to it. The will - is this not the decision making, action committing part of a person? Again, all the things that happened prior to and during, and after Christ’s sacrifice did not happen by accident. God decided and is in control.

V. 12 - “to the end” - We were predestined with the view that we are to bring to Christ. Christ already has glory, no doubt about that. But our salvation, our lives can bring praise to that glory. People see us, not Christ. Of our lives brings praise to Christ, then people will respect and desire Him.

V. 13 - “In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation--having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise,”

We were sealed into Christ by the Holy Spirit when we believed in Christ, because we have heard the Gospel. (See: John 16; 2 Cor 1:21, 22; John 1:35; Acts 1:5-8; Rom. 8:16)

“Seal” - Think of a governmental official seal on a document. The only person that can break that seal is one of equal or greater rank. If we have been sealed into Christ, by God - then only God can cast us out, and He has promised not to do that. It is not a matter of “once-saved-always-saved”, but a matter of assurance - living without fear.

V. 14 - “Who” - The Holy Spirit.

“Who is given as a pledge” - Think of earnest money on a house sale. The earnest is a pledge, a guarantee, a sign to prove an honest and upright end to the agreed upon commitment. In this case: the Holy Spirit is God’s show of that intent. If indeed God does love us (He does!), and if indeed we are His (We are!) - then God has given us part (? - see note 1 below) of himself, the Holy Spirit, to live in us, in the new nature , to conform us to the image of Christ. (See: 1 Cor 1:22; Gal 4:6, 5:5-6, 16-18; 2Cor 3:18; John 16:13-15.)  

“With a view to the redemption...” - We see the purpose of the gift of the Holy Spirit. Not that the Holy Spirit Himself saves us, nor brings salvation. As a result of our faith in Christ, our belief and acceptance of Him, the Holy Spirit is given to show us that God is serious and accepts our step of faith. And when we have the Holy Spirit we know that we are redeemed. We have the salvation of the Lord. We are His own! (See: 2 Cor 1:21-22; 1 Pet 2:9-10; Tit 2:14)

---

Note 1: I am not sure I like the image of God giving a part of himself. I did not read that somewhere, it came out as I tried to imagine we humans having God, and Christ, and the Holy Spirit in us. The idea of the unlimited God of the universe inside me is overwhelming in some ways. We do not get ‘part’ of Jesus, or ‘part’ of the Holy Spirit. Thinking of God in ‘parts’ would lead to thinking of Jesus as ‘part’ of the Lord - whereas the Scripture says Jesus is wholly God, as is the Holy Spirit.  

Eph 1:3-6 - Every Spiritual Blessing

3 - Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ,
4 just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him. In love
5 He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will,
6 to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He freely bestowed on us in the Beloved.  

He Chose Us In Him

V. 3 - “Blessed be the God and Father” - Paul offering up praise to God. We have so much to be thankful for, so much for which to praise God, so much for which to give blessing to the Lord. We orthodox Christians don’t do it much - a few songs maybe, but not much more - not just outbursts of gratitude to God.

“Who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing...” - Note through whom we receive these blessings - Jesus Christ. He is the source of every good thing! (See: Heb. 1:2; Col. 2:8)

V. 4 - This verse is a continuation of the thought in verse 3 (blessed us with every spiritual blessing) because: the “choosing in Christ” and the “blessed with” accomplished by God the Father are for the purpose that “we should be holy and blameless before Him.” God wants our fellowship! Ponder that! The only way that we can come into the presence of God is if we are as pure as He. Only in Christ, washed by His blood, is our condition made acceptable to God.

“Chose us in Him” - An interesting phrase. Does this mean God actually singled each one of us, or that we are “chosen”, special because we have come to Him through Christ? Perhaps both. Note: the Bible (New Testament) speaks both of God’s sovereignty and man’s free will. I don’t think it is all that important to worry oneself about predestination. Often spending time on some topics, like "chosen", is "going down a rabbit trail.

Why? Two thoughts:

(1) Believe that Jesus is Lord. He died for our sin, and He rose from the dead. Those three things are central: the Lord God Almighty did this, not we ourselves. The Lord Jesus paid the penalty when we could do nothing to save ourselves. His resurrected life is proof and guarantee that all our sin is forgiven and we will live with Him.

(2) Believe that we are commanded to spread this Gospel to all men. With these thoughts preeminent, the ‘worry’ about ‘election’, etc., pales.

V. 5 - “Predestined us” - Ah! A second interesting phrase! What’s the difference between the “chosen” of verse 4 and “predestined” of verse 5? Not much really. Note that in verse 4 the choosing was done long ago, before the earth was formed. That’s also the kind of meaning of “predestined.”
Were we predestined to accept salvation? No, I don’t think so. We were predestined to be God’s sons by believing in His Son, Jesus. The reason (impetus, driving force) behind our gift of sonship is God’s love. Because He loved us! (1 John 4:10, Rom. 5:8). We are His sons, because of Christ, through Christ, and in Christ.

It was His pleasure to do this. It was His purpose to do this.

Sometimes people misconstrue “chosen” and “predestined” to be an arbitrary selection (God walking down a line, tapping certain ones, “You, you and you. Not you or you.”) And neither the chosen nor the unchosen have any part in the decision. That is not what the Bible teaches.

Note: We are not natural sons. Only Christ is that; but we are sons, adopted sons, heirs of God.

V. 6 - “ to the praise of the glory of His grace” - The GNMM says it best, “Let us praise God for His glorious grace” - “Grace” is one of those key words - like a combination of mercy and love. It is keyed by God’s love, because He is a God of mercy, grace has been bestowed on us. Grace is both an attitude or nature and a gift. Note the grace is ours in Christ.

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Ephesians 1:1-2 - Introduction and Greetings

Ephesians - Chapter 1
1-2: Greetings
3-6: Blessed with every spiritual blessing
7-14: Everything we have comes from Christ. Key words - “in Him” (meaning Christ)
15-19: Paul’s prayers for the believers
20-23: All things under Christ

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1 From Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, to the saints [in Ephesus], the faithful in Christ Jesus.
2 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ!

Greeting & Introduction

Vs. 1 - “From Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus” - He announces his title immediately. The Ephesians now know this is a serious letter, a church business letter, not a friendly “How are you. I am fine...” They knew instruction, reproof, or correction was forthcoming.

Paul was an apostle, although not one of the original eleven. (See Note 2, below). He was called by Christ, and instructed (by Christ, most likely). See: Gal. 1:1, 11, 12,17, 18; 2:9. Galatians 2:9 especially shows that Paul was accepted by the original apostles.

"By the will...” - Or, through the will. Again, Paul was not forced by God to be an Apostle. Paul merely (?) responded to God’s call.

“To the saints...” - True believers, holy ones.

“And who are faithful” - Note this statement right at the beginning of their letter. I believe it is here for a good reason. The first reason is in the letter itself, it is not a letter of reproof or correction of doctrine with respect to Christ and God’s work.

The letter is more a reproof of the Christian brotherhood, or our attitudes toward each other. That’s why the ‘faithful’ statement. The letter is to faithful Christians who aren’t getting along, to change that relationship.

Vs. 2 - Grace and peace” - What are these things that the apostle desires for his friends, and which are no less desirable for ourselves. Guy H. King from his exposition “Joy Way” said the following: 
(a) Grace - a quality which is, at once  
   (i) an Attitude, which he adopts toward us, as in Ephesians ii.8;
   (ii) an Activity, which He exerts for our help, as in 1 Corinthians xv.10;
   (iii) an Acomplishment, which He works in, and out from, us, as in Acts iv.33. Paul ardently, and prayerfully, desires for his converts everywhere - for he uses the words in all his church letters - that they may experience to the full this "grace", which the late Bishop Handley Moule describes as "love in action".

(b) "Peace". - the "God of grace" is the "God of Peace", 1 Peter v:10; Romans x:33; and it is only by, and after, His grace that we can enjoy His peace. Peace of heart - no condemnation before God; peace of conscience - no controversy with God; peace of mind - no anxiety about life; peace of action - no grit in the machinery. This gift is an immensely precious boon; and it may be the possession, should be the possession, of every believer." (See note 1.)

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Note 1: Guy H. King; “Joy Way - An Expositional Study of Philippians”; Marshall, Morgan and Scott, ltd; 1973.

Note 2: There were originally twelve (12) disciples, eleven of which became the apostles. The twelfth disciple, Judas Iscariot, committed suicide just before Jesus’ death (Mat 27:3-5). Another man, Matthias,  was chosen after Jesus’ resurrection to replace Judas Iscariot. (Acts 1:26)

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Ephesians - Outline and Introduction to Paul’s Letter

Ephesians Introduction and Outline

Welcome to the start of a new Bibe Study Notes, this one on the letter to the Ephesians (like the title above says). I have enjoyed thinking and praying over this letter, and pray that you will appreciate this letter, along with me.

1. Introduction
Written by: Apostle Paul
Written to: Church in Ephesus
Reason for writing: The converted Jews tended to be exclusive and to separate themselves from their Gentile brethren.
Main Theme: Christian unity, or the Unity of the Church. Two commentaries in my ‘Blue Letter Bible’ App said the following: “The letter was written to highlight the themes and doctrines of our Christian faith.” (D. Guzik)
And, “The Epistle to the Ephesians is a complete Body of Divinity. In the first chapter you have the doctrines of the gospel; in the next, you have the experience of the Christians; and before the Epistle is finished, you have the precepts of the Christian faith. Whosoever would see Christianity in one treatise, let him ‘read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest’ the Epistle to the Ephesians.” (Spurgeon)

2. Outline

Note: NASB, 1977 edition printed by Holman Bible Publishers was used for the Bible verses in this set of notes.

Chapter 1
1-2: Greetings
3-6: Blessed with every spiritual blessing
7-14: Everything we have comes from Christ. Key words - “in Him” (meaning Christ)
15-19: Paul’s prayers for the believers
20-25: All things under Christ

Chapter 2
1-3: - Former condition - separated
4-7: - Rich in Mercy
8-10: - New condition - saved by grace
11-13: - Gentiles especially separated
14-16: - One from Two
17-18: - He preached peace
19-22: - No longer foreigners

Chapter 3
1-3: - Paul has a secret
4-7: - The Mystery of Christ
8-10: - Servant of the Gospel
11-13: - Eternal purpose
14-16: - Bow My Knees Before the Father
17-19: - A prayer
20-21: - Benediction

Chapter 4
1-3: - Unity of the church in Christ
4-7: - One...
8-10: - Descending & Ascending
11-13: - Equipped for the Ministry
14-16: - Building and strengthening of the body
17-19: - You did not learn like that
20-24: - Warning to not revert to the old ways
25-32: - Do not give the Devil the Opportunity (Christian behavior, guidelines, rules)

Chapter 5
1-2: - Imitators of a God
3-6: - No impurity
7-10: - Let no one deceive
11-14: - All will be exposed
15-17: - Do not be foolish
18-21: - Walk in light, not darkness (Be filled with the Spirit)
22-24: - Wives
25-33: - Husband/wife and Christ/church likenesses

Chapter 6
1-4: - Children & Fathers
5-9: - Slaves & Masters
10-18: - Whole armor of God
19-24: - Closing words.

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Ephesians may be divided into two (2) major sections:

In the first, chs 1-3, Paul lays out what God has done for us. No commands for us to obey, it has been done for us by God through Jesus.

In the second, chs 4-6, Paul shows us what our response to God’s mercy and grace should look like. This is how you live when you have Christ in you.

Key Thoughts in Ephesian Letter
Chapters 1-3	Chapters 4-6
Blessed with … (1:3) Made Alive … (2:5) Made - New Humanity … 2:15 Members of One Body … (3:6) Together - Grasp Depth of God’s Love … (3:15) God’s Blessings	Live/Walk Worthy … (4:1) Unity of the Spirit … (4:3) No Longer Walk … (4:17) Walk in Love … (5:1) Walk as Children of Light … (5:8) Walk - As Wise … (5:25) Our Response

(Note: The info in the table is from Gene Curtis’s sermon on 10/2/22.)

 

Rom 16:25-27 - A Paean of Blessing

25 Now to Him who is able to establish you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery which has been kept secret for long ages past,
26 but now is manifested, and by the Scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the eternal God, has been made known to all the nations, leading to obedience of faith;
27 to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, be the glory forever. Amen.

A Hymn of Praise, a Benediction, and a Blessing

The following verses close the letter.

V. 25-26 - “Now to Him who is able to establish you” - We are saved (established) by God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.

“according” - This can be read “on the basis of”. This begins a list of foundational thoughts:

“(On the basis of) my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ” - Paul’s gospel: “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.” (1 Cor 15:3-4 ) And: “For I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.” (1 Cor 2:2 ) Jesus’ preaching: “Jesus *said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.” (John 14:6 )

“(On the basis of) the revelation of the mystery” - A mystery, as mentioned in the NT, is a truth undisclosed except by revelation. (Examples of mysteries: 1 Cor 13:2, 15:51; Matt 13:1; Rom 11:25; Eph 5:3-32.) That Christ would die for our sin, and be resurrected for our life in Him; that the church would be the "believers who come to Christ in faith be saved; that Gentiles would be welcomed (hinted at in the prophets, but not understood until revealed after Pentecost, are some of the ‘mysteries’ that have been ‘manifested’ - made known clearly and plainly to us.

“(On the basis of) the Scriptures of the prophets” - God spoke to us through his prophets. But the people then (and now as well) have rejected the message. See: "But they refused to pay attention and turned a stubborn shoulder and stopped their ears from hearing. They made their hearts like flint so that they could not hear the law and the words which the LORD of hosts had sent by His Spirit through the former prophets; therefore great wrath came from the LORD of hosts.” (Zec 7:11-12 )

“(On the basis of) the commandment of the eternal God” - God has been calling to us: “Say to them, ‘As I live!’ declares the Lord GOD, ‘I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that the wicked turn from his way and live. Turn back, turn back from your evil ways! Why then will you die, O house of Israel?’ “ (Eze 33:11) And: "Hear, O Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD is one! You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.” (Deut 6:4-5) Also: "You shall fear only the LORD your God; and you shall worship Him and swear by His name. You shall not follow other gods, any of the gods of the peoples who surround you.” (Deut 6:13-14)

“Leading to obedience of faith” - According to all of the above, you may be led to a faith in Christ. The reason I say “you may be led” is that the information is there, the call to you is there; it is your choice how you respond. If you obey the Lord and accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, your salvation is established, that is: rooted and built up in Christ, drawing life from Christ, protected by Christ. (See: John 3:35; 10:28-29)

V. 27 - “To the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, be the glory forever. Amen.” Glory to God in the highest. “Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel, From everlasting even to everlasting. Then all the people said, ‘Amen,’ and praised the LORD.” (1 Chr 16:36 )

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End of Chapter
End of Letter.
Romans 16:1-27 (NASB) Finished 13-Mar-2020.

Rom. 16:21-24 - Timothy and Other Workers

21 Timothy my fellow worker greets you, and so do Lucius and Jason and Sosipater, my kinsmen.
22 I, Tertius, who write this letter, greet you in the Lord.
23 Gaius, host to me and to the whole church, greets you. Erastus, the city treasurer greets you, and Quartus, the brother.
24 [The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.]

Fellow Workers for Christ

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V. 21 - “Timothy... Lucius and Jason... Sosipater” - We met Timothy in Acts 16:1-3. Lucius was a teacher in the church in Antioch (Acts 13:1). Jason may have been a leader of a house-church in Thessalonica when Paul arrived there. In the hubbub of persecution, Jason was dragged out of his house to the city authorities. Jason made sure Paul and Silas escaped from Thessalonica. (Acts 17:5-9)
When Paul left Greece after another riotous persecution, Sosipater (a.k.a. Sopater), a Berean Christian accompanied him on the way to Troas to meet with Timothy. (Acts 20:4-6).
Lucius, Jason and Sosipater are called Paul’s “kinsmen’. It is not clear if they were Jewish Christians or men from Paul’s home town, or if he was identifying them as family since they are Christian brethren.

V. 22 - “Tertius” - The person writing out the letter for Paul. I believe Tertius was a Christian, who was hired by Paul as an amanuensis (a three-dollar word for ‘scribe’).

V. 23 - “Gaius... Erastus... Quartus” - Three workers from Paul’s missionary journeys. We met Gaius in 1 Cor 1:14. He may have been from the city of Derbe, and is mentioned in 3 John 1:1. Erastus was mentioned in Acts 19:22, when he is sent with Timothy into Macedonia to work there. He is also mentioned in Paul’s letter to Timothy (2 Tim 4:20). Erastus may have been a city official - treasurer. Quatrus is not mentioned anywhere else in scripture, and maybe he was Erastus’ brother (or so some commentators have spevulated).

V. 24 - “The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.” - Some manuscripts do not have this verse. That’s okay.

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Rom. 16:17-20 - Trouble Makers

17 Now I urge you, brethren, keep your eye on those who cause dissensions and hindrances contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them.
18 For such men are slaves, not of our Lord Christ but of their own appetites; and by their smooth and flattering speech they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting.
19 For the report of your obedience has reached to all; therefore I am rejoicing over you, but I want you to be wise in what is good and innocent in what is evil.
20 The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.

I Want You to be Wise - Don’t be Fooled by These People

V. 17 - “keep your eye on those who cause dissensions and hindrances” - Paul is warning against two type of opposition: false teachers and persecutions. Paul knew of persecution because of his faith in Jesus. (For example, see: Acts 4:3; 5:17; 6:11; 8:58; 9:1, 23, 29; 12:1; 13:45, 50; 14:2, 19; 16:22; 17:5, 14; 18:12; 19:28; 20:3; 21:28; 23:2; 25:3 - to list a few.) You can generate a similar list for opposition to Jesus in the Gospels.
He reminds them they have learned the Good News about Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, and they are to hold fast to those teachings and turn away from false teachings. Compare what is being taught by these people to what Paul has just written to them in this letter. Do not follow deviations from Christ and Him crucified and resurrected!

V. 18 - “such men are slaves... of their own appetites” - Look back to the first chapter of Romans - “professing to be wise, they became fools” (1:22); “they exchanged the truth of God for a lie” (1:25); “although they know the ordinance of God, that those who practice such things are worthy of death...” (1:32)

"By their smooth and flattering speech they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting.” - These men are listening to themselves, urged on by Satan, rather than listening to the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit leads us to the truth, and it is our choice to hear and obey the truth or reject and die. Do not follow the ones who reject the truth of Christ as Lord.

V. 19 - “the report of your obedience has reached to all” - The Roman church has a reputation of hearing and believing in the Lord. Paul is happy and praises them for their steadfastness.

“I want you to be wise in what is good and innocent in what is evil” - The quality of being morally wise, not just intellectual smart. James writes, “Therefore, to one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, to him it is sin.” (Jam 4:17) In Proverbs, there is distinction between the ‘wise’ and the ‘foolish’. The wise man learns the morally right way to behave and holds to that. The foolish man knows the wrong way, and does it anyway - guilty of knowing the way and turning from it. (For example, see: Prov 10:1, 8, 13, 14, 21, 23, 32)

V. 20 - “The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet” - Be patient. Be faithful. Victory is yours in Christ Jesus. Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote “To leave everything behind at the call of Christ is to be content with Him alone, and to follow only Him... This exclusiveness of this adherence is the only power which can overcome evil.” (From: “A Testament to Freedom” - 317)

“The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.” - Peace cannot be manufactured within you. It is a gift of God through the power of the Holy Spirit and Jesus Christ! His grace will grant that gift to you. Claim it. Live it.

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Romans 16:1-16 - Recognitions given

CHAPTER 16
16:1-16 - Recognitions
16:17-20 - Trouble makers
16:21-24 - Timothy & workers
16:25-27 - Paean of Blessing

Signing off, Acknowledgements and a Benediction

1 I commend to you our sister Phoebe, who is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea;
2 that you receive her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints, and that you help her in whatever matter she may have need of you; for she herself has also been a helper of many, and of myself as well.
3 Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus,
4 who for my life risked their own necks, to whom not only do I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles;
5 also greet the church that is in their house. Greet Epaenetus, my beloved, who is the first convert to Christ from Asia.
6 Greet Mary, who has worked hard for you.
7 Greet Andronicus and Junias, my kinsmen and my fellow prisoners, who are outstanding among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me.
8 Greet Ampliatus, my beloved in the Lord.
9 Greet Urbanus, our fellow worker in Christ, and Stachys my beloved.
10 Greet Apelles, the approved in Christ. Greet those who are of the household of Aristobulus.
11 Greet Herodion, my kinsman. Greet those of the household of Narcissus, who are in the Lord.
12 Greet Tryphaena and Tryphosa, workers in the Lord. Greet Persis the beloved, who has worked hard in the Lord.
13 Greet Rufus, a choice man in the Lord, also his mother and mine.
14 Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas and the brethren with them.
15 Greet Philologus and Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints who are with them.
16 Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ greet you.

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V. 1-2 - “Phoebe” - A deaconess of the church. From dictionaries, we find that Corinth had two major harbors, Cenchrea (East of Corinth) and Lacheum (west of Corinth). There was a church located in Cenchrea, and it is possible a Paul founded a church there, and perhaps witnessed the Gospel to Phoebe.

“You receive her in the Lord” - Phoebe may have been the messenger carrying the letter to the Roman church. There was no mail service “R.E.P.S. - Roman Empire Postal Service”. Letters required a courier to make the trip and deliver the document. She was to be treated as they would any other Christian believer - as a ‘saint’.

“You help her” - What kind of help she might need is unknown. Since she was the courier, perhaps she would need lodging and food, help to find her way around Rome, making arrangements for her return to Cenchrea, etc. Paul recommends her because she has helped many people including himself.

V. 3-5 - “Prisca and Aquila” - This husband and wife team is mentioned several times in the NT writings. (See: Acts 18:2, 18, 26; 1 Cor 16:19; 2 Tim 4:19) Paul first meets them in Corinth on his second missionary journey. They must have been vital to the church ministry as it spread throughout the Roman Empire. Priscilla and Aquila were working in Rome when Paul sent this letter, and later in Ephesus with Timothy. They held church meetings in their home.

“Epaenatus” - One of the first Christian converts in Asia. (This is the only place where he is mentioned in scripture.)

Vss. 6-15 - A list of workers in Rome: Andronicus, Junias, Amplias, Urbonus, Stacitys, Apelles, Aristubulus, Herodian, Persis, Rufus, Asynchritus, Phleogeon, Hermès, Patrobos, Hermas, Philogus, Nereus, and Olympas. I do not know if these people are part of Paul's travelling group, or Paul knows these people in Rome because they were saved there. As far as I know, Paul had not been there (Rome) when he wrote the letter. They are not mentioned anywhere else in scripture.

Women mentioned in the list: Tryphaena, Tryphosa, Julia, Nereus’ sister, Rufus’ mother, and Mary: From the beginning of the church, women have had a prominent place. Paul worshipped in women’s homes on his missionary trips. This is a 'big' change from Jewish sabbath worship, where women sat on one side of the room from the men, and were not allowed to speak. I do not think this practice (separating women from men) was carried forward in the Christian church.

It is really different from the pagan religions of the nations all around the Mediterranean sea and in northern Africa. My impression is that women were not equal to men, and in many cases women were used as temple prostitutes. (I don't think that married women were offered by their husbands to be prostitutes.) Many of the Roman or Greek religions used sex as part of the 'worship'.

The Christian faith elevated women to be saved on their own 'right' by the love and sacrifice of Jesus, not just because their husbands were saved. Women did not need a husband to be a Christian. Praise the Lord for that!

V. 16 - “Greet one another with a holy kiss” - Great each other, warmly and friendly-like. Hugs and kisses are fine. Not kisses that lead to making love, but show the affection of one Christian for another. We are all brothers and sisters in Christ. Even if you do not have a brother or a sister, you know how you greet family members.

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