Introduction to Ephesians


Victory in Christ
A Study in Ephesians

Thought I would share some notes from our Bibe Study group. Most of the information came from either the NIV Study Bible or the Holman Commentary on Ephesians.

Introduction

Written around AD 90
Ephesus had about 300,000 people. It was the capital city of the Roman empire in Asia (in modern Turkey).

Often considered the best, most useful letter by Paul. It could very easily be considered a manual for Christian living. Why did Paul write this letter (epistle)?
1. To encourage believers in Asia Minor to remain faithful to Christ
        a. Paul’s story
                i. His persecution
                ii. His example
        b. Personal involvement
                i. He planted the church
                ii. They begged Paul to stay, but he declined
                iii. He left Priscilla and Aquila to lead the church
                iv. Returned later and stayed 2 years teaching
2. It was meant for all churches in Asia Minor
        a. The earliest Greek manuscripts did not include “to the saints in Ephesus”
        b. Believed to have been a circular letter and that each church would insert their name
3. To let the recipients know:
        a. Who they were in Christ,
        b. All that was available to them in Christ
        c. The importance of oneness within the body of Christ

Three problems in the Churches of Asia Minor
1. Dionysian religion
        a. Claiming supremacy and power over Christianity
        b. Offered enticements by combining prostitution and religion
2. Internal turmoil
        a. Messianic Jews claimed their heritage put them above others
        b. Gentiles felt like second-class Christians
3. Secular allure
        a. Financial disadvantage to be a Christian
        b. Christianity was not popular
        c. Choices to make
                i. Fit into both worlds by compromising integrity and morality
                ii. Live monastic life to avoid temptation and battles
                iii. Remain faithful to Christ and face persecution

Theological Implications from Ephesians
1. Believers have position in Christ
        a. Adopted children of God
        b. Confidence in face of threats
2. Believers have a new nature (2:1-10)
        a. Battle between old and new
        b. We are God’s workmanship (2:10)
3. Possibility for real unity
        a. All barriers broken down by Christ
        b. Barriers are potential stepping stones to harmony and accord
4. Importance of holy, separated living
        a. Called out of this world
        b. Need to be constantly filled with the Spirit to battle the flesh
        c. Prepare for battle
                i. Recognize we are in one
                ii. Wear appropriate armor
5. Family and vocational lives are spiritual issues

Contemporary teachings from Ephesians
1. Live from a positive perspective
        a. Jesus has lost none of His power
        b. Greater opportunity to impact society
        c. Demonstrate desirable characteristics that draw others to Christ
2. Maintain unity
        a. Put aside prejudice
        b. Stop short of spiritual compromise
3. Live holy, separate lives
        a. Matthew 6:33
        b. This command is a current mandate for Christians
4. Carry our faith into all areas of our life
        a. Church
        b. Home – greatest sphere of influence
        c. Work/School
        d. Social circles

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