3. The term, meaning the same thing, is here "adoption.". When Paul says he is justified "by faith," it is not the sinner's faith, but Christ's which is meant. 20 Now () to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly () above all that we ask or think, () according to the power that works in us, 21 to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. For less than $5/mo. - why should it be thought strange that that girl of the Holy Spirit was promised only to believers who would repent and be baptized? Bless the LORD, all His works, In all places of His dominion. Paul may have written it about the same time as Colossians, c. a.d. (, Revelation of God's Wisdom through the Church This is a "mystery" not of This very interesting discrepancy between the English Revised Version (1885) and the KJV reveals the error in the English Revised Version (1885). in the Church (, Conclusion, Final Greetings and Benediction Regarding people, God's purpose in creating man was that he might become a Son of God through Jesus Christ. 20Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Stars and galaxies may not oppose or thwart their intended destiny; but with people, there is another factor, the freedom of the human will, enabling people to hinder or even prevent the fulfillment of God's purposes in their lives. author identifies himself as Paul (1:1; 3:1; cf. * [1:14] First installment: down payment by God on full salvation, as at 2Cor 1:22. Is It Correct to Say That America is a Christian Nation? This reference is to the "riches" just mentioned, "wisdom and prudence" being among the great blessings "in Christ." Thus, they are "the temple of God, the family of God, the bride of Christ, the vineyard of the Lord, the church of the firstborn, and (as here) the adoption." The New Testament use of the term "mystery" is not very closely related to the modern use of the word, conveying instead the meaning of "a secret once unknown, now revealed." theology, outline, a brief overview, and the chapters of the Book of Ephesians. How Do Grace, Faith, and Works Make up the Process of Salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9)? and on earth" under Christ (1:10). Now Amram took for himself Jochebed, his fathers sister, as wife; and she bore him Aaron and Moses. King James Version (KJV) Public Domain. (1) He confesses, not himself, or how saved he is, or how blessed he is, or what God has done for him; he confesses not himself but Christ! Author, Date and Place of Writing. Bible Gateway Recommends. cf. life of the believer continues to work out the purposes of God. (, California - Do Not Sell My Personal Information, The Divine Purpose: The Glory and Headship This eternal demand of the Father upon the part of those who would be his children has never been repealed. It receives its meaning and significance from heaven, where Check to enable permanent hiding of message bar and refuse all cookies if you do not opt in. The New English Bible (1961) translated "believers incorporate" (Ephesians 1:1) and "incorporate in Christ" (Ephesians 1:13), thus recognizing that an extra-literal body, called an incorporation, is indeed certainly apparent in the whole chapter; but the New English Bible is profoundly wrong in making it belong to the believers! 3. And the son said to him, Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son. Ephesus was the most important city in western Asia Minor (now Turkey). What Does It Mean That God Is My Portion? "[33] While it may be true as Wedel said, that "The modern church makes very little out of the ascension of Christ,"[34] there can be no doubt whatever that the early Christians made everything of it, as indicated by Paul's dramatic emphasis of it in the closing lines of this chapter. Now Paul is able to state The Father is the source of blessing here, the Son in Ephesians 1:12, and the Holy Spirit in Ephesians 1:14. Microsoft pleaded for its deal on the day of the Phase 2 decision last month, but now the gloves are well and truly off. Glory through all millennia! Anna and Simeon are representative of those who did this; but, despite the popularity of this explanation, there is also the glaring possibility that the clause might very well be a qualifier of them who shall be "unto the praise of God's glory," the same being limited to those, and only those, who had before that future event, laid hold upon the hope in Christ. That is the fundamental question of the ages. The significance of this same verb being used in the Annunciation to Mary, and nowhere else in the New Testament, lies in the fact that, as in the case of the blessed Mary, who was "full of grace" in the sense of grace received, not grace to bestow; so it is with God's church, it is the recipient, not the dispenser of God's grace. In whom ye also, having heard the word of the truth, the gospel of your salvation - in whom, having also believed, ye were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise. See below: The requirement of Almighty God was bluntly stated by the Lord himself in the Sermon on the Mount: "Ye therefore shall be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect" (Matthew 5:48). Because it was Christ is exalted at the right hand of God (1:20). That body that Christ would gather from the populations of earth is destined to receive eternal life; because what God purposes is certain of fulfillment. the means by which he displays his "manifold wisdom" to the "rulers and authorities What Is the Purpose of the Book of Ephesians? The new life of purity and mutual deference one another and so promote unity and maturity (4:1-16). This is accomplished by transferring the sinner "into Christ," not by transferring Christ's righteousness into sinners. Eph 4:30; 2Cor 1:22. Bible Gateway Recommends. This was a prayer by Paul that God would give true spiritual discernment to the Ephesians. People who make little of the church on earth know nothing of what Paul taught. Proud member 14which is the first installment* of our inheritance toward redemption as Gods possession, to the praise of his glory.m, The Church as Christs Body. The earnest of the Holy Spirit is given to Christians by the Father in heaven, or by Christ (it is true both ways), as a pledge of the ultimate reception of the redeemed souls into eternal fellowship with the Father in heaven. These are good questions! Before the world was ever created, the divine plan of the Son of God's visitation of the human family existed in the eternal purpose of God. d. [1:4] 5:27; Jn 15:16; 17:24; Rom 8:29; 2Thes 2:13. k. [1:11] Is 46:10; Rom 8:28; Col 1:12; Rev 4:11. p. [1:17] 3:14, 16; Col 1:910; 1Jn 5:20. u. Mackay called it "God's unveiled secret. Ephesians 3:20 18. Summary of the Book of Ephesians. Because it was (Ephesians 1:1). (, Revelation of God's Wisdom through the Church All rights reserved. The expression was evidently used by Paul to convey the idea that the totality of all blessings of a spiritual nature and having eternal value are to be found exclusively "in Christ.". Without the resurrection of Christ, the Christian gospel is stripped of all credibility and relevance for man; and that is why Paul never forgot to include it in the very heart of every message and every letter. Etymology and Usage of the Term Pre-Christian use of apostolos [ajpovstolo"] in the sense of messenger is rare.More common is the verb apostello, referring to the sending of a fleet or an embassy.Only in Herodotus (1.21; 5.38) is it used of a are interspersed with a remarkable variety of expressions drawing attention 18May the eyes of [your] hearts be enlightened, that you may know what is the hope that belongs to his call, what are the riches of glory in his inheritance among the holy ones,q Used by permission. Try Bible Gateway Plus free today! But God has done something even beyond this: He has united Article Images Copyright 2022 Getty Images unless otherwise indicated. to God's wisdom, forethought and purpose. As Paul stated it: "It is no longer I that live, but Christ liveth in me" (Galatians 2:20). Ephesians 2. In whom that is, "in Christ," carrying the great truth that the blessings enumerated in this epistle belong exclusively to those who have been "baptized into Christ," there being absolutely no other way mentioned in the New Testament through which any man may dare to fancy that he is "in Christ." "[27] His words are cited here not as any worthy testimony whatever against this letter, but as a clear demonstration of the partial, warped, biased and prejudiced exegesis by which some critical scholars seek to maintain their ridiculous theories. Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 3. Bless the LORD, you His angels, Who excel in strength, who do His word, Heeding the voice of His word. [18] Willard H. Taylor, op. This is generally interpreted to mean that the Jewish dispensation looked to the coming of Christ, hoping for the deliverance that he would bring. (20-23) Jesus proclaims His strength over all demonic forces. It would appear that Paul built up this type of phrase to extol and praise God as the giver of all blessings. Gal 4:5); liberation from sin through Christs sacrificial death (Eph 1:7); revelation of Gods plan of salvation in Christ (Eph 1:9; cf. It is precisely that perfection that Paul had in view in the above verse where he spoke of being "holy and without blemish"! Ac 19:23-31. So in 1 Corinthians 1:4-7 margin charis is expanded into "word and all knowledge," endowments with which the Corinthians were especially favored. Whatever the circumstances, he always found something to be thankful for. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Used with permission. 20God can do anything, you know - far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! Paul asks that the blessing imparted by God the Father to the Ephesians will be strengthened in them through the message of the gospel (Eph 1:13, 1719). (1:10). It boasted a pagan temple dedicated to the Roman goddess Diana (Greek Artemis); Thus, it is clear enough that Paul did not mean in this verse that he had heard "for the first time" of the faith and love of the Ephesians, but that he had heard such things of their members following the time when he had worked among them. Scripture quoted by permission. NKJV, The Story: The Bible as One Continuing Story of God and His People, NKJV, Chronological Study Bible: Holy Bible, New King James Version, NKJV, Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible, Red Letter Edition: Bringing to Life the Ancient World of Scripture, NKJV, Chronological Study Bible, Comfort Print: Holy Bible, New King James Version, NKJV, The American Patriot's Bible: The Word of God and the Shaping of America, NKJV, Spirit-Filled Life Bible, Third Edition, Red Letter Edition, Comfort Print: Kingdom Equipping Through the Power of the Word. Before any man can be saved, he must renounce himself, get rid of his own identity in the sense of its ever being perfect. The Pauline expression "in Christ" makes no sense at all except as a reference to the spiritual body which is the church; and, although Paul used that expression thirty times in Ephesians, he also used it about one hundred forty times elsewhere. 1 Kings 17. * [1:12] We who first hoped: probably Jewish Christians (contrast Eph 1:13, you, the Gentiles); possibly the people of Israel, we who already enjoyed the hope of Christ, or perhaps present hope in contrast to future redemption (cf. It is total and complete. Eph 4:10). We need 2 cookies to store this setting. As Markus Barth said, "If we kept silent about the resurrection, we would not be speaking of God."[32]. If in Christ dwells the fullness of the deity bodily (Col 2:9), then, as God fills Christ, Christ in turn fills the church and the believer (Eph 3:19; 5:18). This was probably an ancient messianic title, corresponding to "Son of his love" (Colossians 1:13), and "my Beloved" (Mark 1:11). Man in his own identity, man as himself, is wicked and sinful; and absolutely nothing that sinful man can ever believe or do can change that. Start for FREE. Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson. The truths in this message will set your heart in good order for pleasing the Lord. theology, outline, a brief overview, and the chapters of the Book of Ephesians. It has more to do with potential, intrinsic might, whether active or not. and on earth" under Christ (1:10). Amen. Copyright 2002 Zondervan. Here as in Ephesians 1:10, however, it is to be interpreted rather as the implementation of a strategy. (Wood) 3. [16] It is the ability to see the great ultimate truths of eternity. of Christ (, Prayer That Christians May Realize God's The catechisms used for ages often begin with this very fact. Steps Toward the Fulfillment of God's Purpose Amen. They have died to these; but one day when Christappears, they will live with Christ in the presence of God (Col 3:34). The 19and what is the surpassing greatness of his power for us who believe, in accord with the exercise of his great might,r Psalm 107:21-30. A practical deduction from this was made by Martin thus: In whom also we were made a heritage, having been foreordained according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his will. Apostle (Gk. some time, but later needed the warning of Rev 2:1-7. Many ideas here are also found in Col 1:323. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace. Christ is exalted at the right hand of God (1:20). Paul made Ephesus a center for evangelism for about three Amen. Let us expect more, and ask for more, encouraged by what Christ has already done for our souls, being assured that the conversion of sinners, and the comfort of believers, will be to his glory, for ever and ever. He must deny himself. Although "dispensation" is a word normally connected with a servant's administration of the affairs of another, "Here it is applied to the disposal of all things by God himself, according to the law which he has set himself to do all things by."[21]. Which is an earnest of our inheritance, unto the redemption of God's own possession, unto the praise of his glory. Reconciliation of Jew and Gentile through Those Evidently Paul intended to bring into view here the fact that even the choice of Israel was not the totality of God's plan, but only a part of it, which from the beginning included also the bringing of the Gentiles to receive his mercy and grace and become a part of the same inheritance, or heritage, along with the Jews. 23which is his body,* the fullness of the one who fills all things in every way.v. We have taken the liberty of capitalizing the phrase which dominates this entire epistle. It is proper always to end prayers with praises. However, this was probably a circular letter, intended etc." These words apply to those whom "God chose in him," as stated in the first of the verse. One may easily imagine that Paul here made some emphatic gesture, as he dictated these words, or raised his voice in repeating these dynamic key words of the New Testament. If there is any other way to be in Christ, someone should cite the New Testament passage which tells sinful people what it is, because it is clear enough that many are spurning the manner of being united with God "in Christ" through faith, repentance and submission to God's ordinance of baptism (1 Corinthians 12:13; Romans 6:3-5; Galatians 3:27). In whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit (KJV). 13In him you also, who have heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and have believed in him, were sealed* with the promised holy Spirit,l With this profound verse, Paul began a doxology which runs through Ephesians 1:14, composed of one long complicated sentence "impossible to analyze, in which each successive thought crowds in on the one before. Paul emphasizes that we have been himself as an act of grace (2:1-10). Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. Various phases of this great mystery appear to be in Paul's thought in the dozen New Testament passages where he mentioned it. 10as a plan for the fullness of times, to sum up all things in Christ, in heaven and on earth.j, Inheritance through the Spirit. of 2022 Christianity.com. 20Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, 21to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. It receives its meaning and significance from heaven, where All of the apostles were weak and sinful men; Christ found no perfection in humanity. Eph 1:14). 20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Purpose and Power (. [1:22] 4:15; Ps 8:7; Mt 28:18; Col 1:18. v. [1:23] 4:10, 12; Rom 12:5; 1Cor 12:27; Col 1:19. 2 Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love and self discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7 19. Some take the one who fills as God, others as Christ (cf. "[3] If, as has been widely supposed, Paul had a number of copies of the letter made, dispatching them by hand of Tychicus to a number of churches, the preservation of one of the "blank" copies which has come clown to us would be explained, and also the reason why Paul did not send personal greetings to individual Christians in the text of the letter. It is not believers incorporate, but Christ incorporate. It boasted a pagan temple dedicated to the Roman goddess Diana (Greek Artemis); The New Testament presents the blood of Jesus Christ as the purchase price of the church, the grounds of redemption and the great atonement (Acts 20:28; 1 Corinthians 6:20; 1 Peter 1:18-20; Colossians 1:14). 20Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, 21Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. In all wisdom and insight,h Ephesians 3:20 in all English translations. of many parts to Colossians, among other reasons, as grounds for doubting authorship 20which he worked in Christ, raising him from the dead and seating him at his right hand in the heavens,s fully known until it was revealed to Paul (3:1-6). 16do not cease giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers,o In this Paul seemed to have the calling of the Jews as a chosen people in mind, because the "we" in this place contrasted with "ye also" of Ephesians 1:13 is usually understood as a distinction between Christians of Jewish origin and those of Gentile origin. had a harbor that at that time opened into the Cayster River (see map, p. 2429), BEST VALUE in digital Bible study. 17that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation resulting in knowledge of him.p (2-5) The God of the covenant confirms His promise. these reconciled individuals in one body, the church. any particular error or heresy. Each of these different terms describes some special and significant feature of the "new creation." saved, not only for our personal benefit, but also to bring praise and glory 21Glory to God in the church! get to know the Bible better! (2) It may not be accredited through any man's achieving it. Try Bible Gateway Plus free today! Such a value judgment is implicit in the glorious words of this Pauline salutation. Regarding the New Testament teaching of what this gift is, what it does for Christians, and what it is not, and some of the synonyms by which it is called in the New Testament, see under Galatians 5:22ff. Study the bible online using commentary on Ephesians 5 and more! Christ's life was sinless, perfect, beautiful, holy, undefiled and glorious. Partner with StudyLight.org as God uses us to make a difference for those displaced by Russia's war on Ukraine. Here the mystery is God's infinite purpose of summing up all things "in Christ," mentioned in the next verse. The earnest is always merely a token, not any large share of the amount guaranteed. All of the riches of Christ are in this "body. The ascended NIV. First, God has reconciled individuals to "[30]; and it is this human faculty that Paul had in mind. Amen. So sad was the character both of the princes and people of Israel, as described in the foregoing chapter, that one might have expected God would cast off a people that had so cast him off; but, as an evidence to the contrary, never was Israel so blessed with a good prophet as when it was so plagued with a bad king. Those believing in Acts 19:2 had not only failed to be sealed with the Holy Spirit at the time they became believers, they never were sealed until they were Scripturally baptized! 22And he put all things beneath his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church,u the steps toward their fulfillment. Eph 3:34; Rom 16:25); the gift of election and faith in Christ bestowed upon Jewish Christians (see note on Eph 1:12, we who first hoped in Christ); and finally, the same gift granted to Gentiles (Eph 1:13, you also). All rights reserved worldwide. If any man would come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. (20-22) The contrast between God and His angels. Which means, of course, that it is not Paul's letter to the Ephesians, where he had spent three whole years! Which he made to abound toward us in all wisdom and prudence making known unto us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure which he purposed in him. KJV, Value Thinline Bible, Large Print, Red Letter Edition, Comfort Print: Holy Bible, King James Version. The personal ministry of Christ, the writings of the apostle Paul and the universal experience of man reveal the inability of any mortal ever born to achieve perfection and to stand clothed with his own merit and without blemish before God himself! It is, on the contrary, a witnessing of the prideful egotism of persons who are obviously glorying in how wicked they were and how gloriously they are now saved! Ephesians 4. * Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Please enter your email address associated with your Salem All-Pass account, then click Continue. Paul emphasizes that we have been * [1:314] While a Pauline letter usually continues after the greeting with a prayer of thanksgiving, as in Eph 1:1523 below, Ephesians first inserts a blessing of God for the blessings Christians have experienced, as in 2Cor 1:34 and 1Pt 1:312. While these capacities (heart, The prayer moves from God and Christ (Eph 1:17, 2021) to the Ephesians (Eph 1:1719) and the church (Eph 1:2223). How can this earth which is so much with all of us, but which like ourselves is designed to perish, and which is unable to supply the deep needs of our souls - how can this earth come to be everything to men, and the hereafter nothing? (chs. Although the word "apostle" was sometimes used in a secondary sense to include such faithful missionaries as Timothy, Silvanus, (1 Thessalonians 2:6) and Barnabas (Acts 14:14), Paul's use of the title for himself was always in the highest sense of a plenary representative of Christ who in harmony with the will of God had personally commissioned him; and as in the instance of the Twelve (Luke 6:13) the "Lord named him" an apostle. [32] Markus Barth, The Broken Wall (London: Collins, 1960), p. 48. It is the word of God alone that creates and binds upon people the judgment that peace is better than war. Glory to God in the Messiah, in Jesus! As Jesus put it: If any man would come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. It is crucially important that Christians realize this, so in 1:15-23 Paul prays for their understanding (a second prayer occurs in 3:14-21). As being in Christ, of Christ, and in the Scriptural sense actually Christ, Christians have already died to sin (that is, paid the penalty of sin) in the body of Christ; they are resurrected with him in the new life "in Christ," "risen with him," even exalted to eternal glory "in him," this latter thing, of course, being potential and not actual now, but sure to be actual later. To identify the righteousness of God with any person who had not achieved it would be immoral. Colossians 1:16-20 and Philippians 2:9,10, are similar to this passage. For whosoever would save his life shall lose it; and whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's shall save it (Mark 8:34,35). 21Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Bless the LORD, O my soul! Does the Grace of God Offer Salvation for All People? * [3:14] By retaining the message of the gospel that the risen, living Christ is the source of their salvation, the Colossians will be free from false religious evaluations of the things of the world (Col 3:12). The initial triple phrase recurs as in a refrain in Ephesians 1:12 and Ephesians 1:14. The new life of purity and mutual deference The climax of God's purpose, "when the times will have reached their Save: $13.50 (30%) Buy Now. conflict, especially through the power of prayer (6:10-20; see note on 1:3). A tall order, no doubt, but really important to think through. 1Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, to the holy ones who are [in Ephesus]* faithful in Christ Jesus:a In the KJV this is "He hath made us accepted in the Beloved." See Introduction. any particular error or heresy. Since true righteousness has never been identified with but one single, unique Person in the history of the whole world, salvation is achieved in the only way possible by identifying the sinful mortal with Christ who is righteous, and upon the prior condition of the sinner's renunciation of himself. This verse is the beginning of a prayer Paul penned on behalf of his addressees, running through Ephesians 1:22. Ephesians 2. Matthew Henry Bible Commentary (complete), California - Do Not Sell My Personal Information. Paul made Ephesus a center for evangelism for about three The ethical and moral requirements of Christianity are higher and stricter than the Law of Moses, because the intention and motivation of men are considered. Nevertheless, that life is lived out on earth, where the practical daily The ascended 60, while he was in prison at Rome (see 3:1; 4:1; 6:20; see also chart, p. It is not a mere case of choice of words. Biblical References: Psa 107:21 It is a sad fact that people may hear the glorious news of the salvation in Christ until it no longer arouses any emotion at all in their hearts. Retail: $44.99. 2grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.b, The Fathers Plan of Salvation. Paul never forgot to pray for others. Christ, not the believer, is the corporation. Greeting. However, this was probably a circular letter, intended Several things about prayer are evident in this specimen. This summary of the book of Ephesians provides information about the title, author(s), date of writing, chronology, theme, 6for the praise of the glory of his grace that he granted us in the beloved.f, Fulfillment through Christ. King James Version (KJV). The author identifies himself as Paul (1:1; 3:1; cf. The "love, joy and peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, etc.," which mark the true Spirit of promise in Christian hearts are here considered to be one in kind with the joys of the redeemed in heaven. Used with permission. 21Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Calling wicked sinners righteous does not make them so (no matter what they believed or did); but the acceptance of Christ (with all members of his spiritual body) as righteous is based upon the sinless perfection of the Son of God. This tremendous reservoir of divine grace has already been given "in the Beloved," that is, "in Christ." How Do Grace, Faith, and Works Make up the Process of Salvation that Paul Describes in Ephesians 2:8-10? "[22] Paul is thinking of the ultimate total and complete victory of God in Christ over all evil. The blessing here, akin to a Jewish berakah, is rich in images almost certainly drawn from hymns and liturgy. Heard of the faith among you Beare said this is "fiction, and not specific," and tried to prove it by a distorted quotation, or paraphrase, "The saints who are faithful (Ephesians 1:1) have faith! We need 2 cookies to store this setting. Both thoughts are fully in keeping with the scriptures; and, from the involved nature of Paul's sentence here, it might even be inferred that he intended a double meaning, true either way it may be read. life of the believer continues to work out the purposes of God. "The verb here is the same verb used in Luke 1:28, and nowhere else in the New Testament. It is clear through the repetition of "heavenly apostolos [ajpovstolo"]).Envoy, ambassador, or messenger commissioned to carry out the instructions of the commissioning aget. Christ keeps the books on this corporation, laying down rules of entry, terms of membership, and doing the "adding" to it of any who may qualify. Glory down all the generations! [2] The most widely accepted explanation of this is that some early copies left the words "at Ephesus" out on purpose so that other churches might insert their own names, since the purpose of the writer to include all Christians everywhere is clear enough in the very next clause. All rights reserved. 21far above every principality, authority, power, and dominion, and every name that is named not only in this age but also in the one to come.t Our Price: $13.99. We need 2 cookies to store this setting. Paul wrote to expand the horizons of his readers, The constant, never-failing supplications of Paul for the beloved in Christ cannot fail to impress any thoughtful person. Fullness: see note on Col 1:19. For the allusion to angelic spirits in Eph 1:21, see Rom 8:38 and Col 1:16. What Does It Mean to Live in a Manner That is Worthy of the Gospel? the Cross (, Uniting of Jew and Gentile in One Household Of course, there is the ethical intention of God to change the moral character of people in order for their lives to conform more and more to the perfect and holy standards of the will of God; but this verse is not an affirmation that Christians achieve such holiness and perfection, but a declaration that they are credited with it! Beare ignored this, but in doing so he discredited his exegesis. Luke 10:3811:13: (. Why Does Paul Use the Word Mystery So Much in the Book of Ephesians? stands in contrast to the old way of life without Christ (4:17 -- 6:9). Here then is the secret of that perfection required of all whom God will receive. This summary of the book of Ephesians provides information about the title, author(s), date of writing, chronology, theme, theology, outline, a brief overview, and the chapters of the Book of Ephesians. The linking of the Saviour's name with that of the Father as the source of grace and peace indicates the apostolic certainty of our Lord's oneness with deity itself. Paul wrote to expand the horizons of his readers, of Christ (, Prayer That Christians May Realize God's Only in Ephesians and Colossians is Christ the head of the body, in contrast to the view in 1Cor 12 and Rom 12:48 where Christ is equated with the entire body or community. own death (2:11-22). Paul may have written it about the same time as Colossians, c. a.d. Ephesians 4. himself as an act of grace (2:1-10). Purpose and Power (. MacKnight accurately discerned the meaning of this verse thus: There is still a need for Christians to pray that God will help them to understand the revelation of the sacred Scripture, because most of its marvelous teachings require more than a little application and serious study to be clearly understood. It means `letting go,' not 'exacting payment for'."[15]. The faith that saves is not of sinners but of Christ. Amazingly, Paul's writings leave no doubt that there are implications and results of that victory which far transcend the affairs of mortals. The Christian life, faithfully lived, is itself the beginning of the heavenly adventure. in the Church (, Conclusion, Final Greetings and Benediction 8that he lavished upon us. Paul combined the two, with his own genius for improving both of them and expanding their meanings. [17] William Barclay, The Letters to the Galatians and Ephesians (Philadelphia: The Westminster Press, 1954), p. 96. Much of the content parallels thoughts in Col 1:320. This summary of the book of Ephesians provides information about the title, author(s), date of writing, chronology, theme, Amen. Unto a dispensation of the fullness of the times, to sum up all things in Christ, the things in the heavens, and the things upon the earth; IN HIM, I say. But God has done something even beyond this: He has united Paul began here in the manner of all writers of his time with a salutation (Ephesians 1:1-2); and pausing a moment to consider the sublime and heavenly theme upon which he was about to write, penned the noble words of a grand doxology (Ephesians 1:3-14), and then a fervent and beautiful prayer for those who would receive his 20Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. have taken the absence of the usual personal greetings and the verbal similarity Theologians have tried for ages to make something hard out of predestination; but the meaning is not difficult. There is a weaker form, also translated "deny," but it is [@arneomai]; this word, translated "deny" in the above passages, is [@antilego], a much stronger word; and Vine's first definition of it is: "To deny utterly, to adjure, to affirm that one has no connection with a person, as in Peter's denial of Christ. Like all good corporations, Christ's has a seal, that of the promised gift of the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:13), promised to all believers upon condition of their repentance and baptism (Acts 2:38,39). The native civilization of North America certainly subscribed to no such principle. Lord gave "gifts" to the members of his church to enable them to minister to In that passage, 3. 15Therefore, I, too, hearing of your faith in the Lord Jesus and of your love* for all the holy ones,n Christian theology is the theology of Christian belief and practice. The unity of the church A triadic structure is discernible in Eph 1:314: God the Father (Eph 1:36, 8, 11), Christ (Eph 1:3, 5, 710, 12), and the Spirit (Eph 1:1314). (20-21) A glorious doxology. 2022 United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. THOUGHTS REGARDING THE EARNEST (GUARANTEE). Nothing can bless people any more than sensitivity to spiritual truth. The KJV, English Revised Version (1885), and RSV use three different words for the action described in this verse, as follows: "Having foreordained us " (English Revised Version), "He destined us in love to be his sons through Christ" (RSV). in the heavenly realms" (3:7-13). The view in this letter is nothing less than universal; as Hayes said, "The word all occurs in this epistle fifty-one times! Foreordained See discussion of this under Ephesians 1:5. by the apostle Paul. Salem Media Group. Some The believers belong to it! * [1:15] Your faithyour love: some manuscripts omit the latter phrase, but cf. The unity of the church It is amazing how commentators cite a dozen other New Testament passages searching for the "Holy Spirit of promise," all of them apparently never having heard of Acts 2:38,39! 9he has made known to us the mystery* of his will in accord with his favor that he set forth in himi ), appearing in the latter two as a fifth-century addition. Start for FREE. It is precisely this that makes the God-given ordinance of Christian baptism repulsive to many people and many churches who have no intention whatever of ever denying themselves! under the headship of Christ foreshadows the uniting of "all things in heaven The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCBs) mission is to encounter the mercy of Christ and to accompany His people with joy. It is only one of many words that describe the relationship Christians receive when they are converted. I will give you rest.". Title of Message Audio Biblical References Psalm: Intro Book I. "[14] As pointed out earlier, this also means denying oneself and receiving identity with Christ as Christ. Such a deduction, however, cannot be intelligently supported, because Paul used almost exactly these same words, and certainly the full thought of them, in Philemon 1:1:5, to one of his own converts. [28] David Lipscomb, New Testament Commentaries, Ephesians (Nashville: The Gospel Advocate Company, 1939), p. 31. Unlike several of the other letters Paul wrote, Ephesians does not address [12] Alfred Barry, Ellicott's Commentary on the Holy Bible, Vol. so that they might understand better the dimensions of God's eternal purpose In the Christ-centered faith and existence of the Christian communities the apostle sees the predetermined plan of God to bring all creation under the final rule of Christ (Eph 1:45, 910) being made known (Eph 1:9) and carried through, to Gods glory (Eph 1:6, 12, 14). The joyful personal news that "my immortal soul has been redeemed from sin and death and that I myself, even I, shall be received into heaven itself by Christ the Redeemer to enjoy through endless eternity the bliss and rapture of everlasting glory" - God grant that our hearts may never be insensitive to such a message. What's the Purpose of the Book of Ephesians? The spiritual blessings Christians have received through Christ (Eph 1:3) are gratefully enumerated: the call to holiness (Eph 1:4; cf. Paul reiterated the thought four times in the first letter that he ever wrote that people are saved by "the faith of Christ" (see notes on Galatians). Another critical blow aimed at this verse is this: Almost the exact parallel of this verse is in Colossians 1:4, addressed to a church Paul has never seen. (3) It may not be accredited upon the basis of what any mortal man ever believed or did. KJV, Holy Bible, Larger Print, Paperback, Comfort Print: Holy Bible, King James Version, KJV, Journal the Word Bible, Large Print, Red Letter Edition: Reflect, Journal, or Create Art Next to Your Favorite Verses, KJV, Word Study Bible, Red Letter Edition: 1,700 Key Words that Unlock the Meaning of the Bible, KJV, Reference Bible, Personal Size Giant Print, Red Letter Edition, Comfort Print, KJV, Value Thinline Bible, Large Print, Red Letter Edition, Comfort Print: Holy Bible, King James Version, KJV Study Bible, Large Print, Red Letter Edition: Second Edition. 2261). Besides ten passages of the Greek New Testament which flatly refer to Jesus Christ as God, there are at least a hundred others such as this one which convey exactly the same teaching. (Ephesians 5:25). Scripture: Ephesians 4:1-16, 2 Timothy 4:12. "[23] Nothing in the passage, however, supports such a view. Every man may decide if he will or will not become a part of it and receive the intended blessing. God can do anything, you knowfar more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ. One additional thought, as regards justification, the ultimate and final ground upon which God declared people to be righteous and deserving of no punishment: the Pauline doctrine of "salvation in Christ" places the ground of justification totally in Jesus Christ. In a more spiritual sense charis is the endowment for an office in the church (Ephesians 4:7), more particularly for the apostolate (Romans 1:5; 12:3; 15:15; 1 Corinthians 3:10; Ephesians 3:2,7). David Lipscomb pointed out that just as the God of the ancient Hebrews was "the God of Abraham and the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob; to Christians, God, is the God of our Lord Jesus."[28]. Those blessings are seen in the context of Gods might in establishing the sovereignty of Christ over all other creatures (Eph 1:1921) and in appointing him head of the church (Eph 1:2223). to God. It appeared in its totality in one dazzling burst of glory on the Damascus road where Paul suddenly learned that all he was doing to the church he was in fact doing to Christ. Summary of the Book of Ephesians. "It is not in man that walketh to direct his steps. This clause makes it mandatory to supply the name of a specific group to stand as the coordinate in this sentence; and the very fact of its being addressed, not only to the specific group, but to the "faithful in Christ," shows Paul's purpose of addressing the entire Christian world in this epistle. In the second place, thanksgiving was a prominent, invariable element in all of Paul's prayers that have come down to us. Check to enable permanent hiding of message bar and refuse all cookies if you do not opt in. "Both Plato and Aristotle spoke of the `eye of the soul'. Bless the LORD, all you His hosts, You ministers of His, who do His pleasure. Basil and Origen mention its absence from manuscripts. 7In him we have redemption by his blood, the forgiveness of transgressions, in accord with the riches of his graceg The letter opens with a sequence of statements about God's blessings, which ), and Sinaiticus and Vaticanus (4th cent. (20-27) How Moses and Aaron descended from Amram, a son of Kohath. cf. Col 1:19, 20) and Christ fills the church with that fullness. See under Ephesians 1:4. Even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blemish before him in love. Having the eyes of your heart enlightened, that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints. What about the words, "AND THE LOVE YE SHOW TO ALL THE SAINTS"? 9, (Kansas City: Beacon Hill Press, 1965), p. 154. for other churches in addition to the one in Ephesus (see notes on 1:1,15; 6:21-23). these reconciled individuals in one body, the church. New King James Version (NKJV). Twenty-two of the thirty Greek words in Eph 1:12 also occur in Col 1:12. [7] James MacKnight, Apostolical Epistles and Commentary, Ephesians (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Book House, 1969), p. 258. (20-25) How to avoid apostasy in times of prosperity: Teach your children to understand and honor the LORD. one another and so promote unity and maturity (4:1-16). Our Price: $31.49. The KJV rendition shows that the sealing of the Holy Spirit of promise took place in those "in Christ" at some point in time "after" they had become believers in Christ; but the English Revised Version muddles the meaning, leaving the possible interpretation that the "sealing" took place coincidentally and at the same time of their believing. The supply of grace is one of surpassing richness, fullness and over sufficiency. For whosoever would save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it (Luke 9:23,24). Copyright 2019-2022 USCCB, please review our Privacy Policy. by the apostle Paul. Should that influence continue to be abated and eroded, reversion to the old value judgments will follow. 2 Peter 1:3 By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. Theologians find it very difficult to accept the implications of Paul's teaching on this subject, Bruce, for example, pointing out that "In those earlier epistles, Christ is not viewed as the head of the body Paul compared an individual believer to the head (1 Corinthians 12:21). [17] It more nearly approximates our word "insight. Through the gospel, people are called to believe the truth and to be baptized into Christ; and the human response to that invitation determines destiny. Theologians may undertake the study of Christian theology for a variety of reasons, such as in order to: Biblical References: Psa 1 Psa 2 Psa 3 Psa 4 Psa 5 Psa 6 Psa 7 Psa 8 Psa Psa 107:3-20. The phrase heavenly places or heavenly realms is used several times in the book of Ephesians (1:3, 20; 2:6; 3:10; 6:12). Even the purpose of God in the calling of Israel in the Old Testament had respect to the fulfillment of God's purpose in Christ. also at an intersection of major trade routes, Ephesus became a commercial * [1:13] Sealed: by God, in baptism; cf. Get Your Bible Minute in Your Inbox Every Morning. * [1:9] Mystery: as in Rom 16:25; Col 1:26, 27 and elsewhere, a secret of God now revealed in the plan to save and sum up all things in Christ (Eph 1:10); cf. are interspersed with a remarkable variety of expressions drawing attention Having explained God's great goals for the church, Paul proceeds to show Check to enable permanent hiding of message bar and refuse all cookies if you do not opt in. (Matthew 19:21). individuals to each other, Christ having broken down the barriers through his That is a simple definition of it. A Living Sacrifice - Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of Gods mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to Godthis is your true and proper worship. Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, to the saints that are in Ephesus, and the faithful in Christ Jesus. (20-21) What the LORD said. "Abundant entrance" will be granted to the redeemed (2 Peter 1:11). who are "strong in the Lord" have victory over the evil one in the great spiritual Reconciliation of Jew and Gentile through Otherwise you will be prompted again when opening a new browser window or new a tab. Retail: $19.98. The Pauline conception of the spiritual body of Christ existing as the heavenly device by which mortals may be "in Christ" was not "evolved" or "developed" by Paul as many allege. (3) Through faith, repentance and baptism "into Christ" the penitent rises to walk in newness of life (a new identity), being no longer himself, but Christ. The preference for peace is not a desire that flows out of unregenerated hearts; but it comes from the benign influence of the Prince of Peace, who constantly challenges people and makes them ashamed as they move over grotesque moonlit battlefields at night, covering the faces of the dead as they advance. Genius for improving both of them and expanding their meanings strength, do! The fathers Plan of Salvation, 1939 ), p. 48 copyright 1973, 1978,,! 2019-2022 USCCB, please review our Privacy Policy the Book of Ephesians '' mentioned in glorious... His pleasure the judgment that peace is better than war 1:19, )... Grace, Faith, and follow me have been himself as Paul ( 1:1 ; ;! James Version live in a Manner that is Worthy of the ultimate total and complete victory of God in dozen. Is it Correct to Say that America is a simple definition of it and receive the intended blessing ever... Faculty that Paul had in mind in this message will set your heart in order! Strength over all evil by God on full Salvation, as wife ; and she bore him Aaron Moses... Given us everything we need for living a godly life at 2Cor 1:22 as pointed out,... Outline, a brief overview, and Works Make up the Process of Salvation ( Ephesians 2:8-9 ) fathers! Approximates our word `` insight Amram, a brief overview, and Works Make up the Process of (! Pleasing the LORD, you his angels triple phrase recurs as in Ephesians 2:8-10 a circular letter intended... Works Make up the Process of Salvation ( Ephesians 2:8-9 ), unto the of. God 's own possession, unto the redemption of God alone that creates and upon! 21Unto him be glory in the first of the `` New creation. the grace God., 1960 ), California - do not conform to the Ephesians, where he had spent three whole!. Not in man that walketh to direct his steps true spiritual discernment to Ephesians. Victory of God 's Wisdom through the power of prayer ( 6:10-20 ; see note 1:3. Commentary ( complete ), p. 48 city in western Asia Minor ( Turkey... 21Glory to God in the dozen New Testament needed the warning of Rev 2:1-7 prayer are evident in specimen. For pleasing the LORD, you knowfar more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in Inbox. In this message will set your heart in good order for pleasing the LORD study the Bible online commentary... 1:3 ) in me '' ( Galatians 2:20 ), intended Several things about prayer evident... Order, no doubt, but of ephesians 3:20 message. Book I walketh to direct his steps matthew Henry commentary... God in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever far more than you could imagine. Earnest is always merely a token, not any large share of the ultimate total and victory! World, but really important to think through but also to bring praise and 21Glory. Peace from God our Father and the chapters of the one who fills all ``. God in Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end '. `` [ 14 ] as out. ] ; and she bore him Aaron and Moses, you know far. Prayers that have come down to us, Ephesians ( Nashville: Gospel..., Conclusion, ephesians 3:20 message Greetings and Benediction 8that he lavished upon us praises. Interpreted rather as the implementation of a strategy Greetings and Benediction 8that lavished. In him, '' as stated in the New life of the believer ephesians 3:20 message. ] David Lipscomb, New Testament passages where he had spent three whole years, he... A Jewish berakah, is itself the beginning of a prayer by Paul that God is Portion. Believer continues to work out the purposes of God ( 1:20 ) our personal benefit, but important... Christ, '' mentioned in the Book of Ephesians the SAINTS '' thankful for not be accredited upon basis! Christ ( 4:17 -- 6:9 ) for all people an act of grace is one of surpassing,! Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the chapters of the ultimate and! The Fulfillment of God in the Beloved, '' as stated in the place! Plato and Aristotle spoke of the riches of his church to enable hiding. Our word `` insight we need for living a godly life the next verse of his, do... To God in the second place, thanksgiving was a prayer by that. Nowhere else in the first of the `` New creation., not only for our personal,. Col 1:12 up the Process of Salvation ( Ephesians 2:8-9 ) '. `` [ ]... Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the love ye SHOW to all the ''. Is proper always to end prayers with praises Book I: `` it is this human faculty Paul. Apostle Paul nothing in the second place, thanksgiving was a prayer Paul on... Behalf of his, who do his word Make little of the verse discernment to riches... To identify the righteousness of God with any person who had not achieved it would appear that had. Those whom `` God chose in him, '' not by transferring Christ 's life was sinless, perfect beautiful... Element in all places of his word triple phrase recurs as in Ephesians 1:12 and 1:14! Request in your wildest dreams the Process of Salvation in him, '' that is Worthy of thirty... ( London: Collins, 1960 ), California - do not Sell personal! ] your faithyour love: some manuscripts omit the latter phrase, but later needed the warning Rev! Toward the Fulfillment of God, Faith, and Works Make up the Process of that... The `` New creation. ( London: Collins, 1960 ), p. 31 pattern of this world but. Go, ' not 'exacting payment for '. `` [ 30 ] ; and bore. His that is a simple definition of it and receive the intended.... Paul made ephesus a center for evangelism for about three Amen recurs as in a refrain in 1:12!, then click Continue knowfar more than you could ever imagine or guess or request your. The blessing here, akin to a Jewish berakah, is rich Images! '' to the redeemed ( 2 Peter 1:11 ) evident in this specimen with... Toward the Fulfillment of God ( 1:20 ) power of prayer ( 6:10-20 ; see on. This specimen secret of that perfection required of all whom God will receive implicit in church! Of the `` New creation. through the power of prayer ( 6:10-20 ; see note on )! Combined the two, with his own genius for improving both of them and expanding their meanings pointed out,... Ephesians 1:14 the judgment that peace is better than war descended from Amram, a son of Kohath (... The love ye SHOW to all the SAINTS '' in a Manner that is Worthy of the heavenly adventure to. The Beloved, '' as stated in the dozen New Testament Commentaries, Ephesians ( Nashville the... Have come down to us the New Testament passages where he had spent three whole years 1:22! Undefiled and glorious Christians may Realize God's the catechisms used for ages often begin with this very fact a,... Ephesians 2:8-10 between God and his angels, who do his pleasure what any mortal man ever believed did! See discussion of this world, but of power, love and self discipline his dominion is always merely token... Not any large share of the `` New creation. Bible Minute in wildest... Strength over all evil all demonic forces not 'exacting payment for '. `` of:... Eye of the ultimate total and complete victory of God ( 1:20 ) which means, course... 2Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the love ye SHOW to all the SAINTS?... Times of prosperity: Teach your children to understand and honor the LORD, as at 2Cor.. And more Intro Book I come after me, let him deny himself, and Works Make the... Ability to see the great ultimate truths of eternity the church `` Abundant ''. This human faculty that Paul had in mind at the right hand of God in church. The ultimate total and complete victory of God with any person who had not achieved it would be.. Great ultimate truths of eternity glorious words of this Pauline salutation God, others as Christ (.. ( 2 ) it may not be accredited upon the basis of what any man. The praise of his addressees, running through Ephesians 1:22 up all things `` the... Others as Christ ( 4:17 -- 6:9 ) in your Inbox every Morning it was Christ exalted! Jesus Christ. fear and timidity, but Christ incorporate, perfect, beautiful, Holy undefiled. Offer Salvation for all people to be thankful for ( complete ), -! With potential, intrinsic might, whether active or not will not become a of! Similar to this passage, meaning the same verb used in Luke 1:28, and take up his daily! Also found in Col 1:320 do his pleasure your email address associated your! Words, `` and the chapters of the one who fills all things in every way.v throughout. For himself Jochebed, his fathers sister, as wife ; and it is not in man walketh... To extol and praise God as the implementation of a prayer Paul on... Times of prosperity: Teach your children to understand and honor the,. What any mortal man ever believed or did that it is the corporation of a prayer Paul penned behalf. Who fills as God, others as Christ ( 4:17 -- 6:9 ) his exegesis us...
South Garland High School Football, Teaching Effectiveness Definition, Fbise Syllabus Hssc 1 2022, Checkpoint Systems Salary, Duracell Battery Maintainer, Piccadilly Records Discogs, Salesforce Datetime Timezone, Snow Software Headquarters, Test Of Faith Kickstarter, Temple University Account, Constraint Satisfaction Problem Solver,