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EPHESIANS The following comments are from Navigator's and Quiet Time Diary journals. One verse will be entered, then the comment, then the date. 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To the saints who are at Ephesus and who are faithful in Christ Jesus: There is no doubt who was the author of this
letter to the church in Ephesus. 1:2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. This is part of Paul's introduction/greeting
to the church in Ephesus. 1:3 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, God has blessed us. First, as believers, He has given us the inheritance of living with Him forever. He has also been concerned with our lives while on earth and, if we (I) listen, tries to direct our lives to serve Him here. (DRM 10/10/06) 1:4 . . .just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him. God knows everything. He knew before I was born that I would put my complete trust in Him (God) and His Son (Jesus). That doesn't mean I don't have my own free will, just that He knew what my decision would be. (DRM 10/4/09) 1:5 He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will, It's always amazing to me to think that God knew that I would be a Christian thousands of years ago. He knew (and knows) everything about me - and what I would be doing TODAY. God is love, God cares about me. God is awesome! (DRM 9/3/2000) This is another controversial verse to many. My attitude has been that God knows EVERYTHING including who will eventually be in Heaven with Him. While we have a free will, He already knows how we will react to different situations - and He knows us better that we do ourselves. (DRM 10/5/03) Predestination is difficult to comprehend.
Only God knows who will follow Him. He chose some people and knew in advance who
they would be. The question is how He decided these things - and why evangelism
is necessary? 1:6 . . . to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He freely bestowed on us in the Beloved. This is the second half of a sentence with
verse five. 1:7, 8a In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace 8which He lavished on us. Trespasses are our sins against God and other people. When we (I) am aware of a sin (too often), I pray for forgiveness and try to correct my future way, so as not to do the same thing twice. God=Jesus redeems me (us) through the shed blood of Jesus - who died for all sins. This forgiveness by God is grace. (DRM 10/5/09) 1:8b, 9, 10 In all wisdom and insight 9He made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His kind intention which He purposed in Him 10with 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 . . . Knowing God's will for my/our individual life
is difficult for me, but knowing God's will for the world is easy to understand
from reading the Bible. Paul reminds us here that's God's will for the world has
been made known to us, through the life of Jesus, His Son. 1:11 . . . also we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to His purpose who works all things after the counsel of His will, "the counsel of His will" seems to be another way of saying, "listen to the Holy Spirit in you!" As I listen and do the instructions, I have the hope of an inheritance when I get home to heaven. Yes, that can be a motivator! (DRM 9/4/2000) 1:12 . . . to the end that we who were the first to hope in Christ would be to the praise of His glory. Paul was writing to the church at Ephesus. In
this verse I think his thoughts were to them specifically and not to us. That
church was one of the "first to hope in Christ," so we aren't in that respect.
1:13, 14 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. 14Who 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. [Re: 1:13] This is a review of my conversion. I heard the message, I believed what was said, and I repented of my sins to trust totally in Jesus as Lord. Then I was sealed in His love and filled with the Holy Spirit to direct my life. (DRM 10/6/03) The key part of these two verses was the sealing of the Holy Spirit at the time that I first believed or trusted in Christ alone as my Savior. We (I) received the Holy Spirit as a "deposit" to my account, or a pledge of my future inheritance of being with Jesus in Heaven forever. Certainly this deserves my praise to God for what He has done in the process! (DRM 10/11/06) 1:15, 16 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, 16do not cease giving thanks for you, while making mention of you in my prayers; Paul had received word, either through a
letter or mutual friend, that the Ephesian church was continuing in their faith
in the Lord. 1:17 . . . 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. This was the end of Paul's prayer for the Ephesians. It's also a prayer that I pray for myself. "that the Lord will give me wisdom and a revelation in the knowledge of Him and His Word." (DRM 9/5/2000) This refers to prayers that Paul prayed to
God about other believers. Paul prayed that we would receive a spirit of wisdom
- which we truly can receive from God - and continuously grow in our
knowledge of Him. 1:18 I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, A customer came into Avis Cards in early 1997 and told me to check this verse. Maybe she knew that the Lord had other plans for me, and wanted me to be enlightened. At the time it didn't mean much. Now it means more - that He has a plan to use me more. (DRM 9/6/2000) Back in 1997, an Avis Cards customer seemed
to indicate this verse [with others] was meant for me. While it seems general, I
can finally see what He wants me to do. 1:19 . . . 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. . . Maybe we don't see this, but the evidence is
clear - God is watching over us and leading us on a path that honors Him. We
have to be alert to follow His direction and not our own. 1:20 . . . which He brought about in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, This is part of another of Paul's long
sentences that starts in verse 19. 1:21 . . . 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. Who is Jesus? From v. 18 to v. 23 we are
given some of the aspects of Jesus - and how He affects each of us. 1:22, 23 And He put all things in subjection under His feet, and gave Him as head over all things to the church, 23which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all. This answers the question, "Who is Jesus?" at least partially. God gave us His Son, Jesus, to be our spiritual leader today and physical ruler "tomorrow." The church represents the different aspects of Jesus by the use of the various gifts He gives to those who trust in Him. Jesus is our Leader, and no other intermediary. (DRM 10/6/09) 2:1 - 3 And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, 2in 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. 3Among 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. Before becoming Christians, we all were lost
in sin, and never knew it. These verses describe what all non-believers are like
before trusting Jesus to take away our sins. We owed a debt we could not pay, but Jesus paid the debt He did not owe. (from Our Daily Bread, 6/16/17) [Re: 2:1-2] While I was not a born-again Christian, I didn't realize the state that I was in. I didn't know where I would go when I died and rarely cared. Thank you Lord, for opening my eyes! (DRM 9/7/2000) [Re: 2:1-2] I never knew it! Before I became a born-again Christian, I did whatever I wanted and tried to make lots of money. I knew about Jesus from what I had learned in Sunday School - but I never knew Him in my heart. Until I became as a child again, and trusted in Jesus, I was "lost" and on a path to hell. Thank God, my eyes and heart were opened in 1986. [Re: 2:3] A sinner is a sinner. Non-Christians were
"dead in . . . trespasses and sins" (v. 1) and we too - as stated here. 2:4,5 But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), . . . I (we) was born a sinner. Until my spiritual eyes were opened, I was spiritually dead. At the time I was "born-again," He opened my eyes and forgave my sins. I did nothing to deserve His grace - but experienced His love. Whatever works I do now are in appreciation for all that He has done for me - and overwhelming desire for others to also know of His grace. (DRM 10/7/09) How did God do that? He knew in advance who
would love Him and who wouldn't. He put the desire in our hearts to want to know
Him more and more. We received His grace, something we didn't deserve. 2:5 even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved). Even before becoming a Christian, Christ knew my heart. (He knows all because He created all.) He knew how long it would take me to really hear Him and still saved me. I'll always thank Him! (DRM 9/8/2000) There was NO WAY that I could save myself. Why should God say "Dennis is good," because, in comparison to Jesus, I am nothing. The only way I have any hope is through God's grace. I have to keep admitting how I am falling short, and hope He will lead me to a closer walk with Jesus. (DRM 10/8/03) 2:6, 7 . . . and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For Christians, the transaction has already
occurred. We have given our lives to the Lord Jesus and agreed to follow His
will. [re: 2:6] God loves all of us, believers and
unbelievers. He knows who will trust in His Son during their life on earth and
who won't; but loves us all. 2:8, 9 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - 9not by works, so that no one can boast. I have heard this verse many times over the past year, and am surprised that it's memorization is not required - yet. This verse is one of the bases of my conversion - that I was saved by God's grace and not by works alone. (DRM 1/21/87) When I was saved, it wasn't from anything that I did, it was only by accepting His gift that I didn't deserve. I didn't work for the gift and STILL don't do enough good works - but still feel the assurance of salvation through Jesus Christ and Him alone. (DRM 9/9/2000) I can and have given away over 100,000 bookmarks to churches and people, but my work won't get me into Heaven. The work that God gives me (not the other way around) is done in thankfulness for what He has already done in saving me. I must always listen to His still small voice and do as He directs me. (DRM 10/12/06) Which came first? When I/we decided to trust
in Jesus, how was the process started? It wasn't because of something we did -
as "good works" do not bring people to God or His approval. The very first step,
as stated here, is FAITH. The resurrection of Christ has brought our dead hearts to life. (from Our Daily Bread INSIGHTS DENNIS MOLES 6/29/16) 2:10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. This seems like a clear verse, but is more difficult for me. I feel that I know what works God has for me to do, but my ability to "get there" is very, very slow - which I think may close my opportunity to do His will. I don't see how I can do things alone. (DRM 10/9/03) It's hard to imagine how God would have the
time, but He created each one of us differently. We are a result of His
workmanship. 2:11 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 — In Genesis 17:10 circumcision is required by
God to separate the Jews from non-Jews. This was a physical act and had nothing
to do with the heart's attitude. This was carried out as an act of obedience to
God. 2:12, 13 —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. 13But now in Christ Jesus you who formerly were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. This is a reminder that the Jews were/are God's chosen people. In Old Testament times the ones who had faith in God were the ones who had eternal life with Him. The only way that I (we) have access to God and also eternal life with Him is through the shed blood of Jesus Christ. It was a decision that God made ages ago; and is the source of most of my thankfulness. Without Jesus, my destiny would be eternal damnation. (DRM 10/8/09) 2:13 But now in Christ Jesus you who formerly were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. Before Jesus came, the Jews were the chosen people and all of the Old Testament was written for them. Jesus changed that and all non-Jews-who were formerly far off - are now part of the Body. Thank you Jesus for dying for not just the Jews, but for me too! (DRM 9/10/2000) In previous verses of this chapter, Paul
reminds us that people who were not Jews (Gentiles, uncircumcision) were not
part of "the covenants of promise, . . ." (v. 12). 2:14, 15 For He Himself [Jesus] is our peace, who made both groups into one, and broke down the barrier of the dividing wall, 15by 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, . . . [re 2:14] We have always had two groups, the Jews and the Gentiles, the circumcised and the uncircumcised. But, with Christ, we have become one - He has unified us - so long as we are believers in Him. I feel the same way about the different denominations - which don't matter, but only the heart of each person. (DRM 10/10/03) [re 2:14, 15a] I had to go back to v. 11 to see that the two groups were the uncircumcised and the circumcised, or the Jews and the Gentiles. A constant theme in the Bible is the desire to unify, rather then divide the church, or body of believers. My life should be of service to Christ, and the Law is secondary - as an outline of the things to strive for. (DRM 10/13/06) [re 2:14, 15] In earlier
verses (vv. 11-12), Paul reminds us that, as Christians, we were formerly
separate from Christ and called the "Uncircumcision." Now we have been brought
near by the blood of Christ (v. 13). 2:16 . . . and might reconcile them both in one body to God through the cross, by it having put to death the enmity. Without a dictionary, I believe that enmity
is the "differences" that here refer to Jews and Gentiles (v. 11-12). 2:17 AND HE CAME AND PREACHED PEACE TO YOU WHO WERE FAR AWAY, AND PEACE TO THOSE WHO WERE NEAR; This verse seems to be quoted mostly from
Ephesians 2:13, just a few verses before this. 2:18 . . . for through Him we both have our access in one Spirit to the Father. This is a trinity verse where all three parts
of the Godhead are mentioned. 2:19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens but you are fellow citizens with the saints, an are of God's household, This is the beginning of a four verse
sentence. As believers, we are part of Jesus' spiritual body. The body consists
of other believers from the past and present. Jesus is the cornerstone (v. 20)
and each believer is like a brick that has a small part to make up the whole
structure. 2:20 having been built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the cornerstone, I believe that this is referring to the "church" of Christ. Yesterday we put the Jews that are believers with Christians - and today I think we put both groups of believers into one church, of which Jesus is the cornerstone. (DRM 9/11/2000) I'm thinking of Christianity as a large building. The foundation would be the Jewish Law and Old Testament. It's real important - and old. When we get to ground level, we see the cornerstone [Jesus] quite often with valuable contents! We are to build up from what is already given . . . (DRM 10/11/03) This verse is only ¼ of a long paragraph that reminds me how the building of the church occurs spiritually. Jesus Christ is our rock, the base, or cornerstone of my faith. The apostles and prophets represent the foundation, and we believers could be the walls and roof - making the church a complete structure. (DRM 10/13/06) 2:21, 22 . . . in whom the whole building, being fitted together, is growing into a holy temple in the Lord, 22in whom you also are being built together into a dwelling of God in the Spirit. In the last 11 verses of this chapter the
thought is that the new Christians are now accepted to God by the blood of Jesus
(v. 13). These final two verses continue that thought with the illustration of
the Cornerstone (Jesus) foundation (apostles and prophets, v. 20) and structure
- as referred to here. 3:1, 2 For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles —2If indeed you have heard of the stewardship of God's grace which was given to me for you; These two verses seem to be contextual to me.
Verse one refers back to the previous paragraph which refers to believers being
a part of the spiritual temple of the Lord (2:21, 22) and Paul's call to explain
these things to the believers in Ephesus - and ultimately us. 3:3 . . . that by revelation there was made known to me the mystery, as I wrote before in brief. This verse makes no sense out of context. 3:4 By referring to this, when you read you can understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, This single verse makes no sense unless you
read the whole sentence (vv. 4-7). 3:5 . . . 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; Remembering this was written in the first
century, Paul or the other apostles had not had the Holy Spirit available to
direct them until Pentecost. It was a new revelation to know that Gentiles were
also to be a part of God's family. 3:6 . . . 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, . . . This seems like a review of previous verses. God chose the Jews first. When they did not respond, then He opened the gospel to the Gentiles everywhere. Paul seems to be the first that became aware of this and wanted to be sure that we knew that it was not just the Jews. (DRM 9/12/2000) In Paul's time there were two types of people, Jews and non-Jews=Gentiles. To include the Gentiles in the body of Christ is to include everyone. I think the word "promise" indicates they are POTENTIAL members of Christ's body, which individuals are truly known by God. (DRM 10/14/06) Before Jesus' time it was thought that God's
chosen people were only the Jews. Perhaps starting at the woman at the well
(John 4:10, 11) and after the resurrection, it was realized that the Gentiles
(non-Jews) were included in God's plan of salvation. 3:7 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. Paul is considered to be one of the greatest teachers of Christianity. He truly was a minister of the Lord! Where did he go to college? The answer is in this verse. He was given his gift through the Holy Spirit's teaching. I pray that I will also learn and teach with the help of the Holy Spirit. (DRM 10/12/03) 3:8,9 To me, the very least of all saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unfathomable riches of Christ, 9and to bring to light what is the administration of the mystery which for ages has been hidden in God, who created all things; . . . Before Paul's "discovery" of this mystery,
God's chosen people were only the Jews. Paul found out {Peter found out at Acts
10:34, 35) that ALL people were eligible to be part of God's Kingdom, so long as
they confessed their sins and put their full trust in Jesus. [Re: 3:8] Paul was very modest, but he made a point here. He said that he was the "very least of all saints." Many other people (like me) would also feel the same — but he and we are ALL called to preach to the Gentiles and tell them of Christ. (DRM 9/13/2000) [Re: 3:8] There is no doubt that Paul was chosen by the Lord, from his conversion to the end of his ministry. He clearly heard the call of the Lord, and didn't refuse to do what he was told, even if it caused him pain. While I still fear the pain, I want to do what the Lord Jesus leads me to do. (DRM 10/13/03) [Re: 3:9] Paul was called by God to proclaim the gospel
to the Gentiles, which was a new revelation. God had just revealed that mystery
to him. 3:10 . . . 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. The wisdom of God is generally given through the ministry of the Holy Spirit. He tells us things that we wouldn't normally know through either direct communication (dreams, etc.) or helping us to interpret the Bible correctly. We then relate our thoughts and devotion to heaven by prayer. (DRM 10/12/09) 3:11, 12 This was in accordance with the eternal purpose which He [God] carried out in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12in whom we have boldness and confident access through faith in Him. God has a plan. Nothing that He does or
allows is out of His plan for the world situation or our individual lives. He is
not surprised when something happens to us (e.g. health related or finance
related). 3:13 Therefore I ask you not to lose heart at my tribulations on your behalf, for they are your glory. Paul wanted to remind the church at Ephesus
that he was working on their behalf (v. 8-10). In this work he was having
difficulties/tribulations, but these would be for their glory. 3:14 -16 For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, 15from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name, 16that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man, . . . While Paul didn't write, "I pray," he wrote
"I bow my knees before the Father," which is a praying position. His prayer
starts at v. 14 and continues to the end of the chapter (v. 21). [Re: 3:14, 15] Paul is referring back to v. 8 where he is
referring back to the time where God gave him the mission to be a minister of
the gospel. [Re: 3:16] This is part of a prayer of Paul's to the Ephesians. Paul desires that the Ephesians would be stronger spiritually - probably so they could understand more and be more willing to share their faith with others - as I need to do. (DRM 10/14/03) 3:17 . . . so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; and that you, being rooted and grounded in love, It's harder to write about a verse that's
part of a six verse sentence/paragraph! 3:18 . . . may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, . . . This is about the middle of a six verse sentence, where Paul wants to remind believers - saints - that God=Christ loves us and only wants the best for us. I often forget the "breadth, length, height and depth" of His love, and need to be reminded of it more often! (DRM 10/13/09) 3:19 . . . and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God. This is part of a prayer that Paul is writing to believers in all of the verses read today. [3:14-19] Paul only wanted the best for us, and it's something to strive for. Studying His Word daily helps! (DRM 9/14/2000) 3:20, 21 Now to Him who is able to do exceeding abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, 21to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen. I know I have heard this benediction many
times at the end of church services, but never really reflected on the words
that much. [Re: 3:20, 21] God is in control. Jesus
deserves all the honor and glory. Together they can do anything we ask or think;
and those things we can't even imagine yet. 4:1 I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, entreat you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, . . . It's easy to get diverted - that seems like the story of my life. But this verse "entreats" me to do what I have been called to do. If I know what I have to do - get on with it. Going to NYS work is a conflict. (DRM 9/15/2000) Paul is telling us to fulfill our ministry call, and to do it honorably. Now that I feel that I know what His call is, I am not fulfilling the obligation - in my opinion. The current conflict - which is always a problem - is money and how to pay my bills. I need to know how He will provide. (DRM 10/15/03) 4:2 . . . with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love, This is another list of the attributes of
what a Christian should show. When problems arise within the family of God, the Bible says we are to respond "with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love" (Eph. 4:2). This is the way to experience family togetherness with people who share the fundamentals of our faith. {Jennifer Benson Schuldt from Our Daily Bread, 9/14/12} 4:3 . . . being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Paul was instructing the Ephesian believers
how to act towards others in their church. 4:4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as also you were called in one hope of your calling; The body of Christ is both a physical body
for Jesus, and a spiritual body made up of individual believers. Each of us is a
part of His spiritual body and we each have a different function. 4:5, 6 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all. As Christians we worship one God. He has many
names including "Lord." [Re: 4:4-6] When we get to
Heaven or New Jerusalem we will all be part of one unified body of believers. In his letter to the believers in Ephesus, the apostle Paul wanted to be sure they understood that peace with God could only be achieved through faith in Christ's death and resurrection. (from Our Daily Bread, INSIGHT DENNIS MOLES 12/7/16) 4:7 But to each one of us grace is given according to the measure of Christ's gift. This seems to indicate that everyone on earth is given grace when they are born. Then the problem is what to do with it - to ignore it, or to accept the gift of Jesus when made aware of it. Only God knows which we will choose and when. (DRM 9/16/2000) The only Person who was born without sin is
Jesus. No matter how much we try, no one eliminates all sin from their life. 4:8 Therefore it says, This is a challenging verse for me. I need a
dictionary for definition of "captive." 4:9 (Now this expression, "He ascended." what does it mean except that He also had descended into the lower parts of the earth? In the Apostle's Creed there is the controversial, "He descended into Hell" phrase that my mother refused to say. This verse seems to be the cause of the controversy. I don't think this should change my faith, as no matter where He went for 3 days, I know He is my Leader and is in Heaven now. (DRM 10/16/06) Think of what we call Heaven. We always refer
to it as being "above." Jesus ascended to Heaven (Luke 24:51), when He left
earth. 4:10 He who descended is Himself also He who ascended far above all the heavens, so that He might fill all things.) Where is Heaven? Where is Hell? We (I) naturally think that Heaven is above and Hell is below, but how can one place see the other? (Luke 16:23) Of course this verse refers to Jesus descending from Heaven to somewhere. I think this refers to earth, and His earthly ministry. Among other things , He was sent to fulfill prophecy. (DRM 10/14/09) 4:11, 12 And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; [Re 4:11] It seems to me from all of my study for many years (and the Holy Spirit's encouragement) that God wants me to be an evangelist. But there are other things on this list - did He mean something else? I don't think so! (DRM 9/17/2000) [Re 4:12] This verse refers back to verse 11, "pastors
and teachers," and tells us what we expect these servants of God to do. [Re 4:11, 12] In this
passage people who have put their faith in Jesus are called saints. 4:13 . . . until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ. The Christian church of today is a church of division. People still disagree on the smallest details of the faith. This was not God's plan. He wants UNITY and for us to avoid the trivia. He wants a mature man that Christ [the Holy Spirit] can indwell. (DRM 10/16/03) I would call this a definition of sanctification in some respect. Jesus wanted all believers to be unified into one body - the church; no matter our differences in worship style, etc. The sanctification part seems to be how we should grow to maturity in the faith as time progresses. It's an unending goal. (DRM 10/16/06) When Paul wrote this, he was writing to a
specific church in Ephesus. What he suggested in this verse is/was attainable in
a single church if people work together to make it succeed. 4:14 As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming; . . . As a result of what? The previous sentence
(v.11-13) refers to the different "jobs" or positions that believers have and
how they should be building up other believers. The best way to learn the Bible is by reading
it. This may sound simple, but it's absolutely necessary. 4:15 but speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him, who is the head, even Christ, It's impossible to hide anything from God or Jesus. He knows everything. Lying to God or anyone on earth just gets a person into deeper lies eventually, so I tell God and others the truth as I know it or see it. (DRM 9/18/2000) 4:16 . . . from whom the whole body, being fitted and held together by what every joint supplies, according to the proper working of each individual part, causes the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love. Spiritual growth comes from God=Jesus through
the working of the Holy Spirit within each believer. 4:17 So this I say, and affirm together with the Lord, that you walk no longer just as the Gentiles also walk, in the futility of their mind, . . . As Christians, we are to be DIFFERENT. How would people distinguish us from the unsaved Gentiles if we appeared, talked and behaved the same? People must see more sharing and compassion in us. [me] (DRM 9/19/2000) When I became a Christian, I was separated from the world. My destiny changed. In the "old life" I was going in circles, but now I have direction. As time has progressed, He has lead me more and more to a specific task to do. I pray that I can do it, with God's help. (DRM 10/17/03) 4:18 . . . being darkened in their understanding, excluded from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the hardness of their heart; This is another part of a sentence. 4:19 and they, having become callous, have given themselves over to sensuality, for the practice of every kind of impurity with greediness. Paul said that believers shouldn't walk like
the Gentiles also walk (v. 17). I think he is referring to the NON-BELIEVING
Gentiles here. 4:20, 21 But you did not learn Christ in this way, 21if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught in Him, just as truth is in Jesus, . . . This is the beginning of a five verse
sentence (vv. 20-24) that refers back to vv. 17-19. 4:22 . . . that, in reference to your former manner of life, you lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, . . . When I/we became Christians, a change took
over. Sometimes it's a process, sometimes it's instant. For me a lot of things
were instant, like listening to Rock and Roll music stopped in one day and I
immediately wanted to hear only Christian music of various types. 4:23,24 and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind 24and put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth. Transformation is one of my favorite words. God wants us to change our ways (transform) from the ways of the world (evil) to the spiritual ways of the Lord (good). We have to choose to do this and depend on His leading. (DRM 9/20/2000) Be transformed - is what comes to my mind here. A Christian can't be the same as a non-Christian. We MUST be different! We must be thankful for the gift of salvation and continue the life-learning experience of studying His Word. Change me, Lord! (DRM 9/29/2000) 4:25 Therefore, laying aside falsehood, SPEAK TRUTH EACH ONE of you WITH HIS NEIGHBOR, for we are members of one another. This refers back to v. 24, where we are
reminded that we are to be disciples of Christ and "put on the new self" which
includes telling the truth. As Christians, we are all parts of one body,
or a community of believers. 4:26, 27 BE ANGRY, AND yet DO NOT SIN; do not let the sun go down on your anger, 27and do not give the devil an opportunity. Yes, I do get angry with others, and I do try to control my emotions at those times. Sometimes I tell others of the problem and that seems to make the matter worse. We know by these verses that anger is bad and we should correct bad feelings before the sun goes down. (DRM 1/14/87) One of the more difficult times in my life was when a neighbor who meant so much to me, suddenly got mad and stopped talking. He said he wouldn't respond to phone calls and I kept quiet too long. I should have sent a letter and didn't for a year. (DRM 9/21/2000) Sometimes this verse is hard to obey. It is
very convicting when I get upset with someone. While I don't know what caused
the "incident," there must have been a reason, and God wanted me to learn
something from it for my spiritual growth. Jesus was angry with the money changers at
the temple (Matt. 21:12), but He did not sin. He stated what His Father's will
was. 4:28 He who steals must steal no longer; but rather he must labor, performing with his own hands what is good, so that he will have something to share with one who has need. While I'm not aware that I have stolen anything from anyone, this verse sums up my current status at present. After four years without a "job" (Full-time), my money is nearly gone. I can't just sit and wait for responses to job applications, so the Lord opened doors so I could "do something" with my hands. Now I need to make enough to pay the rent, then share with others in need. God is the true Provider. (DRM 10/17/09) Paul was writing to Christians at Ephesus
(1:1), thus they should have been trying to rid themselves of sin, like we all
do. 4:29 Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, that it may give grace to those who hear. All of my words are NOT wholesome. While I don't swear, I DO criticize people who don't do things as I think they should. Lord, help me to be more like You in how I speak to and about others. (DRM 9/22/2000) When I was young, my mother never allowed my
father or anyone else to say bad words. Then I heard them in school anyway. At
least I understood most of what they meant, but never could say them. Christians are to "put off falsehood and speak truthfully" (v. 25); stop using unwholesome, foul, or abusive language (v. 29); and get rid of bitter, angry, harsh, slanderous, and malicious words (v. 31). Instead we are to speak graciously, using words that edify, build up, encourage, and benefit those who listen (v. 29). (from Our Daily Bread, INSIGHT, 2/11/16) 4:30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. I could write something on nearly every verse in this section [4:25-32]! I have felt that I was grieving the Holy Spirit because He told me my calling - and I'm not doing it yet. Finally, about three days ago, a plan was made and written where I would be serving the Lord full-time. Now the grieving seems to have stopped - as the plan is committed to. (DRM 10/18/03) 4:31 Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. When things don't go "my" way, all of the
words above seem to be appropriate in today's world. I know of a recent
time when I had bitterness and it took a while to let go. 4:32 Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you. This could be a "stand-alone" verse. It
really doesn't matter what the context is, because it's clear all by itself. I'm sure at some point you have disagreed
with someone else. I have. This verse seems to be about when that happens -
convicting me to follow Jesus' way and not my own. 5:1, 2 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; 2and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you, and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma. Jesus loved us (and still does) and died for
our sins. This was pleasing to the Lord God. [re: 5:2] There's a lot in this verse! Love and compassion seem to go together for me recently. Walking in love seems to me to be compassion for others. That's easy. The hard part is to let them know that you care about them - and their souls. (DRM 9/23/2000) 5:1, 2 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; 2and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma. A have a plaque on my bedroom wall, "God is
Love" and it's so true. He loves each and every person that He created. He loves
us so much that He send His Son to die for our sins so we could live with Him
forever. All we need to do is confess our faults/sins and love Him like He loves
us. 5:3 But immorality or any impurity or greed must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints; God wants us to be perfect. We are born sinners. How can we (I) achieve perfection? First we have to know the "rules" and try to abide by them. Next we have to admit we can't achieve perfection without His help. We make mistakes in various ways - and that is sin. When we sin, we (I) have to ask for forgiveness. To be perfect is a life-long process! (DRM 10/18/09) 5:4 and there must be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. My first thought on this verse is: "do I do that?" and I think the answer is "no." Filthiness is probably swearing. I could be guilty of silly talk. Coarse jesting seems like dirty jokes - and I don't care for them. Finally, giving thanks is what I do many times a day. I pray that I am pleasing to God. (DRM 10/19/03) 5:5 For this you know with certainty, that no immoral or impure person or covetous man, who is an idolater, has an inheritance in the Kingdom of Christ and God. Sometimes I think that I would fail this "entrance test" for Heaven. As a perfectionist, I always have a "goal" to be better. I pray that the Lord will understand my feelings and refer to Psalm 139:23,24. (DRM 9/24/2000) I have been told that a person can't discern
who will be entering the Kingdom of God - as only God knows that. . . I disagree
a little, based on this verse and similar ones. 5:6, 7 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7Therefore do not be partakers with them; There are many deceivers in the world today.
I first thought of religious cults that sound good, but have changed the Gospel
to fit their agenda rather than taking God's Word as it was originally written.
Other deceivers could include false prophets who are proven wrong after their
prophecies don't come true (e.g. date setters). 5:8 for you were formerly darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of light. . . How am I different than before January 1986? Has the light given to me from the Lord shone through my life? Do others know I'm a Christian by my actions? Am I telling people of the Truth? Lord, I need more work! (DRM 9/25/2000) 5:9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness and righteousness and truth), Paul must have thought of this verse as an
aside, but to me it is a reminder of His expectation of us. We Christians, as
the fruit, must be good and righteous and tell the truth at all times. Am I good
enough? Do people know I am a Christian by how I act? Do I tell ONLY the
truth? 5:10 . . . trying to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. This is the end of a four-verse sentence, and
this sentence refers back to verse six where we are told not to listen and be
deceived by speakers (pastors?) who speak empty words. 5:11, 12 And do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but instead even expose them; 12for it is disgraceful even to speak of the things which are done by them in secret. Television certainly isn't mentioned in the
Bible, but think how this verse could relate to what is shown on TV today.
Nothing is left to the imagination if you choose the "right" channel. 5:13 But all things become visible when they are exposed by the light, for everything that becomes visible is light. Many sins are done in the dark. I can think of activities that many people do for "entertainment" on weekend nights. They seem to know that they are sinning by hiding the fact. Someday, a light (Jesus) will point to them and show them as they were. Judgment will come. (DRM 9/26/2000) 5:13, 14 But all things become visible when they are exposed by the light, for everything that becomes visible is light. 14For this reason it says, "Awake sleeper, And arise from the dead, And Christ will shine on you." Sin is often considered darkness. It seems
that a lot or most sin actually occurs during the dark part of the day. 5:15, 16 Be very careful, then how you live - not as unwise, but as wise, 16making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. I am living in a world where I know very few believers in my faith. I must set a good example to try to live as Jesus wants me to , and in that way show others how different I am. (DRM 2/19/87) Recently a friend suggested verse 16 as a verse to apply to my life. I get easily diverted away from my desire to serve the Lord and constantly need correction. Lord, let me memorize and APPLY verse 16! (DRM 9/27/2000) [re: 5:16] I have this verse posted on the light near my bed, as a friend suggested it on 8/28/00. I think of it as "don't waste time, it's too precious!" I only have so many days on earth - and they should all be used for leading others to Christ. Is what I'm doing today leading towards that goal? Don't be diverted. Keep the goal ahead of me. (DRM 10/21/03) I feel that I've been walking with little direction for 1½ years now - since I moved to Chicago. Still, I've done some things and just waited on the Lord. I need direction and want to make the most of my time remaining on earth. (DRM 10/19/06) 5:17 So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. This is a nice, clear, simple verse? "The will of the Lord" or God's will has always been a challenge for me because I want it to be specific to "my" situation. God's will is easily known in general terms - as it's all in the Bible. The Ten Commandments is a good start. Avoid sins, proclaim His name in some way. Love one another. (DRM 10/20/09) 5:18 And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit, A person who is drunk has had too much wine
or liquor, more than their fill. 5:19 . . . speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord; Everything that I recall reading in the Bible
agrees that the Lord Jesus = God likes music and people singing their praises to
Him. I have found it easier to memorize Biblical thoughts and verses that are
contained in music. 5:20 always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father; Now here's a verse that I have no problem with! Every morning and evening I try to thank the Lord for my health and being able to do what I can for Him. May my thankfulness never end! (DRM 9/28/2000) 5:21 . . . and be subject to one another in the fear of Christ. Christians should get along with other
Christians. As one family in Christ, the goal should be to advance His Kingdom.
5:22, 23 Wives, be subject to your own husbands, as to the Lord. 23For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is head of the church, He Himself being the Savior of the body. At least in USA, this topic is a real problem
for liberated, independent women, and I'm sure it is a cause they won't follow
Jesus. 5:24 But as the church is subject to Christ, so also the wives ought to be to their husbands in everything. The USA is a freedom loving society. No one
likes to be told what to do by anyone or any government agency. The women
started to object to Biblical standards in the 1900's in voting and other
aspects of life as the years progressed. 5:25, 26 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her, 26so that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, Jesus gave His life for the sins of the
world; past, present and future. He had to do this from His love for His
creation. He wouldn't have done that without love. 5:27 that He (God) might present to Himself (Jesus) the church in all her glory, having no spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that she should be holy and blameless. We are the church, the bride of Christ. This verse indicates that the church will be "in all her glory, having no spot or wrinkle." The only way the church today can be like this is by the common faith of true believers of Christ. The factions of the physical church are NOT helping this. The church needs unification. (DRM 9/30/2000) 5:28, 29 So husbands ought also to love their own wives as their own bodies. He who loves his own wife loves himself; 29for no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ also does the church, This gives me a better idea of Christ's love. I try very hard to keep my body healthy and want it to be strong. Maybe that's self-preservation? Still, I love the body God has given me. This verse(s) reminds me that I should love my wife in the same way - but also that Christ loves me like this. (DRM 10/22/03) 5:29,30 for no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ also does the church, 30because we are members of His body. Here is a great association! I care a lot about my body and try constantly to keep it well and in "good shape." Christ cares even more for His body, the church, and each member of it (me), in the same way. (DRM 10/1/2000) 5:31, 32 FOR THIS REASON A MAN SHALL LEAVE HIS FATHER AND MOTHER AND SHALL BE JOINED TO HIS WIFE, AND THE TWO SHALL BECOME ONE FLESH. 32This mystery is great; but I am speaking with reference to Christ and the church. This quote is from Genesis 2:24 where God had
just made Eve from Adam's rib. In Genesis this was referring to the physical
bodies and in this passage, Paul is referring to a spiritual union of souls. 5:33 Nevertheless let each individual among you also love his own wife even as himself; and let the wife see to it that she respect her husband. This seems to be a summary verse for the
passage (5:22-33). Men are to love their wives, as Christ also loved the church
(v. 25), just as they love their own bodies (v. 28). Both partners must become
one (v. 31), and follow Jesus Christ as Lord together. 6:1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. I read this in two ways. A person "in the
Lord" could be a non-physical parent, like a Sunday School teacher or other
Christian teacher. 6:2,3 HONOR YOUR FATHER AND MOTHER (which is the first commandment with a promise), 3THAT IT MAY BE WELL WITH YOU, AND THAT YOU MAY LIVE LONG ON THE EARTH. I try to do this as best as I can. Sometimes I lose patience, but father and I still "get along." Hopefully God will be pleased with (most) of my actions and will give me a long life to serve Him - unless the rapture comes first. (DRM 10/2/2000) 6:4 Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. While my childhood was "restricted," neither of my parents provoked anger. We also were brought up to go to church every week and I was instructed about the contents of the Bible. In this way, I was brought up well. Still, I never knew Jesus as my personal Savior until much later. My "head knowledge" had to become "heart knowledge," and Bible teachers should emphasize that a personal commitment is necessary. (DRM 10/22/09) 6:5 Slaves, be obedient to those who are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in the sincerity of your heart, as to Christ; Most people think of slaves as black people who were owned by others before the US Civil War, but I can think of other types of slavery —Jesus' willingness to be a servant to others, and my working for my boss. The Lord wants us to do the best job possible - as if we are working for Him. (DRM 10/23/03) Some people would say that this section
encourages slavery, but I don't think so. I think that Paul was just referring
to slaves that were already in that position. Today I'd use a word like
"employees" where "slaves" are written and it would make more sense. 6:6 . . . not by way of eye service, as men-pleasers, but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart. This is a continuation of verse five, which
is directed to slaves. While we don't have legal slaves in the USA today, it
also applies to supervisor-employee relationships at work. re: 6:5, 6 6:7,8 With good will render service, as to the Lord, and not to men, 8knowing that whatever good thing each one does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether slave or free. Do "good deeds" for others. God sees everything and knows everything. Good deeds will NOT bring salvation, but are acts of love to God and the one whom it is given to. May my good deeds increase, but make me humble Lord, NOT to look for glory - as it is all Yours. (DRM 10/3/2000) 6:9 And masters, do the same things to them, and give up threatening, knowing that both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no partiality with Him. Slaves (v. 5-8) are to obey their masters as
to the Lord, as He is the One they are truly serving. In today's society, the comments about
masters and slaves (vv. 5-8) are more applicable to employers and employees.
Today, when I read the word 'masters,' I thought of the well known politicians
that TRY to rule the world. Many of these people do their jobs without
consulting God - and the results are what we have. 6:10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. This is a transfer of power. The Lord Jesus is the One with the might and power and we are His workers. To be strong in the Lord is to appropriate His power for our daily situations. An example would be for me to run my business on Christian principles; not like others in the worldly system. (DRM 10/23/09) 6:11 Put on the full armor of God, that you may be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. We live in a material world. It's hard to think of spiritual beings or warfare - as we generally can't "see" it. But I think we can "see" it - in the way some people act. Sometimes Satan puts road blocks in our way when we want to serve the Lord Jesus - as an example. The pieces of armor in this passage show me how to defend myself against Satan and his demons. (DRM 10/20/06) 6:12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. The book "This Present Darkness" illustrates this verse very well. The unseen world of angels and demons is out there, but we don't see it. That's the enemy referred to here that I don't think about enough. (DRM 10/4/2000) The war rages! I don't think about it enough. It's the spiritual war that surrounds me! The little demons are quite determined to keep me from serving the living God. Barriers go up. I am diverted from the goal, but I know I must pursue His plan for my life - or I will never be fulfilled. (DRM 10/24/03) Non-Christians don't agree with us. That's
obvious. But is this true? Let's try this again. Non-Christians don't agree with
Jesus Christ and His Spirit within us. We act the way we do because of His
direction. They wouldn't agree with this verse, but Satan's spirit indwells them
and causes them to act the way they do. 6:13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything to stand. I believe that the armor of God is the learning of His word. When the day of evil comes, or even evil people, we should be prepared to have the knowledge of God's word ready to speak and witness to His great power. (DRM 3/7/87) When proclaiming the Gospel, there will be resistance and I will probably lose "friends." I will have to remember the real source of these problems and stand up for what is right. It won't be easy. (DRM 10/5/2000) 6:14 Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, This is part of a series of verses on the
"Armor of God." 6:15 . . . and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE; To shod your feet is to cover them with socks
or shoes or boots. This is done to protect you from cuts and bruises that you
can get if walking barefoot. 6:16 . . . in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. This is another part of "The Armor of God."
The devil and his demons will attack any weak link they can find in us and our
faith. 6:17 And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. This verse shows two more pieces of the
"Armor of God." 6:18 With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints, Some people may ask how to "pray at all times"? I think the answer is to have pure thoughts, like having concern for others in physical need. You can pray with your eyes open and doing routine things, but thinking a prayer. Since God=Jesus knows my every thought, if possible, it should be considered a prayer to Him. I try to do this a lot! (DRM 10/24/09) 6:19,20 and pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, 20for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in proclaiming it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. Paul is asking for prayer for himself here. Remembering that it is the Holy Spirit that convicts people, we have to depend on the Lord for the results. I pray that I will have people praying for me when I try to become more bold to tell people of Christ. (DRM 10/6/2000) [re: 6:19] Certainly I pray this prayer for myself, however, like Paul, I need others to pray "on my behalf." Very few know the desires of my heart. People seem too busy to think about others. [I'm guilty also] Hopefully I will have a circle of friends soon. (DRM 10/25/03) [re: 6:19] Certainly I'm
not Paul, but his prayer request here would be almost the same as the prayer
request I would ask for others concerning me. 6:21 But that you also may know about my circumstances, how I am doing, Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, will make everything known to you. As should be expected, Paul had several
friends in his ministry. Apparently he had several of them come to visit him
while in prison; as referred to in other letters. 6:22 And I have sent him (Tychicus) to you for this very purpose, so that you may know about us, and that he may comfort your hearts. What was Tychicus's job? To tell people about the existence of the Christians and to comfort people. Isn't that evangelism? I am convinced that the Lord wants everyone to be an evangelist, but few "go." (DRM 10/7/2000) 6:23, 24 Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 24Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ with incorruptible love. How can I add anything to the end of Paul's
letter? |