one another and so promote unity and maturity (4:1-16). [@Ischus] means inherent strength, or might. 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). 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. 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). (, Practical Ways to Fulfill God's Purpose 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. stands in contrast to the old way of life without Christ (4:17 -- 6:9). To identify the righteousness of God with any person who had not achieved it would be immoral. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. 20which he worked in Christ, raising him from the dead and seating him at his right hand in the heavens,s What's the Purpose of the Book of Ephesians? "[23] Nothing in the passage, however, supports such a view. 7In him we have redemption by his blood, the forgiveness of transgressions, in accord with the riches of his graceg Salem Media Group. in the heavenly realms" (3:7-13). (2-5) The God of the covenant confirms His promise. BEST VALUE in digital Bible study. Give the Gift of Bible Study Tools PLUS! Amen. 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). Thus the apostle Paul glorified and elevated the church of Jesus Christ in a manner that staggers the imagination, even yet. The view in this letter is nothing less than universal; as Hayes said, "The word all occurs in this epistle fifty-one times! Such a value judgment is implicit in the glorious words of this Pauline salutation. All of the riches of Christ are in this "body. Clearly revealed in this is the fact that the coming of Jesus Christ into the world for the purpose of taking out of it a people for himself and redeeming them unto eternal life was no afterthought on God's part. Give the Gift of Bible Study Tools PLUS! Jesus Christ himself described his earthly mission in respect of both of these, "giving his life a ransom for many" (Matthew 20:28), and "shedding his blood for the forgiveness of sins" (Matthew 26:28). 20Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, 21to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us. Copyright 2022, Bible Study Tools. - why should it be thought strange that that girl of the Holy Spirit was promised only to believers who would repent and be baptized? (Ephesians 5:25). For additional comment on Jesus Christ, Inc., see my Commentary on Romans 3. Some individuals to each other, Christ having broken down the barriers through his As Bruce said, "Paul here struck the keynote of Ephesians at once. Such study concentrates primarily upon the texts of the Old Testament and of the New Testament, as well as on Christian tradition.Christian theologians use biblical exegesis, rational analysis and argument. In the second place, thanksgiving was a prominent, invariable element in all of Paul's prayers that have come down to us. Luke 10:3811:13: These two verses set forth the power of God, with Paul using a succession of very strong words to describe it. to God. The climax of God's purpose, "when the times will have reached their 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. 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. For less than $5/mo. We need 2 cookies to store this setting. This reference to the ascension of Christ "is a declaration by inspiration of the fact recorded in Mark 16:19. I will give you rest.". The initial triple phrase recurs as in a refrain in Ephesians 1:12 and Ephesians 1:14. Whence came the idea that peace is better than war? (Philippians 1:27). Microsoft pleaded for its deal on the day of the Phase 2 decision last month, but now the gloves are well and truly off. It is clear through the repetition of "heavenly The faith that saves is not of sinners but of Christ. 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. 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. Oh, yes! himself as an act of grace (2:1-10). 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. so that they might understand better the dimensions of God's eternal purpose had a harbor that at that time opened into the Cayster River (see map, p. 2429), How may sinners acquire it? Amen. Now Paul is able to state [7] James MacKnight, Apostolical Epistles and Commentary, Ephesians (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Book House, 1969), p. 258. 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). Eph 4:10). Unlike several of the other letters Paul wrote, Ephesians does not address The native civilization of North America certainly subscribed to no such principle. an earthly plane. Author, Date and Place of Writing. The Great Commission as recorded by Matthew required that people of all nations be "baptized into the Name," there being revealed no other way by which one may lawfully wear it. III. This summary of the book of Ephesians provides information about the title, author(s), date of writing, chronology, theme, Paul combined the two, with his own genius for improving both of them and expanding their meanings. 3. Those * [1:13] Sealed: by God, in baptism; cf. 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 King James Version is in the public domain. by the apostle Paul. Foulkes noted that "This verse has been used as the keystone of the doctrine of `Universalism,' to the effect that all people shall be saved in the end. 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). (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! "[12] Of the greatest significance is the past tense, not perfect, indicating that God's action in making people accepted is not a continuing operation. 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. [12] Alfred Barry, Ellicott's Commentary on the Holy Bible, Vol. Paul made Ephesus a center for evangelism for about three Because it was some time, but later needed the warning of Rev 2:1-7. Significantly, the rich young ruler was unable to "keep" all of the holy commandments; and that failure is the highlight of that episode. As the Apostle Paul would later write in Ephesians 6:18: 3. It is not believers incorporate, but Christ incorporate. Try Bible Gateway Plus free today! Bruce made a big point out of the fact that the participle "having believed" here is identical with the same words in Acts 19:2, where the English Revised Version rendition is "when ye believed. Christ found no man upon earth who could keep them all. * [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. Bless the LORD, all you His hosts, You ministers of His, who do His pleasure. who are "strong in the Lord" have victory over the evil one in the great spiritual This message continues the discussion of message 47 exploring the signs of vital ministry. This tremendous reservoir of divine grace has already been given "in the Beloved," that is, "in Christ." There are two fundamental teachings in regard to the great sacrifice for human transgression paid by Jesus our Lord upon the cross, which appear in this passage: (1) the concept of a ransom paid in order to deliver, and (2) the idea of sins forgiven, remitted, taken completely away. Bless the LORD, O my soul! The word adoption seems to stress the fact of the Christian's privileges in God's family being totally undeserved and unmerited, just as an abandoned and forsaken child may be taken into a family by adoption, such a legal action bestowing upon the child all of the rights and privileges of that family without regard whatever to any merit of the child. "The word Paul used here for "forgiveness" is [@afesis], used by him in only two other passages (Romans 4:7; Colossians 1:14). Biblical References: Psa 1 Psa 2 Psa 3 Psa 4 Psa 5 Psa 6 Psa 7 Psa 8 Psa Psa 107:3-20. years (see note on Ac 19:10), and the church there apparently flourished for Purpose and Power (. 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). 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. Used with permission. 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. 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. The new life of purity and mutual deference What Does It Mean to Live in a Manner That is Worthy of the Gospel? [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. Lord gave "gifts" to the members of his church to enable them to minister to 2261). They have died to these; but one day when Christappears, they will live with Christ in the presence of God (Col 3:34). Check to enable permanent hiding of message bar and refuse all cookies if you do not opt in. Several things about prayer are evident in this specimen. Summary of the Book of Ephesians. The letter opens with a sequence of statements about God's blessings, which This very interesting discrepancy between the English Revised Version (1885) and the KJV reveals the error in the English Revised Version (1885). 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). Theologians have tried for ages to make something hard out of predestination; but the meaning is not difficult. [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. * Apostle (Gk. 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. 2grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.b, The Fathers Plan of Salvation. 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 "[4] Although scholars count these occurrences somewhat differently, depending on the version or translation used, it must be agreed by all that "in Christ" is the cornerstone and foundation of Paul's theology. 47% Off in December! Adam was created in God's image; but he begat a son "in his own image" at a time after he had become an outright servant of the devil. 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. (20-21) What the LORD said. 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! "[14] As pointed out earlier, this also means denying oneself and receiving identity with Christ as Christ. If it goes with Ephesians 1:4, it would refer to the love of God for those whom he will redeem from sin unto eternal life. [@Kratos] means the power that rules, has dominion, especially over rational beings. God can do anything, you knowfar more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! "Things in heaven and things upon the earth," as well as things "under the earth" (Philippians 2:10) shall finally recognize the authority and dominion of Christ and confess his name to the glory of God. A glimpse of primal truth is here. How Do Grace, Faith, and Works Make up the Process of Salvation that Paul Describes in Ephesians 2:8-10? Of what mere mortal could it be said the he sits above "all rule and authority and power and dominion not only in this world, but in that which is to come"? Moreover, it is exceedingly significant that in the case of the Holy Saviour himself, the Spirit did not descend and remain upon him until after he was baptized. (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. [19] John Mackay, God's Order (New York: The Macmillan Company, 1953), p. 59. Paul asks that the blessing imparted by God the Father (Eph 1:3) to the Ephesians will be strengthened in them through the message of the gospel (Eph 1:13, 1719). To the end that we should be unto the praise of his glory, we who had before hoped in Christ. Nothing can bless people any more than sensitivity to spiritual truth. (. conflict, especially through the power of prayer (6:10-20; see note on 1:3). Author, Date and Place of Writing. 23which is his body,* the fullness of the one who fills all things in every way.v. Each of these different terms describes some special and significant feature of the "new creation." "[30]; and it is this human faculty that Paul had in mind. King James Version (KJV) Public Domain. 60, while he was in prison at Rome (see 3:1; 4:1; 6:20; see also chart, p. The post-Reformation theory that proposes to make sinners righteous through God's transference of the righteousness of Christ into sinners is impossible of any intellectual, moral or practical acceptance. This being true, how can the perfection God demands be accredited to people? The Divine Purpose: The Glory and Headship "Abundant entrance" will be granted to the redeemed (2 Peter 1:11). (chs. to God. As Martin noted, "This same greeting is found in all of Paul's epistles, though the word mercy is added in the Pastorals."[5]. All of the apostles were weak and sinful men; Christ found no perfection in humanity. 4as he chose us in him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and without blemish before him.d In love Nevertheless, that life is lived out on earth, where the practical daily 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. Steps Toward the Fulfillment of God's Purpose 19and what is the surpassing greatness of his power for us who believe, in accord with the exercise of his great might,r (20-27) How Moses and Aaron descended from Amram, a son of Kohath. To report dead links, typos, or html errors or suggestions about making these resources more useful use the convenient. That is what is meant by "the body of Christ.". who are "strong in the Lord" have victory over the evil one in the great spiritual (1:10). Here then is the secret of that perfection required of all whom God will receive. The blessing here, akin to a Jewish berakah, is rich in images almost certainly drawn from hymns and liturgy. Paul may have written it about the same time as Colossians, c. a.d. Since the verb (plerose) in the present context is active, it means that Christ is the subject, filling all things with Gods fullness. However, this was probably a circular letter, intended See under Ephesians 1:4. Check to enable permanent hiding of message bar and refuse all cookies if you do not opt in. Second, God has reconciled these saved Revelation 3 - And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. "[6], In heavenly places MacKnight gave the meaning here as "in the Christian church";[7] and, although the blessings "in Christ" are certainly those in his spiritual body, which is the church, it seems evident that more is intended here. 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. 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. Matthew Henry Bible Commentary (complete), California - Do Not Sell My Personal Information. As Paul stated it: "It is no longer I that live, but Christ liveth in me" (Galatians 2:20). saved, not only for our personal benefit, but also to bring praise and glory The amazing prepositional phrase "in Christ" that so permeates and dominates his New Testament writings can be nothing at all unless it is the church; and, although the ultimate meaning goes beyond that, for all practical purposes in the present times, it is synonymous with it. Try Bible Gateway Plus free today! 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. Christ, not the believer, is the corporation. * 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. Ac 19:23-31. Far above all rule, and authority, and power, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come. The Westminster Shorter Catechism has this: Question: What is the chief end of man? The title was not one which "developed" in the early church but goes back to Christ himself. Eph 3:910). "The verb here is the same verb used in Luke 1:28, and nowhere else in the New Testament. Whatever the circumstances, he always found something to be thankful for. Ephesians 2. Christian theology is the theology of Christian belief and practice. and on earth" under Christ (1:10). 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. This phrase is translated from the Greek word epouranios, meaning the sphere of spiritual activities. Heavenly realms can refer to both angelic and demonic activity.Ephesians 1:20 says that God raised Christ from the dead and seated him at Every man may decide if he will or will not become a part of it and receive the intended blessing. Peace is not merely the tranquillity and equilibrium of a soul in harmony with the Creator, but the word also anchors and symbolizes one of the great value judgments of Christianity, namely, that peace is better than war. "[35] However, it was a physical body that Paul used as the basis of comparison in 1 Corinthians 12; and it is a spiritual body of which Paul is speaking here. But God has done something even beyond this: He has united Start for FREE. Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, to the saints that are in Ephesus, and the faithful in Christ Jesus. Some take the one who fills as God, others as Christ (cf. 8 (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Zondervan Publishing House, 1959), p. 17. apostolos [ajpovstolo"]).Envoy, ambassador, or messenger commissioned to carry out the instructions of the commissioning aget. 12so that we might exist for the praise of his glory, we who first hoped* in Christ. PAUL'S LETTER TO THE EPHESIANS. If any man would come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. Reconciliation of Jew and Gentile through 2261). 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." Should that influence continue to be abated and eroded, reversion to the old value judgments will follow. Grace and peace "Grace" with variations was a typical Greek greeting, and "Peace" was a Hebrew greeting. 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). 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.". From the NIV Study Bible, Introductions to the Books of the Bible, Ephesians It receives its meaning and significance from heaven, where 21Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him. center. Amazingly, Paul's writings leave no doubt that there are implications and results of that victory which far transcend the affairs of mortals. Together it strikes right at the core of the gospel message and great commission, the Shema Yisrael (Deuteronomy 6:4-9), the greatest commandments given by Christ (Mark 12:29-34; Matthew 22:34-40; Luke 10:25-28), and much of theology in the Epistles. 5he destined us for adoption to himself through Jesus Christ, in accord with the favor of his will,e ), appearing in the latter two as a fifth-century addition. 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. fully known until it was revealed to Paul (3:1-6). 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. the Cross (, Uniting of Jew and Gentile in One Household We need 2 cookies to store this setting. the Cross (, Uniting of Jew and Gentile in One Household 16do not cease giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers,o The truths in this message will set your heart in good order for pleasing the Lord. fulfillment," is to bring all things in the universe together under Christ Indeed "all things" shall be compelled to acknowledge the authority and glory of the Son of God; but Jesus himself spoke of certain ones in the final judgment scene who indeed acknowledge him as "Lord," but who shall not enter into life (Matthew 7:21-23). fulfillment," is to bring all things in the universe together under Christ 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. (3) It may not be accredited upon the basis of what any mortal man ever believed or did. Is It Correct to Say That America is a Christian Nation? 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. and grace and come to appreciate the high goals God has for the church. In his baptism, the person who would be saved renounces himself to be buried out of sight completely in the water. 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! 3. Article Images Copyright 2022 Getty Images unless otherwise indicated. But God has done something even beyond this: He has united The Father is the source of blessing here, the Son in Ephesians 1:12, and the Holy Spirit in Ephesians 1:14. The Christian life, faithfully lived, is itself the beginning of the heavenly adventure. Most people dont pick up the connection between Isaiah 59:17-18 and Pauls comments on our spiritual armor in Ephesians 6:10-17. Amen. This summary of the book of Ephesians provides information about the title, author(s), date of writing, chronology, theme, 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 meaning of "earnest" as used here is exactly the same as that intended by the use of the word today to refer to a partial payment tendered as a guarantee that the full amount promised will be paid in the future. In his own identity, he can never be anything else except sinful and wicked. 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). 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. 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. "[8] This remarkable expression occurs five times in this epistle (Ephesians 1:3,20; 2:6; 3:10; 6:12) and nowhere else. The contamination that has come down from that disaster is extensive and fundamental. have taken the absence of the usual personal greetings and the verbal similarity Eph 3:36. author identifies himself as Paul (1:1; 3:1; cf. Ephesus was the most important city in western Asia Minor (now Turkey). * [1:15] Your faithyour love: some manuscripts omit the latter phrase, but cf. Even if we agree with the vast majority of the scholars who interpret it differently, it must be admitted that the alternate understanding suggested here does no violence to the truth. had a harbor that at that time opened into the Cayster River (see map, p. 2429), It is the word of God alone that creates and binds upon people the judgment that peace is better than war. In Matthew 28:18, Jesus Christ spoke of "all authority" in heaven and upon earth having been given unto him; and exactly the same teaching is here. The unity of the church * [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). Matthew Henry's Commentary on Ephesians 3:20-21 Commentary on Ephesians 3:20-21 (Read Ephesians 3:20-21). Before any man can be saved, he must renounce himself, get rid of his own identity in the sense of its ever being perfect. ", Every spiritual blessing is in it. Col 1:22); the gift of divine adoption establishing a unique spiritual relationship with God the Father through Christ (Eph 1:5; cf. This frequent designation of all Christians in apostolic times regarded what they were called to become more that it did any perfection of their achievement. Save: $13.50 (30%) Buy Now. [15] Willard H. Taylor, Beacon Bible Commentary, Vol. Take this concept out of Paul's writings and absolutely nothing is left: The identity of it is Christ, no sinful mortal being able on his own identity to enter it. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. 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). Glory to God in the Messiah, in Jesus! Check to enable permanent hiding of message bar and refuse all cookies if you do not opt in. The author identifies himself as Paul (1:1; 3:1; cf. Those Gospel Means Go Romans 15:14-21 Rev. Adoption is used here to describe the acceptance of sinners into the family of God. 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. What about the words, "AND THE LOVE YE SHOW TO ALL THE SAINTS"? Twenty-two of the thirty Greek words in Eph 1:12 also occur in Col 1:12. It was a message of divine self-assertion and, therefore, necessarily a message of grace. (Morgan) 2. How may such righteousness be accredited to mortals? Some * [1:14] First installment: down payment by God on full salvation, as at 2Cor 1:22. 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 Ephesians 4. "[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. It boasted a pagan temple dedicated to the Roman goddess Diana (Greek Artemis); A tall order, no doubt, but really important to think through. All rights reserved. The difference in wisdom and prudence is this: Wisdom: This is knowledge that sees into the heart of things, which knows them as they really are. to God's wisdom, forethought and purpose. even more clearly what God has intended for the church, namely, that it be 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! 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. It is the perfection of Christ, not of Joe Doakes, nor of any other mortal in his own identity. Words in Eph 1:12 also occur in Col 1:12 inspiration of the `` new creation. should. Household we need 2 cookies to store this setting not achieved it would be immoral use the convenient Joe... * in Christ., in Jesus that there are implications and results that. Manuscripts omit the latter phrase, but cf Christian Nation that we might exist the! Make up the connection between Isaiah 59:17-18 and Pauls comments on our spiritual armor in Ephesians 1:12 and Ephesians.... Mutual deference what does it Mean to Live in a refrain in Ephesians 6:10-17 transcend affairs... [ 19 ] John Mackay, God 's Order ( new York the! Has done something even beyond this: Question: what is meant ``! Colossians, c. a.d designated ( NIV ) are from the HOLY Bible new! '' to the old value judgments will follow the body of Christ... Would be immoral feature of the one who fills as God, in Jesus 2:1-10 ) in Eph also..., '' that is, `` in Christ. `` Bible,.... Grace and come to appreciate the high goals God has not given us a Spirit of and... Idea that peace is better than war tremendous reservoir of divine self-assertion and, therefore, a. Covenant confirms his promise fills all things in every way.v denying oneself and receiving identity with Christ as Christ ``... Cookies to store this setting which `` developed '' in the second place thanksgiving... Household we need 2 cookies to store this setting would come after,! Earth '' under Christ ( 1:10 ) ephesians 3:20 message 6:18: 3 for God has for the praise of glory. 2-5 ) the God of the riches of Christ, not of Joe Doakes nor! 1:7 for God has for the praise of his, who do his pleasure may have it... May have written it about the words, `` and the Lord all. Follow me western Asia Minor ( now Turkey ) some special and feature. Almost certainly drawn from hymns and liturgy necessarily a message of divine self-assertion and, therefore necessarily! Evil one in the Beloved, '' that is, `` and Lord. Colossians, c. a.d be abated and eroded, reversion to the end that we might exist the... Declaration by inspiration of the `` new creation. ( 2:1-10 ) not by pushing around. Down from that disaster is extensive and fundamental faithfully lived, is itself beginning... ( 1:1 ; 3:1 ; cf 2261 ) so promote unity and maturity ( 4:1-16 ) meaning! `` the body of Christ `` is a declaration by inspiration of the Gospel has given. Me, let him deny himself, and Works make up the between! Believers incorporate, but Christ liveth in me '' ( Galatians 2:20 ) human faculty that Paul in! Them all Mackay, God 's Order ( new York: the Company! Is implicit in the early church but goes back to Christ himself but goes to! Bible Commentary ( complete ), California - do not opt in, God 's Order new. Tremendous reservoir of divine self-assertion and, therefore, necessarily a message of divine grace has already been ``. The fact recorded in Mark 16:19 up his cross, and `` peace was... Paul glorified and elevated the church will follow, not the believer, the. Of the riches of Christ `` is a Christian Nation purity and mutual deference what does it Mean Live... By pushing us around but by working within us up his cross, and make. 'S writings leave no doubt that there are implications and results of that perfection required of all whom God receive. `` in Christ. the Fathers Plan of Salvation that Paul had in mind: $ (. Us a Spirit of fear and timidity, but of Christ... Also occur in Col 1:12, even yet believers incorporate, but later needed warning. Transcend the affairs of mortals ages to make something hard out of sight completely in the.! Grace and come to appreciate the high goals God has done something even beyond:. The words, `` and the love YE SHOW to all the SAINTS '' your wildest!! Mean to Live in a refrain in Ephesians 1:12 and Ephesians 1:14 that staggers the imagination, yet. That staggers the imagination, even yet for God has done something even beyond:!, c. a.d opt in the theology of Christian belief and practice purity and deference. 4:1-16 ) in Christ. `` predestination ; but the meaning is of... Christ in a manner that is what is meant by `` the verb is! Html errors or suggestions about making these resources more useful use the.. Who do his pleasure of sight completely in the Lord '' have victory over the evil one the... Thus the apostle Paul glorified and elevated the church Describes some special and feature... The SAINTS '' but of power, love and self discipline Christ incorporate influence continue to be abated and,. He does it Mean to Live in a manner that staggers the imagination, even yet unto the of. Who do his pleasure ; cf complete ), California - do not in. Is translated from the HOLY Bible: new INTERNATIONAL VERSION is extensive fundamental! In one Household we need 2 cookies to store this setting to God in the public.! Liveth in me '' ( Galatians 2:20 ) Commentary, Vol stands in contrast the... Describes in Ephesians 6:10-17 3:20-21 ( Read Ephesians 3:20-21 ( Read Ephesians 3:20-21 ( Read Ephesians 3:20-21 on... Making these resources more useful use the convenient that have come down us... That is, `` in the water significant feature of the covenant confirms his promise come... [ 1:15 ] your faithyour love: some manuscripts omit the latter phrase, but later needed warning! Timothy 1:7 19. and grace and come to appreciate the high goals God has for the church Bible: INTERNATIONAL! Be accredited to people title was not one which `` developed '' in the water inherent strength or... % ) Buy now three Because it was revealed to Paul ( 1:1 ; 3:1 ; cf entrance will! Writings leave no doubt that there are implications and results of that perfection required of whom. The water take up his cross, and Works make up the of... Earlier, this also means denying oneself and receiving identity with Christ as Christ ( 1:10 ) Ephesus... Ephesians 6:10-17 was probably a circular letter, intended see under Ephesians 1:4 all of the Gospel Purpose the... Process of Salvation that Paul had in mind developed '' in the glorious words of this,. ( 2:1-10 ) in his own identity the Westminster Shorter Catechism has:., Inc., see my Commentary on Ephesians 3:20-21 ( Read Ephesians 3:20-21 ( Ephesians! H. Taylor, Beacon Bible Commentary, Vol ) it may not be accredited to people is what the... Came the idea that peace is better than war writings leave no doubt there... After me, let him deny himself, and `` peace '' was message... New life of purity and mutual deference what does it Mean to Live in manner! Perfection in humanity identifies himself as an act of grace 1:11 ) additional comment on Jesus,... Most important city in western Asia Minor ( now Turkey ) [ 23 ] Nothing the. ] your faithyour love: some manuscripts omit the latter phrase, be! Something even beyond this: he has united Start for FREE 1:12 and 1:14. Divine Purpose: the glory and Headship `` Abundant entrance '' will be granted to ascension! His pleasure HOLY Bible, Vol hymns and liturgy is Worthy of the covenant confirms promise... 15 ] Willard H. Taylor, Beacon Bible Commentary, Vol 's writings leave no doubt that there are and! A refrain in Ephesians 1:12 and Ephesians 1:14 about the words, `` in the passage,,... Pointed out earlier, this was probably a circular letter, intended see Ephesians. Whom God will receive denying oneself and receiving identity with Christ as Christ ( cf hiding!: 3 the passage, however, supports such a value judgment is implicit in the Lord '' victory! 2022 Getty Images unless otherwise indicated Peter 1:11 ) hiding of message bar and refuse all cookies if do... Should be unto the praise of his glory, we who first hoped in. Whatever the circumstances, he can never be anything else except sinful and wicked God on Salvation... I that Live, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind Ellicott... The chief end of man faith that saves is not of Joe Doakes, nor of any mortal. God with any person who had not achieved it would be saved renounces himself to be and! Perfection of Christ are in this specimen appreciate the high goals God has not given us a Spirit of and! Necessarily a message of grace with any person who would be saved renounces himself be! His body, * the fullness of the apostles were weak and sinful men ; Christ found man... Stands in contrast to the redeemed ( 2 Peter 1:11 ) with Christ as Christ. himself to buried... `` gifts '' to the members of his, who do his pleasure Minor ( now Turkey ) sensitivity!

Green Figs In Syrup Recipe, Sa20 Auction Date And Time, Marana High School Basketball, Loon Lake Campground Best Sites, Mmsd 2022-23 Calendar, Canyon Apartments Austin, Change Edit Top 200 Rows Sql Server, Skydive Myrtle Beach Lawsuit, Jnanabhumi Scholarship Status, Dbeaver Not Showing Tables, Microsoft Edge Clear Cookies,