Before we close out this overview of Ephesians, read the letter again in its entirety. As you read it again, think about purpose. Why do you think Paul wrote it? What was he wanting to communicate? If you had to identify one or two themes, what would they be? After you read, then come back.
I see this letter breaking into 3 sections.
The first is chapters 1 - 3. It is so full of language about spiritual riches and blessings that are found in Christ. It speaks eloquently of the position that Gentiles, as well as Jews, can have with the God of heaven. It references the amazing grace of God. It contains beautiful praise sentences - ones that you and I can claim from Paul and use ourselves as we worship God. It contains 2 of the most splendid prayers in all of scripture. They are 1:15 - 23 and 3: 14 - 21. These prayers also provide us with words to use when we pray for those who are dear to us. I have used them for my own words so many times! This first section is all about POSITION - where you SIT.
The second section to me is 4:1 - 6:9. This section is cram-packed with specific instructions. It is here that you find guidance on how to live life as a believer - how to treat people if you wear the name of Christ. It is intensely practical. And my guess is that we will sting a little when we begin to examine these phrases one by one! We can easily see our own humanity and flesh in the things that Paul tells us to "get rid of". But, thankfully, he continues by telling us what to put in the gap, what to fill ourselves with so that there is no void left. Remember, vacuums will be filled! So we must be intentional in deciding with what to fill the void. Paul is quite clear!
Section 2 is all about PURPOSE - how we WALK as disciples. You have heard often the phrase "If you are going to talk the talk, then you best walk the walk". Section 2 of this letter is about walking in ways that are congruent with our "talk".
The final section of this letter is about how to stand firm, 6:10 - 24. What is it that will allow us to stand firm, not to vaccilate and be bounced around like a pool ball as it careens from side to side, responding only to the things that it hits? I want to be more steadfast than that. Jesus tells a story about two men who both built houses. (Matthew 7: 24 - 27) One built on sand - it shifts, it moves. Things like hurricanes come and it falls down. Many of us Texas coast folks can relate! It cannot stand firm. And then one man built on rock. It was solid, strong. So when the hurricane blew around that structure, it held. That's where I want to be! You? This last section is all about my SECURITY, how to STAND.
Our overview is finished. In our next lesson, we will begin a more careful examination of Ephesians, Chapter 1. What a splendid little letter this is ... and how I look forward to exploring it with you.
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