Sunday, June 23, 2013

Ephesians (Bible in 90 Days)

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One of the largest churches that Paul founded on his missionary journeys is the church at Ephesus. He established it on his way home to Jerusalem from his second trip. A year later, marking the end of his third missionary trip, he stayed there three years preaching and teaching. When he was ready to move on he sent Timothy to serve as their leader.

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Paul wrote this letter to the Ephesians while he was a prisoner in Rome a few years after his departure from them. He was not writing to correct, he wanted to encourage the church. He aimed to strengthen their Christian faith by explaining the nature and purpose of the church, which is the body of Christ.

“For there is one body and one spirit, just as you have been called to one glorious hope for the future. There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father, who is over all and in all and living through all.” Ephesians 4:4-6

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Paul talks of how believers are marked by the Holy Spirit and that we have that power within us. Paul challenges believers to maintain a close relationship with Christ. He also speaks of spiritual gifts, high moral standards and submission and love within the family.

He also reminds believers of spiritual warfare against Satan, which we cannot physically see. He describes a set of spiritual armor to protect us. There is the belt of truth, the body armor of righteousness, the shoes of peace from the Good News, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation and the sword which is the Word of God.
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“For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against might powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:12
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