Christ’s Supremacy (Ephesians 1:19b-23)
In his inspired letter to the Ephesians the Apostle Paul had prayed that they would know God’s power for those who believe. In verses 19 through 23 of chapter one he continues by saying, “according to that working of the strength of his might which he worked in Christ, when he raised him from the […]
Paul’s Thanksgiving and Prayer for the Ephesians (Ephesians 1:15-19a)
In his inspired letter to the Ephesians the Apostle Paul is writing from the perspective of a Jew – one of God’s chosen people. He is writing, however, to non-Jewish people and he wants them to understand the magnitude of what God has done for them through Christ. From that perspective, when Paul thinks about […]
An Inheritance (Ephesians 1:11-14)
At the beginning of his inspired letter to the people of Ephesus, the Apostle Paul recounts many of the blessings which the followers of Christ enjoy. In verses 11 through 14 he continues by writing, “in whom also we were assigned an inheritance, having been foreordained according to the purpose of him who works all […]
Redemption and the Mystery of God’s Will (Ephesians 1:7-10)
The apostle Paul begins his inspired letter to the Ephesians by recounting some of the spiritual blessings that belong to those who follow Christ. In chapter 1, verses 7 through 10 he writes, “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he […]
Chosen, Predestined and Adopted (Ephesians 1:3-6)
If we received a letter from someone in prison, we might expect to read complaints about the harsh treatment they are experiencing or to read words of anger and bitterness. But in his inspired letter to the Ephesians the apostle Paul, after greeting those to whom he is writing, bursts forth in praise to God! […]
Introduction, Author, To Whom Written and Place of Writing (Ephesians 1:1-2)
At one time or another almost everyone asks the questions, “Why did God create the world? What is his purpose for mankind? Can we know God’s plan?” Since these questions are about God, who is infinite and eternal, the answer can only be given through a revelation from God. God has revealed his purpose and […]
Contentment (Philippians 4:10-23)
Some people have the idea that the world owes them a living. Instead of being grateful for what they have, or for what people do for them, they regard what they are given as merely receiving what is theirs by right. This attitude is in sharp contrast to that of the Apostle Paul. In chapter […]
Living in Harmony (Philippians 4:2-9)
One of the most difficult lessons in life can be how to get along with other people. We perceive things differently, we think differently, we have different ways of doing things. We think that we know best. Getting along with one another can be difficult even for the followers of Christ. In his inspired letter […]
Pressing on to the Goal (Philippians 3:10-4:1)
Most of us have desires which have not been met, but what is it that we want? Many want more things. They think that happiness depends on material possessions or wealth. But wealth does not satisfy. Solomon wrote, “ He who loves silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he who loves abundance, with […]
Righteousness (Philippians 3:1-9)
One of the most important questions a person faces is how to obtain salvation. If one were able to live a completely sinless life, the question would not arise. But Scripture is very clear that Jesus is the only one who was ever able to avoid sinning. All the rest of us do sin. How, […]