Ephesians

Introduction

Picture a wide, paved road with columns along either side. This road extends from the center of the city of Ephesus to the harbor on the clear blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The harbor is bustling with activity. Because the city is also located on a major east-west highway, it is a center of commerce. Beyond the city lies the Coressus Mountain range, and through it runs the Cayster River. Ephesus is proud of its library, its theatre, its market place, and its public baths. But what sets this city apart from other like it is the temple to the Roman goddess Diana (Greek, Artemis). The Apostle Paul worked in this setting for about three years.

The choice of Ephesus as a new church plant was a wise one because of the trade route and the city’s importance as the capital of the Roman province of Asia. Many people traveled through the city, and many heard Paul’s message. A string of six other cities lay in a circle nearby, so letters that Paul later wrote to a church established in one city would be circulated through the rest f the churches, as well.

Paul’s letter was composed after he had bee placed under house arrest in Rome, while awaiting trial. He lived in a house and was free to accept visitors and to correspond with people, but he was probably chained to a guard at all times. The letters to the Ephesians, Colossians, and to Philemon were composed during this two-year period, probably sometime between A.D. 60 and 64. Unlike some of his other letters, this one was not written because of a problem in the church. Rather, Paul describes what God has in mind for the church by explaining its history. Once his readers understood God S design for the church, they would more likely be interested in the implications for their personal lives.

We trust this study will help us grow in our daily walk with the Lord and learn what God has in mind for the church and our lives.

Lesson 1 God Chooses His People

Respond to the following questions after reading Ephesians, chapter 1. Answers in italics are from the leader guide and the Thursday morning Coffee Break Bible Study group.

1) Ephesians 1:1-2

a) How does Paul describe himself? His readers? Paul, an apostle of Christ – by the will of God. The work “apostle” conveys the authority of God. His readers are described as faithful in Christ – a description Paul uses nine times for the Ephesians in this book and 155 more times in his other writings.

b) What does Paul ask God to give his readers? Grace and Peace, which were common greetings in Paul’s time. As we study this book we will find that grace is another rich spiritual concept for Paul.

2) Ephesians 1:3-6

a) Why did Paul praise God? For our Spiritual blessing in Christ that God has given us.

b) When had the Father chosen some people to be holy and blameless? Before the foundation of the world.

c) What relationship do God’s chosen have with God the Father and with Jesus Christ? Adopted sons of God. Jesus is our brother and advocate.

3) Ephesians 1:7-10

a) What had Paul’s readers received because of Jesus? Redemption through Christ’s blood. Forgiveness for our trespasses (sins) through God’s grace.

b) What had God made known? When would this plan be put into effect? The mystery of His will. When Christ returns.

c) Under whose leadership would all things be brought together? Jesus

4) Ephesians 1:11-14

a) Does God’s choosing seem to be random or purposeful? Purposeful (according to His purpose). He has plans for each of us. We have free will to follow His plans or ours. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28

b) Who were the first to hope in Christ? Jews

c) How would someone be included in God’s family? By hearing the gospel, the Word of truth, and believe it.

d) What happens to those who believe? We are sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, given an inheritance of redemption. In Paul’s time, as is now the case, seals were used on some documents to show their authenticity.

e) How does the Holy Spirit act as a down payment? The Holy Spirit serves as a portion of what we will inherit with Christ returns and assists us until Christ returns.

5) Ephesians 1:15-17

a) Why did Paul continually give thanks for the Ephesian believers? Their faith and love for all the saints. .

b) For what was Paul praying? “Spirit” of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him. Strive to know God better.

6) Ephesians 1:18-23

a) For what enlightenment was Paul also praying? So they would know what is the hope of His calling, the riches of our inheritance in the saints, God’s greatness and power.

b) How is God’s power described? Surpassing greatness. Far above all rule and authority and power and dominion and every name that is named. Divine power far surpasses any power we can imagine. Paul is saying that this same power that raised Christ form the dead is accessible to believers.

c) Where is Christ now? Seated at God’s right hand in the heavenly realms. "Heavenly realms" is a phrase used frequently in Ephesians to describe all that is associated with the spiritual world, but not separate from the physical world.

Questions for reflection

a) What might the Ephesians have learned about Jesus Christ? What have you learned about Jesus from this chapter? About Jesus’ relationship with God. Our relationship with Him.

b) What might the Ephesians learned about themselves? What have you learned about yourself? We have an inheritance (son’s of God) and a calling (sealed, purposeful plan).

c) How do you think the Ephesians felt after hearing the first part of Paul’s letter? How do you feel? Blessed, inspired, edified. Reaffirmed in our beliefs.