the Book of Ephesians

5/24/10

Time Spent: 20 min

Main Idea: Man is separated from God because of sin and is only reunited with God through the free gift of grace provided by Jesus Christ; leading this new relationship to be characterized by the love of God with practical implications upon the believer's present relationships.

What I Learned about God: God is the initiator and giver of this free gift.

Summary: The Book of Ephesians written by Paul denotes the idea listed in the main idea; that it's about man's separation from God because of sin and his subsequent relationship with God if He receives God's free gift of salvation. Theologically, this is a very rich letter with some of the most compelling arguments for predestination, atonement, grace, etc. God is lifted up (as He should be) and this letter is characterized by His power, grace, and mercy. The latter half of the letter shares that now that we are one in God through Christ, we should be one with one another. During this time, Jews and Gentiles were far off from one another and Paul is exhorting them to find their unity to one another. Also, he expands that this new relationship with God has practical implications to relationships between man and woman, child and parents, slaves and masters and also how they live their life under God's rule with the armor of God.

Application: After giving it a brief read through I realize the magnitude of this letter is so weighty. The deep doctrines of God are hard to ponder and think about, but I am hoping and praying that these would become a reality to me. If I understand that grace was given to me, I would not think I am better than anyone else just because I'm a pastor. If I understood that I was elected even before I was formed, then I would not be someone who thinks that I earned my salvation because of my own goodness. I am praying that these truths are exemplified by the life that I live and seen.

Amount Owed: $13!!! WHAT THE HECK!