The
Book of Ephesians

The Book of Ephesians is a
in-depth study which uncovers new meaning, discoveries, and revelations as
the word of God constantly grows, giving us insight to more wisdom and
understanding. The Epistle to the Ephesians is one of the books of the bible
in the New Testament traditionally said to be written by Paul while he was in
prison in Rome around 63 A.D. This would be about the same time as the Epistle
to the Colossians. (which in many points it resembles) and the Epistle to
Philemon. More recently, however, biblical scholars have questioned the
authorship of the letter, and suggest a much later date for its origin.
Ephesians does not seem to have originated in any special circumstances, but is
simply a letter springing from the author's love to the church. It is an
indication of his desire that they should be fully instructed in Christian
doctrine. However, unlike Romans, which is an exposition by Paul of the gospel
of salvation, Ephesians unfolds the consequences of salvation, particularly in
relation to the church. This letter from Paul some say was sent to more churches
than one. Ephesians means (Permitted), as God permits many things, but never
plays favorites.
Ephesians 1
1Paul,
an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at
Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus: Paul
was a sent one by the will of God. Apostle means one sent forth. The saints are
the faithful ones
in Christ Jesus. (The ones who reverence Christ). Paul was writing to a specific few of
believers on a more advanced level of teaching. (Those with eyes to see and ears
to hear the truth).
2Grace
be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
This was a greeting from Paul to all those who love Christ.
3Blessed
be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all
spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: Praise God! The
Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every "spiritual" blessing in
heaven. Why? Because we belong to Christ. (Wherever Christ is are the heavenly
places).
4According
as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should
be holy and without blame before him in love: Those chosen before this world
age. Who were the chosen ones? Those who fought and stood against Satan in the first
world age. (God's elect). They were justified (validated), in the first earth
age, just as God chose Paul. (Romans 8:27-33, II Peter 3:15). If you are not
familiar with the three earth ages, read our study topic newsletter
titled "Three Earth Ages" in our topics page.
5Having
predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself,
according to the good pleasure of his will. His unchanging plan has
always been to adopt us into His own family by sending Jesus Christ to die for
us. "This is all according to God's will." God wants us all to be part of the
family that we call Christian.
6To
the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the
beloved. All the praise to God because He has accepted us into the family
of God because we belong to Christ.
7In
whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to
the riches of his grace. Because of His love, He has taken away all of
our sins through the blood of His own Son, by whom we are saved.
8Wherein
he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; God gives you insight
into deep things (which others may not understand), because He knows us and
gives us what we need, according to each ones ability to learn and understand.
(What He gives one might not be the same for another).
9Having
made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which
he hath purposed in himself. "The mystery."
He planned this long ago. This was the reason God sent Christ into the world.
Forasmuch
then as the children are
partakers of flesh and blood, he
also himself likewise took part
of the same; that through death
he might destroy him that had
the power of death, that is, the
devil. (Hebrews 2:14). Just as God's children are human
beings, Christ came in the flesh
like us humans so He could die
and break the power of the
devil, who had the power of
death. (Isaiah 25:8, Hosea
13:14, I Corinthians 15:54-55,
II Timothy 1:10).
10That
in the dispensation of the fullness of times he might gather together in one all
things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him.
When the time is right, He will gather us all together from wherever we
are in heaven or on earth, to be with Him in Christ forever. (The end time event
when Christ returns in the second advent).
11In
whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the
purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will.
All things happen just as God predestined it to happen. It is all part of God's
sovereign plan that we were chosen from the beginning.
12That
we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ.
Those in the first earth age who overcame and first trusted in Christ. They
remained faithful from the beginning. (Thos who knew they were in Christ from
the day they were born). "You either know it your you don't."
13In
whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your
salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy
Spirit of promise. Because of what Christ did, all those who heard the
Good News about how to be saved, and trusted Christ, were marked as belonging to
Christ by the Hole Spirit. It is the Holy Spirit that seals all those promises.
(The converted ones).
14Which
is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased
possession, unto the praise of his glory. His presence within us is God's
guarantee that He really will give us all that He promised. The Holy Spirit
seals the promise that God has already purchased us and that He guarantees to
bring us to Himself. This is just one more reason for us to praise the Heavenly
Father.
15Wherefore
I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the
saints. The Saints are the blessed ones. Their purpose is to reach the
unbelievers. (If your a believer, you are one of Gods saints). God makes the
saints who they are, not some man. Man has no authority to appoint saints!
16Cease
not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers.
Paul
constantly prayed for the brethren.
17That
the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the
spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: When you
acknowledge God through His Word, the wisdom of His truth will be opened to you.
"All wisdom comes from God."
18The
eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope
of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the
saints. Your heart will be flooded with light, even to see something of
the future He has called you to share. God has been made rich because we who are
in Christ have been given to Him. (We are spiritually rich when we have the
truth, God is spiritually rich when He has us).
19And
what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according
to the working of his mighty power. How incredibly great His power is to
help those who believe Him. The "working" of His mighty power. God works at our
salvation. You work in the Word to spread the truth of His salvation.
20Which
he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own
right hand in the heavenly places. He raised Christ from the dead and
seated Him in the place of honor at God's right hand in heaven. Again, Paul
mentions heavenly places. "This is one of those heavenly places."
21Far
above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that
is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:
God
alone is the ruler and is in control in this world and the world to come. Satan
has a good grip on this world today, but not for long. He time is near the end,
and everything will belong to Christ.
22And
hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things
to the church. God has put all things under His feet (Christ), and made
Him the supreme head of the church.
23Which
is his body, the fullness of him that filleth all in all. Church is not a
building. It is the people that make the many member body through Him, the
Author and giver of everything everywhere. (The true church is where truth is
taught; the true church is where Christ is present).
Ephesians 2
1And
you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins. Paul is
speaking of those who come
alive through Christ, who were once living under the very curse of sin and death.
2Wherein
in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the
prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of
disobedience: Following the crowds and were just like all the others,
full of sin and obeying Satan, the prince of the power of the air. He is at work
right now in the hearts of those who are against the Lord. Children here is
translated the sons of Satan, the Kenites, or sons of Cain. (Cain being the son
of Satan and the first murderer). This word "course" in the Greek Strong's G165
is "Aion, Eon" a time period, or since the world began. We have the children of
disobedience in the "first earth age" the one third who followed Satan. We
also have the children of disobedience with "the fallen angels." (Genesis 6:1-2). Read
our study topics "Three earth ages" and "The fallen angels" for a better
understanding. Remember, Satan's spirit is among us in this world and is
constantly at work recruiting new followers. Do not be deceived!
3Among
whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh,
fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the
children of wrath, even as others. Born into the flesh, our lives
expressing the evil within us, following the flesh and wicked thoughts of the
mind. You must let the good spirit take over and have control over the flesh.
(The good spirit is the Holy Spirit). We are always going to have a balance of
good and evil, one can't live without the other. But, we need to exercise the
good spirit to keep the bad spirit in check.
4But
God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us.
God
may not like what we are doing, but He loves us. You are His child.
5Even
when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye
are saved). Even though we were spiritually dead, He gave us back our
lives again when He raised Christ from the dead. Only by His undeserved favor
have we ever been saved. "By the grace of Christ."
6And
hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in
Christ Jesus. Has lifted us up from the grave into glory along with
Christ in heavenly places because of what Jesus did. Again, Paul mentions
"Heavenly Places," in which he mentions "five" times in Ephesians, and (5) means
grace.
7That
in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his
kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. God can point to us as examples
of His divine influence and gift of love to us. Christians are to be examples to
the world.
8For
by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift
of God: Grace is the source of faith. It has nothing to do with any man,
woman, self, or action.
9Not
of works, lest any man should boast. Salvation is not a reward for the
good we have done, so none of us can take any credit for it. Salvation is a gift
from God, and only God can bring you salvation.
10For
we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath
before ordained that we should walk in them. Chosen before in the first
world age, and it is God Himself who has made us what we are. He has given us
new lives through Jesus Christ, that we should spend these lives helping others.
Our works do not save us, but it is the only thing we can take with us when we
die. (Revelation 14:13). God loves good workers, especially those who bring
forth the truth in His Word.
11Wherefore
remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called
Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by
hands. Speaking of the Gentiles and Israel who both had unclean hearts.
Even though the Jews were going through all the ceremonies and rituals of the Godly.
Now we have the New Testament; "Now we have Christ."
12That
at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of
Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without
God in the world: In those days the gentiles were living apart from
Christ. We were like enemies of Gods children and He had promised us no help. We were lost,
without God, and without hope. Now the gentiles can find salvation as well as
all peoples. Paul found His salvation when he was the enemy of God's children.
He was struck down
and made blind on the road to Damascus. (Acts 9).
13But
now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of
Christ. Now you belong to Christ Jesus, though once far away from God,
now brought near to Him because of what Christ has done for us all with His
blood.
14For
he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of
partition between us. For Christ is our way of peace. There is no other
peace of mind. He has made peace between the Jews and the Gentiles by making us
all one family. Breaking down the wall of contempt that used to separate us.
"God wants all His children united."
15Having
abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in
ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace.
Christ broke that spiritual barrier. By His death He ended the angry resentment
caused by the Jewish laws contained in ordinances which favored the Jews and
excluded the Gentiles. He died to annul the whole system of Jewish laws
concerning ordinances. (In blood sacrifices, not the law). "The laws of God
still stand."
16And
that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the
enmity thereby: All parts of the same body in Christ. We are all one in
Christ but we are not all the same. That is why we have different races and
cultures. God created all the races on the sixth day (Genesis 1::26-28), and He loved them all.
17And
came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.
Christ brought the Good News to the Gentiles as well as the Jews, so everyone
could obtain salvation. (Revelation 21:24). Nations here is translated ethnos.
(#1484 Strong's Ethnos or Gentiles).
18For
through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.
Oneness in
the spirit. We may all come to God the Father with the Holy Spirits help. "One
God; One Spirit."
19Now
therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the
saints, and of the household of God; We are
all fellow citizens of God's Country through Christ who broke all barriers.
20And
are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself
being the chief corner stone. What is the foundation? The Prophets
are the Old Testament, the Apostles are the New Testament, and Christ is the
cornerstone for both. "Gods total Word in which Christianity was built upon."
21In
whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the
Lord: We who believe are carefully joined together with Christ as parts
of a beautiful, constantly growing temple of God. The many member body of
Christ, citizens of His Holy home.
22In
whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.
Joined with Him together by the Spirit as the many member body that makes up the
dwelling place of God. This is what makes Christianity a reality and not a
religion. God is alive within us in our everyday lives. Ask Him to make you part
of His everlasting Kingdom; follow the truth and His ways, and He will give you
eternal life.
Ephesians 3
1For
this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles. Paul
was
jailed for preaching to the gentiles, making them part of God's house. We
will see that God has removed the barriers between the Jews and the Gentiles.
2If
ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to
you-ward. This special work of showing God's favor to the gentiles was
commissioned by God to Paul.
3How
that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; as I wrote afore in few
words. The mystery made known here was to teach the gentiles about God's plan of salvation.
4Whereby,
when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ.
Study the Word and God will open up all mysteries of the bible.
5Which
in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed
unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit. Not all were meant to
understand, but now God gives understanding through the Holy Spirit. Part of the
mystery was written in the old testament but the prophets didn't quite get the
mystery. And in that day there shall be a root of Jesse, which shall stand
for an ensign of the people; to it shall the Gentiles seek: and his rest shall
be glorious. (Isaiah 11:10). That day: In
the day of the Lord, there will be a banner of salvation to all the world.
"Christ being our banner of salvation."
6That
the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his
promise in Christ by the gospel. The mystery is that the gentiles
are also part of the church in God's family. The Gospel is open to the gentiles.
7Whereof
I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me
by the effectual working of his power. God has given me Paul, the
wonderful privilege of telling everyone about this plan of His, and has given me
His power and special ability to do it well.
8Unto
me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should
preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ.
Though I did
not deserve it and was the most useless Christian, I was chosen for this special
joy of telling the gentiles about the Good News.
9And
to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the
beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus
Christ. To explain to everyone that Christ is the savior of the gentiles
too, just as He who made all things had secretly planned from the very
beginning.
10To
the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might
be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God. To show all the rulers
in heaven how perfectly wise He is when all of His family Jews and Gentiles
alike are seen joined together in His church through Jesus Christ our Lord.
11According
to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
It was
His purpose from the beginning.
12In
whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him.
Through Christ we can approach God.
13Wherefore
I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.
Don't lose heart at what they do to me here. It is for you I am suffering and
you should feel honored and encouraged.
14For
this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
When
I think of the wisdom and scope of His plan I fall down on my knees and pray to
the Father.
15Of
whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named. The whole living
family of God.
16That
he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened
with might by his Spirit in the inner man. God will give you inner
strength through the Holy Spirit. Not the flesh body! The inner man, the real
you, your soul or self.
17That
Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in
love. Dwell in your mind through faith. If you have no faith; your
prayers will never be answered.
18May
be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and
depth, and height. Able to comprehend how great His love really is
towards us.
19And
to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled
with all the fulness of God. Come to know the true love of Christ, and
pass His knowledge to others. One will never forget a seed you planted when they
come to Christ.
20Now
unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think,
according to the power that worketh in us. His mighty power at work
within us is able to do far more than we can ever imagine.
21Unto
him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without
end. Amen. Eternal friendship because of His master plan of salvation for
the church through Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 4
1I
therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the
vocation wherewith ye are called. Act in a worthy way of those who have
been chosen for such blessings as these, and exercise what you have learned.
(Part of being a Christian).
2With
all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love.
Be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each
other's faults because of your love. (No one is perfect, so except others as
you would yourself).
3Endeavouring
to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Try always to be
led together by the Holy Spirit. When two or more people come together under the
Holy Spirit expect to get along with each other no matter who you are. "Love is that bond that ties."
4There
is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling.
We are all part of the same body and of one Spirit even though our individual
calling may be different. (Everyone's calling and talent should work together
for the better of the Christian community).
5One
Lord, one faith, one baptism. There is only one God; The truth and faith
in the one God. Only one baptism into the family of God. (You don't need to be re-baptized every time
you join a church).
6One
God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.
The same Heavenly Father created us all equal for His pleasure, not yours. (Revelation 4:11).
7But
unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of
Christ. Christ has given each of us special abilities, whatever special
gift He gives us to further His cause and the many member body of Christ.
Remember, we are here to search for the lost souls in our own special way.
8Wherefore
he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts
unto men. After Christ resurrected, He went to the captives who did not
have salvation. (I Peter 3:18-19, Psalm 68:18). God is always fair and everyone
who has lived since the beginning of time will have a chance for salvation.
9Now
that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower
parts of the earth? He freed those prisoners with the same salvation we
all have.
10He
that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he
might fill all things. To fulfill all things everywhere with Himself.
Christ is your advisor or spiritual lawyer. He represents you in everything you
do, "if you let Him." He is the only one you can truly trust.
11And
he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some
pastors and teachers. The sent forth ones, some are teachers, some are
seed planters, some for winning people to Christ, and some for caring for God's
people. Whatever your gift is, use it for the glory of God.
12For
the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of
the body of Christ. The calling to the ministry to build up the church
and body of Christ. To search out the lost souls and bring them the truth in the
word.
13Till
we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God,
unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.
Till we become fulfilled with Christ and believe alike about our salvation and
about our Savior; Jesus Christ. (To become a mature Christian in God's Word).
"Secure in the word."
14That
we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with
every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby
they lie in wait to deceive. Then we will not listen to those who try to
turn truth to a lie. False teachers and those who follow and teach traditions of
men. Once you know the truth; it will set you free from religion and the
teachings of this world.
15But
speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the
head, even Christ. Don't just speak the truth, feel the truth, live the truth.
Do your best to live like Christ; He is the living truth, and even though we
will never come close, He loves us for trying our best in this world of
confusion.
16From
whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every
joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every
part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.
When we exercise and eat well our physical body benefits. Christians working together with a healthy spiritual body;
the many member body of
Christ benefits.
17This
I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other
Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind. The unsaved who are blinded
and confused through the greed and vanity of the world. Don't follow those
caught up in worldly things.
18Having
the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the
ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart.
They
have closed hearts full of darkness; shut their minds to God because they do not
understand His ways. Just plain ignorant of the word and not willing to learn
the truth.
19Who
being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all
uncleanness with greediness. They don't care anymore about right or wrong
as long as they get ahead. Greedy and spiritually dead.
20But
ye have not so learned Christ. Never taught His Word. Well, they may have
been taught, but not the truth in His word.
21If
so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in
Jesus. If you have really heard His voice and learned truth from Him.
22That
ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt
according to the deceitful lusts. Then throw off your old evil nature and
let the inner man do your thinking and not the flesh man. Seek the inner spirit!
23And
be renewed in the spirit of your mind. Your attitude and thoughts should always
be
changing for the better.
24And
that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true
holiness. Become a new and different person in Christ. Holy in truth!
That is why the truth will set you free.
25Wherefore
putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members
one of another. Stop lying to each other; tell the truth, for we are
parts of each other in Christ. When we lie to each other, we not only hurt
ourselves, but God does not like it. (Zechariah 8:16-17).
26Be
ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath.
Don't let
the sun go down when you are still angry.
27Neither
give place to the devil. When you remain angry, you give a mighty
foothold to the devil. It leaves an opening for him to enter.
28Let
him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands
the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.
It
is better to be useful than useless. You don't need to scam and steal from
people to get ahead. Make an honest living and get a real job.
29Let
no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to
the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.
Try not
to use bad language or useless gossip, but rather say what is good and helpful
to those you are talking to. (Truth that will give them a blessing).
"There is to much trash talk and not enough God talk in this world today."
30And
grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of
redemption. Don't cause the Holy Spirit sorrow by the way you live. You
are marked with the "Seal of God" on that day of salvation. The choice is
yours; The "Seal of God," or the "Beast Mark."
31Let
all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put
away from you, with all malice. Stop being mean, bad tempered and angry.
Quarreling, harsh words, and dislike of others should have no place in your
lives when it comes to the many member body of Christ. (Don't let others get
under your skin).
32And
be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for
Christ's sake hath forgiven you. Be kind to one another and forgive one
another, just as God has forgiven you because you belong to Christ. "If you
cannot forgive; don't expect to be forgiven."
Ephesians 5
1Be
ye therefore followers of God, as dear children. We are to try to follow
God's example in everything we do. He sets the example for us to follow just as
a parent sets the example for a child.
2And
walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an
offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling savour.
Be full of
love for others and follow the example of Christ. He offered Himself for us so
that we may have a chance of salvation.
3But
fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named
among you, as becometh saints. Be careful of the sex sins. Stay away from perversion. Let no one be able to accuse you of such
detestable things. (Forget the political correctness and ways of the world).
4Neither
filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but
rather giving of thanks. Don't take part in unfitting or improper talk
and
dirty stories. Jesting here means not to talk about perverted filth and dirty
jokes. (It only makes you look like a ass).
5For
this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is
an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.
The Kingdom of God will never belong to anyone who is impure or greedy. The
greedy person is an idol worshiper; one who loves and worships the good things
of life more than God.
6Let
no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath
of God upon the children of disobedience. Vain here means empty words.
Don't be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, because a terrible wrath
of God is upon those who do them. We spoke of the children of disobedience in
(Ephesians 2:2).
7Be
not ye therefore partakers with them. Separate yourself from their ways.
This does not mean that you cannot be around sinners, just do not partake in
their ways. "Christ hung with sinners, the poor, and broken hearted." But, He
never wavered in His ways.
8For
ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children
of light. You were once full of darkness, but now full of light because
of the Lord. Your behavior around others should show your light. Just a little
light can light up a dark room and make it better. (A smile goes a long way).
9For
the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth.
Because of this light within, we should only do what is good, right and true.
Always test the fruit and be familiar with God's Word. Do your best to be an
example of a good Christian.
10Proving
what is acceptable unto the Lord. Learn what pleases the Lord. It is
written in His letter to you. Follow the Word.
11And
have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove
them. Take no part in worthless pleasures of evil (satanic things), but
rather rebuke and expose them. (Stay away from confusion).
12For
it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret.
To speak of the pleasures of darkness which the ungodly do. Do not spiritually
follow Satan as the children of disobedience. (Rebuke evil)!
13But
all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth
make manifest is light. When you expose them, the light shines in upon
their sin and shows up, and they will see how wrong they really are. Some may
even become children of light because of your example.
14Wherefore
he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall
give thee light. Speaking of those who are spiritually dead. They never quite get
into God's Word. A verse here and a verse there. You need to read and study
God's Word like a novel and in context. (Chapter by chapter verse by verse
to get the full meaning). Don't just believe what some man or woman tells you.
15See
then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise.
Be very
careful when planting seed and correcting others. Follow God's Word for
correction, not mans word.
16Redeeming
the time, because the days are evil. Make the most of every opportunity
you have for doing good. "Make time to know God's Word."
17Wherefore
be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.
Know
the will of the Lord by studying God's Word. God has a plan for us all to
fit in.
18And
be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit.
Everything in moderation. Try not to be excessive in anything you do. Even in
God's Word. Learn and share God's Word, but do not become a religious fanatic or
you will turn people off. God wants us to be fishers of men, so don't scare off
the fish. If you want to party, keep it in control. Again, moderation is the key
here.
19Speaking
to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody
in your heart to the Lord. Talk with each other about the Lord and be
joyful. God wants you to be happy. Sing and praise Him in your heart with songs
of joy. (I like amazing grace and battle hymn of the republic).
20Giving
thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord
Jesus Christ. Always give thanks to the Heavenly Father in Jesus Name.
Why? Because Christ is our mediator and our credentials to speak to the Heavenly Father.
21Submitting
yourselves one to another in the fear of God. To the reverence of God.
"The love of God."
22Wives,
submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.
A man that is in Christ. "A good man." Not some fool or abuser. If your husband
is a fool and you listen to him, "you are a bigger fool than he is."
23For
the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church:
and he is the saviour of the body. The husband should be
able to take care of his family "in all ways," and is the head of the house as
Christ is the head of the church. If he does not take care of his family, he is
worse than an infidel. (I Timothy 5:8). And don't fall for today's society (like
in the sitcoms and reality shows), that women should rule the household. "A man
that cannot take charge of his household is a wimp."
24Therefore
as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands
in every thing. Be in full commitment to each other.
25Husbands,
love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it.
Be that close to each other. "Be a husband that is willing
to give his life for his wife; just as Christ gave His life for the church."
26That
he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word.
Both should submit to the Word and the Word should be your guide.
27That
he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle,
or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
Without fault or blemish as the church should be.
28So
ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife
loveth himself. Love her as yourself, you are one flesh
now. This falls in the category of treat her like you would like to be treated.
(Treat her like a lady).
"Did you know that a "worthy wife" is her husband's joy and crown? God's glory is man made
in His image, and man's glory is the woman. (I Corinthians 11:7). But, an
"unworthy wife" corrodes his strength and tears down everything he does."
(Proverbs 12:4).
29For
no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as
the Lord the church. Man loves his own flesh. Love your wife just as
Christ loves the church.
30For
we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.
We are all
part of the many member body of Christ.
31For
this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his
wife, and they two shall be one flesh. Husband and wife are now one body
through marriage as the scriptures say. (Genesis 2:23-24).
32This
is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.
This
may be hard to understand, but is an illustration of the way we are all parts of
the same body of Christ. (The greatest gift God gives man is his wife).
33Nevertheless
let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the
wife see that she reverence her husband. Again, a man must love his wife
as a part of himself; and the wife should respect and love her husband. Treat
each other with full respect, love one another like you love yourself, be best
friends and lovers and your marriage will last a lifetime.
Ephesians 6
1Children,
obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Children are to obey
their parents; this is the right thing to do because God has placed them in
authority over you. You will have plenty of time to make your own decisions.
2Honour
thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise.
Honor
your father and mother. This is the first of God's ten commandments that end
with a promise.
3That
it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.
The
promise is that if you honor your parents, you will have a long life full of
blessings. "Disrespect your parents and expect a miserable life."
4And,
ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture
and admonition of the Lord. Parents, don't keep scolding and nagging your
children, making them angry and resentful. Rather bring them up with loving
discipline in the Lord. (Don't spoil them). Bring them up in God's Word with
Godly advice, and you will not have a problem. If you spoil them and bring them
up in the ways of the world never disciplining them, they will go astray and be
out of control as most of the children in today's world.
5Servants,
be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and
trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ. Be a slave to
Christ, and be the best you can be when it comes to serving others. "Christ
served others without any complaints."
6Not
with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will
of God from the heart. Don't work hard only when someone is looking and
then shrink when they are not looking. Don't be a slacker in the things you do,
or you will never get ahead. Work the best you can as you would for yourself.
7With
good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men. Serve them as
you would serve the Lord.
8Knowing
that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord,
whether he be bond or free. The Lord will reward you for each good thing
you do whether you are a slave or free. Do your best at whatever you do and you
are pleasing to God.
9And,
ye masters, do the same things unto them, forbearing threatening: knowing that
your Master also is in heaven; neither is there respect of persons with him.
Be fair to those you are in charge of and never threaten them. Remember that
your have the same master in heaven.
10Finally,
my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
Your
strength comes from the Lord's might. God is our strength to get things done.
God can change minds of people to make things happen. (Things that will benefit
you).
11Put
on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of
the devil. Put on all God's armor to stand against all strategies and
tricks of Satan. Remember it says to "stand against Satan." God will
take care of the rest. "You don't need to give into Satan's deception." (Tell
him to get behind you in Jesus name)!
12For
we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against
powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual
wickedness in high places. We are not fighting against people made of
flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers of the unseen world. Mighty satanic
beings and great evil princes of darkness who rule this world; and against huge
numbers of wicked spirits in the spirit world. (That is what makes people go
bad)!
13Wherefore
take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the
evil day, and having done all, to stand. The evil day when antichrist
appears on the scene in real life.
14Stand
therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the
breastplate of righteousness. Again we are to take a stand and be ready
with the full armor of God. (No need to run or fly away with false teachings).
15And
your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace.
Take the
shoes of the spirit to speed you on as you preach the Good News of peace with
God. (You need to know what you are up against when teaching God's word).
16Above
all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the
fiery darts of the wicked. In every battle you will need "faith" as your
shield to stop the fiery arrows aimed at you by Satan. You either believe or
not. You must have faith. (You can't fight Satan on your own).
17And
take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of
God. You will need the helmet of salvation and the sword of the spirit
(The two edged sword of Christ), which is the Word of God. "The Word cuts both
ways; it can build you up, or it can tear you down."
18Praying
always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto
with all perseverance and supplication for all saints. Pray for the
bricks to build your ministry, and follow God's will. "Pray for all the
saints of God."
19And
for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to
make known the mystery of the gospel. Pray for me also that God gives me
the right words as I boldly tell others about the mystery of the gospel. Paul
asking for prayer from others. Never be ashamed to ask others to pray for you
when needed, "the power of prayer works."
20For
which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought
to speak. I am in prison (Paul), but I can still teach God's Word. Stay
strong and don't give up. No matter what your conditions may be, you always
have God's word.
21But
that ye also may know my affairs, and how I do, Tychicus, a beloved brother and
faithful minister in the Lord, shall make known to you all things.
Tychicus (a faithful minister), will tell you about how I am getting along.
22Whom
I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that ye might know our affairs, and
that he might comfort your hearts. I am sending him to let you know how
we are. I can still handle it even if I am in prison. (God always takes care of
His own).
23Peace
be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus
Christ. May God give peace to you my Christian brothers and love. With
faith from God the Father and from Jesus Christ.
24Grace
be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen.
May
God's grace and blessings be upon all who sincerely love our Lord Jesus Christ.
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