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.

Keep The Faith,
Barton