Themes of Ephesians: Chapter Three

Living with Purpose 

¹ For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles, ² If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward: ³ How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, ⁴ Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) ⁵ Which 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; ⁶ That the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:

• Paul recognized that the misfortunes of his life were for a purpose .
• The special relationship Paul had with the Gentiles was by the grace of God.
• The revelation came through the incident on the road to Damascus . (Acts 9.)
• The Bible speaks of several mysteries. One of the greatest mysteries is the inclusion of the Gentiles in the eternal plan of God. This seems like a moot point to us today, but to people raised in deep prejudice, it was enormous.

The Mystery of the Gentiles :

²⁵ For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in. (Romans 11:25)(Also Ephesians 1:9-10).

The Mystery of the Resurrection :

⁵¹ Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, ⁵² In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.

The Mystery of Godliness :

¹⁶ And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.

(Also, the mystery of iniquity, the mystery of the church, the mystery of Christ and the mysteries of Revelation.)

⁷ Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power. ⁸ Unto 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;

The ministry was not a career choice . It was not under Paul’s control. He reverenced his calling and acknowledged that it was the result of the grace and the power of God.

One of the most dangerous concepts you can adopt is that you are your own person. This is where spiritual freedom conflicts with political freedom.

• Political freedom says you are free to do or be anything you desire . Spiritual freedom says you are free to choose between right and wrong.
• Political freedom says you are your own boss . Spiritual freedom says you can decide between God and mammon.
• Political freedom means asserting yourself . Spiritual freedom means submitting yourself.

²⁴ Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. ²⁵ For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. Matthew 16:24.

Paul also illustrates humility in his submission to God. When he says that he was less than the least of all saints, he was not saying that he was not as capable as others, but that— because of his history of persecuting the church—he had no right to be who he was.

• Pride is not thinking you are better than others. That’s arrogance or conceit.
• Pride is the assumption of rights and privileges.
• Humility does not mean humiliation or to become a doormat .
• Humility is recognizing that you are a recipient of the grace of God.

⁶ But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. James 4:2.

⁹ And 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: ¹⁰ To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,

This is a profound overview of the entire drama of redemption . The salvation of the Jews and Gentiles was not an afterthought, but has been hidden in God since the beginning of the world. God intended for the church to

The church illustrates the abundant wisdom of God to the whole world. We are not secondary to the plan of God. We are the primary purpose of God.

¹¹ According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord: ¹² In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him. ¹³ Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.

The Ephesians were shaken by the imprisonment of Paul. “If God has this great plan for us, why is our leader in jail? It looks like God has no power at all.”

Do not become so immersed in your personal trials and tribulations that you become disconnected (feint) with the purpose of God.

Everything is for a purpose . Blessings, afflictions, prosperity, adversity, sickness, wellness, wealth, poverty, good things, bad things…put it all into the context of God’s purpose.

²⁶  Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. ²⁷ And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. ²⁸ And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. Romans 8:26-28.

¹⁴ For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, ¹⁵ Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, ¹⁶ That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man;

The inner man is the focal point. Whether or not your inner man is affected by the circumstances of life is up to you. The more importance you place on the outer man, the less influence the inner man will have in your life.

How do you know whether you are paying too much attention to the outer man? Clothes, beauty, pleasure, possessions, prestige, status, comfort, ambition, ownership, wealth—-these are all objectives of the outer man.

The inner man desires the fruit of the Spirit , obedience to the will of God and the pleasure of God without regard to the wants of the outer man.

¹⁷ That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, ¹⁸ May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; ¹⁹ And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.

There is no greater ambition nor higher calling than to be in partnership with God.

⁶ But godliness with contentment is great gain. ⁷ For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. ⁸ And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. ⁹ But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. ¹⁰ For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. ¹¹ But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. I Timothy 6:6-11

¹⁷ Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; ¹⁸ That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; ¹⁹ Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life. I Timothy 6:17-19.

²⁰ Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, ²¹ Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.

The goals of a person usually conform to the ideals with which they associate in their formative years or in their environment. This scripture teaches us that God lifts us up out of our confines and turns our dreams into realities.

The Gentiles never considered themselves to be in the same league with the Jews. The Jews were God’s chosen people. This scripture removes the barriers of race, heritage, class, caste and any other artificial wall of separation between a believer and the promises of God.

¹¹ Wherefore 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; ¹² That 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: ¹³ But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. Ephesians 2:11-13.

Themes of Ephesians: Chapter One

The Greeting.

Ephesians 1:1-3 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at Ephesus , and to the faithful in Christ Jesus: 2 Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:

The letter to the Ephesians also seems to be directed toward the church at large who are called “the faithful.”

The Blessing

Paul emphasized God’s blessing upon the Gentiles. The significance of this comes from the Jewish claim of God’s exclusive blessing upon them.

Rom 3:24-31 “Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: 25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; 26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. 27 Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith. 28 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. 29 Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also: 30 Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith. 31 Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.”

The same blessing of God that was upon the Jews extends to the Gentiles as well.

A best-selling book was recently titled “The Prayer of Jabez.” It was based on 1 Chronicles 4:10. “And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that thine hand might be with me, and that thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me! And God granted him that which he requested.”

We are spiritual Jews. Through faith, we become the children of Abraham. If we are the children of Abraham, we have a connection all the way back to the blessing that God gave to him in Genesis 12.

Galatians 3:8-9 And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed. 9 So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.

Galatians 3:12-14 And the law is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them. 13 Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree: 14 That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

Hebrews 6:13-15 For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he sware by himself, 14 Saying, Surely blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee. 15 And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.

The Predestination of the Church

4 According 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: 5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, 6 To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.

Individuals are not predestinated. This is a Calvinistic belief that God chooses who will go to heaven and who will go to hell and each person cannot change his own destiny.

The Westminster Confession of Faith: 1643

God from all eternity did by the most wise and holy counsel of his own will, freely and unchangeably ordain whatsoever comes to pass; yet so as thereby neither is God the author of sin; nor is violence offered to the will of the creatures, nor is the liberty or contingency of second causes taken away, but rather established.

By the decree of God, for the manifestation of his glory, some men and angels are predestinated unto everlasting life, and others foreordained to everlasting death.

Rev 22:17 And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.

The Calvinist doctrine of predestination holds that every member of the human race is not qualified for salvation nor were they even created to be saved. Calvinists believe that God has already chosen or pre-determined who will be saved. Anyone who wants to be saved, but isn’t predestined to have saving faith cannot become a part of the church. This doctrine flies in the face of scripture and it undermines the missionary impetus of the church.

“That work is absolutely divine. Man has no part in it, and cannot possibly co-operate with God in his own salvation. In no sense of the word, and at no stage of the work, does salvation depend upon the will or work of man, or wait for the determination of his will. In fact, the sinner is of himself neither capable nor willing to receive that salvation. On the contrary, all he can do and will is to oppose, to resist his own salvation with all the determination of his sinful heart. But God ordained, and prepared this salvation with absolute sovereign freedom for His own, His chosen ones alone, and upon them He bestows it, not because they seek and desire it, but in spite of the fact that they never will it, and because He is stronger than man, and overcomes the hardest heart and the most stubborn will of the sinner.” Calvinist Doctrine

John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

1 Timothy 2:4-6 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; 6 Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.

It’s all about Him

7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; 8 Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; 9 Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: 10 That in the dispensation of the fulness 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: 11 In 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: 12 That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ.

We have redemption, forgiveness, wisdom and prudence as the revealed will of God.

Everything God has done for us is for his pleasure and according to his purpose.

Some may think that God is selfish, egotistical and arrogant. The fact is that he is omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent and eternal. He is infinitely good ; therefore his ego is based upon absolute truth.

• Zeno, Democritus, Socrates and other ancient Greek philosophers concerned themselves with the nature of man and matter, and searched for the elusive quality of good. The philosophical systems of Plato and Aristotle were based on idealism and logic
• Until the Renaissance Period, most theories about ethical behavior were based upon a belief in God. But by the mid-1400’s, the influence of the church had already begun to decline with the rise of universities and statism. Secular philosophies such as humanism, scientific inquiry and political/social interpretations gradually gained prominence. These ideas denied the intervention of God in the activities of man on the basis that God could not be quantified in rational, observable experiments. Thinking about ethics, therefore, took a new direction.
• Niccolo Machiavelli, in his book, The Prince, developed the notion that the end justifies the means.
• Sir Thomas More wrote about Utopia, a fantasy island, in which communism, uniformity of the sexes and peace were practiced. Anything that undermined these ideals was considered unlawful.
• Ren é Descartes, a French philosopher, broke new ground in rationalism of ethical behavior. He believed that a person should stand by the convictions he has formed within himself and adapt to his environment. He meant that one should judge his behavior on the terms of his own rational thought about himself and his personal convictions, not from any ideas imposed upon him from the outside. Even though Descartes was a devout Catholic, his writings illustrated a definite departure from Christian thought. This deviation continued in others.
• John Stewart Mill promoted a concept first espoused by Jeremy Bentham, called utilitarianism. In his own words, Mill believed that “actions are right in proportion as they tend to promote happiness; wrong as they tend to produce the reverse of happiness.” In other words, actions are not intrinsically right or wrong; they may only be so judged after one examines their end result. Further, Mill said that actions must be based upon what will do the most good for the most people.
• Given the evacuation of faith from these later developments, it should not be surprising to detect nascent post-modern views.
• Jean de Lamarck, Charles Darwin, and Herbert Spencer contradicted, or at least questioned, the generally accepted belief that man’s origin was a Creator God.
• Philosophically, this paved the way for Friedrich Nietzsche to openly reject a system of ethics based upon God. According to Nietzsche, the Judeo-Christian system of moral ideals should be replaced by returning to nature’s values. He believed, as Darwin postulated in his survival of the fittest, that “might makes right”.
• Thomas Henry Huxley coined the term agnosticism, claiming that genuine knowledge consists only of facts verifiable by the natural sciences. Of ethical matters, Huxley said we have no right to assert the truth or falsity of any assertion without sufficient relevant evidence and certainly should not require others to accept our unsubstantiated beliefs.
• Today, many theorists have attracted widespread followings, and since we encounter their views throughout our cultural experience, we would do well to know about them.
• Søren Kierkegaard’s name is associated with existentialism, a belief that individual existence, freedom and choice are of the highest significance in the human context.
• Paul Tillich, also an existentialist, believed that people should have the courage to be themselves.
• Jean-Paul Sartre, an atheist and playwright and a leading exponent of existentialism, believed in the notion of individual responsibility independently of religion.
• John Dewey constructed another philosophical school of thought called instrumentalism in which he believed that philosophy was dynamic and always adapting itself to its environment. This is especially relevant because John Dewey, often called the Father of Progressive Education, has had a profound effect upon education in America. In terms of ethics, all of these ideas form the underpinnings of today’s evaluation of right and wrong. Whenever we express shock and disbelief at the lack of Biblical or even traditional ethics in our world, we can search the writings of these philosophers and their contemporaries and discover the reason. This brief synopsis omits much of the historical record, but it serves to show that the trends in ethical standards presently derives, for the most part, from whatever an individual believes, with no interference from God, the Bible or other people.
• All of these modern philosophies begin and end in man. This makes them flawed from the outset. True philosophy must begin and end in the Lord Jesus Christ.

The Holy Spirit seals the truth within us.

13 In 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, 14 Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.

The Holy Ghost should be seen as God’s down payment on his church. It ensures us that he will come back and redeem us totally to him.

The awesome plans God has for the church.

15 Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, 16 Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; 17 That 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: 18 The 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, 19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to usward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,

The two contexts into which we must place these plans give them special meaning.

1. The boastfulness of the Jews about their superiority.
2. The elaborate mythology of the pagan religion.

In other words, faith in Christ is not only equal to but far greater than anything that religion or paganism can promise you.

It is never a step down to become an Apostolic believer! When you let go of what you have to receive what Christ gives you, you always get the best of the deal.

The unequaled preeminence of Christ and the importance of the church.

20 Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, 21 Far 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: 22 And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, 23 Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.

Principality: The Roman government .
Power: The Roman authority .
Might: The Roman military .
Dominion: The Jewish and pagan religions .
Name: Personalities and influential people .

The connection to all of these attributes of God may be found in the church. This is a very significant teaching. The Ephesians had always looked to government, worldly authority, the military, Jewish or pagan religion or powerful people for security, meaning and hope. These were vaunted and fearful entities that formed the very basis for Ephesian culture. In comparison, the church looked weak and insignificant. They had to know that perception was not reality.

The church surpasses every claim of authority, power and historical right that all other religions and powers can make.

The practical importance of the church:

A systematic, well-rounded study of the Bible . “Church-hoppers” may hear part of a Bible study on Genesis one week, and in another church the next week they may hear a partial study of Revelation.

A personal pastor . Deeper relationships need time to develop. Many counselors and therapists take several months to establish a bond with their counselees before they can really help them. A long-term pastor is a tremendous asset to an individual if only because of the time they have known each other. Also, real help requires that the pastor feel a responsibility toward a saint. If that person will be gone to another assembly in four or five weeks, the pastor’s efforts are stifled.

Sincere Christian friends who share common experiences. An English poet once said, “No man is an island.” People desire and need friendship. Fellowship is the larger framework of this principle, but more specific relationships between individual persons are also good and necessary. Everyone needs a “buddy” with whom he can eat, shop, or just talk and share mutual feelings. In a single church in which common experiences are shared, two friends can become knit together for a lifetime of mutual edification and enjoyment.

Cultivation of a sense of belonging . It is extremely important for a person to feel a part of something worthwhile. This establishes his self-esteem, acceptance, and happiness. Much of what a person does throughout his entire life is done to feel needed and appreciated. Church work is highly rewarding in this area. It is also important to be a part of something larger than oneself. A certain “esprit de corps” should emerge from the heart and cause a person to feel good when he says, “There is my church!”

Opportunity to work for the Lord. No other place abounds with as many chances to work for God as the local church. Teaching, singing, and working with church groups such as Ladies Auxiliary, Boy Scouts, youth groups, and even recreational programs all have a place in church work. All the direction, tools and means to carry out spiritual callings and ambitions are available in the church. It is difficult for those who are lax in church attendance to say they are working for God.

A place to prove reliability and trustworthiness. Circumstances of life expose both weaknesses and strengths in a person’s disposition. The church can provide a framework in which the real personality can surface. If a person is not reliable or trustworthy, or has

other character problems, involvement in the church will allow the pastor and other mature saints to become aware of them and help that person to overcome them. “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls” (Hebrews 13:17).

The church prepares people for heaven. The church is both a spiritual and practical entity. If a person has been born again, God has already placed him into His church. As he grows in grace and knowledge of the Word of God, he will see the importance of the visible, practical side of the church as well. God incarnated His Spirit in the humanity of Jesus Christ to accomplish a very real purpose in the world. His Spirit alone could not

have died at Calvary. Similarly, God has placed His Holy Spirit in the body of the church to carry out a very real purpose in the world today. If a Christian is not firmly established in a local assembly, he cannot be all that God truly wants him to be. He should get involved immediately. The most exciting events happening in the world today are happening in the church of the Lord Jesus Christ!

Themes of Ephesians

A spiritual nation .
A fully functioning body .
A Christ-like purpose .

Introduction to Ephesians

No reading of Ephesians is complete without knowing how the church began in that city, located in Asia Minor on the western coast of modern Turkey . Acts eighteen and nineteen tell the story. As opposed to the Galatians, the church at Ephesus was given a strong foundation of Christological teaching from Aquila and Priscilla, co-laborers with Paul, and from a converted Jew names Apollos. This prepared the Ephesian disciples to receive in-depth teaching about the church.

Ministry of Aquila and Priscilla . And Paul after this tarried there yet a good while, and then took his leave of the brethren, and sailed thence into Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila; having shorn his head in Cenchrea: for he had a vow. ¹⁹ And he came to Ephesus, and left them there: but he himself entered into the synagogue, and reasoned with the Jews. ²⁰ When they desired him to tarry longer time with them, he consented not; ²¹ But bade them farewell, saying, I must by all means keep this feast that cometh in Jerusalem: but I will return again unto you, if God will. And he sailed from Ephesus. ²² And when he had landed at Caesarea, and gone up, and saluted the church, he went down to Antioch. ²³ And after he had spent some time there , he departed, and went over all the country of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples.

Teaching of Apollos . And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus. ²⁵ This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John. ²⁶ And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them , and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly. ²⁷ And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia (the northern state of Greece in the Peloponnesus, adjacent to Corinth) , the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace: ²⁸ For he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publickly, shewing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ^a.

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CHAPTER 19

First Ephesian disciples. And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, ² He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. ³ And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John’s baptism. ⁴ Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. ⁵ When they heard this , they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. ⁶ And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied. ⁷ And all the men were about twelve.

Opposition and miracles . And he went into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading the things concerning the kingdom of God. ⁹ But when divers were hardened, and believed not, but spake evil of that way before the multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, disputing daily in the school of one Tyrannus. ¹⁰ And this continued by the space of two years; so that all they which dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks. ¹¹ And God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul: ¹² So that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them.

Confrontation and growth . Then certain of the vagabond Jews, exorcists, took upon them to call over them which had evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus, saying, We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth. ¹⁴ And there were seven sons of one Sceva, a Jew, and chief of the priests, which did so. ¹⁵ And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye? ¹⁶ And the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, and overcame them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded. ¹⁷ And this was known to all the Jews and Greeks also dwelling at Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified. ¹⁸ And many that believed came, and confessed, and shewed their deeds. ¹⁹ Many of them also which used curious arts brought their books together, and burned them before all men : and they counted the price of them, and found it fifty thousand pieces of silver. ²⁰ So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.

The stir over Diana . After these things were ended, Paul purposed in the spirit, when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying, After I have been there, I must also see Rome. ²² So he sent into Macedonia two of them that ministered unto him, Timotheus and Erastus; but he himself stayed in Asia for a season. ²³ And the same time there arose no small stir about that way. ²⁴ For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, which made silver shrines for Diana, brought no small gain unto the craftsmen; ²⁵ Whom he called together with the workmen of like occupation, and said, Sirs, ye know that by this craft we have our wealth. ²⁶ Moreover ye see and hear, that not alone at Ephesus, but almost throughout all Asia, this Paul hath persuaded and turned away much people, saying that they be no gods, which are made with hands: ²⁷ So that not only this our craft is in danger to be set at nought^a; but also that the temple of the great goddess Diana should be despised,^† and her magnificence should be destroyed, whom all Asia and the world worshippeth. ²⁸ And when they heard these sayings , they were full of wrath, and cried out, saying, Great is Diana of the Ephesians. ²⁹ And the whole city was filled with confusion: and having caught Gaius and Aristarchus, men of Macedonia, Paul’s companions in travel, they rushed with one accord into the theatre. ³⁰ And when Paul would have entered in unto the people, the disciples suffered him not. ³¹ And certain of the chief of Asia, which were his friends, sent unto him, desiring him that he would not adventure himself into the theatre. ³² Some therefore cried one thing, and some another: for the assembly was confused; and the more part knew not wherefore they were come together. ³³ And they drew Alexander out of the multitude, the Jews putting him forward. And Alexander beckoned with the hand, and would have made his defence unto the people. ³⁴ But when they knew that he was a Jew, all with one voice about the space of two hours cried out, Great is Diana of the Ephesians. ³⁵ And when the townclerk had appeased the people, he said, Ye men of Ephesus, what man is there that knoweth not how that the city of the Ephesians is a worshipper^b of the great goddess Diana, and of the image which fell down from Jupiter? ³⁶ Seeing then that these things cannot be spoken against, ye ought to be quiet, and to do nothing rashly. ³⁷ For ye have brought hither these men, which are neither robbers of churches, nor yet blasphemers of your goddess. ³⁸ Wherefore if Demetrius, and the craftsmen which are with him, have a matter against any man, the law^c is open, and there are deputies: let them implead one another. ³⁹ But if ye enquire any thing concerning other matters, it shall be determined in a lawful^d assembly. ⁴⁰ For we are in danger to be called in question for this day’s uproar, there being no cause whereby we may give an account of this concourse. ⁴¹ And when he had thus spoken, he dismissed the assembly.

Chapter 20

Paul’s trip back to Ephesus. And we went before to ship, and sailed unto Assos, there intending to take in Paul: for so had he appointed, minding himself to go afoot. ¹⁴ And when he met with us at Assos, we took him in, and came to Mitylene. ¹⁵ And we sailed thence, and came the next day over against Chios; and the next day we arrived at Samos, and tarried at Trogyllium; and the next day we came to Miletus. ¹⁶ For Paul had determined to sail by Ephesus, because he would not spend the time in Asia: for he hasted, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem the day of Pentecost.

Farewell to the Ephesian disciples. And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church. ¹⁸ And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons, ¹⁹ Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews: ²⁰ And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you , but have shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house, ²¹ Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. ²² And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there: ²³ Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me^a. ²⁴ But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. ²⁵ And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more. ²⁶ Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men . ²⁷ For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.

Paul’s special exhortation for the welfare of the church. Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. ²⁹ For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. ³⁰ Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. ³¹ Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. ³² And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. ³³ I have coveted no man’s silver, or gold, or apparel. ³⁴ Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me. ³⁵ I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.

Final affection. And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all. ³⁷ And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul’s neck, and kissed him, ³⁸ Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.

^[2]

Revelation Chapter Two

Good and bad in Ephesus. Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; ² I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: ³ And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name’s sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. ⁴ Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. ⁵ Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent. ⁶ But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. ⁷ He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God. ^[3]

Exhortations of Ephesians:

• Sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. 2:6
• Walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called. 4:1
• Stand therefore. 6:14

CONTENT OUTLINE OF EPHESIANS

Greeting (1:1–2)

I. The Church as People (1:3–2:22)
A. A Chosen People (1:3–14)
B. An Empowered People (1:15–23)
C. A Recreated People (2:1–10)
D. A United People (2:11–22)

II. The Church as Body and Family (3:1–4:16)

A. Heirs Together in One Body (3:1–13)
B. Growing Together As One Loving Family (3:14–21)
C. Bound Together by One Lord (4:1–6)
D. Built Up Together by What Each Supplies (4:7–16)

III. The Church as Christ Incarnate (4:17–6:20)

A. Like Christ in Attitude (4:17–24)
B. Like Christ in Relationships (4:25–32)
C. Like Christ in Holy Living (5:1–20)
D. Christlikeness Defined (5:21–6:9)

• 1. In husband / wife relationships (5:21–33)
• 2. In child / parent relationships (6:1–4)
• 3. In servant / master relationships (6:5–9)

E. Spiritual Resources for Christlikeness: the Armor of God (6:10–18)

Farewells (6:19–24)

---

^a Christ: or, is the Christ
^[1] The Holy Bible : King James Version. 1995 (electronic ed. of the 1769 edition of the 1611 Authorized Version.) (Ac 18:18). Bellingham WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc.
^a set at nought: or, brought into disrepute, or, contempt
^† A Greek word occurs that is not directly translated in the King James Version.
Greek Strongs: 3049
Tense, Voice, Mood: 5683
^b a worshipper: Gr. the temple keeper
^c the law…: or, the court days are kept
^d lawful: or, ordinary
^a abide me: or, wait for me
^[2] The Holy Bible : King James Version. 1995 (electronic ed. of the 1769 edition of the 1611 Authorized Version.) (Ac 20:13). Bellingham WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc.
^[3] The Holy Bible : King James Version. 1995 (electronic ed. of the 1769 edition of the 1611 Authorized Version.) (Re 2:1). Bellingham WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc.

The Six Important Truths of the Galatians Epistle

CHAPTER 1. Paul has apostolic authority.

General Greeting

¹ Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;) ² And all the brethren which are with me, unto the churches of Galatia: ³ Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ, ⁴ Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father: ⁵ To whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Paul’s greeting identified the Lord Jesus Christ with deity. The theological climate of the day required him to state both God the Father and Jesus Christ. This was not to separate him into two persons but to equate Jesus with deity, a relatively new concept for the people.

Statement of Concern.

⁶ I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: ⁷ Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. ⁸ But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. ⁹ As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.

Be extremely careful about the gospel of Christ.

Personal Spiritual Journey

¹⁰ For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. ¹¹ But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. ¹² For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it , but by the revelation of Jesus Christ. ¹³ For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews’ religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it: ¹⁴ And profited in the Jews’ religion above many my equals^a in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers.

¹⁵ But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb, and called me by his grace, ¹⁶ To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood: ¹⁷ Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus. ¹⁸ Then after three years I went up^b to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days. ¹⁹ But other of the apostles saw I none, save James the Lord’s brother. ²⁰ Now the things which I write unto you, behold, before God, I lie not. ²¹ Afterwards I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia; ²² And was unknown by face unto the churches of Judaea which were in Christ: ²³ But they had heard only, That he which persecuted us in times past now preacheth the faith which once he destroyed. ²⁴ And they glorified God in me.

Paul demonstrates his authenticity by recounting his preparation for apostleship. This was included because of Matthew 7:15, 24:11 and 24:24. Also, he mentions his alliance with Peter to further secure his own credibility.

CHAPTER 2. The basis of our faith is the cross of Christ.

¹ Then fourteen years after I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took Titus with me also. ² And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately^a to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain. ³ But neither Titus, who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised: ⁴ And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage: ⁵ To whom we gave place by subjection, no, not for an hour; that the truth of the gospel might continue with you. ⁶ But of these who seemed to be somewhat, (whatsoever they were, it maketh no matter to me: God accepteth no man’s person:) for they who seemed to be somewhat in conference added nothing to me: ⁷ But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter; ⁸ (For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:) ⁹ And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision. ¹⁰ Only they would that we should remember the poor; the same which I also was forward to do.

The result of believing the gospel was freedom from Jewish bondage. Paul understood that his mission to the gentiles meant that he would not lead them into this bondage.

¹¹ But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed. ¹² For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision. ¹³ And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation. ¹⁴ But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews? ¹⁵ We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles, ¹⁶ Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. ¹⁷ But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid. ¹⁸ For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor. ¹⁹ For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God. ²⁰ I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. ²¹ I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.

Paul argues forcefully that to insist on keeping the law nullifies the grace of God through Christ.
If we are justified by faith, then we do not need the law.
If we claim to be justified by faith and we still think we are sinners if we don’t keep the law, then we are making Christ the minister of sin.
If I am free from the law and then go back to the law for justification, I make myself a sinner.
If I am dead to the law through the law (that is that the law requires death because of sin) then I am alive to God.
Get this: The law required Jesus to die for our sins. Faith in Christ is just as though I died with him. How can the law then be reinstated in my life after this death?
If I live, it is not because of the law. It is because of Christ.
This statement was devastating to the Judiazers. If they were to succeed, they would have diminished the cross of Christ and the law would have triumphed. The two could not have co-existed.

CHAPTER 3. Paul proves the error of exalting the law over Christ.

¹ O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? ² This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? ³ Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? ⁴ Have ye suffered so many things in vain? if it be yet in vain. ⁵ He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?

The defining moment of conversion was not circumcision or the keeping of the law. It was the baptism of the Spirit. If we began in the Spirit, we cannot revert back to the flesh to complete our spiritual journey.

⁶ Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted^a to him for righteousness. ⁷ Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham. ⁸ And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying , In thee shall all nations be blessed. ⁹ So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham. ¹⁰ For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them. ¹¹ But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith. ¹² And the law is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them. ¹³ Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree: ¹⁴ That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. ¹⁵ Brethren, I speak after the manner of men; Though it be but a man’s covenant^b, yet if it be confirmed, no man disannulleth, or addeth thereto. ¹⁶ Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ. ¹⁷ And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect. ¹⁸ For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.

The value of Abraham for an illustration was that Abraham pre-dated the law. Yet, without the law, Abraham was still justified by faith. Even so, we, as children of Abraham, are also justified by our faith in Christ.

¹⁹ Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator. ²⁰ Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one. ²¹ Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law. ²² But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. ²³ But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. ²⁴ Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. ²⁵ But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. ²⁶ For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. ²⁷ For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. ²⁸ There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. ²⁹ And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.

Paul’s exposition of the law versus grace is brilliant:
The law was not original, but added because of sin.
The law was only to last until the promised seed should come.
The promised seed was ordained by angels through a mediator.
If the law brought life, then we could be righteous through the law.
The law ended everything in sin so that faith in Christ was our only hope.
The law merely kept us in righteousness until faith arrived.
The emergence of faith makes the schoolmaster obsolete.
Baptism into Christ is the way to put on Christ.
No difference exists between Jews and Gentiles.
All believers in Christ belong to the family of Abraham.

CHAPTER 4. We are free from Judaism

¹ Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all; ² But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father. ³ Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements^a of the world: ⁴ But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, ⁵ To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. ⁶ And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. ⁷ Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.

The Spirit, not the law nor our Jewishness, makes God to be our Father.

⁸ Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods. ⁹ But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again^b to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage? ¹⁰ Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years. ¹¹ I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain.

Insistence upon the law is to trust in the weak and beggarly elements for our salvation.

¹² Brethren, I beseech you, be as I am ; for I am as ye are : ye have not injured me at all. ¹³ ^† Ye know how through infirmity of the flesh I preached the gospel unto you at the first. ¹⁴ And my temptation which was in my flesh ye despised not, nor rejected; but received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus. ¹⁵ Where^c is then the blessedness ye spake of? for I bear you record, that, if it had been possible, ye would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them to me. ¹⁶ Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth?

Don’t despise the mailman for delivering the message.

¹⁷ They zealously affect you, but not well; yea, they would exclude you^d, that ye might affect them. ¹⁸ But it is good to be zealously affected always in a good thing , and not only when I am present with you.

¹⁹ My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you, ²⁰ ^† I desire to be present with you now, and to change my voice; for I stand in doubt of you.

²¹ Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law, do ye not hear the law? ²² For it is written, that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman. ²³ But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman was by promise. ²⁴ Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants^e; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar. ²⁵ For this Agar is mount Sinai in Arabia, and answereth to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children. ²⁶ But Jerusalem which is above is free, which is the mother of us all. ²⁷ For it is written, Rejoice, thou barren that bearest not; break forth and cry, thou that travailest not: for the desolate hath many more children than she which hath an husband. ²⁸ Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise. ²⁹ But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now. ³⁰ Nevertheless what saith the scripture? Cast out the bondwoman and her son: for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the freewoman. ³¹ So then, brethren, we are not children of the bondwoman, but of the free.

Paul revisits the argument against Judaism by using Sarah and Hagar, and carnal Jerusalem and free Jerusalem. Isaac was the son of the freewoman, not the bondwoman. Our heritage is fruitfulness, miraculous and freedom. That is grace, not law.

CHAPTER 5. Faith in the law threatens our liberty.

¹ Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. ² Behold, I Paul say unto you, that if ye be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing. ³ For I testify again to every man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to do the whole law. ⁴ Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace. ⁵ For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith. ⁶ For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love. ⁷ Ye did run well; who did hinder you^a that ye should not obey the truth? ⁸ This persuasion cometh not of him that calleth you. ⁹ A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump. ¹⁰ I have confidence in you through the Lord, that ye will be none otherwise minded: but he that troubleth you shall bear his judgment, whosoever he be. ¹¹ And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet suffer persecution? then is the offence of the cross ceased. ¹² I would they were even cut off which trouble you.

We cannot handle Judaism passively as though it is unimportant. To accept circumcision means that Christ profits us nothing. This is huge. Also, anyone who insists on keeping one point of the law like circumcision is obligated to keep the whole law!
If we trust in the law for salvation, we are fallen from grace.
Do not allow anything to hinder your spiritual race.

¹³ For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. ¹⁴ For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. ¹⁵ But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another. ¹⁶ This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. ¹⁷ For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. ¹⁸ But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. ¹⁹ Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these ; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, ²⁰ Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, ²¹ Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. ²² But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, ²³ Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. ²⁴ And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections^b and lusts. ²⁵ If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. ²⁶ Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.

Liberty does not mean license.
If our life comes from the Spirit, it must be lived in the Spirit, not in the flesh.
Bondage does not refer to holiness issues but trusting in the law of Moses.

CHAPTER 6. Crucifixion is the key to holiness.

¹ Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. ² Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. ³ For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. ⁴ But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. ⁵ For every man shall bear his own burden. ⁶ Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things. ⁷ Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. ⁸ For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. ⁹ And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. ¹⁰ As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men , especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

We must show compassion to people in spiritual trouble.

¹¹ Ye see how large a letter I have written unto you with mine own hand. ¹² As many as desire to make a fair shew in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised; only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ. ¹³ For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law; but desire to have you circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh. ¹⁴ But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom^a the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. ¹⁵ For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. ¹⁶ And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God. ¹⁷ From henceforth let no man trouble me: for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus. ¹⁸ Brethren, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.

Three crucifixions exist in the Christian’s life.

• The cross of Christ.
• The crucifixion of the world to us.
• The crucifixion of us to the world.

Galatians champions the cross of Christ over every other aspect of religion. When you believe in Christ, you do not believe in the effectiveness of the law, yet neither do you believe in living in sin. You live by faith in Christ and you live in Christ by faith!

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^a equals: Gr. equals in years
^b went up: or, returned
^a privately: or, severally
^a accounted: or, imputed
^b covenant: or, testament
^a elements: or, rudiments
^b turn ye again: or, turn ye back
^† A Greek word occurs that is not directly translated in the King James Version.
Greek Strongs: 1161
^c Where…: or, What was then
^d exclude you: or, exclude us
^† A Greek word occurs that is not directly translated in the King James Version. Greek Strongs: 1161
^e covenants: or, testaments
^a hinder you: or, drive you back
^b affections: or, passions
^a by whom: or, whereby

Out of Darkness…Into Light

1 Peter 2:9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:

I. Man’s sinful state is darkness.

A. Matt 4:16 The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up.
B. Spiritual darkness describes several things about the sinful state of man.

• 1. Ignorance. Jesus is the light of the world.
• 2. Superstition. Without light, there is a false and exaggerated views of things. Acts 17:16-30
• 3. Danger. Darkness and death share the same shadow.
• 4. Helplessness. The people sat in darkness. They had no knowledge of where to go or what to do.

II. God’s eternal plan is light.

A. Genesis 1:1-3.

• 1. His first words addressed the darkness.
• 2. God despises darkness. I Jn 1:5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.

B. If we are walk in fellowship with God, it must be in light.

I John 1:6-7 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

C. Light effects everything within range. So it is with God.

• 1. Doctrinal light.
• 2. Spiritual light.
• 3. Moral light.
• 4. Relationship light.

III. The tabernacle in the wilderness is our greatest illustration of light.

A. Exodus 25:31-40; Lev. 24:1-4; Rev. 1:12-20
B. The imagery of the true vine and branches was fashioned after this.
C. How was the lampstand formed?

1. Pure gold of beaten work.

• a. Wrought from one solid piece of Gold. (Oneness)
• b. Formed by the process of beating. (Suffering)  (Many desire the gold but despise the suffering.)
• c. Light comes from incandescent or luminescent sources. Without the proper material, there is no light.
• d. When the material gets hot enough, light is produced. (You need fervency and sacrifice to shine for God!)

D. How big was the lampstand to be?

• 1. No measurement was given.
• 2. The lampstand was a type of the church. (Rev. 1)
• 3. Who can measure the mystical body of Christ?
• 4. A certain group limits the inhabitants of heaven to 144,000.
• 5. We have no right to limit the size of the church. (Acts 2:47)
• 6. Neither can we limit how much of the Holy Spirit one can have.
• 7. Neither can we limit how much grace one can have.

E. Where was the lampstand to be positioned?

• 1. Exodus 26:35.
• 2. All the vessels in a straight line toward the Holiest of Holies show the way to salvation.
• 3. All the vessels which stood by the way represent the privileges and responsibilities.
• 4. The only light in the holy place was from the lampstand. There were no windows, no natural light. The priest did all the work of offering incense and replenishing the table of shewbread in this light alone. This world adds nothing to the truths of the word of God. (I Cor. 1:20-21)
• 5. Don’t take your counsel from the world. (II Sam. 22:29)

F. The shaft and branches.

• 1. The center shaft was called the candlestick.
• The shaft is Jesus.
• The branches on either side are his people.
• 2. The branches were beaten out of the candlestick. (Eve was taken out of the side of Adam.) Eph. 5:30
• 3. The strength of the branch lay in the shaft. “Without me, ye can do nothing.” John 15:5.
• 4. The beauty of the candlestick was to be upon the branches.
• 5. The branches enjoy the same position and privileges as the main shaft. (Ephesians 1:3; 2:4-7)

G. The light of the lampstand.

• 1. The light of the lampstand was something different from the lamp itself.  We cannot have outward Christianity alone. II Timothy 3:1-5. (Having a form of godliness…)
• 2. Unless the fire was lit in the lamps, no light could shine forth. Conversely, if the fire was lit, the shining forth was automatic.
• 3. The light was never to go out. If the light went out, true ministering stopped because the priest could not see what he was doing.
• 4. What is the source of the light? It is the life of God. John 1:1-5. The secret of a powerful testimony is not in the abundance of knowledge, but in the abundance of life!

5. The light shined from the lampstand for four reasons:

• a. To shine before the Lord We glorify him.
• b. To shine on the table. We reveal the bread to men.
• c. To shine upon the altar. We show the need of prayer.
• d. To shine upon itself. We display the beauty to the world.

6. The substance that produces the light is the oil.

The oil that burns in our lampstand is the Holy Ghost.