Ephesians 1 We Are Told To Sing Ephesians

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Ephesians 1

Ephesians 1

We Are Told To Sing Ephesians 5: 17 -21 Therefore do not be unwise,

We Are Told To Sing Ephesians 5: 17 -21 Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is. (18) And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, (19) speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, (20) giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, (21) submitting to one another in the fear of God. 2

What is Wrong with Instrumental Music in Worship? 3

What is Wrong with Instrumental Music in Worship? 3

Does Jesus authorize the use of instrumental music in worship? And Jesus came and

Does Jesus authorize the use of instrumental music in worship? And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. ” (Matt. 28: 18) God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son… (Heb 1: 1 -2) Indeed, let God be true but every man a liar. (Rom. 3: 4) Test all things; hold fast what is good. (1 Thess. 5: 21) 4

Violates the Law of Faith For we walk by faith, not by sight. (2

Violates the Law of Faith For we walk by faith, not by sight. (2 Cor. 5: 7) But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. (Heb. 11: 6) So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. (Rom. 10: 17) There was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. This man came to Jesus by night… (Jn. 3: 1 -2) Opinion--Why? Faith 5

We Sing By Faith I will pray with the spirit, and I will also

We Sing By Faith I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding. (1 Cor. 14: 15) Speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord (Eph. 5: 19) Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. (Col. 3: 16) 6

Corrupts the Worship And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in

Corrupts the Worship And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus… (Col. 3: 17) God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth. (Jn. 4: 24) Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth. (Jn. 17: 17) And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. (Jn. 8: 32) However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth… (Jn. 16: 13) 7

We Worship According to the Truth The Instrumental Music baptism of John— • Sing

We Worship According to the Truth The Instrumental Music baptism of John— • Sing (Eph. 5: 19) • Pray (1 Cor. 14: 15) where was it from? From heaven or from men? (Matt. 21: 25) And in vain they • Preach (Acts 2: 42) worship Me, Teaching Then Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, • Lord’s Supper (Acts 20: 7) as doctrines the each took his censer and put fire in it, put commandments of • incense Give (1 Cor. 16: 1 -2) on it, and offered profane fire before men. (Matt. 15: 9) the LORD, which He had not commanded them. So fire went out from the LORD and devoured them, and they died before the LORD. (Lev. 10: 1 -2) 8

Disrupts Unity Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord

Disrupts Unity Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. (1 Cor. 1: 10) He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him—the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day. (Jn. 12: 48) I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. (Jn. 17: 20 -21) Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. (Eph. 4: 3) 9

Justification of Instruments in Worship: Doesn’t Say “Not to use them. ” • Elevates

Justification of Instruments in Worship: Doesn’t Say “Not to use them. ” • Elevates the Silence of God to the same level as the Scriptures. • What God Does NOT Say = What God HAS Said! • If Valid Argument: • Pray through Mary (1 Tim. 2: 5) • Chocolate Cake on Lord’s Table (Matt. 26: 26 -28) • Baptize Infants (Mk. 16: 15 -16) Whoever and. Idoes And these transgresses things, brethren, havenot in aabide figurein the doctrine of to Christ does God. who transferred myself andnot to have Apollos for. He your sakes; abides in thelearn doctrine ofnot Christ has both theabove Father that ye might in us to think of men andwhich the Son. (2 Jn. 9) (1 Cor. 4: 6) that is written… 10

Justification of Instruments in Worship: “They were used in the Old Testament” • Elevates

Justification of Instruments in Worship: “They were used in the Old Testament” • Elevates the Law of Moses to the same level as the Law of Christ. (Mk. 9: 7) • If Valid Argument: • Burn incense, animal sacrifices (Jas. 2: 10) • Infant church membership (Mk. 16: 15 -16) • Polygamy acceptable (Matt. 19: 3 -9) Also he in the day of the your. Levites gladness, in house your appointed And stationed in the of the • Used inand OT at Bythe Faith! (Num. 10: 1 -10) feasts, beginning of your months, you LORD with cymbals, with stringed instruments, and shallharps, blow the trumpets your burnt offerings with according to over the commandment of David, and over sacrifices of your peace the offerings; and of Gad thethe king’s seer, and of Nathan prophet; they shall bethe a memorial for youofbefore your by God: for thus was commandment the LORD His. I am the LORD your 29: 25) God. (Num. 10: 10) prophets. (2 Chron. 11

Justification of Instruments in Worship: “Its only an Aid in the Worship. ” •

Justification of Instruments in Worship: “Its only an Aid in the Worship. ” • Not an Aid, but an Addition of another kind of music. Command Passage Addition Specific General Gen. 6: 14 Gopher Wood Tools, Place Oak, Elm… Exodus 12: 5 Lamb: No Blemish Knife, Wood for Fire Horse, Pig… Sing Song Books, Leader Piano, Organ, Humming… 12 Eph. 5: 19

Justification of Instruments in Worship: “They are used in the Home. ” • Many

Justification of Instruments in Worship: “They are used in the Home. ” • Many things morally right, but religiously wrong: • Washing hands (Mk. 7: 3 -7) • Washing feet (1 Tim. 5: 10) • Calling dad, “father” (Matt. 23: 9) 13

Justification of Instruments in Worship: “Some have talent to play instruments” And He Himself

Justification of Instruments in Worship: “Some have talent to play instruments” And He Himself gave some to be apostles, pianists, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ. (Eph. 4: 11 -12) • Some have talent to: • Build fine furniture • Cook • Stand on their hands • Yodel 14

Justification of Instruments in Worship: “They’re found the Book of Revelation. ” Now when

Justification of Instruments in Worship: “They’re found the Book of Revelation. ” Now when He had taken the scroll, the four living And I heard a voice from heaven, like the sound of creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before many waters and like the sound of loud thunder, and the Lamb, each having a harp, and golden bowls full of the voice which I heard was like the sound of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. (Rev. 5: 8) harpists playing on their harps. (Rev. 14: 2) • Many things in heaven that are not in the church: • Angels (Rev. 5: 2) • Altar (Rev. 6: 9) • Babies (Matt. 18: 3) 15

What is Wrong with Instrumental Music in Worship? There is No Authority in the

What is Wrong with Instrumental Music in Worship? There is No Authority in the New Testament for its use! 16

Practical Applications • Family relationships. • 1. Wives to husbands. (5: 22 - 33)

Practical Applications • Family relationships. • 1. Wives to husbands. (5: 22 - 33) • 2. Husbands to wives. 17

Ephesians - Christ and the Church • Chapter Five. . . • Verses 22

Ephesians - Christ and the Church • Chapter Five. . . • Verses 22 -33 - The Church - God’s Submissive Servants (1) • Husbands and Wives. . . • Marriage involves a great majority of church members, and it is a relationship in which participants can show to the world a walk either worthy or unworthy of their calling in the Lord. • God gave the woman to her husband as a “helper” to him (Gen. 2: 18) and gave him rule over her soon after their sin in Eden (Gen. 3: 16). 18

Ephesians - Christ and the Church • Chapter Five. . . • Verses 22

Ephesians - Christ and the Church • Chapter Five. . . • Verses 22 -33 - The Church - God’s Submissive Servants (1) • Husbands and Wives. . . • Paul uses his discussion of mutual submission in human relationships as a way to expand his previous lessons about the sanctity of the spiritual bond that exists between Christ and His church. 19

Ephesians - Christ and the Church • In his “double lesson” Paul makes six

Ephesians - Christ and the Church • In his “double lesson” Paul makes six important points: a. The husband is head over the wife in the human family; b. Christ is head over the church in the spiritual family; c. The wife must submit to the rule of the husband in the human family in all things; d. The church must submit to the rule of Christ over the church in all things; 20

Ephesians - Christ and the Church • In his “double lesson” Paul makes six

Ephesians - Christ and the Church • In his “double lesson” Paul makes six important points: e. The reason for the church submitting to Christ: He is its Savior; f. The reason for wives submitting to husbands: husbands are “saviors” of their wives 21

Ephesians - Christ and the Church • Husbands and Wives. . . • Another

Ephesians - Christ and the Church • Husbands and Wives. . . • Another “double lesson” involves the “submission” of husbands to wives. a. In this way, husbands submit their own needs to those of other family members as he “gives” himself to them; b. Similarly, Jesus “gave” Himself in life and in death to achieve what was good for His church (Phil. 2: 58); 22

Ephesians - Christ and the Church c. Jesus’ totally unselfish behavior toward the church

Ephesians - Christ and the Church c. Jesus’ totally unselfish behavior toward the church gives us the pattern for the unselfish exercise of power by husbands toward their families [wives in particular]. 23

Ephesians - Christ and the Church • Husbands and Wives. . . • Jesus’

Ephesians - Christ and the Church • Husbands and Wives. . . • Jesus’ purpose in “choosing” the saved was that they might be “holy and without blame” (1: 4). a. He sanctified it. b. He cleansed it. c. He made it glorious. 24

Ephesians - Christ and the Church • Husbands and Wives. . . • “So”.

Ephesians - Christ and the Church • Husbands and Wives. . . • “So”. . . a. Christ is head of the church; the husband is head of his wife; b. Christ is the Savior of His body; the husband is the “savior” of his wife; c. The church is subject to its Head; the wife is subject to her head; 25

Ephesians - Christ and the Church d. Christ rules over the church by love;

Ephesians - Christ and the Church d. Christ rules over the church by love; the husbands rules over his wife by love; e. Christ gave Himself for the good of the church; husbands give themselves for the good of their wives; 26

Ephesians - Christ and the Church f. Christ provided every spiritual need of the

Ephesians - Christ and the Church f. Christ provided every spiritual need of the church; a husband provides every physical and emotional need of his wife; g. Christ and the church illustrate the mutual submissiveness that should exist between every husband wife. 27

Ephesians - Christ and the Church • Chapter Five. . . • Verses 22

Ephesians - Christ and the Church • Chapter Five. . . • Verses 22 -33 - The Church - God’s Submissive Servants (1) • Husbands and Wives. . . • The conclusion Paul draws from these truths is that husbands should love their wives as they love their own bodies. • A simple lesson that some husbands never learn: love directed toward a wife by her husband is invariably returned to him in the form of love, devotion, and submission from his wife. 28

Ephesians - Christ and the Church • Husbands are far better off in every

Ephesians - Christ and the Church • Husbands are far better off in every way when they treat their wives as they should. • Charles Hodge offers a good perspective on husband-love. . . • The unity between Christ and His church is the primary cause for which He heaps bountiful gifts upon the redeemed. 29

Ephesians - Christ and the Church • Husbands and Wives. . . • The

Ephesians - Christ and the Church • Husbands and Wives. . . • The “great mystery” is likely not the mutual submissiveness in a marriage that Paul has been discussing. • Even though our understanding of everything else is subordinate to our perception of Paul’s lessons on Christ and the church, the apostle initially had set out in this passage to teach the saints at Ephesus the importance of submission in a successful marriage. 30

Practical Applications • Family relationships. • 3. Children to parents. (6: 1 -3) •

Practical Applications • Family relationships. • 3. Children to parents. (6: 1 -3) • 4. Parents to children. (6: 4) 31

 • Chapter Six. . . • Verses 1 -9 - The Church -

• Chapter Six. . . • Verses 1 -9 - The Church - God’s Submissive Servants (2) • Parents and Children. . . • The parent/child relationship is first addressed. Paul speaks directly to “children” about their obligation to submit themselves to their parents. • While “in the Lord” might be especially meaningful to older children, the same expression is also important when directed toward parents of younger children. 32

 • Chapter Six. . . • Verses 1 -9 - The Church -

• Chapter Six. . . • Verses 1 -9 - The Church - God’s Submissive Servants (2) • Parents and Children. . . • It is right for parents to be in charge and for children to be in submission. • This delegation of control to parents was not a new arrangement. • God’s appointments have always afforded both privileges and responsibilities to their recipients. 33

 • Chapter Six. . . • Verses 1 -9 - The Church God’s

• Chapter Six. . . • Verses 1 -9 - The Church God’s Submissive Servants (2) • Parents and Children. . . • Wives much more willingly submit to their husbands if they feel loved by them. 34

 • Chapter Six. . . • Verses 1 -9 - The Church -

• Chapter Six. . . • Verses 1 -9 - The Church - God’s Submissive Servants (2) • Parents and Children. . . • Fathers have two serious obligations to their children that will • promote a harmonious relationship between children and their parents and • will greatly enhance the prospect for a harmonious relationship between children and God: 35

 • Chapter Six. . . • Verses 1 -9 - The Church -

• Chapter Six. . . • Verses 1 -9 - The Church - God’s Submissive Servants (2) • Parents and Children. . . • Fathers must not “provoke” their children. • Parents must “bring up” their children in the “training” and “admonition” of the Lord. • Of course, training “in the Lord” must be made appropriate to the age and understanding of a child. 36

Practical Applications • Social relationships. (6: 5 -9) • Servants to masters. (5 -8)

Practical Applications • Social relationships. (6: 5 -9) • Servants to masters. (5 -8) • 2. Masters to servants. ( 9) 37

 • Chapter Six. . . • Verses 1 -9 - The Church -

• Chapter Six. . . • Verses 1 -9 - The Church - God’s Submissive Servants (2) • Masters and Servants. . . • “Servants” as addressed here were slaves, not just hired servants. • Slavery as an institution of firstcentury society posed a unique problem for slaves and masters. 38

 • Chapter Six. . . • Verses 1 -9 - The Church -

• Chapter Six. . . • Verses 1 -9 - The Church - God’s Submissive Servants (2) • Masters and Servants. . . • There is nothing in New Testament teaching that encouraged the cancellation of any personal relationships between slaves and masters, nor is there any indication that one of the goals of gospel preaching was to abolish slavery as an institution. 39

 • Chapter Six. . . • Verses 1 -9 - The Church -

• Chapter Six. . . • Verses 1 -9 - The Church - God’s Submissive Servants (2) • Masters and Servants. . . • Embedded in the gospel of Christ are principles of love and kindness that would, in time, diminish one man’s desire to control the life of another man. • New “rules” were now in place to regulate how Christian masters and Christian slaves treated one another. 40

 • Chapter Six. . . • Verses 1 -9 - The Church -

• Chapter Six. . . • Verses 1 -9 - The Church - God’s Submissive Servants (2) • Masters and Servants. . . • Slaves must be obedient [submissive] to their masters: a. Not as men-pleasers b. Not giving eye-service c. With “fear and trembling, ” 41

 • Chapter Six. . . • Verses 1 -9 - The Church -

• Chapter Six. . . • Verses 1 -9 - The Church - God’s Submissive Servants (2) • Masters and Servants. . . • Slaves must be obedient [submissive] to their masters: d. With a heartfelt desire to do God’s will as they submit to man’s will; e. With a wholesome attitude toward the service they perform for both God and man. 42

 • Chapter Six. . . • Verses 1 -9 - The Church -

• Chapter Six. . . • Verses 1 -9 - The Church - God’s Submissive Servants (2) • Masters and Servants. . . • Paul’s focus in this passage is on good attitudes and good service on the part of owners, slaves, or freemen who were all one in Christ. • Lest slave owners and employers of freemen should fail to make changes in their own behavior, Paul particularizes what God expects of them. . . 43

 • Chapter Six. . . • Verses 1 -9 - The Church -

• Chapter Six. . . • Verses 1 -9 - The Church - God’s Submissive Servants (2) • Masters and Servants. . . • This section of Ephesians [5: 21 -6: 9] provides us with a wide-reaching treatment of the principle of mutual submission that is to be practiced in the church. 44

Practical Applications • Spiritual relationships. (6: 10 -20) • l. Christians face an enemy.

Practical Applications • Spiritual relationships. (6: 10 -20) • l. Christians face an enemy. (11 -12) • 2. Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might and don the armor of God. (10 -18) 45

The Whole Armor Of God Ephesians 6: 10 -18 46

The Whole Armor Of God Ephesians 6: 10 -18 46

Introductory Thoughts Christians are Soldiers of God. 2 Timothy 2: 3 – 2 Timothy

Introductory Thoughts Christians are Soldiers of God. 2 Timothy 2: 3 – 2 Timothy 4: 7 We must be able to stand against our enemies. We can stand strong when we put on the whole armor of God. Whole = Complete – Offensive and defensive. Not part God and part man. Let’s examine the armor and what it can do for us. 47

Belt of Truth Holds armor in place Truth is the belt that holds the

Belt of Truth Holds armor in place Truth is the belt that holds the Christian soldier together John 1: 17 John 8: 32 John 14: 6 John 17: 17 1 Corinthians 15: 1 -2 Proverbs 23: 23 48

Breastplate of Righteousness Covered vital organs Righteousness = Living right. Gives strength because our

Breastplate of Righteousness Covered vital organs Righteousness = Living right. Gives strength because our enemy can have no evil thing to say about us. Integrity, holiness and purity of life. Jesus overcame all the temptations he faced due to His righteousness. 49

Shoes of Readiness Prepared to Move Quickly or Stand Firmly Christians are prepared by

Shoes of Readiness Prepared to Move Quickly or Stand Firmly Christians are prepared by Gospel of Peace. Constantly ready for attacks. Philippians 4: 13 2 Timothy 1: 12 50

Shield of Faith Defensive weapon Romans 10: 17 Hebrews 11: 6 Psalm 119: 11

Shield of Faith Defensive weapon Romans 10: 17 Hebrews 11: 6 Psalm 119: 11 Protects us from the darts of… Doubt, Discouragement, Disappointment and Death 51

Helmet of Salvation Protects the head The assurance of salvation. Gives hope for the

Helmet of Salvation Protects the head The assurance of salvation. Gives hope for the future John 14: 3 1 Peter 1: 3 -4 Offers encouragement and strength to endure. 52

Sword of the Spirit Offensive weapon Hebrews 4: 12 To use it we must

Sword of the Spirit Offensive weapon Hebrews 4: 12 To use it we must know it – 2 Timothy 2: 15 -16 Contains all things we need – 2 Peter 1: 3 Sword can be used, but not applied – Genesis 3 Sword can be used and be effective – Matthew 4 53

Concluding Thoughts Verse 18 gives the exhortation to pray. Prayer is the means by

Concluding Thoughts Verse 18 gives the exhortation to pray. Prayer is the means by which we stay in touch with our commander in chief. It is an honor to be a soldier for your country. It is an even greater honor to be a soldier of God. Have you enlisted in the Lord’s Army? 54

Our Shield against Satan’s W. M. D. ’s • Test Preachers and Religious Leaders

Our Shield against Satan’s W. M. D. ’s • Test Preachers and Religious Leaders With the Sword of the Spirit (1 John 4: 1; Acts 17: 11; 1 Peter 4: 11) 55

1 John 4: 1 “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits,

1 John 4: 1 “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world. ” How Do We Do This? 56

Acts 17: 11 “These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they

Acts 17: 11 “These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. ” In all things, let us ask, “What does the Scripture say? ” 57

1 Peter 4: 11 “If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of

1 Peter 4: 11 “If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies” We must respect the silence of God as well, limiting our “speech” to what is found in His word. WHY MUST THIS BE? 58

1 Peter 4: 11 “If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of

1 Peter 4: 11 “If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen. ” 59

Our War against Satan’s W. M. D. ’s • Test Preachers with the Sword

Our War against Satan’s W. M. D. ’s • Test Preachers with the Sword of the spirit (1 John 4: 1; Acts 17: 11) • Shield ourselves from pride with humility! (1 Peter 5: 5 -6; Phil. 2: 3 -5) 60

Our War against Satan’s W. M. D. ’s • Test Preachers with the Sword

Our War against Satan’s W. M. D. ’s • Test Preachers with the Sword of the spirit (1 John 4: 1; Acts 17: 11) • Shield ourselves from pride by being humble! (1 Peter 5: 5 -6) • Fight ignorance with knowledge of God’s Word! (Eph. 3: 4; 5: 17; 2 Tim. 2: 15). 61

Ephesians 3: 4; 5: 17 “By which, when you read, you may understand my

Ephesians 3: 4; 5: 17 “By which, when you read, you may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ: “Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is. ” 62

Our Shield against Satan’s W. M. D. ’s • Test Preachers with the Sword

Our Shield against Satan’s W. M. D. ’s • Test Preachers with the Sword of the spirit (1 John 4: 1; Acts 17: 11) • Shield ourselves from pride by being humble! (1 Peter 5: 5 -6) • Fight ignorance with knowledge of God’s Word! (Eph. 3: 4; 2 Tim. 2: 15) • STAND and put on the whole armor to guard against apathy (Eph. 6: 1218; Rom. 13: 11 -12) 63

Ephesians 6: 13 -14 “Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that

Ephesians 6: 13 -14 “Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness…. ” 64

Ephesians 6: 13 -18 tells us to put on the “whole armor of God.

Ephesians 6: 13 -18 tells us to put on the “whole armor of God. ” Let us make sure we have the “shield of faith” to guard our souls against Satan’s W. M. D. ’s Those “fiery darts” of Satan come from anywhere. Rather than fear, we must be prepared, active, patient, and endeavor to faithfully serve God! 65

Practical Applications • Spiritual relationships. • 3. Pray always. (6: 18 -20) • praying

Practical Applications • Spiritual relationships. • 3. Pray always. (6: 18 -20) • praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints—and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. 66

 • Chapter Six. . . • Verses 10 -20 - The Church -

• Chapter Six. . . • Verses 10 -20 - The Church - God’s Secure Saints • Peter warns in his first epistle, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Pet. 5: 8). 67

 • Chapter Six. . . • Verses 10 -20 - The Church -

• Chapter Six. . . • Verses 10 -20 - The Church - God’s Secure Saints • Many of us vastly underestimate the strength, cunning, and perseverance of Satan: a. He is the prince [ruler] of the demons (Matt. 9: 34); b. He is the prince [ruler] of this world (John 14: 30; 16: 11); c. He is the prince of the power of the air and the spirit that motivates the sons of disobedience (Eph. 2: 2); d. He is a murderer and a liar (John 8: 44) and sinned from the beginning (1 John 3: 8); 68

e. He transforms himself into an angel of light; he has servants who transform

e. He transforms himself into an angel of light; he has servants who transform themselves into ministers of righteousness. f. He overcame Judas (Luke 22: 3, 4) and Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5: 3); g. He hinders God’s people in their efforts to serve the Lord (1 Thes. 2: 18) 69

 • Understanding the strength of the devil, we can also understand the need

• Understanding the strength of the devil, we can also understand the need for Christians to be strong: a. “Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong” (1 Cor. 16: 13); b. “. . . be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus” (2 Tim. 2: 1); c. “. . . Christ Jesus. . . perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you” (1 Pet. 5: 10); d. “. . . that He would grant you. . . to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man” (Eph. 3: 16). 70

 • Paul’s directive to the Ephesians to “be strong” would ask too much

• Paul’s directive to the Ephesians to “be strong” would ask too much of them if help were not available to make compliance possible. • In light of the inequalities between Satan’s capabilities and our own, Paul’s final admonition to the Ephesian saints is, “Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. ” 71

 • Although our personal defenses against the “wiles” of the devil are inadequate

• Although our personal defenses against the “wiles” of the devil are inadequate to resist him successfully, there are several actions that can be taken to assure a victorious opposition to his attacks against our faith. 72

a. Put on the whole armor of God (verse 11). We must wear the

a. Put on the whole armor of God (verse 11). We must wear the helmet of salvation. We must take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. b. Wrestle against the spiritual hosts of wickedness (verse 12). 1. Our struggle is not confined to physical foes. 2. These adversaries of the truth are spiritual, numerous, wicked, and situated in the heavenly “places”: 73

Stand (verse 13) Pray always (verse 18) Be watchful and persevere (verse 18) Pray

Stand (verse 13) Pray always (verse 18) Be watchful and persevere (verse 18) Pray for all the saints (verse 18) 74

 • Tychicus, a “beloved and faithful minister in the Lord, ” was to

• Tychicus, a “beloved and faithful minister in the Lord, ” was to bear the epistle to the church at Ephesus from Rome. • Tychicus would also be able to give a personal report of Paul’s circumstances as he was being held prisoner by Rome. • Paul’s closing was typical and wished for peace, love, faith, and grace to be God’s bounty to them as they continued to display love and sincere commitment to Jesus Christ. 75

Conclusion (6: 21 -24) (21 -24)But that you also may know my affairs and

Conclusion (6: 21 -24) (21 -24)But that you also may know my affairs and how I am doing, Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, will make all things known to you; whom I have sent to you for this very purpose, that you may know our affairs, and that he may comfort your hearts. Peace to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen. 76

Ephesians - Review 77

Ephesians - Review 77

Ephesians - Christ and the Church • Review. . . 1. God dealt separately

Ephesians - Christ and the Church • Review. . . 1. God dealt separately with Jews and Gentiles prior to the death of Christ. 2. The “mystery” was an eternal plan to unite all men and treat them alike. 3. Christ’s Place in the “Mystery” - to sit empowered to implement God’s plan. (Eph. 1: 20) 4. The Church’s Place in the “Mystery” to be the entity where all can “sit together. ” (Eph. 2: 6) 78

Ephesians - Christ and the Church • Review. . . 5. The Church’s Place

Ephesians - Christ and the Church • Review. . . 5. The Church’s Place in the “Mystery” - to receive all spiritual blessings in Christ. (Eph. 1: 3) 6. Principalities’ Place in the “Mystery” - to see the superiority of God’s wisdom. (Eph. 3: 10) 7. Wicked Host’s Place in the “Mystery” - to continue to oppose God’s plan and people. (Eph. 6: 12) 79

GLORY IN THE CHURCH (Ephesians 3: 21) “. . . to Him be glory

GLORY IN THE CHURCH (Ephesians 3: 21) “. . . to Him be glory in the church. . . Therefore. . . ” 1. Be united. . . 4: 1 -6 2. Strive for perfection. . 4: 7 -16 3. Maintain morality. . . 4: 17 - 5: 14 4. Nurture good relationships. . . 5: 15 - 6: 9 a. Mutual relationships. . . 5: 15 -21 b. Specific relationships. . 5: 22 - 6: 9 i)Husbands/wives. . . 5: 22 -33 ii)Parents/children. . . 6: 1 -4 iii)Masters/servants. . . 6: 5 -9 5. Persevere in service. . . 6: 10 -20 80

THE APOSTLE PAUL AND JOHN CALVIN John Calvin was the principal author of the

THE APOSTLE PAUL AND JOHN CALVIN John Calvin was the principal author of the doctrine of predestination, a theory consisting of five component parts. Advocates of the doctrine frequently appeal to Paul’s statements in Ephesians to support their teaching. However, a close examination reveals that other statements in the same epistle demonstrate that Paul took a contrary view of Calvinism’s “proof texts” and stood opposed to the doctrine of predestination as taught in many churches: 81

Calvin’s Doctrine Text Used Total Depravity 2: 3 - “Children of Wrath” Unconditional 1:

Calvin’s Doctrine Text Used Total Depravity 2: 3 - “Children of Wrath” Unconditional 1: 5 Election “predestined to adoption” Limited 1: 4 - “chosen to Atonement holiness” Irresistible 1: 6 - “made us Grace accepted” Perseverance 1: 3 - “sealed of the Saints with the Spirit” 82 Paul’s Position Text Men “give 4: 18 selves” to sin. 19 Faith and 2: 8 -10 Works necessary Role of Gospel 3: 4; essential 5: 26 Dependent on 3: 4, 5, Teaching 9 Can “grieve” the 4: 30 Spirit

Election to eternal life is conditional to all men. Man’s responsibility can be illustrated

Election to eternal life is conditional to all men. Man’s responsibility can be illustrated in this statement: “( ) has decided that he will give college scholarships to graduating high school seniors. All students who graduate with a B or better grade average will be given four year scholarships. This B or above average must be maintained by a recipient during each scholastic year to retain his/her scholarship. ” 83

ALL SPIRITIAL BLESSINGS ARE IN CHRIST Ephesians. 1: 3 “In Christ” Baptized “Into” Romans

ALL SPIRITIAL BLESSINGS ARE IN CHRIST Ephesians. 1: 3 “In Christ” Baptized “Into” Romans 6: 3 -6 Galatians 3: 26, 27 Confess “Unto” Romans 10: 10 Repent “Unto” Acts 11: 18 Believe “Unto” Romans 10: 10 Redemption Ephesians 1: 7 New Creation 2 Corinthians 5: 17 Remission of Sins Matthew 26: 28 Sanctification Hebrews 13: 12 Justification Romans 5: 9 84

What Does God’s Word Say About Salvation? Hear- Romans 10: 17 Luke 11: 28

What Does God’s Word Say About Salvation? Hear- Romans 10: 17 Luke 11: 28 Romans 1: 16 Believe –John 3: 16 John 8: 24 Mark 16: 16 Repent – Acts 2: 38 Luke 13: 3 Acts 3: 19 Confess– Romans 10: 10 Matthew 10: 32 Acts 8: 37 Baptized -1 st. Peter 3: 21 Mark 16: 16 Acts 22: 16 Remain Faithful – Revelation 2: 10 b Matthew 10: 22

Join Us At: 656 St. James Church Rd. Newton, NC Regular Assembly Times :

Join Us At: 656 St. James Church Rd. Newton, NC Regular Assembly Times : Each Sunday: Bible Study 9: 30 AM, Worship 11: 00 AM Wednesdays: Bible Study 7: 00 PM 86

The Word and The Sword Is Brought To You By The Members Of By

The Word and The Sword Is Brought To You By The Members Of By e-mail: contact@wordandsword. com By Phone: 828 -465 -3009 By Mail: P. O. Box 893 Newton, NC 28658 www. wordandsword. com 87

JOIN US AGAIN TUESDAY January 20 th @8 PM AS WE CONTINUE IN OUR

JOIN US AGAIN TUESDAY January 20 th @8 PM AS WE CONTINUE IN OUR STUDY OF GOD’S WORD 88