A Study on the Book of Ephesians.

Bible Text: Berean Literal Bible & NKJV.

Ephesians  1: In Him.

Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To the saints being in Ephesus,a and faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. [vs.1-2]

Paul is writing this letter near the end of his ministry. While he is in prison in Rome awaiting to be executed. Some time has passed since he had first passed through the region of Ephesus and he had preached Christ to them. Ephesus were one of the success of his ministry. He had stayed with them quite a long time teaching and preaching, form which he was able to affect most of Asia. [Acts 18-19] 

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the One having blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms, just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world for us to be holy and blameless before Him, in love having predestined us for divine adoption as sons to Himself through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He has freely given us in the Beloved One, [vs.3-6]

Jesus has been made Lord of all, and all things have been given to Him, all authority in haven and earth. Now is in the process of bringing everything into subjection to His authority. “For He must reign until He has put all enemies under His feet.” And Jesus has delegated this tasks to those who will inherit with Him. When Jesus was on the earth, He was restricted to minister to those who were under the law. But through His death and resurrection He has multiplied Himself in every born again believer spread across the world, to work in nations, regions, cultures, employment and neighbourhoods that He may be a present Christ to all. And we being in Him are blessed with every spiritual blessing [because He is blessed]. That is we have potentially be given all things that is of need to be the people God has called us to be, to the fulfilment of our earthly ministry, [to be a present Christ] in our area of life. [C.B]

Why spiritual blessings in heavenly places; because it is by faith and not of works. In his letter to the Corinthians Paul says, “But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God – and righteousness and sanctification and redemption – that, as it is written, “He who glories, let him glory in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 1:30-31 That is Christ has become for us everything we ever need. That in Him we are made complete, but we acquire these through the knowledge of Him by faith. “As His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him, by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature.” 2 Peter 1:3-4 “You cannot have faith for something you do not know” [K.H] But as we grow in knowledge of what is available to us in Him, we  are able to acquire it through faith, therefore he says, “let him glory in the Lord.” because all the blessing are already made available in Christ.

• Now we have received, not the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God. 1 Corinthians 2:12

He has blessed us with all Spiritual blessing in Jesus Christ, the same way He has predestined us to be adopted as sons through Christ, by His grace. If you know you are a son or daughter of God, then you ought to know God has blessed you with all spiritual blessing as sure as your adoption in Jesus Christ. Then just as you obtained, your righteousness, redemption, sanctification by faith, you are able to obtain every spiritual blessing that pertain to life and godliness by faith.

• For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom He predestined, these He called; whom He called, these he also justified; and whom He justified, these He glorified. Romans 8:29-31

Grace of God is not in the choosing but the grounds on which any are able to come to Him. Grace has made us all equal, the highest to the lowest, from the mighty to the weak all come to God on the same ground, with nothing ever commending us to God. However, God has always known those who would accept this offer of salvation through Jesus Christ [these he says, He foreknew]. So when he says, “He chose us before the foundation of the world.” it is not to say some were given a special dispensation to believe while others are not. Jesus said to His disciples “You did not choose Me but I have chosen you.” John 15:16 However, Jesus did not force it upon them but made the offer to them which they willingly accepted. Even Judas was chosen, which he accepted and by his own choice he also fell away.

Therefore he says, those who are to be made in the likeness of His Son, these He called, but the call of God has gone out not to chosen only but to the entire world. That God was in Christ reconciling the [world] to Himself not only the chosen. And “the Lord is long-suffering toward us not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9 Then whether it be rejection or acceptance it is not qualified until the offer is made, that it may be according to the choice of the individual.

in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of trespasses, according to the riches of His grace which He lavished upon us in all wisdom and understanding, having made known to us the mystery of His will according to His pleasure, which He purposed in Him for the administration of the fullness of the times, to bring together all things in Christ—the things in the heavens and the things upon the earth— in Him, [vs.7-10]

That God has made redemption available freely to all, no restriction, Jew or Gentile every one [to all who accept Him]. “being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” Romans 3:24 The grace of God has made it so that there may be no obstacles or restriction to come to God through Christ = [Grace]. That is the price has already been paid for all. “God has passed over the sins that were perviously committed, to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness that He might be just and justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus Christ.” Romans 3:25-26 [AND] “God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them.” 2 Corinthians 5:19

Then coming to Christ does not require you to list your sins or worry over the things you have to give up, [that is do not let anything come to mind or heart that by its deceit keeps you from Christ.] Only be willing to turn to God, believe from your heart Jesus Christ, died and lives and confess Him to be your Lord. This will make you justified in the sight of God, and when the life of Christ is in you, then those things that oppressed and enslaved you in the past will fall away. Christianity is not observance of rules so as to shape ourselves to fit, but a change of nature that you cannot do nothing but fit.

God’s plan has been to reclaim what was lost in Adam, to bring all creation under His kingdom which God has now accomplished through Christ. Jesus said, “all authority has been given to Me in haven and on the earth.” Matthew 28:18 Right after that the devil was kicked out of haven, with his angles. But the earth still needs subduing, which Christ is working through us. “Now, when all things are made subject to Him the Son Himself will also be subject to Him who put all things under Him, that God may be all in all.” 1 Corinthians 15:28 

in whom also we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of the One working all things according to the counsel of His will for us, the ones having first trusted in Christ, to be to the praise of His glory, [vs.11-12] 

Our inheritance is nothing less than the kingdom of God. Jesus said, “Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” Luke 12:32 That we through Jesus Christ have become children of God, and as children we also become co-inheritors of the Kingdom with Him. “The Spirit Himself bares witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs – heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ.” Romans 8:16-17 

in whom you also, having heard the word of truth, the gospel your of salvation, in whom also having believed you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is the guarantee of our inheritance to the redemption of the acquired possession, to the praise of His glory. [vs.13-14] 

The point Paul is making here is to be born of God is a two fold process. The first part being, we believing in the word of truth, that Jesus Christ died for our sins and was raised to life for our justification. [Romans 4:25] through which we are made righteous by faith, our hearts purified and the sins of our past forgotten. We are also baptised in water, through which we are taken out of the world, having died to who we were, to walk with God. This is our part to continue in the confession of our faith; believing in His word. “If indeed you continue in faith, grounded and steadfast, and are not moved away from the hope of the gospel which you heard which was preached.” Colossians 1:23

The second part is what God Himself does in us in response to our faith in Jesus Christ, which is to gives us of the Spirit of His Son. “And because you are sons, God sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out “Abba, Father.” Galatians 4:6  When we receive of His Spirit we then have the witness of God, that we are children of God. “The Spirit Himself bares witness with our spirit that we are children of God,” Romans 8:16 Whether we receive the Spirit through the baptism of the Holy Spirit, or the Spirit of His son coming to dwell in us to bare witness of the truth, all point to one essential aspect, “for this is the witness of God which He has testified of His Son. He who believes in the Son of God has the witness in himself; 1 John 5:9-10 Therefore in order to be born of God, we must be born of His word and of His Spirit; without the Spirit coming to dwell in us, we are not complete. “Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His.” Romans 8:9   

The new testament, express the Holy Spirit, with many names; the Spirit of God, the Spirit of His Son, the Spirit of Christ, the Spirit of truth, the Spirit of adoption, but most the time He is simply referred to as the Spirit. Therefore, If anyone is in Christ has the Holy Spirit in them, though it might not be the baptism of, which is the endowment of power to work and live [Acts 1:8], nonetheless it is the same Spirit. [As underlined in the next verse.]  

• Now He who establish us with in Christ and anointed us is God, who also has sealed us and given us the Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee. 2 Corinthians 1:21-22 

Then the object of our salvation, the forgiveness of our sins is for this one and only purpose, that we might be the dwelling place of God. This is the witness the seal of the Holy Spirit who is the guarantee of our inheritance, without the presence of whom we can not be heirs of God, we would be a body without spirit. Therefore, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptised in the name of Jesus Christ for remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:38  Now, not all of us receive the Holy Spirit the moment we believe, but we have the promise of God, if we remain faithful to the end. And God is faithful to do His part to all who come to Him in truth. “How much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him.” Luke 11:13

Because of this, I also, having heard of the faith in the Lord Jesus among you, and the love toward all the saints, do not cease giving thanks for you, making mention in my prayers, [vs.15-16]

Paul writes this letter to the Ephesians from his captivity in Rome, awaiting judgment. In his letter to the Ephesians he makes mention sending to them a man named, Tychicus that he might give them an update on his conditions, which he also makes mention in his letter to Timothy while he was facing the court of Caesar.  [Ephesians 6:21-22, 2 Timothy 4:12] Therefore, when he says, “After I heard of your faith,” he is not speaking, in the same manner as those in Rome, to whom he was not responsible to introduce the gospel of Christ, but he is speaking of their growth in faith. Considering when Paul left their region, the whole city was in such an uproar against the faith [Acts 19:23-29]. So he expresses his gratitude to God that their faith was not stifled through the persecution. 

that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes your of heart being enlightened, [vs.17-18]

Paul writes out the prayer he makes to God on their behalf, the things he considers to be needful to those who have come to knowledge of God through Jesus Christ. That is we might be able to receive from God, and be taught by Him. That is to be our life pursuit that we may know God, know His will, and know His heart. Jesus said to His disciples, “To you it has been given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God, but to the rest it is given in parables.” Luke 8:10 

• “Now we have not received the Spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God.” 1 Corinthians 2:12

Paul in his letter to the Corinthians praised them and gave thanks to God for the knowledge and faith they had. However he also marvelled at the lack of their understanding even to call them carnal. They lacked spiritual understanding, because they failed to see the blessing of God was meant to be the expression of the love they ought to have in serving one another.

Now, when he says being enlightened in heart, he is speaking of one who is not guided by a set of rules but understands [works out], God’s heart through the revelation He has given in His word and acts accordingly. An example of this is the teaching Paul gave in regards to eating meat before one who is weak in faith. On the face of it the word of God is, God has made all food clean, to all who receive it with thankfulness. This is your strong tower of defence against those who seek to enslave and judge you. However it is also translated to mean, an exhibition of your care and love towards one who is weak in faith, by denying yourself your right in Christ, when the occasion calls for it. Working out the expression of love in our daily life; “I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.” 1 Corinthians 9:22

in order for you to know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us believing according to the working of the power of His might, which He worked in Christ, having raised Him out from the dead, and having set Him at His right hand in the heavenly realms, above every principality and authority and power and dominion, and every name being named, not only in this age, but also in the one coming. [vs.18-21]

Even though, there are specific callings and functions we are called to perform in the body of Christ for the benefit of all. The first and foremost call is to be a child of God, in the likeness of Christ. Jesus said to His disciples “No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends [brethren] for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you.” John 15:15 [C.B] That our knowledge of God and the light of His will in our hearts is so that we may know who we are in Him.

• And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. For whom He foreknew, He predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. Romans 8:28-29

Here when speaking of inheritance he is speaking of the inheritance of the saints and not of God; we inherit from Him not the other way round. So in keeping with the rest of the text, the meaning is best expressed as, “what are the riches of the glory of the saint’s inheritance in Him.” Of this inheritance which is no less than the kingdom of God, Paul writes, “the sufferings of the present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed in us.” Romans 8:1

The power of God that is toward us is compared to the might that worked in Christ [that raised Him from the dead to His glory of the righthand of the throne of God]. That we who believe have the same power available to us in Christ, for us to live in the present time in victory. So as to say, just as Jesus Christ was raised to be over all things, to be beside God. We also have the same power of God available to us in Christ, as to subject all [principalities and power and might and dominion] of the world in His name as to be above it as He is. Now and forever. “The greatest expression of the power of God ever displayed [since creation] is when God raised Christ from the dead.” [C.B] Through which, slaves were made rulers.

Then spiritual enlightenment [is so], we might know who we are as sons and daughters [And] what is the glory of the inheritance that awaits us in Christ [And] the might of His power at work in us [who believe], that is giving us everlasting dominion over all things [in Christ], on earth and also in the age to come.

And He put all things under His feet and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of the One filling all in all. [vs.22-23]

Then every member of His body, [the church] is above all things. Since everything is put under His feet, then as members of His body we can say, “all things are put subject to us [in Christ], that we being hid in Him.” And the power of God is available with all might that worked in Christ to bring that to pass. “For Christ must reign till He has put all His enemies under His feet.” 1 Corinthians 15:25 Then the power of God is there to back us up, to make this true. That Christ is working in us through His Holy Spirit, to take our position in Him over all the powers of the enemy, as be rulers now and forever more. There ought not to be a power on earth, that has mastery over those who are hidden in Christ.

And Paul in his letter to the Colossians reveals, the purpose of this spiritual understanding, the knowledge of His call and His power that is at work in us, is so; “that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;” Colossians 1:10

Ephesians  2: By Grace Through Faith!

And you, being dead in your trespasses and sins— in which once you walked according to the age of this world, according to the ruler of the authority of the air, the spirit now working in the sons of disobedience, among whom we all also once lived in the desires of our flesh, doing the things willed of the flesh and of its thoughts; and we were by nature children of wrath even as the rest. [vs.1-3]

There is a spirit at work in the world, this is the spirit of the evil one who is the ruler of this age. And everyone of us at one point have been in servitude to this spirit. Our thoughts and desires were coerced by this spirit, to live for the appetite of the flesh, and were marked for condemnation, along with the rest of the world. And as long as this spirit is at work in us we are estranged from God, that is the meaning of “being dead in trespasses and sins.”

• “the mind of the flesh is hostility toward God; for it is not subject to the Law of God, for not even can it be. And those being in the flesh are not able to please God.” Romans 8:7-8

But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, made us alive with Christ even we being dead in trespasses—by grace you are saved— and He raised us up together and seated us together in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. [vs.4-7]

Though we were offsprings of disobedience, incapable of doing what is good and acceptable in the sight of God. But because of God’s own love and mercy, He made us [alive] with Christ. That is He raised us with Christ, having united us with Him. “He who is joined to the Lord is one Spirit with Him.” 1 Corinthians 6:17 Then the spirit at work in us is, no longer the spirit of the world but the Spirit which is from God. And if we have His Spirit in us, then we are also seated with Him where He is. Jesus prayed saying, “Father, I desire that they also whom You gave Me may be with Me where I am, that they may behold My glory which You have given Me;” John 17:24 Then the exceeding greatness of the glory of Christ, is manifested in us as we are also glorified with Him. That is the richness of the grace of God; not only to grant us eternal life in Christ but to also make us partakers of His inheritance. “Whom He called, these He justified, these He justified, these He also glorified.” Romans 8:30 

For by grace you are saved through faith, and this not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, having been created in Christ Jesus for good works which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. [vs.8-10]

Then there is nothing in ourselves that commends us to God; none of us are any more good enough or none of us any more worse off than another. All that is required is our response of faith to Jesus Christ. Even this faith [to believe in Him] is not something that originates from ourselves, it is a gift from God. “So then faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God. Romans 10:17 That in all things of our salvation, it is not credited to our own effort [works] but to the grace of God. But there is a response of faith, the choice we make to believe or to disbelieve.

And there is a purpose to our salvation, “He died for all, that those who live should live not longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again.” 2 Corinthians 5:15 Nevertheless, we do not do any good works so that we may earn anything from God. Since He has freely given us all things in Jesus Christ. “As His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called by glory and virtue.” 2 Peter 1:3 However, God has saved and restored us, so that He may show His goodness to the world through us. Jesus said of His disciples, “you are the light of the world.” and “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in haven.” Matthew 5:14,16 That is all might witness the marvellous works God has done in us, as we walk in a manner that exemplify Him.

• “For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Saviour Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works. Titus 2:11-14   

Good works is not only the things we do, in giving to the poor or the service we render to one other. The Lord said, “to let our light so shine”  but we do not do our charitable service to be seen of men, however the manner of life we live, we do in the sight of all. To live “soberly, righteously and godly,” these are living in a manner that manifest the fruits of the Spirit, shunning away from what is evil and doing those things which are pleasing to God. Jesus said, “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:35 Then these are good works, the things that we do that exhibit the love of God in our life,[from forgiveness and patience to the grace we extend to others.]

Therefore remember that formerly you—the Gentiles in the flesh, the ones being called the uncircumcision by that being called the circumcision, made by hands in the flesh— that at that time you were separate from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of the promise, not having hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you, the ones once being far off, have become near by the blood of Christ. [vs.11-13]

When saying, “Once Gentiles in the flesh,” he is making the point, as there was an outward mark in the flesh that identified God’s people, now there is also a circumcision of Christ, through which we are identified as the people of God. “In Him you were also circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, buried with Him in baptism, in which you also were were raised wit Him through faith in the working of God. Colossians 2:11-12 Then the identifying mark of the people of God is being dead in the flesh and alive in Spirit.

Now, Paul specifically points out those who previously had no relationship with God. That Gentiles in the flesh, at that time were strangers from “the covenant of promise.” which was only applicable to those who were of the law and circumcision. The rest having no recourse to God, were without hope. So he says, though [you: Gentiles] had no knowledge of Him, in order to seek after Him, yet by the blood of Christ, He has included you.  

For He Himself is our peace, having made both one and having broken down the barrier of the partition of hostility, having annulled in His flesh the law of commandments in ordinances, so that He might create in Himself the two into one new man, making peace, and He might reconcile both to God in one body through the cross, by it having slain the hostility. And having come, He proclaimed the gospel: peace to you, the ones far off, and peace to those near. For through Him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit. [vs.14-18]

Paul is now pointing to the seperation that was between Jew and Gentile. Which could easily be translated as those who knew God and those who did not. That the law was the manifestation of the seperation that then existed between the two. Jesus said, “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfil. For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled. Matthew 5:17-18 That Christ has become the fulfilment of the law. Then the reconciliation through the cross is, in the simplicity both are able to come to God, since there is no longer merit in the law as to obtain the righteousness of God but only faith. “the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all who believe.” Romans 3:21-22

• “For what the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, on account of sin: He condemned sin in the flesh, that the righteous requirement of the law may be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.” Romans 8:3-4    

Then Christ has paid the price of the law for us all, that we all may be justified by faith in Him, “Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us [for its is written, “Cursed be everyone who hangs on a tree,”] that the blessing of Abraham may come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. Galatians 3:13-14 Without the law, first being satisfied the Gentiles could not know God as Abraham did. When God bound  Himself to Israel through the covenant of the law, it also estranged Him from those who were without law. This is the wall of seperation between Jew and Gentile. So Christ removed the wall by satisfying its requirements [redeeming those who under the law] that the Gentiles could know God as Abraham did through faith.

Then the point is both Jew and Gentile come to Christ through faith; then not the work of Jew account for anything, nor the sins of the Gentile keep him away, but both are saved by the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. And in Christ Jesus, both are made into a new creation, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation;” 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore there is no longer, a seperation in the flesh nor in the law both are made children of God by one Spirit, through Whom we all have access to God the Father, who has become a Father to us all through Jesus Christ. 

• “For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you were baptised into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is nether salve or free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ.” Galatians 3:26-28

So then, you are no longer strangers and aliens, but are fellow citizens of the saints and of the household of God, having been built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole building, being fitted together, is increasing into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom you also are being built together for a habitation of God in the Spirit. [vs.19-22]

Now then there is no difference, all have become members of the kingdom of God through Jesus Christ. When he says, “built on the foundation of [apostles and prophets],” he is speaking of the testimony they bear of the Lord Jesus Christ. Before the Lord was taken up He instructed them to make disciples, “teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you;” Matthew 28:20 And the Lord speaks of those who were to come to faith in Him through their testimony says, “I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word;” John 17:20 These is the foundation of the apostles.

• “how shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation which at first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed to us by those who heard Him, God also bearing witness. Hebrews 2:3-4

Then [apostles and prophets] is the combination of the old and new; the apostles speaking of those things they saw, which was confirmed with the prophetic word, [which] found fulfilment in the Jesus Christ. Peter in his first sermon in Acts 2 makes reference to the prophet Joel to explain the coming of the Holy Spirit and to David to confirm the resurrection of Jesus Christ.  “Therefore being, a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him of the fruit of his body, according to the flesh, He would raise up Christ to sit o his throne, he foreseeing this, spoke concerning the resurrection of the Christ, that His soul was not left in Hades nor did His flesh see corruption. Acts 2:30-31

And also after he gave a testimony of what he has seen and heard on the mountain of transfiguration, directs his readers to the more sure prophetic word, to which they ought to give due regard. “As a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts; knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but men spoke from God  as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. 2 Peter 1:19-21   

The focus and the only captain of our salvation is Jesus Christ, in whom we are united to be one. “Coming to Him as a living stone, rejected by men, but chosen by God and precious, you also, as living stones are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 2:4-5 This is the ultimate objective of our salvation, that we may be a dwelling place of God.  Jesus prayed to the Father saying,  “And the glory which You gave Me I have given to them, that they may be one just as We are one;” John 17:22  And this is the glory which He has given us, His Holy Spirit, through Whom we are united and are made one because we have the same Spirit in us all.

• “Do you not know you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?” 1 Corinthians 3:16

Ephesians  3: All the Fullness of God.

For this reason I, Paul, [the prisoner of Christ Jesus] for you Gentiles – [vs.1]

While most of the Jewish Christians were content to practice the law along with their faith in the gospel of Christ. Paul, however was problematic to this delicate balance, “You see, brother, how many myriads there are among the Jews having believed, and are zealous ones for the Law. Now they have been informed about you, that you teach all Jews among the Gentiles apostasy from Moses, telling them not to circumcise the children nor to walk in customs. Acts 21:20-21. Those who believed in Jesus Christ, which included the elders of the church in Judea, were not willing to depart from the law. Such departure from the law, may have been perceived as loss of national identity. It was their strict observance of the law and adherence to tradition and customs that have kept them separate, in every place they were dispersed. Therefore the advice they gave to Paul was to portray to them, there was no truth to the accusation by purifying himself according to the law so, “you yourself also walk orderly and keep the law.” [vs.24] And in regards to the Gentiles, they said, “but to the Gentiles who believe, we have written and decided that they should observe no such thing.” [vs.25]

However, Paul ministry has taken him to the forefront of the gospel, where it was not possible from him to do likewise. If he preached grace while inobservance of the law, he will compel the Gentiles to do likewise. There was no grounds for compromise, he had to preach the whole counsel of God, that the law has come to an end and that there is no wall of seperation between Jew and Gentile. And for the truth of grace in Jesus Christ to be preached, Moses had to die.  And this are the charges they brought against him, “This is the man who teaches all men everywhere against the people, the law, and this place; and furthermore he also brought Greeks into the temple and defiled this holy place.”  [Acts 21:28]

Paul preached against circumcision, “in Christ Jesus, neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but faith working through love.” Galatians 5:6 Preached against the law, “Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.” Romans  10:4 [AND] “by the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight. Romans 3:20 Preached against this place [the temple, in Jerusalem], while in the law, proselytes were compelled to journey to Jerusalem to worship, in Christ such practice were no longer necessary. “you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?” 1 Corinthians 3:16 The final charge, though it was based on assumption, was he brought Gentiles to the temple, and defiled it. “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is nether salve or free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ.” Galatians 3:28

• “How I kept back nothing that was helpful, but proclaimed it to you, and taught you publicly and from house to house testifying to Jews, and also Greeks repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ…. the ministry I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.”  Acts 20:20-21, 24

The gospel preached to one can not be in conflict with the gospel preached to the other. This is illustrated in the conflict he had with Peter, “But when I saw that they are not walking in line according to the truth of the gospel, I said to Peter before all, “If you being a Jew live like a Gentile, and not like a Jew, why do you compel the Gentiles to Judaize?” Galatians 2:14 Here Paul accuses Peter of double standards, by which the truth of the gospel is demeaned. Not to be confused with Paul statement, “I became all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.” 1 Corinthians 9:22 However to propagate the things of the law, among those who believe is to go backwards, so he rightly rebuked Peter, because he so acted among believers not unbelievers. Though the enmity of the law was put aside in Jesus Christ, however the preaching of this truth was anything but. Which was the source of Paul’s persecution and imprisonment. 

Surely you have heard of the administration of God’s grace, having been given to me toward you, that He made known to me the mystery by revelation, just as I have written before in brief, which by reading you are able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, which was not made known to the sons of men in other generations as now it has been revealed in the Spirit to His holy apostles and prophets, that the Gentiles are joint-heirs, and a joint-body, and joint-partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus, through the gospel, of which I became servant according to the gift of God’s grace, having been given to me according to the working of His power.  [vs.2-7]

Paul gives an explanation how he was called to this service by God, who gave him insight into the mystery through revelation. In his letter to the Galatians he made it clear that, the gospel he preached was not according to man. “For I make known to you, brothers, the gospel having been preached by me, that it is not according to man. For I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but by revelation of Jesus Christ.” Galatians 1:11-12 Though they were many verses in the prophets that spoke of the salvation being brought to the gentiles through the Christ, this truth was not revealed to men’s understanding. In the early ministries of the apostles they were careful to preach the gospel only to Jews, and when led by the Holy Spirit to preach to the Gentiles, they had to give an account of it among the assembly. And this truth was revealed not only to Paul but Peter also who gave his testimony to this truth:

• “You know that from the early days. God chose among you for the Gentiles to hear by my mouth the word of the gospel, and believe. And the heart-knowing God bore witness to them, having given them the Holy Spirit, as also to us. And He made no distinction between both us and them, having purified their hearts by the faith. Now, why are you testing God, to put upon the neck of the disciples a yoke that neither our fathers nor we have been able to bear? But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved in the same manner as they. Acts 15:9-11      

This mystery which was hidden but now was revealed by the Holy Spirit was, that the Salvation in Christ is for both Jews and Gentiles. Isaiah prophesied of the far reaching ministry of the Christ saying, “It is too small of a thing that should be My Servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and restore the preserved ones of Israel; I will also give You as a light to the Gentiles, that You should be My salvation to the ends of the earth.” Isaiah 49:6 And the Lord also taught saying, “And other sheep I have which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice; and there will be one flock and one Shepherd.” John 10:16  That the purpose of God from the very beginning has been to bring salvation to the world, “God so loved the world, He gave His only begotten Son.” John 3:16  

To me, the very least of all saints, was given this grace: to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ and to enlighten all what is the administration of the mystery having been hidden from the ages in God, the One having created all things, [vs. 8-9]

Paul calls himself the lest of all the saints, because of the deeds he committed in ignorance against the church. “For I am the least of the apostles, who am not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.” 1 Corinthians 15:9 However the grace of God abounded toward him to call him to this ministry of grace. “He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry, although I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor and an insolent man; but I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.” 1 Timothy 1:12-14

To preach the unsearchable riches of Christ to the Gentiles: Paul directs this statement, to gentiles specifically, while it is necessary for both Jews and Gentiles to receive remission from sins through the knowledge of Jesus Christ, the blessings of God are another matter. The people of law knew of the blessing of God, the covenant of His promise, which they are now able to obtain through faith in the grace of the Lord. However the Gentiles are strangers to the promises of God, having never kept the law. Therefore he speaking of the riches of God’s blessing that is made available to them in Christ Jesus.  And Paul’s prayer for them was that they through the revelation of knowledge of God may walk in this life in the fullness of His power at work in them. Ephesians 1:17-19 He instructs to them to live godly lives through the knowledge of Him who lives in them. He proclaimed to them, the truth of God not in words only but in the demonstration of His power. “For our gospel did not come to you in words only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit.”  1 Thessalonians 1:5 He teaches them the value of sowing and reaping, 1 & 2 Corinthians,  Galatians, Philippians.

To enlighten [all] of the [οἰκονομία: stewardship] of the mystery: Paul is speaking of his responsibility given to him to make known the mystery of Christ to all. A statement which he repeats in his letter to the Colossians saying, “of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God which was given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God, the mystery…”Colossians 1:24 This mystery, “Which is Christ in you the hope of glory.” Colossians 2:27 that is in Christ Jesus there is no longer a seperation, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:28 Therefore he endeavours to preach Christ to all, “Him we preach warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.” Colossians 1:28

so that now through the church the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to the purpose of the ages [eternal], which He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord, in whom we have boldness and access in confidence, by faith in Him. [vs. 10-12]

[So that now] the body of Christ, equipped in the knowledge of the mystery [Christ in them] may declare the wisdom of God to the ruler and authorities in heavenly realms. Colossians speaks of how Christ, “having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.” Colossians 2:15 That is He has overcome and have become victorious and all authority in haven and earth is given to Him. Speaking of this very incident Paul writes to the Corinthians saying;

• “yet not the wisdom of this age, nor of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. But we speak the wisdom of God in mystery, the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the ages for our glory, which none of the rulers of this age knew; for had they known they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.” 1 Corinthians 2:6-8

The point he makes is “the rulers of this age who are coming to nothing” that their kingdom and rule is progressively diminishing, [even though Christ has already overcome] but His authority is being enforced by the church [His body] as more and more captives are set free. And the hidden wisdom of God was that, this victorious  conquering Lord of glory, Jesus Christ may come to dwell in us through faith. Turning the once captive slaves to be victors and conquerors in Him, bringing every ruler and authorities in the heavenly realms to subjection. That Christ in us is working to, “..when He puts an end to all rule, and all authority and power. For He must reign till He has put all enemies under His feet.” 1 Corinthians 15:24-25 For this purpose Paul says, have they known of this hidden plan of God, how Jesus Christ through His death and resurrection may exponentially grow in ever man and women who believe, they would not have crucified Him.   

• “He who is on you is greater than he who is in the world.” 1 John 4:4

Then the manifold wisdom of God is declared, when we realise who we are in Christ [our rights and authority in Him] through the knowledge of what God has made available to us and, “the exceeding greatness of His power towards us who believe.” That we as sons and daughters of God through Jesus Christ have dominion over all the things God our Father has made. Therefore we also through faith, ought to go and conquer all the power of the enemy and bring them into submission to Christ. As Paul declares, “to this end I also, labour striving according to His working which works in me mightily. Colossians 1:29

When saying, “boldness and access by faith in Him,” he is speaking of access to God the Father. In Hebrews he writes speaking of our privilege in Christ, “Therefore brothers, having confidence for entering the holy places by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way, which He dedicated for us through the veil that is His flesh, and having a great priest over the house of God, we should draw near with a sincere heart, in full assurance of faith, our hearts having been sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our body having been washed with pure water.” Hebrews 10:19-22

Therefore I implore you not to lose heart at my tribulation for you, which is your glory. [vs.13]

Paul seems to be speaking of the tribulation as a necessary consequence of bringing the truth of God. And as a result of it is not to be dismayed at or be dejected by it, but it is something to rejoice at. The enemy will not lift his hand against those who do not trouble his kingdom. So Paul considers to be a joy, “I now rejoice in my suffering for you, and fill up in my flesh what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ, for sake of His body, which is the church.” Colossians 1:24

Here Paul seems to be drawing a parallel to the suffering of Christ with his own. Not to be misunderstood it is not to diminish the work of Christ or exalt Paul but the point seems the truth of God comes at a cost. Christ suffered that He might set us free from the bondage of sin and death. The revelation of the truth of God which is available to us will also come with fierce opposition from the enemy. And Paul encountered fierce opposition for bringing the gospel of Christ to the Gentiles and the revelation of mystery of God, which is Christ in us the hope of glory. And the Lord spoke of the suffering that would befall Paul on the account of him fulfilling his ministry, “For I will show him how many things he must suffer for my name sake.” Acts 9:16 Therefore tribulation that arise on the account of Christ is to be celebrated, as many throughout the centuries gladly paid to propagate the truth of God. Both Peter and James encourage believers to count it all joy when they encounter persecution on the account of Christ. [James 1:2, 1 Peter 4:13-14] The Lord also says,

• “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in haven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. Matthew 5:11-12 

For reason of this I bow my knees to the Father, from whom every family in the heavens and on earth is named, that He might give you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power by His Spirit in the inner man, for Christ to dwell in your hearts through faith, being rooted and being founded in love,so that you may be fully abel, with all the saints to comprehend what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ surpassing knowledge, so that you may be filled unto all the fullness of God.  [vs.14-19]  

“For this reason,” Paul makes his prayer to God that, what his ministry intended to achieve may be fulfilled in us. That is we might know the truth that Christ lives in us through faith, and our inner man being strengthened by the Holy Spirit, so that we are able to endure and strive beyond that of our flesh and mind could. We also might have experiential knowledge of the love of Christ that is beyond what we can summarise in thought. “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27 that is the assurance of His love, beyond knowledge. Of this love Paul says in Romans, “For I am persuaded that neither death or life, nor angles or principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor anything created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:38-39 So, that we may walk in the fullness of God, that is Father, Son and Holy Spirit, that God may dwell in us. [Christ in our hearts, the Power of the Holy Spirit working through us and the love of God surrounding us.]

• “For in Him dwells all the fullness of Godhead bodily; and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.” Colossians 2:9-10 

Now to the One being abel to do exceedingly above all things that we ask or think, according to the power working in us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all the generations of the ages. Amen.  [vs.20-21]

Paul is not saying here God will surpass our expectation, then it would not be according to the power at work in us. Jesus repeatedly said to those He healed, “let it be done unto you according to your faith.” So Paul is speaking of the infinite nature of God, that what He is able to do is beyond that of what we can possibly conceive, think or imagine or ask. Joshua had such knowledge of the power of God he commanded the sun to stand still, until Israel won the battle over their enemy.  Therefore, we think and ask according to the power working in us, is to say that is the limiting factor on God; our knowledge and faith in His working power in us. But Paul says, He is able to do beyond that. In the previous chapter Paul prayed that we might have the spirit of wisdom and revelation in knowledge of Him, so that we might know, “what is the exceeding greatness of His power towards us who believe.”  The point he is making is the more we have revelation of His truth at work in us, then the greater feat God is able to work through us.

• “The people who know their God will be strong, and carry out great exploits.” Daniel 11:32   

Ephesians  4: [Perfect Man] — The Fullness of Christ.

Therefore I, the prisoner in the Lord, exhort you walk worthily of the calling to which you were called, with all humility and gentleness; with patience bearing with one another in love; being diligent to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace; [vs. 1-3] 

Paul exhortation is to express the magnitude of the calling of God. That we are not merely forgiven of our transgressions but, it is so that we might be adopted to be sons and daughters of the Most High God through Jesus Christ. “those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, for Him to be firstborn among many brothers. And those whom He predestined, these also He called;” Romans 8:29-30 so that we may be the habitation of God, “And because you are sons, God sent forth the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying out, “Abba, Father!” Galatians 4:6 Therefore, we ought to walk in a manner pleasing to the Lord, if we know truly God lives in us, we would not so easily given into things that we know are displeasing to Him.

And when he says for us to walk in humility and gentleness, it is in regards to our relationship with the body of Christ. That we might conduct ourselves being mindful of one another’s need. “that you may be of the same mind, having the same love, united in soul, minding the same thing, nothing according to self-interest or according to vain conceit, but in humility be esteeming one another surpassing themselves, each considering not the things of themselves, but each also the things of others.” Philippians 2:2-4

The point being that though we are of the same faith and body we have deferent levels of faith walk with God. Therefore we being mindful of that fact we ought to bear with one another, the strong with the weak the old with the new. And Paul writing to the Romans on how they ought to bare with others failings writes, “For if on account of food your brother is grieved, no longer are you walking according to love. Do not destroy with food that one of you for whom Christ died.” Romans 14:15 That is to say we are to be our brothers keeper. So when we, due to lack of care cause offence or be a cause for stumbling to another we sin against Christ. “Bear one another’s burdens and thus you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2

Everything we do must be done in love, especially towards the household of faith, we ought to have affinity with one another. The Lord said to His disciples, “If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world but I chose you out of the world, on account of this, the world hates you.” John 15:19 The point we are making is if the world loves its own because it shares of the same spirit of the world. Then we who are born of Him ought to love one another because we have the same Holy Spirit in us. “Everyone believing that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone loving the One having begotten Him also loves the one having been begotten from Him.” 1 John 5:1 

To this he adds that we being diligent to keep the unity of the Spirit. That is there may be no schism in the body, an example of such situations are the Corinthians, who had such contentions and devision among them through preference of speakers and through lack of humility disregard the poor in their midst and exalting themselves to disregard the sound doctrine of the apostles. That such things ought not be a cause to raise issues to split the body of Christ and break the unity of the Spirit.

Paul also gives advice to Titus and Timothy not to entangle themselves in matters that bare no fruit, matters of argument about the law and genealogy that bares no benefit to the hearer. And through which issues may arise as to disrupt the unity of the Spirit. “But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the Law; for they are unprofitable and worthless.”Titus 3:9 But he gives advice on how to handles such matters in a manner that is to save those who are in opposition. “And refuse foolish and ignorant speculations, knowing that they breed quarrels. And it behooves the bond-servant of the Lord not to quarrel, but to be gentle toward all, able to teach, forbearing, in gentleness disciplining those opposing, lest ever God may give them repentance unto a knowledge of the truth,”  2 Timothy 2:23-25

However in matters where the truth of the gospel of Christ is threatened, we ought not to permit such doctrine for the sake of not to causing a schism. Paul writing to the Galatians speaks of those who sought to integrate law with grace to those he says, “To whom we did not yield in subjection for even an hour, so that truth of the gospel would be preserved with you.” Galatians 2:5 And he repeatedly gives warnings of in times to come that many will arise to mislead others through false doctrines that is “from among yourselves,” that is from the body. [Acts 20, 1 Timothy 4, 2 Peter 2, Jude] 

one body and one Spirit, just as also you were called into one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. [vs. 4-6] 

The point is we are [one body and one Spirit]; that is we are one unit of body in Christ, the one and only way to God. “For as many of you as were baptised into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Galatians 3:27-28 Just as body needs a spirit for it to be alive, we also have the same Spirit of His Son present in every one who is born of Him. Through whom we are being knitted together as one temple of God. “as living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house into a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 2:5

• “For just as the body is one, and has many members, and all the members of the body being many are one body, so also is Christ. For also in one Spirit we all were baptised into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free, and we were all made to drink one Spirit.” 1 Corinthians 12:12-13

[just as] – The one hope of our calling; as we have touched above, it is to be made in the likeness of Jesus Christ. Which is “Christ in us the hope of glory.” That Christ may dwell in our hearts through faith that we might be partakers of His Holy Spirit. [John 14:17-18] “He who is joined to the Lord is one Spirit with the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 6:17

One Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all; Paul is building on his source statement, which is “one body and one Spirit,” which he then compares to be of the one hope of our calling, which is Christ in us. This he expands to include, “one faith, one baptism.” Therefor when he says one faith, he is speaking of faith in Jesus Christ through which He comes to dwell in our hearts and one baptism is the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Paul makes similar statement in his first letter to the Corinthians speaking of being of one body and one Spirit, he says, “For also in one Spirit we all were baptised into one body” Through whom we have access to God the Father and God is in us.

The objective of our redemption is to have the promise of the Father. That is the Holy Spirit to be in us, through whom we have access to the Father. “For through Him we both have access by one Spirit to the Father.” Ephesians 2:18 Our reconciliation to God is not complete if we do not have His Spirit dwelling in us, we are nomads wondering in a wilderness.

• “And I have given them the glory which You have given Me, so that they may be one, as We are one— I in them, and You in Me—that they may be perfected in unity, so that the world may know that You sent Me and loved them even as You loved Me.” John 17:22-23

Now to each one of us grace has been given according to the measure of the gift of Christ. [vs.7]

Grace is unmerited favour of God, it is disposition, its field of ministry, its love, its endurance, its strength, its drive. God said to Israel, “I have given you favour in sight of the Egyptians..” It is the favour of God that enables the member of Christ body to fulfil the task God has given him/her to do. “When a man’s the ways pleases the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.” Proverbs 16:7 That is grace of God when there is nothing in the natural that would merit that. Its when a person who knows his shortcomings that he has more reason to rely on the arm of the Lord, than in self merit. “My grace suffices you, for the power is perfected in weakness.” Therefore will I boast rather most gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12:9

Paul had such grace given to him by God, he had great success ministering to Gentiles. It is not on the account of his ability to articulate words, he himself has said, “though I am unskilled in speech, I am not in knowledge.” However, he most of the time lacked success with the Jews and was fiercely opposed by them, while Peter was able to reach Jews far better than him.  And there is only one account of Peter preaching to Gentiles, the household of Cornelius [Acts 10] which Peter seemed to shy away from. In both instances there is nothing in them that qualifies them to the call God has given to them. In fact Paul being a Pharisees and raised to the strictest sect of Judaism, being well versed in the law had more reason to draw away from Gentiles and ought to have the greater success with the Jews than Peter [a simple fisherman] whose cry was “depart from me, oh, Lord for I am a sinner.” 

But it is the grace of God that enabled them to stand to minister in the field God had called them. “having seen that I have been entrusted with the gospel of the uncircumcision just as Peter of the circumcision— for the One having worked in Peter for apostleship of the circumcision, did also in me toward the Gentiles— and having recognised the grace having been given to me,”  Galatians 2:7-9 The same God worked in each accordingly, where each lacked the grace of God was there to meet the shortfall, that it may be of God and not the strength of man.

[The one who considered himself to be a sinner in regards to the law, is the one whom God sent to teach those strict in the law, the priest and Pharisees [of the grace of God]. And the one who considered himself to be blameless in the law is one God sent to teach His grace, [His ways] to the lawless.] 

• “Unto this also I toil, striving according to His energy, working in me in power. ” Colossians 1:29

Now when we speak of the gifts, [the gift of Christ] we are speaking of functionality, it is ability. It is comparable to a unit of a body; as a body has many parts, arm, eyes, ear and so on and each part has a specific function to perform for the body to work well. [So does the body of Christ.] “For just as in one body we have many members, and not all the members have the same function, so we, the many, are one body in Christ; and individually members one of another. And we are having different gifts according to the grace having been given to us:” Romans12:4-6 If we took Paul himself to be an example, the gift of Christ that is at work in him is to be a preacher, an apostle and a teacher of the Gentiles. “in regard to which I was appointed a herald and an apostle—I am speaking the truth; I do not lie—a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.” 1 Timothy 2:7 That is the function given to him by Christ to perform and the grace is the disposition to work with Gentiles. The gift to preach and teach may enable a person to perform the task but without the grace of God in the arena assigned they may lack success. Paul’s teaching according to the knowledge and wisdom given to him by God found far more favour among the Gentiles than he did with the Jews. His ability to preach and teach has not changed, it is the same for both but he had grace from God to preach and teach the Gentiles. 

There are other aspects gifts we can take into consideration. Paul speaking of his ability to stay celibate said, “And I wish all men to be even like myself. But each has his own gift from God; for one has this, but one that.” 1 Corinthians 7:7 This gift of God in him, is one of the reasons that enabled him to work far harder than any other, with single heart and mind towards the purpose God has given to him. “His grace toward me has not been void. Rather, I toiled more abundantly than all of them, yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.”  1 Corinthians 15:10

When saying the measure of Christ’s gift: we can look at the Lord’s parable of the talent, where the master of the house gave a differing measure of gifts to each of his servants expecting them to profit by it. “And indeed to one he gave five talents; and to one, two; and to one, one; to each according to his own ability.” Matthew 25:15 In the same manner Jesus Christ gives each one of us a gift in proportion; one maybe called to evangelise his/her neighbour while another may be required to take the message of Christ across nations. Both have the same essential gift of an evangelist but in differing measure, one 1 talent the other 5. The point is it is not the magnitude of the work you do, or the far reaching extent of your ministry but that you were faithful with what God has given to you no matter how small it may be.  What the Lord looks at is the proportion of the return according to the gift He Himself has given us. “And everyone to whom much has been given, much will be required; and from him to whom much has been committed, more will they ask of him.” Luke 12:48 Therefore the one who is faithful with the smallest task the Lord has given him, is honoured the same as the one who shook the world according to the abundance of gift given him.

Grace in proportion of the gift of Christ; that is to say that person has been given especial favour that allows him/her to perform the task the Lord has given them in their sphere of influence. It is not by the merit of the individual or qualification according to the natural, but the grace of God. If we continue in the example of evangelisation, there is a grace proportion that differ from one who is called to reach his friends and neighbours to the one who is called to reach a nation. The former has no need to have favour from a particular group of people nor does he/she have any need to have longing and desire to reach them as the latter. The one who preaches to a small circle of people, does not have the same measure of grace of God as the one who speaks to a great gathering of people.

Therefore when God gives us a task to perform, He also gives us the gifts required as well as His grace to fulfil the task. Then there is no boasting only faithfulness, [obedience] to what the Lord has called us to do.”Now we have such confidence through Christ toward God. Not that we are sufficient from ourselves to reckon anything as of ourselves, but our sufficiency is of God, who also has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter, but of the Spirit.” 2 Corinthians 3:4-6  

• “For God is the One working in you both to will and to work according to His good pleasure.” Philippians 2:13

[Point of consideration] We can summarise as: Gifts of the Holy Spirit, is the working of the supernatural power of God [as the power that enables the body], the gift of Christ is as to ministries [functions the body performs], the working of God, is the grace of God, as in spheres of influence, disposition and desires that enables the body to perform the task. [its the fullness of the Godhead operating]

• “Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of workings, but the same God is working all things in everyone.” 1 Corinthians 12:4-6 

Therefore it says: “Having ascended on high, He led captive captivity, and gave gifts to men.” Now what is “He ascended,” except that He also descended into the lower regions of the earth? The One having descended is also the same one having ascended above all the heavens, so that He might fill all things.  [vs.8-10]

[He led captivity captive]. In order for our redemption to be worked Christ had to die. And through His death He won a victory over the enemy, “through His death He might destroy the one holding the power of death, that is, the devil, and might set free those who all their time to live were subject to slavery through fear of death.” Hebrews 2:14-15 Therefore when Christ died, He descended into the heart of the earth, and Peter tells us while there He proclaimed the gospel to them. “For to this end the gospel was proclaimed even to the dead, so that they might be judged indeed according to men in the flesh, but they might live in the spirit according to God.” 1 Peter 4:5-6

The point to remember is prior to Christ’s sacrifice, no man with the exception of Enoch and Elijah entered haven. None, not Abraham nor Moses nor David, it took Christ to enter into death and Hades to set them free. And when Christ rose in victory, He arose with the keys of death and hades, and He liberated all those who were held captive by the devil.  “And the tombs were opened, and many bodies of the saints having fallen asleep arose. And having gone forth out of the tombs after His resurrection, they entered into the holy city and appeared to many.” Matthew 27:52-53 Therefore when He ascended He took with Him, the prisoners, that were in the hearts of the earth so they may enter haven with Him, through the way He has made by the sacrifice of Himself.

[He might fill all things.] When He entered haven He went and sat down at the righthand of God. The Lord has said all authority in haven and in earth has ben given unto Him. And He sent forth the promise of the Father [the Holy Spirit], as He has said, “As I live, all the earth shall be filled with the glory of the Lord.” Numbers 14:21 Through whom Jesus Christ fills all things; all things in haven and on earth. That through Christ God may be in all and through all. “the fullness of the times, to bring together all things in Christ—the things in the heavens and the things upon the earth— ” Ephesians 1:10

• “And in that day you will know I am in the Father, and you in Me, and I in you.” John 14:20 

And He gave some indeed to be apostles, and some prophets, and some evangelist, and some shepherds and teachers, [vs. 11]

Here it lists five main ministry gifts Christ gave to men: that is He appointed members of His body to fulfil:

[Apostle]: is one who is sent out to build and expand the body of Christ. Acts 13 described Paul and Barnabas among with others to be prophets and teachers, while they were teaching those who were in Antioch [Acts 11:26]. But once they were called out by the Holy Spirit to go out for the work He had called them, to bring the gospel to Gentiles they became apostles. Apostleship has a sphere of influence to which God calls one to. Even the Lord, our Great Apostle in His earthly ministry had a sphere of influence, “I was not sent except to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” Matthew 15:24 Paul also contrasting his ministry of apostleship to Peter’s says, “the One having worked in Peter for apostleship of the circumcision, did also in me toward the Gentiles.” Galatians 2:8 When the Lord sent out His disciples whom He called Apostles He gave them these instructions:

• These twelve, Jesus sent forth, having instructed them, saying: “Do not go into the way of the Gentiles and do not enter into any city of the Samaritans. But go rather to those being the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And going on, proclaim, saying, ‘The kingdom of the heavens has drawn near!’ Heal the ailing, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons! Freely you received; freely give. Matthew 10:5-8

And Paul and Barnabas went out preaching the word of God and making disciples and appointing elders in every place: that is they built churches. [Acts 14:21-23]. And throughout this ministry of apostleship they went back and forth over the places they have helped to plant to exhort, direct and strengthen. [Signs of an apostle]: brings the word with signs and wonders.

The letters written to Timothy are examples of the responsibilities of an apostle, whom Paul raised up in his stead. He list all aspect, which are grounds for establishing churches; from evangelising, teaching, instilling overseers and being watchful over their doctrines and of others [to warn and educate], being an example to all. An example of being watchful over doctrines taught is Paul’s, own struggle to correct in sound doctrine those who were being led astray: Corinthians and Galatians. And he also tasks both Timothy and Titus with such responsibility; “Just as I urged you to remain in Ephesus when I was going to Macedonia, so that you might warn certain men not to teach other doctrines, nor to give heed to myths and endless genealogies, which bring speculations rather than God’s stewardship, which is in faith.” 1 Timothy 1:3-4

[Prophet]: is one through whom mysteries and future events are revealed. Paul in two occasions made reference to the work of a prophet in the church. One in 1 Corinthians 14, where he gives instructions how the revelation God gives to prophets is to be shared in the church. And in Ephesians 3, Paul attributes, the revelation of the mysteries of God to apostles and prophets, “now it has been revealed in the Spirit to His holy apostles and prophets” Ephesians 3:5

Now, the gifts of the Holy Spirit may operate, through any members of the body of Christ, as the Spirit sees fit. However the revelatory gifts operate more consistently in one who is called to stand in this appointment. The two main prophets of the new testament whom we can easily identify are, the prophet Agabus and John [the apostle of the Lord]. Prophet Agabus in two occasions, by the Spirit told of things to come one that would affect all the known world, “that a great famine is about to be over the whole world—which came to pass under Claudius.” Acts 11:28 and on a personal level the incarceration of Paul, “Having taken Paul’s belt, having bound his feet and hands, he said, “Thus the Holy Spirit says, ‘In this way the Jews in Jerusalem will bind the man whose belt this is, and will deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.’”  Acts 21:11 And the apostle John, wrote the book of Revelation, in which the Lord revealed to him events that were to take place in the future. 

[Evangelist]: is one who goes proclaiming the gospel of Christ bringing souls into the kingdom. Phillip the evangelist went to the Samaritans and proclaimed Christ to them with signs and wonders of the Holy Spirit. Many seeing what was done believed and were baptised. “And the crowds with one accord were giving heed to the things being spoken by Philip in the time for them to hear and to see the signs that he was performing.” Acts 8:6,12 And on an individual bases we see him ministering to the Ethiopian eunuch in [Acts 8:26-39]. This ministry defers from an apostle in that it is not involved, in the building or strengthening of churches, but its main focus is to gather souls into the kingdom from the individual to the multitudes. As for field of ministry, we have not got enough information as to identify a sphere of influence, judged solely on the ministry of Philip who is recorded ministering only in the land of Israel; in Jerusalem then onto Samaria and onto the wilderness [leading to Gaza] then moved to Azotus as the Holy Spirit directed.  

[Shepherds]: are ones who are given responsibility to look after a group of members of the body of Christ [a church]. “Obey you those leading and be submissive—for they watch over your souls, as about to give account—” Hebrews 13:17 The term that is commonly used in the new testament that fits this office is an overseer or an elder. Paul and Barnabas went out preaching the gospel and making disciples and in every place they appointed elders, “Now having chosen elders for them in every church, having prayed, with fasting they committed them to the Lord, in whom they had believed.” Acts 14:23

• “And from Miletus, having sent to Ephesus, he called for the elders of the church….Take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has set you overseers, to shepherd the church of God, which He purchased with the own blood.” Acts 20:17,28
• “I exhort the elders among you, … Shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight;” 1 Peter 5:1,2

Paul in his letters to Timothy and Titus his fellow apostles gave them guidelines, listing all aspects that qualifies one to a position of an elder [overseer]: [1 Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9]. And the responsibilities of such a position he compares to one who rules over a household, “managing their own house well, having children in submission, with all dignity— but if one does not know how to manage the own household, how will he care for the church of God?” 1 Timothy 3:4-5 Such an appointment requires one to feed the flock, to oversee the wellbeing of the flock, which may include, to rebuke, correct, discipline as there is need of. “holding to the faithful word according to the teaching, that he may be able both to encourage with sound teaching and to convict those contradicting it.” Titus 1:9

An aspects of this ministry includes the labouring in preaching and to teaching, “Let the elders ruling well be counted worthy of double honour, especially those labouring in the word and the teaching.”  1 Timothy 5:17 which is compared to threading out the grain as in to bringing out what is of value and nourishing to the body. James also add to this responsibility as to care for the physical wellbeing of the flock, “Is anyone among you sick? Let him call near the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, having anointed him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one ailing, and the Lord will raise him up.” James 5:14-15

[Teacher]: is one who expounds the truth of the word of God. This ministry differs from a shepherd in that it does not take direct responsibility for the flock. It is tasked to work along Shepherds [to edify the body] by bring out the truth of God from Scriptures and to teach. Paul describing this aspect of his ministry says: “a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.” 2 Timothy 2:7 Paul and Barnabas before becoming apostles were considered to be teachers in Antioch [Acts 13:1] and it is recorded that, “they gathered with the church and taught a great many people.” Acts 12:26 James gives warning to those who labour as teachers, pointing to the responsibility that comes with it. “Not many of you should be teachers my brothers, knowing that we will receive greater judgment.” James 3:1

There is only one who fits this ministry solely, as Agabus does to a Prophet and Philip to an Evangelist and that is Apollos. The bible records him to be, “being an eloquent man, mighty in the Scriptures. He was instructed in the way of the Lord. And being fervent in spirit, he was speaking and was teaching earnestly the things concerning Jesus,” Acts 18:24-25 And Paul likeness Apollos’ ministry to the body as one who waters, “I planted, Apollos watered, but God kept it growing.” 1 Corinthians 3:6 Apollos’ ministry took him traveling expounding the Scriptures, from Ephesus, Corinth and Crete. The bible does not record Apollos as being given charge over a flock or elders nor in planting only in teaching expounding the Scriptures. “he resolving to pass through into Achaia, the brothers, having encouraged him, wrote to the disciples to welcome him, who having arrived, helped greatly those having believed through grace. For he was powerfully refuting the Jews publicly, showing by the Scriptures Jesus to be the Christ.” Acts 18:27-28

Preaching and teaching is a fundamental aspect of the ministry of Apostles, Shepherds and Teachers: however the level of responsibility differs at each stage: an Apostle is responsible to oversee many churches, preaching teaching being careful the truth of the doctrine is kept by those to whom it is committed to. [1 Timothy 1:3-4] Shepherds minister to the flock giving care to their soul and body, they also labour in preaching and teaching according to what they have been taught [through the apostles] Titus 1:9 Now teachers do not have direct care for the flock but minister in preaching and teaching expounding the truth of the word of God. Just like the evangelists are not directly responsible to build churches but to gather souls into the kingdom.

There are other functions the body of Christ fulfil, that are not be as prominent as these five main ministry gifts:

• “And we are having different gifts according to the grace having been given to us: if prophecy, according to the proportion of the faith; or service, in the service; or teaching, in the teaching; or exhorting, in the exhortation; giving, in generosity; leading, in diligence; showing mercy, in cheerfulness.” Romans 12:6-8 [the gift of Service which we can like to be a [deacons] specified in 1 Timothy 3:8]
• “Now you are the body of Christ, and members in particular. And some indeed God has appointed in the church, first apostles, secondly prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, various kinds of tongues. 1 Corinthians 12:27-28

toward the perfecting of the saints for the work of ministry, for the building up of the body Christ, until we all may attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a complete man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; [vs. 12-13]

It is through the five main ministry gifts the body of Christ is built. From being brought in to being equipped so that  the members of the body may be awakened to the purpose of God for their life. Paul a preacher an apostle and a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth encapsulate his responsibility; “Christ in you, the hope of glory, whom we preach, admonishing every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, so that we may present every man perfect in Christ.” Colossians 1:27-28

• “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us that, having denied ungodliness and worldly passions, we should live discreetly and righteously and piously in the present age,” Titus 12:11-12

The general process of operation being; the apostles and evangelists expand the kingdom by bringing new souls. Apostles [plant and establish] while prophets, shepherds and teachers are responsible to teach and equip the body in righteousness. So that each member may walk in the fullness of the measure of what God has provided for them and in the realisation of who they are in Christ, so that they may be productive members of the body of Christ. Paul writes to Timothy instructing him how the Scriptures are profitable for such a purpose. “Every Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, [having been fully equipped] toward every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17

The purpose is that we having put off the old manner of our fleshly ways, being cleansed from what is dishonourable and putting on the new, who is made in the likeness of Christ, may abound in every good work. “Therefore if anyone shall have cleansed himself from these, he will be a vessel for honour, having been sanctified, useful to the Master, having been prepared for every good work.” 2 Timothy 2:21

[Perfect in Christ]: Paul in his letter to [Colossians 3:12-17] gives the characteristics of the perfect man from; mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, patience, forgiving, [love always being the objective], being at peace and thankful, [giving praise always], rich in the knowledge of the word of God, and ready to impart to others, so we all may grow in the unity of faith. So perfecting the saints for the work of ministry which edifies the body. Each member being built up so in turn we may help others to the level of faith and knowledge of Son of God we ourselves have attained to. So we all may grow to a complete man, the fullness of the measure of Christ.

The point is, there is a ministry for each member of the body of Christ to fulfil: “Trustworthy is the saying, and I want you to affirm strongly concerning these things, so that those believing God may take care to be devoted to good works. These things are excellent and profitable to men.” Titus 3:8 Grace is given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ’s gifts; we might not be able to bring multitudes to Christ but we may be able to reach our friends, neighbours and colleagues bringing one soul at a time. We may not be responsible to shepherd a whole congregation but by the grace of God we may be able to take responsibility for a home-group, to support and instruct in what we ourselves have received. Showing ourselves to be a pattern for good works: “In all things be holding forth yourself as a pattern of good works, in the teaching, integrity, dignity, and sound speech beyond reproach, so that he who is of the contrary may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say concerning us. ” Titus 2:7-8

[Unity of faith and knowledge of the Son of God]: Paul in his letter to the Corinthians strives to quench any root of division that is among them and encourages them to pull together with one purpose in love, through the knowledge of the truth he teaches them. “that you all speak the same thing, and there be no divisions among you, but you may be having been knit together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” 1 Corinthians 1:10 Unity of faith is not belonging to a denomination, which in itself is an example of the implementation of man made laws through lack of understanding of the truth of God which results in divisions. There is one body and one Spirit, there is one call: “Christ in us.” If we truly walk in the word of God according to the revelation and teaching of His Holy Spirit we would have no grounds for divisions, Christ is not divided neither is His Spirit.  

We know the things of God because the Holy Spirit has revealed it to us. The Lord speaking of the Holy Spirit which was to come said of Him; “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things and will bring to your remembrance all things that I have said to you.” John 14:26 [AND] “But when He the, Spirit of truth, shall come, He will guide you into all the truth.” John 16:13 The Holy Spirit is to be our teacher and our guide. Guide, because He also bringing us into contact with those to whom He has revealed and taught the truth. So that we may be established in the truth, through direct revelation or through those whom He has appointed so that the body of Christ may be edified. It is our lack of abiding in Him, which is the source of error and division, it is not because God likes variety, there are varieties of languages and cultures and worships but there is no variety in the truth of God.

• “I have written these things to you concerning those leading you astray. And you, the anointing that you received from Him abides in you, and you have no need that anyone should teach you. But just as the same anointing teaches you concerning all things and is true and is no lie, and just as it has taught you, you shall abide in Him.” 1 John 2:26-27

[so that no longer we might be infants,] being tossed by waves and being carried about by every wind of teaching in the cunning, in the craftiness of men with a view to the scheming of deceit. [But speaking the truth in love,] we should grow up in all things into Him who is the head, Christ, from whom the whole body, being joined together and being held together by every ligament of its supply, according to the working in the measure of each individual part, the increase of the body makes for itself, [to the building up itself in love.]  [vs. 14-16]

As infants we are unable to discern the word of truth and may easily be led away by all manner of teachings. “For everyone partaking of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is an infant. But solid food is for the mature, the ones by constant use having trained the senses for distinguishing both good and evil.” Hebrews 5:13-14 Milk is the basic principles of Christ, the foundation of faith; “repentance from dead works, and faith in God, instruction about baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of the resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.” Hebrews 6:1-2  Both Paul and James also credit carnality to be an aspect of infant-hood [1 Corinthians 3:3, James 4:1-4]. The satisfaction of earthly desires taking precedent, we are in conflict with one another and have not taken sight of what is eternal [Colossians 3:1-3] as to discard the things of the flesh and embrace the heavenly.

An examples of those who fell foul to such doctrines are the Corinthians and Galatians. Corinthians were questioning the validity of resurrection and the Galatians were being tricked to implement law as a requirement of salvation. Both were considered as infants, unable to discern the truth of God for themselves they were being drawn away and had to be instructed again on the basic principles of Christ. Therefore to be mature is, one who is spiritual who rightly judges all things. Comparing spiritual with spiritual [Scripture with Scripture] as to draw out the truth for ourselves  to “distinguishing both good and evil.” That is growth, we are no longer bottle fed, through which many are held in bondage to false teachings. But we are able to give heed to the things we are eating and become grounded in the truth.

[speaking the truth in love]: Paul himself being the example, how he dealt with the Corinthians and Galatians. And he instructs Timothy how one should admonish others in love, “And it behooves the bond-servant of the Lord not to quarrel, but to be gentle toward all, able to teach, forbearing, in gentleness disciplining those opposing, lest ever God may give them repentance unto a knowledge of the truth, and they might come to their senses out of the snare of the devil,” 2 Timothy 2:24-26

The body of Christ is one unit and it is built up as each individual part does its parts. It is through the interdependency of the members of the body, the whole is being edified. Each part has a contribution to make, the entire council of God is not given to a single member but it is distributed throughout the body. And as we are guided by the Holy Spirit to the truth, we discard those beliefs we have held to in ignorance and embrace the truth of God. The body pooling together the riches of Christ so we all may attain, “to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.” We grow as ones being knit together in faith and truth.

This therefore I say and testify in the Lord: You are no longer to walk as also the Gentiles are walking, in the futility of their mind, being darkened in the understanding, being alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance being in them on account of the hardness of their heart, who, having cast off all feeling, have given themselves up to sensuality for the working of all impurity, with greediness for more.  [vs. 17-19]

Paul had began this section of the letter admonishing the Ephesians to “walk worthy of the calling,” which is Christ lives in us, being built up in faith and knowledge of the Son of God. And to bear with one another in love and to maintain the unity of the Spirit. For this reason he says we ought not to walk in the same manner as the Gentiles [sinners] do, who are unaware of what they do, due to the blindness of mind and hardness of heart, being separated from God they live for what is earthly and sensual. He has described in Ephesians 2, how we ourselves once walked in the same manner when the spirit of the devil [“the prince of the power of the air, the spirit at work in the world,”] was working in us, driven to satisfy the dictates of our appetite of the flesh. The point he is making is, we are no longer like that because we have been awakened to the truth and have come to be known by God, the result ought to be that we do not walk in the manner of our ignorance.

• “the one having suffered in the flesh is done with sin, so as to live the remaining time in the flesh no longer to men’s desires, but to the will of God. For the time past is sufficient to have carried out the desire of the Gentiles, having walked in sensuality, lusts, drunkenness, orgies, carousing, and abominable idolatries. With respect to this, they think it strange of you not running with them into the same overflow of debauchery, speaking evil of you, ” 1 Peter 4:1-4

But you have not learned Christ this way, if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught in Him just as the truth is in Jesus. You are to have put off, concerning the former way of life, the old man, which is being corrupted according to its desires of deceit, and berenewed in the spirit of your mind, and to have put on the new man, having been created according to God in righteousness and holiness of truth. [vs. 20-24]    

[You have not learned Christ this way]: Christ way is contrary to the way of the world. “For the flesh desires against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh. For these are opposed to one  another.” Galatians 5:17 The evidence, if we indeed have truly heard of Him, is that we do not walk in the same state as the world does [Gentiles]. 

To know what it means to putt off the old man, we need to look briefly who the old man is. In Romans 7 Paul gives an insight to the struggle that is in us. It is a struggle because the natural state of man is not willing to be obedient to God. The reason for this is, we are slaves to the workings of sin in our bodies, whether we  knew it to be sin or not. We live to appease the desires of our hearts, mind and flesh, which is contrary to God’s law. We however have accepted those things to be aspects of our character, nature or disposition but it was sin working to produce death in us. This nature does not improve, it is not corrected but continues to degrade and is not acceptable to God.

But when we are baptised into Christ, we die to the nature of sin that was at work in us. We are separated from the spirit of this world and are united with the Spirit of the Lord. We are brought to life, and with this union comes new desires, a nature which seeks after God. If when we were in the world, our desires were shaped by the spirit of the world to fulfil the cravings of our flesh, then if we now have His Spirit in us, we ought to have His desires and disposition at work in us. “Our old man was crucified with Him, so that the body of sin might be annulled, that we are no longer enslaved to sin. For the one having died has been freed from sin. Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with Him.” Romans 6:6-8 Therefore he says, do not entertain the things of your past, which ought to be alien to you, discard them, put them far away from you. 

• “Now those of Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, we should also walk by the Spirit.” Galatians 5:24-25

Just as our spirit was brought to life by the Spirit of the Lord, our bodies which were dead in sin, accustomed to habits of our ignorance; alcohol, drugs, sex and all manner of activities, is also brought to life through, the baptism, the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, our bodies are given life and raised back from deadness of sin. “through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Saviour,” Titus 3:5-6 We are given strength to live in this body, a godly life that overcomes sin.

[Put on the new man]: God has given us new desires by His Spirit and has taken away the dictates of our flesh but God has also made us responsible to renew our minds. A debased mind which is present in the sons of disobedience and in us as well, as much as our minds are not renewed from the ways of the world, is a result of not retaining the knowledge of God. “And as they did not see fit to have God in their knowledge, God gave them up to a depraved mind, to do things not being proper;” Romans 1:28 So the Lord instructs us to be renewed in the spirit of our mind, that is through the knowledge of His word. “And do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of the mind, for you to prove what is the good and well-pleasing and perfect will of God.” Romans 12:2 As we grow in the knowledge of the Son of God, according to whose likeness we are made, and put His words to practice, we grow in emulating Him. The manner of our thinking, being shaped according to the mind of Christ and not of the world. It is through knowing Him we get to become more like Him, and do the works He has done.

• “that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding to walk worthily of the Lord: pleasing in all, bringing forth fruit in every good work, and growing in the knowledge of God,” Colossians 1:9-10
• “His divine power has given us all things toward life and godliness, through the knowledge of the One having called us by His own glory and excellence, through which He has given to us the precious and magnificent promises, so that through these you might become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the decay in the world in desire.” 2 Peter 1:3-4

Taking it from the Gentiles perspective, who were living swallowed up in sin and were not even aware it was so; now have come to be saved through the knowledge of Jesus Christ. They are now made aware the manner of life they were leading was not godly, “as to be ashamed of it” their mind needed to be shaped by the knowledge of His word, His will. We have to know what His will is if we are to live in a manner that pleases Him. “God gave them up to a depraved mind, to do things not being proper.” It is not works as to be accepted by God but knowing God to do what is right because we have His nature and are made able.

Paul never had to describe to the Hebrews what sin was or what they ought to abstain from, just that they needed to have faith in Christ but to the Gentiles it had to be spelled out. Likewise we also have thoughts and ideologies that are inline with the ways of the world and not of God. And we struggle constantly against the various means the world seeks to shape our mind. We therefore have to be diligent to renew our minds according to His word, in the knowledge of His will. “Do not be misled: “Bad companionships corrupt good morals.” Sober up righteously and do not sin, for some have ignorance of God. I speak to your shame.” 1 Corinthians 15:33-34

• “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us that, having denied ungodliness and worldly passions, we should live discreetly and righteously and piously in the present age. Titus 2:11-12

[In righteousness and holiness of truth] righteousness is through faith in Jesus Christ and holiness of truth is through the knowledge of His word, [knowledge of God].

Therefore having put off falsehood, let each one speak truth with his neighbour, because we are members of one another. “Be angry, and yet do no sin.” Let not the sun set upon you anger, neither give opportunity to the devil. [vs. 25-27]    

[Putting off falsehood]: a lie has no longer a place in us, in his letter to the Colossians Paul attributes such disposition to be of the old man. “Do not lie to one another, having put off the old man with his practices.” Colossians 3:9 The Lord also speaking of the nature of the enemy says, “He was a murderer from the beginning, and has not stood in the truth, because there is no truth in him. Whenever he might speak falsehood, he speaks from the own; for he is a liar, and the father of it.” John 8:44 Therefore though it might find a place in the sons of disobedience [the fallen nature of man], because of the spirit that is at work in them, however it ought not to be in ones who are made in the likeness of the Son of God, whose Spirit is at work in them. Therefore He says, “Lying lips are detestable to the LORD, but those who deal faithfully are His delight.”  Proverbs 12:22

• “No one who practices deceit shall dwell in my house; no one who tells lies shall stand in my presence.” Psalm 101:7

We therefore are exhorted to endeavour to speak the truth to one another in love. Through which we are built up, because we are members of one another and nothing is benefited through a lie; the body is not edified by it and what weakens one affect the whole.

[Be angry and do not sin]: Our anger might be a natural response to a situation that confronts us but our anger is not the reason we do something, if in our anger we act in hurtful [vengeful] manner we have sinned. “for man’s anger does not produce the righteousness of God.” James 1:20 Therefore he says do not seek to repay evil, but give place for the wrath of God, that is put your trust in the Lord. “repaying to no one evil for evil, providing right before all men; if possible of you, living at peace with all men; never avenging yourselves, beloved; instead give place to wrath, for it has been written: “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” Romans 12:17-19

• “Be angry, yet do not sin; on your bed, search your heart and be still. Offer the sacrifices of the righteous and trust in the LORD.” Psalm 4:4-5

[Let not the sun set upon your anger]: [In Jewish culture the next day starts at the sun set.] Therefore the point he is making here is that let not your anger carry over, let it not be a root for grudge and bitterness to build on, which is a source that defiles us, “lest any root of bitterness springing up should trouble you and by this, the many might be defiled.” Hebrews 12:15 Therefore when you pray, it is an opportunity to give it to the Lord, to relinquishing any desire you might have to repay, so that you may lay your head without anger in your heart. The Lord taught saying, “And when you may stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive it, so that your Father in the heavens also might forgive you your trespasses.” Mark 11:25 However, if you harbour the hurt, looking to recompense you permit it to fester, and give way for the devil to work his malice. 

Paul writing to the Corinthians after they have taken steps to discipline a member of their congregation encourages them to forgive and affirm their love for one another. That one may not be swallowed by sorrow. To this he says, “so that we should not be outwitted by Satan; for we are not ignorant of his schemes.” 2 Corinthians 2:11 That forgiveness is a weapon against the wiles of devil; he preys on the hurt and offence of people that he may led them astray, by appearing to justify their hurt, but we have Christ Himself as our example, “Who committed no sin, neither was deceit found in His mouth.” Who being reviled did not retaliate; suffering did not threaten, but He gave Himself over to Him judging justly.” 1 Peter 2:22-23 He who was innocent had every right to take offence, but did not, and gave way to God.

The one stealing, let him steal no longer, but rather let him toil, working with the own hands what is good, so that he may have something to impart to the one having need. Do not let any unwholesome word go forth out of your mouth, but only good, for edification of the need, so that it may give grace to those hearing.[vs. 28-29]   

Paul here is speaking in a general term addressing any manner of illicit dealings, may it be theft or extortion; if a person made their living by any immoral activities let them do so no more, but seek to work doing what is good. He is addressing changes that ought to touch all aspects of our lives, “if you have done thus do no longer.” Therefore live a life that is not dependant on anyone or does not abuse another, but rather be productive and abundant that you may overflow to those who are in need. That our purpose is not living for ourselves, but our focus is changed, since we have come to know God. In his letter to Galatians, he states how the needs of the poor was in the forefront of the apostles minds. Peter, James and John exhorting Paul, “only that we should be mindful of the poor, also the same thing that I was eager to do.” Galatians 2:10     

Paul has given himself to be an example in Acts 20, to the elders of the regions of Ephesus, in the way he has conducted himself, in the ministry the Lord has given him. His purpose being do not be a burden but by all means be one who has profited that you may be able to give to the ones who have need. We can speculate of Paul that he laboured with his own hands to meet his own needs, so that what is due to him in the gospel may be given to those who were in need.

• “I coveted nobody’s silver or gold or clothing. You yourselves know that these hands ministered to my needs and to those being with me. In everything I showed you that by thus straining, it behooves us to aid those being weak, and also to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He Himself said, ‘It is more Blessed to give than to receive.’” Acts 20:33-35

Comparing this to the admonition he has given to the Thessalonians, where he reprimands those who are idle, disorderly and busybodies. His purpose being in no way they may be ashamed, or be dependent on anyone, that those who are outside may say nothing against them. “to strive earnestly to live quietly and to attend to your own matters, and to work with your own hands, just as we commanded you, so that you may walk properly toward those outside, and may have need of no one.”  1 Thessalonians 4:11-12

[Not let any unwholesome word go forth]: now when saying unwholesome word, he is speaking of corrupt communication which is gossip, slander, or any manner of evil speaking. “Do not speak against [slander] one another, brothers. The one speaking against his brother or judging his brother speaks against the Law and judges the Law.” James 4:11 Now Paul is still building on the product of the changed nature, a mind being renewed. In contrast to the old manner of way, the Lord says, “Offspring of vipers, how are you able to speak good things, being evil? For out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.” Matthew 12:34 However we have got a new nature in us, therefore we ought to bring forth words that edifies and not what tears down. “Let your speech be always in grace, having been seasoned with salt, to know how it behooves you to answer each one.” Colossians 4:6 [always in grace; because, it is not to bringing condemnation or judgment but to bringing forth the truth in love, that the one hearing may be built up.]

And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, in whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, and rage, and anger, and clamour, and slander, be removed from you, along with all malice. And be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, as also in Christ God forgave you. [vs. 30-32]    

The Holy Spirit is always with us, “He may abide with you forever.” John 14:16 So he says be mindful of Him, as not to grieve Him in your conduct. And we grieve Him in the manner we deal with one another. Here Paul lists all the things that he has encapsulated in two statements above, “be angry do not sin” [and] ” no corrupt communication.” It is to walk in awareness of whose we are, in Corinthians Paul, instructs us, our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit. If our anger and unforgiveness grieves Him so does our immoral conduct in our bodies.

• “Flee sexual immorality. Every sin, whatever if a man might do, is outside the body, but the one sinning sexually sins against the own body. Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit in you, whom you have from God? And you are not your own, for you were bought with a price. Therefore glorify God in your body.” 1 Corinthians 6:18-20

Ephesians 5: Be Imitators of God.

Be imitators of God, therefore, as beloved children, and walk in love, just as Christ also loved us and gave Himself up for us as an offering and a sacrifice to God, into an aroma of a sweet smell. [vs. 1-2]

Our aim is to be like God to imitate Him, and if we imitate Him take Him to be our example we ought to live a life of love and sacrifice. Jesus speaking to His disciples teaches that, there is no greater love than one laying down his life, “This is My commandment, that you love one another as I loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that one should lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:12-13 To lay down our life, [it is not only speaking of giving our life breath] but to forgo our own preference for the sake of another’s wellbeing.

Paul in his letter to the Philippians, teaches us how we ought to conduct ourselves with one another. How we ought to live a life that prefer, esteem others more than ourselves. “you may be of the same mind, having the same love, united in soul, minding the same thing, nothing according to self-interest or according to vain conceit, but in humility be esteeming one another surpassing themselves, each considering not the things of themselves, but each also the things of others.” Philippians 2:2-4 Paul express this walk of love in Romans 14 [which we can take as an example], the forgoing of eating of meat so that one weaker in faith may not stumble.

There is nothing more, greater an expression of love than what the Lord has done for us. Romans 5 express the love of God in that Jesus laid down His life for us all, not because we were His friends but even when we were His enemies. “For rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though on behalf of the good man perhaps someone would even dare to die. But God demonstrates His love to us, that of us being still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:7-8 And Jesus, in His teaching exhorts us to be like our Father in haven. “But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those persecuting you, so that you may be sons of your Father in the heavens. For He makes His sun rise on evil and good, and He sends rain on righteous and unrighteous. For if you love those loving you, what reward do you have?” Matthew 5:44-46 So the love of God is not only in the manner we deal with one another but a love that extends even to our enemies. Therefore, being imitators of God is a life of love, forgiveness and sacrifice.

Now sacrifice also means “to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy to God, well-pleasing, which is your reasonable service.” Romans 12:1 Paul here is speaking in terms of a life of holiness, a life that is renewed from the old ways of the Gentiles. Then sacrifice is also a life that turns away from sin, Jesus was a sacrifice, as a sweet smelling aroma, offered for our sins. Therefore we laying our bodies as a sacrifice, is not to be an offering for sin, but a sacrifice of a life of righteousness, which we have through Jesus Christ. “that which is through faith from Christ, the righteousness of God on the basis of faith.” Philippians 3:9 It is a sacrifice because it has cost us something, and what we offer must be without spot or blemish. We are not offering payment for our sins, but we offer our bodies, which we have in this world as to live a life that is good and perfect despite the challenges of the world. James describes such a life of faith this way, “Pure and undefiled religion before the God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their tribulation; to keep oneself unstained from the world.” James 1:27

But let sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness not even be named among you, as also is proper to saints, and filthiness, and foolish talking, or crude joking, which are not fitting, but rather thanksgiving. For this you know, realising that any fornicator, or unclean person, or covetous man, who is an idolater, has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. [vs. 3-5]  

Paul has exhorted us, we must not live in the manner as we have done like the [Gentiles]. But being renewed in the spirit of our mind, by putting on and growing into the perfect man we ought to be in Christ. And he has described what that entails, in conduct, act of love and life of sacrifice. Now Paul gives direction, that the ways of the Gentiles who walk in the darkness of heart and mind, must not be named among the children of God. That is in the body of Christ among the brethren, [in conduct with one another], it must not be present.  Even the manner of our speech among us has to be different. It is not to say, a hypocritical conduct, but among the body of Christ we have the right to expect a higher form of conduct, but in the world we will always encounter difficulties. In his letter to the Thessalonians Paul describes it in this way, “each of you to know how to win mastery over his own vessel in holiness and honour, not in the passion of lust, as also the Gentiles, not knowing God; not to go beyond and to overreach his brother in the matter, because the Lord is avenging concerning all these things,” 1 Thessalonians 4:5-6

And being watchful of the words of our mouth, “But now you also put off all these things: anger, rage, malice, slander, foul language out of your mouth.” Colossians 3:8 Rather, surrendering our mouth to express gratitude to God. “Give thanks in everything, for this is the will of God toward you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18 James expresses it, that we ought not to use our mouth for such diverging purposes, “Out of the same mouth proceed forth blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so.” James 3:10 

[For this you know]: He is directing it at the child of God; and makes his point that [anyone] who makes a [practice] of such deeds will not inherit the kingdom of God. Do not be deceived to think, that it does not apply to you, [because of such indiscretion] the sons of disobedience are recipients of the wrath of God. Meaning, they are judged because they practice lawlessness and do not think you will escape if you practice lawlessness to the same measure as those who do not know God. The disobedient can not help but act according to their nature, but you have been brought to the light, so walk in the light. Paul gives similar warnings to the Corinthians and Galatians, that those who make a practice of sinning will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Simply put his point is, you are no longer what you were before, so let not your past conduct of your shame be even [named] among you. “How shall we who died to sin still live in it?” Romans 6:2 [And] “Let everyone naming the name of the Lord depart from iniquity.” 2 Timothy 2:19  The blood of Christ is precious in the sight of God, and His word discerns the thought and intent of every heart, He knows the struggling and weak and He knows the wise and shrewd, God will not be mocked, whatever a man saws of that he will reap. John expresses the life of christian this way, “I am writing these things to you so that you might not sin. And if anyone should sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the Righteous One.” 1 John 2:1 The aim and walk [practice] is for perfection with the assurity of forgiveness and no condemnation.

[Covetous man, who is an idolater]: is one who has set his heart to trust on any other thing but God. To trust in riches, or the love of money is the root of all evil. It is an idol because it has taken the place where God ought to fill. In Hebrews it says, “Let your manner of life be without covetousness, being satisfied with the present; for He Himself has said: “Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5 That is the desire to obtain more must not be the reason that drives us to act, as to be the source of our motivations, but being content with what we have, because God will always be with us to supply whatever we have need of, we will not be lacking. He is to be our trust. 

Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not be partakers with them. [vs. 6-7]

[Let no one deceive you]: Who are the ones being deceived? Paul is writing to believers, that they ought not to be deceived, and he does so contrasting the two natures, of the Spirit and of the flesh. His purpose so far has been to exhort us to live righteous lives. Then we can surmise he is speaking of those those who entice others to sin through false doctrines. Peter also writes saying, “For speaking arrogant words of vanity, they entice to sensuality with the passions of the flesh those barely escaping from those living in error, promising them freedom, themselves being slaves of corruption.” 2 Peter 2:18-19 The point being, it is possible to mislead others through false teachings. “the Spirit expressly states that in later times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons, in the hypocrisy of liars, having been seared in the own conscience,” 1 Timothy 4:1-2

[The wrath of God]: “For if we sin willingly after we are to receive the knowledge of the truth, no longer remains a sacrifice for sins,” Hebrews 10:26 Now it is taught that he is speaking to Hebrews therefore when saying “if we sin wilfully” he is speaking of coming out from the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ to make an offering for sin according to the law. To this he says there is no more sacrifice for sin, because Christ is the only acceptable sacrifice to God. To them he warns, only judgment awaits such a one, “a certain terrifying expectation of judgment and fury of fire.” [vs. 27]  He continues to give light to the depth of this indiscretion, “How much worse punishment do you think will he deserve, the one having trampled upon the Son of God, and having esteemed ordinary, the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and having insulted the Spirit of grace?” [vs.29] Then there is wrath for those who depart from the faith, even if they were once sons of the kingdom, “by which he was sanctified”.

Now, if such fate is assigned to the Hebrews who believed and have fallen back then the Gentiles are no exception. In Galatians he says if you submit to the law of circumcision for justification you have made the grace of Christ of no value and you have become estranged to Christ. That is you have fallen away from the truth of the gospel. Then in whatever form it may take, from blood sacrifice to an offer of penance for sins, there remains no forgiveness for such only indignation. Now Paul further makes this statement, “But we are not of those drawing back to destruction, but of faith to the preserving of the soul.” Hebrews 10:39  therefore there are those who draw back to destruction, there are those who depart giving heed to the teaching of demons, and accept a different gospel. There are also those who stop walking with God and turn back to sin. It is “the one having endured to the end, he will be saved.” Matthew 24:13 

So when it says, “Therefore do not be partakers with them” he is speaking of both the deeds of the flesh and of the wrath of God which is to come. The point is do not be deceived [1 Corinthians 6:9], do not be deceived [Ephesians 5:6] those who make a practice of such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. “as to which I forewarn you, even as I warned before, that those doing such things will not inherit God’s kingdom.” Galatians 5:21 Peter says, “For if, having escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, now again having been entangled in these they are subdued, the last state has become worse to them than the first.” 2 Peter 2:20 Peter is speaking of deeds of sin from which they have been redeemed and now have fallen back to it, to be consumed by it. Then he adds, “For it would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than having known it, to have turned from the holy commandment having been delivered to them.” [vs. 21] 

Now, If they have escaped the wrath of God and were simply afflicted in this life only, according to their sinful folly, then they are truly better of, from their beginning. For everyones beginning is; being a son of disobedience, a recipient of the wrath of God and any end that escapes that fate is a far better alternative. But that is not what he is saying, there is wrath for those who wilfully continue in sin, and are ensnared [to be subdued] by it again. What is worse than their beginning, at least in the beginning there was hope for repentance but for those who were once enlightened and have turned away to become consumed again to fall into the depth of sin [and are subdued] there is no repentance. That is a fate worse than the beginning.

• “For it is impossible for those once having been enlightened, and having tasted of the heavenly gift, and having become partakers of the Holy Spirit, and having tasted the goodness of God’s word and the power of the coming age — and then having fallen away — to restore them again to repentance, crucifying in themselves the Son of God and subjecting Him to open shame.”  Hebrew 6:4-6.

For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light – for the fruit of the light is in all goodness and righteousness and truth – discerning what is well-pleasing to the Lord. [vs. 8-10]

Paul exhorts us, to walk in contrast to what we were before, now you have become children of light, sons and daughters of God, so walk according to the nature that is in you. And if you walk in the light, the fruit you bear is, [goodness, righteousness, truth]. “the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. Now those of Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” Galatians 5: 22-24

[Discerning what is pleasing to God]: discernment is not a set of instruction but working out what is appropriate and doing that. David in Psalms says, “Do not be like the horse or mule, which have no understanding; they must be controlled with bit and bridle to make them come to you.” Psalm 32:9 That is God is not going to look over our shoulder to compel us to do what is good. God is not setting out laws for us to do, because through laws comes bondage. But He expects us to grow in the knowledge of Him, our minds renewed according to the truth that we might walk in them. “you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding to walk worthily of the Lord: pleasing in all, bringing forth fruit in every good work, and growing in the knowledge of God,” Colossians 1:9-10 

We can look at discernment, in a manner we walk towards one another. Paul says to the Galatians, “For you brothers were called to freedom, but not the freedom for an opportunity [to the flesh.] Rather, serve one another through love. For the entire Law is fulfilled in this one word: “You shall love your neighbour as yourself.” Galatians 5:13-14 Paul had exhorted the Romans and Corinthians, showing them denying what is due in the liberty of their faith for the sake of one who is weak in faith, is a mark of walking in love. And he says in another place, “Owe nothing to anyone, except to love one another;” [and] “love does not do evil to its neighbour;” Romans 13:8,10  Therefore the essence of walking with God, is allowing love to be the reason we do anything. “Let all things of you be done in love.” 1 Corinthians 16:14 And if we walk in love, we will do no wrong, or harm another, but we will do the things that are pleasing to God. “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” John 14:15

[Point of Note]: Of flesh and of the Spirit; do not make a brother stumble for the sake of satisfying your flesh and [not] do not cast our devils because your brother is squeamish or does not believe in it.

And do not have fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather even expose them. For it shameful even to mention the things being done by them in secret. But everything being exposed by the light is made visible, for everything becoming visible is light. Therefore it says:  “Awake you, the one sleeping, and rise up out from the dead, and Christ will shine upon you.” [vs. 11-14]

Paul has taught on what manner way we ought to walk and has sternly pointed out that the deeds of our past conduct should not even be named among us. Paul in his letter to Corinthians has spoken to them how they ought to judge among themselves but makes a point that it is not to use the same measure with those who are in the world. Saying, if you do, you need to be out of the world.

• “I wrote to you in the letter not to associate with the sexually immoral, not altogether with the sexually immoral of this world, or with the covetous and swindlers, or idolaters— since then you would need to depart from the world. But now, I wrote to you not to associate with anyone being designated a brother if he is sexually immoral or a coveter, or an idolater or verbal abuser, or a drunkard or swindler—with such a one not even to eat.” 1 Corinthians 5:9-11

Now, Paul is giving direction in the manner of our interaction with those who are of the world. He says, do not have fellowship, as to take part in [the deeds] of darkness. The point he is making is that, you have come out from darkness so do not make allowance for it to be present in your life. Peter express  such a change of life style, to the point it provokes those who continue to walk in sin. “For the time past is sufficient to have carried out the desire of the Gentiles, having walked in sensuality, lusts, drunkenness, orgies, carousing, and abominable idolatries. With respect to this, they think it strange of you not running with them into the same overflow of debauchery, speaking evil of you,” 2 Peter 4:3-4 

[Have no fellowship with the works of darkness.] Paul extends fellowship to mean, even to the point of talking [gossiping] of the deeds the unsaved do in secret, he says it is shameful even to do this. The point is, do not to be complacent, but being watchful not to give place for sin, or give avenue for it to spread. Paul in his letter to the Romans says, “I wish you to be wise to good, and innocent to evil.” Romans 16:19 And in Philippians 4:8 he write to think on things, that are good and true. The point he is making is, as in the past you have given yourself to allow darkness, to saturate your life now make way for light to do the same.

• “Do not be misled: “Bad companionships corrupt good morals.” Sober up righteously and do not sin, for some have ignorance of God. I speak to your shame.” 1 Corinthians 15:33-34 

[Rather expose them]: When saying expose he is speaking of from the point of light that shines in a dark place. He has earlier called them you are children of light, and as light their purpose is to expose the works of darkness. That is to bring to mind to those who are in darkness, to those who are in the world. We can use Paul’s illustration of what that means using his statement, in regard to knowing the will of God, “But if you are called a Jew and rely on the Law and boast in God, and you know His will and approve the things being superior, being instructed out of the Law, and you are persuaded that you yourself are a guide of the blind, a light to those in darkness, an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of infants, having in the Law the embodiment of knowledge and of the truth—” Romans 2:17-20 Though this is speaking of the law, the essence of the message is the same. Jesus said we are to be to the light of the world:

• “You are the light of the world. A city lying on a hill is unable to be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but upon the lampstand, and it gives light to all those in the house. Thus let your light shine before men, so that they may see your good works and they should glorify your Father in the heavens.” Matthew 5:14-16

Therefore, we are to be a light to those who are in darkness, thus he says shine your light, as to exposes them to the truth. The purpose of this action is in the quote he gives, to awake the one who is asleep as to be raised up from the dead, so that they may encounter Christ. Paul in his letter to the Colossians writes, “Walk in wisdom toward those outside, redeeming the time. Let your speech be always in grace, having been seasoned with salt, to know how it behooves you to answer each one.” Colossians 4:5-6

Therefore carefully take heed how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Because of this, do not be foolish, but understand what is the Lord’s will, and not to be drunk with wine in which is debauchery. Instead be filled with the Spirit, speaking to each other in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, giving thanks at all times for all things in the name our Lord Jesus Christ to the God and Father. [vs. 15-20]

For this reason; in order not to have fellowship with the works of darkness, and to keep yourself unstained by the world. Then he points to give careful attention to the way you live, do not give place for sin to be in your life, [even in the smallest part as to be a point of conversation]. Therefore be watchful, because the days are evil? That is you are in the world, through which many means arise to make you stumble. Then if you know this then do not be carless, and be wise in your conduct, because the will of God for you is; “For this is the will of God, your sanctification: You are to abstain from sexual immorality; each of you to know how to win mastery over his own vessel in holiness and honour, not in the passion of lust, as also the Gentiles, not knowing God;” 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 Then he gives the point “do not be drunk” because, being drunk is a root of ease [carelessness] through which the fruit of darkness can easily gain way in our lives.    

• “And do this knowing the time, that it is already the hour for you to awaken out of sleep; for our salvation is nearer now than when first we believed. The night is nearly over, and the day has drawn near; therefore we should cast off the works of darkness and should put on the armour of light. We should walk properly, as in daytime; not in revelry and drinking, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in dissension and jealousy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the desires of the flesh.”  Romans 13:11-14

Rather be filled with the Holy Spirit, [consider] if being drunk can easily give access for us to slip, it fuels all manner of activities for sinful deeds to flourish then being filled in the Holy Spirit gives us strength to withstand the assault of the world. He points us to the Holy Spirit, as a means to be merry in heart towards the Lord and with one another “singing hymns and psalms”. The point is as the world finds solace through alcohol [drugs] in seeking to elevate the flesh, we find comfort and  joy in the Lord in the Holy Spirit. “For the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” Romans 14:17 Being thankful to God for all circumstances.

• Rejoice always. Pray unceasingly. Give thanks in everything, for this is the will of God toward you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies, but test all things. Hold fast to the good. Abstain from every form of evil.  1 Thessalonians 5:16-22

Be submitting yourselves to one another in reverence of Christ: wives, to the own husbands as the Lord; for the husband is head of the wife as also Christ is the head of the church, He Himself Saviour of the body. But even as the church is subjected to Christ, so also wives to the own husbands in everything. [vs. 21-24]

[Submitting yourselves to one another in reverence of Christ]: Paul in his letter to Philippines describes how we ought to esteem others better than ourselves, and not to look for our own interests only, but also of others. And gives Christ to be our example, “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, existing in the form of God, did not consider to be equal with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, having taken the form of a servant, having been made in the likeness of men. And having been found in appearance as a man He humbled Himself, having become obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” Philippians 2:5-8 For this reason, he says God has exalted Him far above every name. Our standing with one another is not to be the reason for us to grasp above another for preeminence, but in humility serving one another. “But whoever wishes to become great among you, he will be your servant; and whoever wishes to be first among you, he will be your slave—” Matthew 20:26-27

Now marriage is to be an expression in the flesh of the union in the Spirit. That the unity of Christ to His church is expressed in a marriage, Christ being the head and the church His body. To the same extent the husband is made the head and the wife the body, [in the flesh.] “So they are longer two but one flesh.” Matthew 19:6 In Genesis, Adam speaking of the creation of Eve said, “This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called ‘woman,’ for out of man she was taken.” and follows with, “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.” Genesis 2:23,24 That marriage is the expression of the restoration of what has come out from Adam’s flesh. Therefore in Adam, in the unity of the flesh the husband is the head and the wife is the body. Our restoration to God is of the same calibre, we were separated through one transgression and through Christ we are restored to be joined in Spirit as to being one with the Lord, Married to Christ. “the one being joined to the Lord is one spirit.” 1 Corinthians 6:17

Therefore in the flesh, [in Adam] which marriage is an aspect of, let a wife submit to her husband. Nevertheless, each member of this union has to have Christ as Lord as to be one Spirit with Him. In the law: a woman had her head covered as to show that she is under the authority of her husband. That in the flesh, woman was the glory of man, and God dealt with them through this regulation, a youth through her father and a wife through her husband. But in Christ each is held accountable, though they be one flesh. “Your desire will be for your husband, and he will rule over you.” Genesis 3:16 is the judgement that was given under the fall, and if we walk in the flesh, it is applicable. But in Christ we are redeemed from the judgement given, then the relationship of wife to her husband has also changed. In marriage a woman does not lose her standing in Christ, as to be represented through her husband. The point is, “from now, we regard no one according to the flesh.” 2 Corinthians 5:16 Then in marriage also, we ought to esteem one another alike, giving preference to the other as we would to a member of the body of Christ. 

• “Husbands do likewise, dwelling with them according to knowledge, as with a weaker vessel, with the female, rendering honour as joint-heirs also of the grace of life, so as for your prayers not to be hindered.” 1 Peter 3:7

Husbands, love the wives just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her, so that He might sanctify her,having cleansed her by the washing of water by the word, so that He might present to Himself the church in glory, not having spot or wrinkle or any of the such things, but that it would be holy and blameless. [vs. 25-27]

The comparison is how Christ gave all of Himself and  how He maintains His body the church. We can also see that we are saved to be sanctified, that is we may walk in this life blameless. This world is of corruption there will be many things that defile and make us stumble. But we are sanctified [from the world] through the word, it is in the knowledge of the truth of God. Here Paul says, Christ cleansed His church by the washing of the water of the word. Jesus in His earthly ministry speaking of His disciples said in prayer, “I have given them Your word;” [And] “Sanctify them by the truth; Your word is truth.” John 17:14,17

• “you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding to walk worthily of the Lord: pleasing in all, bringing forth fruit in every good work, and growing in the knowledge of God,” Colossians 1:9-10

We walking blameless in this life is pleasing to God. Paul in Thessalonians writes, “how you ought to walk and please God; For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus. For this is the will of God, your sanctification: You are to abstain from sexual immorality; each of you to know how to win mastery over his own vessel in holiness and honour,” 1 Thessalonians 4:1-4 It is not to say it is a performance based life, [since God has already blessed us with every spiritual blessing in Christ Jesus], but knowing what is honouring to the One who gave everything for us. Paul in his letter to Romans says, “to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy to God, well-pleasing, which is your reasonable service.” Romans12:1 However, if we do not have His word in us, we will not know what His will is, and we can not walk in manner that pleases Him. 

God after saving Israel from Egypt taught them His ways through the law. Our salvation does not differ, we are also saved from sin and the world through Christ, that we might know His ways and walk in them. Though it is through grace and faith, the objective of God remain the same. 

So also husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies.The one loving his wife loves himself. For no one at any time hated his flesh. But he nourishes and cherishes it just as Christ also does the church. For we are members of His body. [vs. 28-30]

Husbands are to love their wives with the same sacrificial love. He is continuing on the unity of man and wife as one body. That a man takes care of his own body and so should a husband to his wife. That is to love nourish, provide and be responsible for the wellbeing of his wife. The nature of the relationship between husband and wife is to be second only to the believer with Christ. To hold priority as the church does to Christ.

“Because of this, a man will leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two will be into one flesh.” This mystery is great; but I speak as to Christ and as to the church. However, you also, every individual, let each so love his wife as himself; and the wife, that she may respect the husband. [vs. 31-33]

This unity seems to point to as we have touched above, the moment of creation. When Adam came to be and Eve was taken out of him. That marriage is a concept, what has come out of man is reunited as to be one flesh as in the beginning. Though they be two distinct spirits, they resemble one complete body. This concept of unity is portrayed in the Spirit between Christ and His church, though we may possess a glorified body, distinct from Christ but we are one Spirit with Him. He has given to us the Holy Spirit to be with us forever. “He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you to the age—” John 14:16

It is also taught that, in a marriage relationship what a wife desires from her husband is to be loved and what the husband desires from his wife is to be respected.

Ephesians 6: The Armour of God.

Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honour your father and mother,” which is the first commandment with a promise, “that it may be well with you and you will be long-lived upon the earth.” [vs. 1-3]

The relationship between a parent and a child is held in a very high regard in the sight of God. Even the trinity resembles such a relationship Father and Son. In the law rebellious child, who does not give heed to his parents is put to death. [Exodus 21:17] Paul points to the fact that this commandment, is the first that came with a promise of God. To show, to what regard the Lord holds this commandment. Though We have been redeemed from the curse of the law and have been blessed with all spiritual blessing in Christ. This however does not negate from doing what is right, “for this is right”. “Children, obey the parents in all things, for this is well-pleasing in the Lord.” Colossians  3:20

Point of Note: [obey in the Lord], in some instances parents may object to faith in Jesus Christ to which the child is not obligated to obey.  [in regards to faith in Christ Jesus.]

And fathers, do not provoke your children, but bring them up in the discipline and admonition of the Lord. [vs. 4]

The point Paul might be making here is, do not treat your children with harshness or in anger, which might give rise for them to be discouraged. He writes in Colossians, “Fathers, do not provoke your children lest they might become discouraged.” Colossians  3:21 The Lord speaking, in Isaiah shows how He is careful in dealing with mankind that, their spirit may not fail before Him. “For I will not accuse you forever, nor will I always be angry; for then the spirit of manwould grow weak before Me, with the breath of those I have made.” Isaiah 57:16

Paul, adds rather raise them up in discipline: that is being consistent in the manner they are brought up, and teaching them the way of God. “Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.” Proverb 22:6

Salves, obey the earthly masters with fear and trembling, in sincerity of your heart as to Christ, not with eye-service as men-pleasers, but as servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, rendering service with good will as the Lord and not to men, knowing that each one, whatever good he have done, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is slave or free.  [vs. 5-8]

In Corinthians, Paul speaks of the state of one who is called in the Lord while a slave. “Were you called while a slave, let it not be a care to you; but if also you are able to become free, rather take advantage.” 1 Corinthians 7:21 That is in whatever state you find yourself in continue in it. But let it be with a renewed sense of purpose. So if you render services to your masters let it not begrudgingly or just surface obedience, as to appease but let it be in true obedience. “Whatever you might do, work from the soul, as to the Lord and not to men.” Colossians 3:23

The point he is making is, our reward is not of men but of God. And if it is from the Lord, the reward God gives is not predicated wether you are free or slave. Therefore render service as to the One you serve and not man. Then whatever manner of person you serve will not be a reason for discouragement. Peter writes in regards to servants, not to seek to please only the kind and gentle but also the harsh. “Servants, be subject to masters with all fear, not only to the good and gentle, but also to the unreasonable. For this is acceptable, if for sake of conscience toward God, anyone endures griefs, suffering unjustly.” 1 Peter 2:18-19 Our faith is to be in God whom we serve, then which sets us free from any manner of squabbling over what is due or looking to the hands of men. [This is not to say to continue to work against conscience for sake of obedience, but only in doing what is good and true, “as to serve the Lord.”] 

And masters do the same things toward them, giving up threatening, knowing that also their master and yours is in the heavens, and there is no partiality with Him. [vs. 9]

[Do the same thing]: Whatever manner we are engaged, as employee or employer we are serving the Lord. When saying “do the same thing towards them” he is speaking of conduct yourselves in your administration of your [slaves] as a service you render to God, as one who oversees His workers. Then if you know this be careful not to mistreat them.  Then Paul points, your status as a master will not be reason for leniency or special treatment in the sight of God. In Colossians, Paul after he admonishes slaves to be obedient, follows it with, “You serve the Lord Christ! For the one doing wrong will be repaid for what he has done wrong; and there is no partiality.” Colossians 3:24-25 That is, the harsh treatment of slaves is not lost on him, for which he makes the point.

[No partiality]: Though in this instance the admonishment is pointing to the masters, to curb their harsh treatment of slaves. It is also applicable to some measure to the slaves, in the service they provide, Paul writes to Titus “Servants are to be subject to their own masters in everything, to be well-pleasing, not gainsaying, not pilfering, but showing all good fidelity,” Titus 2:9-10 The point is, each will receive according to what he has done in the body. [2 Corinthians 5:10] Not master nor slave will receive any special treatment.

Henceforth be empowered in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the complete armour of God, for you to be able to stand against the schemes of the devil, because to us the wrestling is not against blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. [vs. 10-12]  

Paul to the Corinthians writes, “For walking in flesh, we do not wage war according to flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not fleshly, but [divinely powerful]” 2 Corinthians 10:3 that is to say we battle in faith in the power of God. So he says be strengthened in the power of His might. And follows that statement with put on the “armour of God,” God, Himself has no need of armour, then to put on the armour of God is to be clothed in Him, it is to put on Christ, He is to be our armour. “if you are hid in Him, then the enemy has no recourse to you.” [C.B]

That is the only way we are going to be able to stand against the enemy; we are constrained in the flesh, and are not able to perceive the assaults we are facing, which are spiritual by nature [in source]. Though the evil one manifest his power through the agency of men, our true enemy is unseen. In the first chapter of Ephesian Paul has written that we might have a revelation of, “the surpassing greatness of His power toward us believing according to the working of the power of His might, which He worked in Christ, having raised Him out from the dead, and having set Him at His right hand in the heavenly realms, [above every principality and authority and power and dominion, and every name being named]” Ephesians 1:19-21

That is these spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms, were made subject by the force of God that worked in Christ, lifting Him far above all creation. And by the same measure this conquering power of God is at work in us, through Christ enabling to us stand and to subdue. John writes, “He who is in you is greater than he who is the world.” 1 John 4:4 Then if we know this we can confront the gates of our enemy, and when we glory, we glory in the Lord. It is not our righteousness but the righteousness of Christ, it is not our wisdom but the wisdom of God, it is not our strength but the power of His might.

Because of this, take up the complete armour of God, so that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all things, to stand. [vs.13]

[Having done all things]: There is a part we have to play in this spiritual warfare [in this age: evil day]. And our parts is to put on the armour of God; God is not going to put it on us, we ourselves have to do this. Then if you have put on the armour of God then stand being strengthened in the power of His might. It is in His strength, then it is a battle of faith.

The enemy has sought to make us sin and stumble through the enticement of the flesh from the beginning of creation. His aim has always been to set a wedge between us and God, so he can kill, steal and destroy. In the beginning he used sin to drive us away from the presence of God. Now Christ has paid it all and has brought us near, he uses lies and condemnation to keep as from walking in the full measure of the power of God. Therefore he says [stand], having done all these things, put on Christ and walk in Him.

Paul used the analogy of an armour for one purpose, because it is speaking of warfare. And in this world a Christian is engaged in a spiritual war, and just as we in the flesh adorn armour for battle, we require such vital ingredients to withstand the onslaught of a spiritual war. Paul describes an armour in Thessalonians as well, but here he seems to assign the general components that [encapsulate] the substances listed here,  “we being of the day should be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and the helmet, the hope of salvation,” 1 Thessalonians 5:8 that is [faith, hope and love].

In Romans also he says, put on the armour of light that is put on Christ. “therefore we should cast off the works of darkness and should put on the armour of light. We should walk properly, as in daytime; not in reviling and drinking, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in dissension and jealousy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the desires of the flesh. Romans 13:12-14 As we have touched above, this is our ultimate goal, if we have put on Christ, we walk in the Spirit, giving no place for the flesh, no area for the enemy to gain grounds and we in turn will abound in every good work.

Stand therefore, having girded your loins with truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod the feet with the readiness of the gospel of peace; besides all, having taken up the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, [through] all prayer and supplication, praying in the Spirit in every season and unto this very thing, [watching with all perseverance] and supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that in the opening of my mouth, divine utterance may be given to me  to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in a chain, that in it I may be bold, as it behooves me to speak. [vs. 14-20] 

Therefore Paul says through these, we put on the divine nature: [the armour of God] and are able to stand against the schemes of the enemy: [through]  truth, righteousness, gospel of peace, faith, salvation, the word of God and prayer and supplication. The command is to stand, having done all these things. The Armour is God:  which means looking away from ourselves to God. Then in all these parts we need to seek out the things that brings the focus on God. “be empowered in the Lord and in the strength of His might.” [And] “let him who glories, glory in the Lord.” Where there is no variation, only firmness of stance which serves as an anchor for our the soul.

[Loins with Truth]: Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life”,  and He prayed saying, “Righteous Father, although the world has not known You, yet I have known You, and these have known that You sent Me.” John 17:25 And John writes, “The only begotten God, the One being in the bosom of the Father, He has made Him known.” John 1:18 Jesus speaking of the Holy Spirit said, “When He the, Spirit of truth, shall come, He will guide you into all the truth.” John 16:13 Then truth is knowing God, knowing His nature and knowing His motives. Not only is He truth He is the means for truth.

Jesus speaking of the devil said, “He was a murderer from the beginning, and has not stood in the truth, because there is no truth in him. Whenever he might speak falsehood, he speaks from the own; for he is a liar, and the father of it.” John 8:44 Then the  scheme of the enemy is deception. He lied to Eve, making her think, God was withholding for them, “For God knows that in the day you eat of it, your eyes will be opened and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” Genesis 3:5 He will attack the truth of God, “If You are Son of God,” Matthew 4:3

Then in order to stand we need to know the truth of God, we have to be assured of His nature and love. Depend upon Him, hold tight,  wrap ourselves secure in the truth of God. “For God so loved…,” John 3:16 “For He who spared not the own Son, but gave Him up for us all, how will He not also, with Him, grant us all things?” Romans 8:32 Never having an occasion to doubt the love God has for us, for this reason Paul says giving thanks in all circumstances, in persecution in hurt and sorrow in everything give thanks to God. Be secure in this truth, that the deception of the enemy may have no grounds.

Over the years the enemy has sought to inject his lies into the body of Christ, he has brought false [ideas of God], and false reverence to the honour to God, cloaked in religion to work his havoc. He has sought to bringing in the philosophy of the world into the church that by any means he may render the body of Christ ineffective. Many teachers has sought to teardown these false beliefs, that has permeated the body, that we may walk in all the truth and blessings God has given to us.

• “Take heed lest there will be anyone taking you captive through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the principles of the world and not according to Christ.” Colossians 2:8
• “The Spirit expressly states that in later times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons, in the hypocrisy of liars, having been seared in the own conscience,” 1 Timothy 4:1-2

The Enemy’s strategy: Lies and deception: about God.

The Armour of God [Truth]: is Knowing the truth of God and about God and through God.

[Breastplate of Righteousness]: It is  vital for us to know, it is never our righteousness, which can easily come under attack in the fallen world, which can easily be corrupted and can easily give rise to pride and the condemnation of others. Paul writes, “that I may gain Christ and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness which is of the Law, but that which is through faith from Christ, the righteousness of God on the basis of faith,” Philippians 3:8-9

And in Romans he gives explanation to the righteousness of faith; “The word is near you, in your mouth, and in your heart.” That is, the word of faith which we proclaim, that if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised Him out from the dead, you will be saved. For in the heart is belief unto righteousness, and in the mouth is confession unto salvation.” Romans 10:8-10

Then the strategy of the enemy is to bring our focus onto ourselves, so by any means he could condemn and make us stumble. Therefore when the enemy gives rise to bring accusation to condemn us our answer to him is just, “it is not my righteousness but the righteousness of my Saviour.” And if you put on the righteousness of Jesus Christ and then guard your heart  in this truth, out of which flows the power of God. John writes, “Beloved, if our heart should not condemn us, we have confidence toward God, and whatever we might ask, we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and we do the things pleasing before Him.” 1 John 3:21-22

The Enemy’s Strategy: Look to ourselves to rely on our own works to justify us.

The Armour of God [Righteousness]: is Knowing it is the righteousness of Jesus Christ, that matters.

[Feet Shod with the Readiness of the Gospel of Peace]: readiness of feet [always be ready], as something we might do. Paul may be speaking on the account of persecution that is sure to arise on the account of the gospel. In Acts when they were persecuted, they went out preaching the gospel to every place. Acts 11:19-21 Isaiah writes, “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news,  who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!” Isaiah 52:7, [Nahum 1:15]

The main point to consider about this armour is, its effectiveness over the enemy, John in Revelation write,  “they overcome him, by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony.” Revelation 12:11 Our word of testimony is what Jesus Christ has done for us, it is a means by which the gospel can spread. Peter writes, “But even if you should suffer because of righteousness, you are blessed. “And you should not be afraid of their threats, neither should you be troubled.” But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord, always ready for a defence to everyone asking you an account concerning the hope in you;” 1 Peter 3:14-15 Our testimony of the gospel of Christ is power against the kingdom of devil.

“He [Jesus] says to him, “Go to your home, to your own, and preach to them how much the Lord did for you and had mercy on you.” And he departed and began to proclaim in the Decapolisb how much Jesus had done for him; and all were marvelled.” Mark 5:19-20

[Shield of Faith]: Revelation records saying, “the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, the one accusing them before our God day and night.” Revelation 12:10 His accusation has found no place in the court of God, who has redeemed the world [in Christ],  therefore his voice is no longer heard. But he has come down to us, he seeks to do the same to us, in our lack of our understanding he may bring us down in accusations and condemnation. So Paul says, stand in faith “to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one.” That is his lies. 

Peter writing about the assault of the wicked one says, “Be sober-minded; watch. Your adversary the devil prowls about as a roaring lion seeking whom to devour, whom you should resist, firm in the faith, knowing the same sufferings to be accomplished in your brotherhood throughout the world. ” 1 Peter 5:8-9 Lion seeks out the weak of the heard, so he also like a roaring lion seeks, whom he may stumble, through his loud attempt to agitate but his threats have as much ground as we give it. So Peter says submit to God and cast your care upon Him. That is put your faith in God, who is mighty and the enemy’s prowling is just that prowling and nothing more. “But the Lord is faithful, who will strengthen you and will keep you from evil [one].” 2 Thessalonians 3:3

To this aspect Peter adds, our resistance and endurance serves to prove our faith. “At present for a little while if it is being necessary, having been put to grief by various trials, so that the proven genuineness of your faith, more precious than gold, perishing though being refined by fire, may be discovered to result in praise and glory and honour in the revelation of Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 1:6-7 That after we have endured for a while God Himself will restore us. “you having suffered a little while, He Himself will perfect, will confirm, will strengthen, and will establish you.” 1 Peter 5:10

The Enemy’s strategy: Fiery darts of, the enemy are accusation, condemnation that by any means to make one stumble.

The God’s Armour [Faith]: Have Faith in God, be strong in the strength of His might.

[Helmet of Salvation]: Salvation is associated with the concept of hope, it speaks of a distant truth to be revealed, and  the evidence of this hope we have is when we walk, in the truth of that reality. “We ourselves, even having the firstfruit of the Spirit, also groan ourselves in ourselves, awaiting divine adoption as sons, the redemption of our body.For in this hope we were saved; but hope being seen is no hope; for does anyone hope for what he sees?” Romans 8:23-24 That is to say, salvation is brought to completion at the return of the Lord.

Paul exhorting the Thessalonians writes, “So then we should not sleep as the others, but we should watch and we should be sober. For those sleeping, sleep by night; and those becoming drunk, get drunk by night. But we being of the day should be sober,having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and the helmet, the hope of salvation,” 1 Thessalonians 5:6-8 That is to say, putting on the righteousness which is through faith in Jesus Christ set you mind on the hope to be revealed, therefore  conduct yourselves accordingly. 

• “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not being seen.” Hebrews 11:1

We do not walk by hope but we walk by faith: that is to say our faith is based on the hope we have. The hope of salvation  has an expression, “For in the heart is belief unto righteousness, and in the mouth is confession unto salvation.” Romans 10:10 Likewise, then the manner of life we lead is an indication of the hope that is in us which finds expression through faith in the manner we walk. Paul writing to the Romans again, presents salvation as something that is to be brought to completion. “That it is already the hour for you to awaken out of sleep; for our salvation is nearer now than when first we believed…. therefore we should cast off the works of darkness and should put on the armour of light.” Romans 13:11-12 And he use this hope to be the very reason our lives has to resemble what we believed. Paul in a similar manner exhorts the Colossians saying, “Set your minds on the things above, not the things on the earth.” For this reason he says we should put off the works of the flesh and put on Christ.

Peter also exhorts in the a similar way, saying be firm in mind setting your hope on the grace of Christ. Through which one being fully convinced set his/her conduct to be in line with the hope of salvation. “Therefore having girded up the loins of your mind, being sober-minded, set your hope fully upon the grace being brought to you in the revelation of Jesus Christ, as children of obedience, not being conformed to the passions in your former ignorance. But as the One having called you is holy, be holy yourselves also in all your conduct,” 1 Peter 1:13-15 

Final point to consider, is Paul writing to Corinthians says, “If the dead are not raised, “let us eat and let us drink for tomorrow we die.” And follows this with a firm statement, “Sober up righteously and do not sin, for some have ignorance of God.” 1 Corinthians 15:32,34    Then helmet which protects [the head: the mind], is used to express in terms of being fixed, stedfast in the hope we have in Christ Jesus, and not to be moved from the hope of the gospel. And this hope we have is the very reason we now conduct ourselves in faith in the manner of life we lead.

• “We know that when He appears, we will be like Him, for we will see Him as He is. And everyone having this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.“1 John 3:2-3

Enemy strategy: That we may walk as ones who have no hope, the way of truth may be discredited.

God’s Armour [Salvation]: The Hope of our salvation is to be the inspiration for our conduct.

[The Sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God – Through all prayer and supplication, praying in the Spirit]: It is good to first point out, “prayer and supplication, praying in the Spirit” though are listed as part of the armour of God, yet it seems as though they have not been given a relevant physical representation to relate to; that is because they are a component of the Sword of the Spirit. They are a means through which the Sword of the Spirit is wielded.

All the parts of the armour thus far have been used as an act of defence against the wiles of the enemy. The sword being an offensive weapon and the one who wields it is the Holy Spirit who dwells in us. We are in a spiritual battle, and our weapon to be effective it also has to be spiritual, as Paul writes, “For the weapons of our warfare are not fleshly, but divinely powerful [mighty in God] toward the demolition of strongholds,” 2 Corinthians 10:4

The Spirit of God acts in accordance to the word of God. Paul also exhorts us saying “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly,” Colossians 3:16 And in his letter to Timothy Paul writes, “that from childhood you have known the sacred writings, being able to make you wise unto salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. Every Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete.” 2 Timothy 3:15-17 Jesus speaking of the Holy Spirit said, “He will teach you all things and will bring to your remembrance all things that I have said to you.” John 14:26 In order for the Holy Spirit to bring to our remembrance the word of God, we first have to have His words in us. [D.H]    

Paul in Romans writes, “the righteousness of faith speaks in this way,” and in his letter to the Corinthians he says, “I have believed therefore I have spoke.” The measures of the effectiveness of our weapon is to the measure we believe and speak, the word of God. And what you believe you will live by. [C.B] Prayer precisely gives us this opportunity to give breath to the word of God through the Holy Spirit who dwells in us.

[Praying in the Spirit]:  Paul writes, when we pray in the Holy Spirit [in tongues], our spirit prays and that it speaks mysteries to God. The Holy Spirit, who knows the deep thing of God and our spirit who knows the depth of us, are united as one, so when we pray in tongues [in the Spirit], our spirit is praying the will of God according to what our need is, which serves to build us up. “The one speaking in a tongue edifies himself.” 1 Corinthians 14:4 [And] Jude also says, “you, beloved, building up yourselves in your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God.” Jude 1: 20-21     

Paul in Romans also writes, “for we do not know the things which we should pray for as it behooves, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession with inexpressible groanings.” Romans 8:26 That is in a manner that is not expressed in words, but he says “He who searches hearts,” That is Jesus, “I am the One searching affections and hearts,” Revelation 2:23 he says, “He knows what the mind of the Spirit is,” even though it has not been uttered in words, because the Spirit will always intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.

These prayers in the Spirit are not required to be bundled into one kind of prayer nor do they negate one another, but each gives way according to the one who instigates it, one to the Spirit of God and the other to our spirit, both producing the same result, which is the will of God. “He who is joined to the Lord is one Spirit with Him.” 1 Corinthians 6:17 It is also important to bear in mind when we pray in the Spirit, it serves to build us up [unless it is given interpretation which serves to build the body], but when the Holy Spirit intercedes through us, He prays for the saints, not necessarily for us but for members of the body of Christ.

We therefore can pray the will of God, when we give breath to the word of God. Which serves as ammunition for the Holy Spirit to bring to pass those things petitioned. Then Paul expressly says, “unto to this very thing” and points to the needs of the saints. As an act of duty to be undertaken on behalf of the body of Christ, which takes us to the next point.

Enemy’s Strategy: Keep you from knowing, [speaking] the word of God, keep you from prayer and worship.

God’s Armour [The Word of God] through Prayer and Supplication: Declare, [speak out] the word of God.

[Watching with all perseverance and [supplication] for all saints]: To be on watch is part of the duty of a soldier, which we can extend to be included as part of the armour of God. Those in ancient days, who were put on duty, to be watchmen were made responsible for the souls in the city, therefore diligence in these duty is vital. God used this analogy to demonstrate the responsibility He has given to Ezekiel. “Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel. Whenever you hear a word from My mouth, give them a warning from Me.” Ezekiel 3:17 And the Lord showed the need of intercession and says to Ezekiel, “I searched for a man among them to repair the wall and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, so that I should not destroy it. But I found no one.” Ezekiel 22:30 Supplication stands in the same sphere, it means to, strive, to implore, to make ernest petition on behalf of the needs of saints.

In Hebrews it states, Jesus ever lives to intercede for us, and Romans states, the Holy Spirit Himself intercedes for us, for those things we know not to pray for. To the same measure we being called to the family of God, are also expected to pray and intercede for one another. Especially keeping in mind the ministers of God, that they may serve God according to His divine purpose, and in the power He supplies. 

• “You also joining together for us by supplication, so that thanks may be given for us by many persons for the grace bestowed toward us through many.” 2 Corinthians 1:11

John writes how we ought to intercede for another, “If anyone should see his brother sinning a sin not unto death, he shall ask, and He will give him life, to those sinning not unto death. There is a sin unto death; I do not say that he should implore concerning that.” 1 John 5:16 James also encourages us saying, “Therefore confess the sins to one another and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man being made effective prevails much.” James 5:16 Though James makes this point in relation to show the power of prayer, we can apply its meaning according to, John and Elijah which is to turn back a brethren who has wandered from the truth. Elijah is an example, of one who under took great feats to bring Israel back to God. Therefore being of one body, intercession is an Armour of God by which the whole body is protected and built up.

• “from whom the whole body, being joined together and being held together by every ligament of its supply, according to the working in the measure of each individual part, the increase of the body makes for itself, to the building up of itself in love.” Ephesians 4:16

Enemy’s Strategy: To sow discord among the brethren, so through offence may fail to intercede for one another.

God’s Armour [Watching with Supplication]: Interceding, “We are our brothers keepers.”

And that you also may know the things concerning me, what I am doing, Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful servant in the Lord, will make known to you all things, whom I have sent to you for this purpose, that you may know the things concerning us, and he may encourage your hearts. [vs. 21-22]

Paul is writing the letter to the Ephesians from a prison in Rome while awaiting trail. He makes mention of Tychicus in his letter to Timothy saying, “But I have sent Tychicus to Ephesus.” 2 Timothy 4:12 That the letter may even have been carried, their by Tychicus himself which serves as an introduction to them. The purpose being he might give updates of his circumstances, which Paul has not made mention in his letter.

Peace to the brothers and love with faith from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all those loving Our Lord Jesus Christ in incorruptibility. [vs. 23-24]

Final greetings.

the end.