Ephesians Outline
Ephesians Outline
Ephesians Outline
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page Number
Supplemental Studies 33
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INTRODUCTION TO THE BOOK OF EPHESIANS
AUTHOR: Paul.
TO WHOM: The church at Ephesus. As with all of the epistles, it is also for believers of all
times.
PURPOSES: To inform the believer of his wealth in Christ, instruct him concerning his walk
in Christ, and prepare him for spiritual warfare.
KEY VERSES: Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us
with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ. (Ephesians l:3 )
I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith
ye are called. (Ephesians 4:1)
Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil
day, and having done all, to stand. (Ephesians 6:13)
LIFE AND MINISTRY PRINCIPLE: Believers are recipients of the blessings (the wealth),
the responsibilities (the walk), and the weapons of warfare in Christ.
A BRIEF OUTLINE:
Part One: The believer's wealth Doctrinal l-3 Key verse l:3
Part Two: The believer's walk Practical 4-6:9 Key verse 4:l
Part Three: The believer's warfare Experiential 6:10-24 Key verse 6:13
(We inherit spiritual wealth that assures a successful spiritual walk and warfare.)
1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at Ephesus,
and to the faithful in Christ Jesus:
2 Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all
spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:
4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should
be holy and without blame before him in love:
5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself,
according to the good pleasure of his will,
6 To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.
7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the
riches of his grace;
8 Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence;
9 Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure
which he hath purposed in himself:
10 That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all
things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:
11 In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the
purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:
12 That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ.
13 In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your
salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of
promise,
14 Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased
possession, unto the praise of his glory.
15 Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the
saints,
16 Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers;
17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit
of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:
18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope
of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,
19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to usward who believe, according to
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the working of his mighty power,
20 Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own
right hand in the heavenly places,
21 Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is
named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:
22 And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the
church,
23 Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.
Outline 1:
I. Salutation. (1-2)
A. From: Paul, an apostle (one who is sent on a mission) of Jesus Christ by the will
of God. (Paul was appointed by God, not set in office by man, as so
should we be in our ministries.)
B. To:
1. The saints which are at Ephesus.
(The biblical meaning of a saint is a true believer who has accepted Jesus
Christ. Ephesus was an important city in Asia located on the trade
route.)
2. The faithful in Christ Jesus. (The faithful are those who put their faith in
Jesus and commit their lives to Him.)
C. Grace be to you, and peace:
1. From God our Father.
2. From the Lord Jesus Christ.
(We can have both peace with God and the peace of God. See Romans 5:1 and Philippians
4:7. Grace is the unlimited favor of God and is a prerequisite for peace, as you must have
grace to experience peace.)
II. Praise for spiritual blessings: Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
who has blessed us (lavished us) with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ.
(3-14)
(The word "spiritual" clarifies the nature of the riches Paul is describing. "Heavenly
places" refers to the domain of the supernatural. You qualify for spiritual blessings by being
in Christ Jesus. The word "has" means it is already done and these blessings are presently
available--you just need to claim them. Believers should live spiritually on a heavenly level
even while abiding physically on earth. The words "in Christ" are the master key to the
blessings described. Verses 3-14 are actually one long sentence, the longest in the KJV
Bible. This passage confirms that all blessings originate in heavenly places. See also 1
Peter 1:4 and Philippians 4:19.)
A. He has chosen us:
1. In Him before the foundation of the world.
2. That we should be holy and without blame before Him in love.
(This does not mean our eternal destination is predetermined. Second Peter 3:9
reveals that God is not willing that any should perish. Every person has a
choice or else we could not be held accountable for our decisions. The choice
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spoken of here is not choosing some for salvation and others for
condemnation, but God choosing unlimited blessings for those who receive
Christ as Savior. Concerning salvation, God gives everyone opportunity to
repent.)
B. He adopted us. Having predestinated us unto:
1. The adoption of children by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the
good
pleasure of His will.
2. To the praise of the glory of His grace, wherein He has made us accepted
in the beloved.
C. He redeemed us. In whom we have:
1. Redemption through His blood.
2. The forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace.
("Redemption" refers to being purchased out of the slave market of
sin and set free. "Forgiveness" means treating a transgression as if it
had never been committed, a pardon and remission of the deserved
penalty.)
D. He shows wisdom towards us. Wherein He has abounded toward us in all wisdom
and prudence. (“Abounded” means superabundance in quantity and
quality. “Prudence” means wisely applying wisdom. “Wisdom” is the
appropriate application of the knowledge God gives.)
E. He reveals the mystery of His will to us.
1. Having made known unto us the mystery of His will, according to His
good pleasure which He has purposed in Himself.
2. That in the dispensation of the fullness of times He might gather together
in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are
on earth; even in Him. (The fulness of time is the exact moment when
a predicted prophecy is fulfilled.)
F. He has given us an inheritance: In whom also we have obtained an inheritance.
(An inheritance is something someone receives because of their relationship with
a person. It is a gift. See also Romans 8:17; Galatians 3:28-29; and
James 2:5.)
G. He predestined us to divine purpose: Being predestinated (foreordained)
according to the purpose of Him who works all things after the counsel of
His own will.
H. He sealed us by His Spirit.
1. In whom you also trusted, after that you heard the word of truth, the
gospel of your salvation.
2. In whom also after that you believed, you were sealed with that Holy
Spirit of promise. (A seal indicates a finished transaction,
ownership, authenticity, and security.)
3. The Holy Spirit is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of
the purchased possession, unto the praise of His glory. (The word
"earnest" refers to a down payment, a pledge to secure
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property and guarantee full payment.)
III. Prayer for spiritual perception. (15-19)
A. The basis of the prayer: Their faith and love. Wherefore I also, after I heard of
your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints.
B. The nature of the prayer. I do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of
you in my prayers.
C. The Person addressed by the prayer. The God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father
of glory.
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Ephesians 2
1 And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins;
2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the
prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:
3 Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh,
fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of
wrath, even as others.
4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,
5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye
are saved;)
6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ
Jesus:
7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness
toward us through Christ Jesus.
8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.
10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath
before ordained that we should walk in them.
11 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called
Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands;
12 That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel,
and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the
world:
13 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of
Christ.
14 For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of
partition between us;
15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in
ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace;
16 And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the
enmity thereby:
17 And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.
18 For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.
19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the
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saints, and of the household of God;
20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself
being the chief corner stone;
21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the
Lord:
22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.
Outline 2:
I. Our condition before Christ. (1-3)
A. Spiritually dead: And you has He quickened (made spiritually alive), who were
dead in trespasses and sins. (Spiritually dead means to be separated from
God.)
B. Walking the way of the world. Wherein in time past you walked according to the
course of this world (the secular world system, life without Christ).
C. Subject to Satan... according to the prince of the power of the air.
D. Disobedient spirit...the spirit that now works in (energizes) the children of
disobedience.
E. Evil conversation...among whom also we all had our conversation (conduct) in
times past.
F. Fulfilling the lusts of the flesh... in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of
the flesh. (Flesh refers to the depraved nature.)
G. Fulfilling the desires...of the mind.
H. Children of wrath...and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.
(There are three forces controlling those without Christ mentioned in this passage. The
world: Ephesians 2a; the devil: Ephesians 2:2b; and the flesh: Ephesians 2:3.)
II. Our new condition in Christ. (4-7)
(God doesn't patch up the old life, but He gives us a brand new life in Jesus.)
As believers we are:
A. Recipients of God's mercy and love:...But God, who is rich in mercy, for His
great love wherewith He loved us,
B. Quickened from sin:...even when we were dead in sins, He has quickened us
together with Christ.
C. Saved by grace:...by grace you are saved.
D. Raised into heavenly places:...and He has raised us up together, and made us sit
together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.
E. Given us a future and a hope:...that in the ages to come (meaning age-upon-age,
including the return of Jesus Christ) He might show the exceeding riches
of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. (The Church is to
be an eternal demonstration of God's saving grace.)
III. Two reasons for our new condition in Christ. (8-10)
A. Salvation:
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1. For by grace are you saved through faith.
2. It is not of yourselves.
3. It is the gift of God.
4. Not of works, lest any man should boast.
(Salvation is by grace; through faith; a gift of God; not of ourselves; not by our
works.)
B. The continual working of Christ Jesus in our lives.
1. For we are His workmanship. (Not just a work. We are His works of art.)
2. Created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained
that we should walk in them. (We are not saved by works, but
good works are an expected result of salvation. Good works are any activity
that is beneficial to God or your fellow-man.).
IV. Our new spiritual relationship: "At times you were..." (11-12)
A. Without spiritual circumcision .Wherefore remember, that you being in time past
Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is
called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands.
(Jews were descendants of Abraham who practiced circumcision. They referred
to all other nations as being uncircumcised. Circumcision was a sign of
God's covenant with the Jews: Genesis 17:9-14. It was a physical operation
with spiritual significance, but the Jews came to depend on the physical
instead of the spiritual and require it in addition to salvation through Jesus. We
make the same mistake if we depend on religious ritual or any other requirement
other than the saving blood of Jesus Christ. God wants His people to experience
a spiritual circumcision of the heart, a cutting away of the works of the flesh:
Deuteronomy 10:16;30:6; Jeremiah 4:4; 6:10; Ezekiel 44:7.)
B. Without Christ...that at that time you were without Christ.
C. Without spiritual citizenship...being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel.
(Aliens implies no rights of citizenship.)
D. Without the covenant...strangers from the covenants of promise
E. Without hope...having no hope.
F. Without God in the world.
V. Our new relationship. "But now..." (13-15)
A. Distance is eliminated...but now in Christ Jesus you who sometimes were far off
are made nigh by the blood of Christ.
B. Disharmony is eliminated...for He is our peace.
C. Disunion is eliminated...He has made both one.
D. Division is eliminated...and has broken down the middle wall of partition between
us.
E. Dissension is eliminated..having abolished in His flesh the enmity.
F. Distinction is eliminated...even the law of commandments contained in
ordinances.
(This means the division between Jew and Gentile is no longer valid among
believers. "The wall" is a reference to the actual wall in the Jerusalem
temple that separated Jews from Gentiles, as well as the spiritual wall that
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existed between them. This also refers to eliminating the wall between sinful
man and God.)
VI. The benefits of this new relationship. (16-22)
A. We have peace with God: And He came and preached peace to you which were
afar off, and to them that were nigh.
B. We have access to God: For through Him (Christ) we both have access by one
Spirit unto the Father. ("Access" means being brought into the presence
of someone through the assistance of another. This verse also provides clear
evidence of the Trinity.)
C. We are reconciled to God: And that He might reconcile both unto God in one
body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby. (Reconcile means to
change from enmity to a positive relationship.)
D. We are no longer alienated from God: Now therefore you are no more strangers
and foreigners (non-residents with no rights).
E. We are part of the Church, the Body of Christ.
1. One nation: We are fellow-citizens with the saints.
2. One family: We are of the household of God.
3. One building: We are built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets.
a. Jesus Christ Himself is the chief cornerstone. (The cornerstone is
the first stone laid upon which all others rest. It joins the
building together.)
b. In whom all the building fitly framed together grows unto an holy
temple in the Lord.
c. In whom you also are built together for an habitation of God
through the Spirit.
Ephesians 3
1 For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles,
2 If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to youward:
3 How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few
words,
4 Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)
5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed
unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;
6 That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his
promise in Christ by the gospel:
7 Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me
by the effectual working of his power.
8 Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach
among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;
9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning
of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:
10 To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be
known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,
11 According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:
12 In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him.
13 Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.
14 For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
15 Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named,
16 That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with
might by his Spirit in the inner man;
17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in
love,
18 May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth,
and height;
19 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with
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all the fulness of God.
20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think,
according to the power that worketh in us,
21 Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without
end. Amen.
Outline 3:
I. Paul's divine mandate. (1-6)
A. For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles. If you have
heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me for
you. (Paul was often persecuted by the Jews because of his
ministry to the Gentiles.)
B. The revelation of the mystery.
1. How that by revelation He made known unto me the mystery.
2. As I wrote before in few words, Whereby, when you read, you may
understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ.
3. Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is
now revealed unto His holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit.
4. That the Gentiles should be fellow-heirs, and of the same Body, and
partakers of His promise in Christ by the Gospel.
(Paul's purpose was sharing the mystery that had been revealed that the Gentiles should
be fellow-heirs with the Jews in the Body of Christ. The mystery of the Church was
hidden in Old Testament times. See the list of mysteries in the Bible in the Supplemental
Studies section.)
II. Paul's power for ministry. (7)
Whereof I was made a minister according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me
by the effectual working of His power. (The gift of grace is more than just saving grace.
It is grace for living the Christian life through the power of the Holy Spirit.)
III. Paul's position. (8)
Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given.
(Paul probably felt he was the least of all the saints because he had persecuted the
Church. See 1 Corinthians 15:9 and 1 Timothy 1:15. Grace is always bestowed for
divine purpose.)
IV. Paul's purpose for ministry. (9-12)
A. That I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ.
B. To make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the
beginning of the world has been hid in God, who created all things by
Jesus Christ. (The mystery spoken of here is the revelation of the mystery of the
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Gospel and of the Gentiles being accepted into the covenant.)
C. To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might
be known by the Church the manifold wisdom of God.
D. According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord,
in whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of Him.
V. Paul's perception of his problems. Wherefore I desire that you do not faint at my
tribulations for you, which is your glory. (13)
VI. Paul's prayer. (14-21)
A. The reason for the prayer: For this cause... (because of what he stated in the
previous passages).
B. The focus of the prayer: I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named.
C. The requests:
1. That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to
be strengthened (made tough and enduring) with might by His
Spirit in the inner man. (The outer man is your body. The inner man is your
soul and spirit. While your outer man is in the process of perishing,
your inner man is being strengthened for eternal purposes.)
2. That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith (as a permanent resident).
3. That you are rooted (like a plant) and grounded (like the foundation of a
building) in love.
4. That you may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the
breadth, and length, and depth, and height and to know the
love of Christ, which passes knowledge. (The parameters of the
love of Christ are unlimited. Breadth extends to everyone. Length is
from eternity past to eternity future. Depth refers to how far sinners have
fallen prior to conversion to Christ. Height suggests the position
to which a believer is raised after conversion.)
5. That you might be filled with all the fulness of God.
D. The ability of the One addressed by the prayer: Now unto Him that is able to do
exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the
power that works in us, (God is able to do all; do above all; do abundantly
above all; do exceedingly abundantly above all that we can ask or think, meaning
He can go beyond any need we could possibly have!
E. Praise to the One addressed in the prayer: Unto Him be glory in the Church by
Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.
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Part Two: The Believer's Walk
Ephesians 4
1 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation
wherewith ye are called,
2 With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;
3 Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;
5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism,
6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.
7 But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.
8 Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave
gifts unto men.
9(Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of
the earth?
10 He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he
might fill all things.)
11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some,
pastors and teachers;
12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the
body of Christ:
13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a
perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with
every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in
wait to deceive;
15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head,
even Christ:
16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every
joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh
increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.
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17 This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other
Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind,
18 Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the
ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart:
19 Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all
uncleanness with greediness.
20 But ye have not so learned Christ;
21 If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus:
22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt
according to the deceitful lusts;
23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;
24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true
holiness.
25 Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are
members one of another.
26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:
27 Neither give place to the devil.
28 Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the
thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.
29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the
use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.
30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of
redemption.
31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away
from you, with all malice:
32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for
Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
Outline 4:
(With this chapter, the subject switches from the believer's wealth to his walk. If the standards
seem too high to attain, remember the riches you possess as itemized in the first part of
Ephesians and the tremendous power you have been given for spiritual warfare as described in
the conclusion of chapter six.)
I. I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that you walk worthy of the vocation
wherewith you are called. (1-3)
(The word "therefore" refers back to all Paul has said in the first three chapters. What
you believe determines how you behave. In view of all God has done for you and all of
your spiritual resources, Paul pleads that you walk worthily of your Christian vocation.)
A. With all lowliness.
B. With meekness.
C. With longsuffering.
D. Forbearing one another in love. (To bear with others in difficult situations.)
(The four qualities just mentioned are necessary in order to keep the unity spoken of in
the next verse.)
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E. Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. (The word
"endeavor" indicates you cannot keep the unity of the Spirit alone. The
other parties involved have their responsibilities also.)
(The worthy walk involves lowliness or humility of mind; meekness which means gentleness and
power under control; long-suffering which means patience; and forbearing love which means
that you love others despite their mistakes, weaknesses, and transgressions. Walk implies one
step at a time, and thus is the Christian journey.)
II. There is one Body and one Spirit, even as you are called in one hope of your calling;
One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and
through all, and in you all. (4-6)
(The behavioral changes that result from the believer's new thought process are listed in the next
passage.)
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Old Man New Man
Corrupt Righteous
Lying Truth
Anger Sun does not go down on wrath
Gives place to devil No place for devil
Steals Labors
Corrupt communication Good communication
Grieves the Holy Spirit Sealed by and walks in the Holy Spirit
Wrathful Kind
Unforgiving Forgiving
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Ephesians 5
Outline 5:
I. The believer's walk. (1-2)
A. Be (become) therefore followers (imitators) of God, as dear children.
B. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us, and has given Himself for us an
offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savor (a fragrant
offering).
II. Do not walk as children of darkness. (3-7)
A. Put away behaviors that do not become you as saints.
1. Fornication (sexual sins).
2. Uncleanness (all forms of depravity).
3. Covetousness (desiring something not really needed and determined to get
it regardless).
4. Filthiness (obscenity).
5. Foolish talking (stupid, useless talk).
6. Jesting (dirty humor).
... which are not convenient: But rather give thanks instead.
B. Do not forget the destination of children of darkness. This you know, that no
whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater,
has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.
C. Do not be deceived by the children of darkness: Let no man deceive you with
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vain words: For because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the
children of disobedience. (The wrath of God is His opposition to
and punishment of evil.)
D. Do not be partakers with the children of darkness.
III. Walk as children of light. (8-14)
A. For you were sometimes darkness, but now you are light in the Lord: Walk as
children of light (in the light of God’s Word).
B. For the fruit of the Spirit (of light) is in all:
1. Goodness.
2. Righteousness.
3. Truth.
...They prove what is acceptable unto the Lord.
(You prove you are in relationship with God by walking with Him.)
C. Responding to works of darkness.
1. Refrain from fellowshipping with them: Have no fellowship with the
unfruitful works of darkness.
2. Reprove them. (You are not just to refrain from works of darkness, but
you must actively reprove them.)
3. Refrain from talking about them: Do not talk about them. For it is a
shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in
secret.
4. Reveal the darkness by spreading light: But all things that are reproved
are made manifest by the light: For whatsoever makes manifest is
light.
5. Revive those who are in spiritual darkness: Wherefore He says, Awake
you that sleep, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give you
light.
IV. Living the Spirit-filled life. (15-18)
A. See then that you walk circumspectly (carefully and accurately), not as fools, but
as wise.
B. Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. (The past is gone and future time
is not yet available, so concentrate on using your present time to the
greatest advantage. Why? Because the days are evil. Seize the
opportunities you are given for the work of the Lord.)
C. Wherefore be not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.
(Paul has described the will of the Lord in the previous verses: Reject the sinful
standards of the world: 3-7. Embrace godly living: 8-14).
D. And do not be drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with (controlled
by) the Spirit. (Drinking is not the worst sin, but it is used here as an
example of any behavior that causes you to be controlled by the flesh rather
than the Spirit.)
V. Sustaining the Spirit-filled life. (19-20)
A. Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs. (See also
1 Corinthians 14:15.)
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B. Singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord. (Music ushers in God's
presence. See 2 Chronicles 5:11-14)
C. Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our
Lord Jesus Christ.
VI. Instructions to specific groups regarding their walk. (21-29)
A. Other believers: Submit yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
B. Wives:
1. Submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.
2. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the
Church: And He is the Savior of the Body.
3. Therefore as the Church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their
own husbands in everything.
(See also the comments on Colossians 3:18-22. The submission here is to
establish order, not selfish dominance by the husband. Husbands are to
love their wives as Christ loved the Church, which was a sacrificial love since He
gave His life for them. Husbands are not to dictate decisions but, together
with their wife, discern God's will in every situation.)
C. Husbands: Love your wives, even as Christ also loved the Church, and gave
Himself for it (Romans 5:8).
(Lay down your life for her as Christ did for the church.)
1. That He might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the
Word.
2. That He might present it to Himself a glorious Church, not having spot, or
wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without
blemish (brilliantly pure).
3. So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loves his
wife loves himself.
4. For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourishes and cherishes it,
even as the Lord the Church. (When our bodies have needs, we
meet them. This is what the Word is commanding the husband to do in
regards to his wife.)
VII. The spiritual parallel of Christ and the Church. (30-33)
A. For we are members of His Body, of His flesh, and of His bones.
B. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto
his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.
C. This is a great mystery: But I speak concerning Christ and the Church.
D. Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself;
and the wife see that she reverence her husband.
(Paul is drawing spiritual parallels from the natural union of a husband and wife.)
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Ephesians 6
Outline 6:
I. Instructions to specific groups regarding their walk (continued from chapter 5). (1-9)
A. Children (1-3)
1. Obey your parents in the Lord: For this is right.
2. Honor (respect) your father and mother, which is the first commandment
with promise.
3. The promise: That it may be well with you and you may live long on the
earth.
B. Fathers.
1. Do not provoke your children to wrath. (Unreasonable demands, constant
criticism, and disciplining in anger provokes a child to wrath.)
2. But bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord
("Nurture" means "general instruction". "Admonition" means to "put into
their minds".)
C. Servants.
1. Be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear
and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ. ("Fear
and trembling" does not mean terror but refers to respect and having a
sense of responsibility. "Singleness of heart" means sincerity.)
2. Not with eye-service (not just when the boss is watching), as men-
pleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from
the heart.
3. With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men.
4. Knowing that whatever good thing any man does, the same shall he
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receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free. (Your ultimate
reward comes from God.)
D. Masters.
1. Do the same things unto them (your servants).
2. Forbearing (refraining from) threatening.
3. Knowing that your Master also is in heaven.
4. Neither is there respect of persons with Him.
II. Basics of spiritual warfare. (10-18) (For detailed studies of spiritual warfare, see the
Harvestime course entitled Strategies For Spiritual Warfare.)
A. The power of warfare: Be strong in the Lord and the power of His might.
(The believer's spiritual arsenal is "in the Lord." The source of his strength is
outside of himself. We are strong in the Lord by clothing ourselves in His
strength as in putting on a garment. He does His part by the
manifested power for battle. The word "power" refers to something like
dynamite--explosive strength and ability. The result is might: A special
enduement of power for
spiritual battle.)
B. The spiritual enemies against which we war: For we wrestle not against flesh and
blood, but against:
1. Principalities.
2. Powers.
3. Rulers of the darkness of this world.
4. Spiritual wickedness in high places. (Satan is prince of the power of the air.
See Ephesians 2:2. We battle the devil and his forces to enforce the victory
that is rightfully ours through the death of Christ on the cross.)
C. The purpose of our warfare:
1. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand
against the wiles of the devil. (The "wiles of the devil" are his evil
schemes and methods.)
2. Take unto you the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand
in the evil day (when assaults come from the enemy).
3. And having done all, to stand--stand! (Don't run! We are told to stand,
not to seek out the devil to come against him. Standing is the end
result of the conflict. Withstanding is the ability to win.)
D. The spiritual armor for our warfare. (Our enemies are spiritual, therefore
our weapons must be spiritual.)
1. Loins girt with truth: Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with
truth. (In those days men wore long robes "Girt up" meant to
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gather your tunic and tuck it into your belt so you could do battle.)
2. Breastplate of righteousness:...and having on the breastplate of
righteousness (Right standing with God is necessary to battle
successfully).
3. Feet shod with the preparation of the Gospel of peace.
4. The shield of faith: Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith you
shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. (The
shield quenches all fiery darts--no exceptions.)
5. The helmet of salvation: And take the helmet of salvation (which protects
your mind).
6. The sword of the Spirit: ...and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word
of God.
7. Prayer: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and
watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all
saints.
(The principles of warfare prayer:
-It is to be continuous--"always" in an attitude of prayer.
-It is to be in the Spirit.
-It is tocontain variety--"all types of prayer and supplication".
-It is to be done watchfully--"watching thereunto".
-It is to be perseverant--"with all perseverance".
-It is to include intercession for others--"for all saints.")
(See the Supplemental Study section for further study on the weapons of warfare.)
(Note: Jesus is the truth: John 14:6; He is our righteousness: 2 Corinthians 5:21; He is our
peace: Ephesians 2:14; His faithfulness made our faith possible: Galatians 2:20; He is our
salvation: Luke 2:3; and He is the Word of God: John 1:1,14. When we put on the Lord Jesus
Christ by faith at the time of salvation, we are armed for spiritual battle: Romans 13:11-14.)
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SUPPLEMENTAL STUDIES
1. The book of Ephesians uses the following analogies to describe believers:
-Citizens: 2:19 -A body: 1:22-23; 4:4,12,16
-A church: 5:22-23 -Servants: 6:6-9
-A building: 2:20-22 -Soldiers: 6:10-17
2. Our relationship with God is like that of a family (3:15). We are adopted (1:5-6); members
of a household (2:19); dear children (5:1); and children of light (5:6-8).
3. Paul prayed that the Ephesians might know certain things (1:16-19) and that they might
have certain things (3:l4-l9). Both are necessary to claim our spiritual inheritance. We must
know about it and we must also claim it. Compare Paul's prayers in chapters l and 3:
Chapter 1 Chapter 3
5. There are several passages in Ephesians concerning the Church. List each verse and
summarize what is taught.
6. Study the key words in Ephesians: Mystery, walk, love, grace, glory, power, in Christ,
peace, riches, together, one in the heavenlies.
7. Study Ephesians 4:22-23 and 6:11-18. List the things we are to put off and put on.
Compare this to a similar list in Colossians chapter 3.
8. Study the contrasts in the book of Ephesians. Here are some examples to start your study:
Salvation by works: 2:9 Salvation by grace: 2:8
Revelation unknown: 3:5 Mystery revealed: 3:3
Children of disobedience: 5:6 Children of light: 5:8
9. Study what Ephesians teaches about what we are in Christ compared to what we were in
times past when we were dead in trespasses and sin.
10. A man by the name of Tychicus is mentioned in Ephesians 6:21-22. Learn more about
him in Acts 20:4; 2 Timothy 4:12; Titus 3:12; and Colossians 4:7.
11. Study references to the Holy Spirit in the book of Ephesians. The references in chapters 1-3
reveal who the Holy Spirit is and what He does for the believer. The references in chapters
4-6 tell what we are in the Holy Spirit and how we are to respond to Him.
-An apostle must have seen the Lord (John 15:27). Paul is no exception (1 Corinthians
15:8, 9:1).
-An apostle must have been called and chosen by Jesus (Luke 6:13; Galatians 1:1).
-Inspiration was essential (John 16:13; Galatians 1:11,12: 1 Thessalonians 2:l3).
-The commission was attested by signs (Hebrews 2:4; 2 Corinthians 12:12).
-The apostles were not local ministers, but had care of all the churches (2 Corinthians
11:28).
-The apostles had power to settle controversies (Acts l6:4) and to exercise discipline
(1 Corinthians 5:3-6; 10:8; 13:10).
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13. Study the subject of the believer's walk as detailed in Ephesians. How did you walk
in times past and how should you walk now?
14. For the historical setting of Ephesians, see Acts 19; 20:17-38. Paul wrote Ephesians
from a Roman prison: Ephesians 3;1; 4:1; 6:20. The other prison epistles are Philemon,
Philippians, and Colossians. He mentions several times in Ephesians that He is a prisoner
of the Lord. Are you a prisoner of the Lord or your circumstances?
15. Abundant life vs. eternal life. Ephesians describes abundant life which differs from
eternal life. It is important to understand the distinctions.
16. The spiritual resources we have in Christ are more than enough to cover past debts
(1:7); present liabilities (3:16); and future needs (3:8).
17. The Trinity in Ephesians: We have the fullness of God (3:19), the fullness of Christ
(4:13); and the fullness of the Holy Spirit (5:18).
18. Although we are saved by faith and not by works, works are an evidence of our faith.
Summarize the following verses that emphasize the importance of good works.
-Matthew 5:16
-Philippians 1:29-21
-2 Corinthians 9:8
-Colossians 1:10
-2 Timothy 3:17
-Titus 2:14
-Hebrews 13:6
-Matthew 7:21
-1 Peter 2:12
19. Paul speaks of "the mystery" in Ephesians. Here is a list of mysteries in the Bible
21. What do you learn about heavenly places in Ephesians? See Ephesians 1:3; 1:20; 2:6,
and 3:10.
Chapter One:
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1 You have grace and peace.
3 All spiritual blessings in Christ are yours.
4 You are chosen, holy, without blame, before Him in love.
5 You were predestined to be adopted into Christ.
6 You are extended grace that made you accepted in the Beloved.
7 You are redeemed and forgiven of sin by grace.
8-9 You have revelation knowledge.
10 You are united in Christ with other believers.
11-12 You are predestined according to God’s purpose and will.
13 You are saved and sealed with the Holy Spirit.
14 You are redeemed.
17-18 You have the spirit of wisdom, revelation, understanding, and are heir to riches of
glory.
19 You can experience the excellent greatness of His power.
22-23 You are part of His Church, His Body.
Chapter Two:
1 You are supernaturally quickened, meaning brought to life from the death of sin.
2 You are delivered from corruption of the world.
3 You are no longer a child of wrath, captive to the desires of the flesh..
4 You are extended the mercy and love of God.
5 You are changed from sin by grace.
6 You are raised up to sit in heavenly places.
7 You are heir of the exceeding riches of His grace and kindness.
8 You are saved by grace, through faith, the gift of God.
10 You are created in Christ Jesus, His workmanship, empowered to do good works.
12-13 You have hope and access to God.
14-15,17 You are at peace with God.
16 You are reconciled to God.
18 You have access to God by the Holy Spirit.
19 You are a fellow citizen of the saints and the household of God.
20-21 You have a firm spiritual foundation.
22 You are a habitation of God through the spirit.
Chapter Three:
2 You are extended Grace.
3-5 You have the revelation of the mystery of the Gospel and Christ.
6 You are a partaker of His promise in Christ; a fellow heir with Israel.
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8 You have unsearchable riches in Christ.
10 You have the wisdom of God.
12 You have boldness and can access God’s presence with confidence.
16 You have God’s glory and are strengthened in the inner man.
17 You have Christ dwelling your heart, you are rooted and grounded in Him.
18-19 You have experienced the unlimited love of Christ.
20 You can experience exceedingly abundant answers to your prayers and thoughts
because of God’s power.
21 You receive glory by Jesus Christ.
Chapter Four:
1 You are called to a vocation in God.
2,9 You have the fruit of the Spirit.
3 You can experience the unity of the Spirit, the bond of peace.
7 You are extended grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.
11-13 You are given spiritual gifts to accomplish His purposes.
14 You can live a stable life, not tossed around by circumstances or false doctrines.
17-20 You are given spiritual light to empower you to live the life of God.
21-20, 31-32 You are a new creature in Christ; the old life gone, you are walking in new life.
23 Your mind is renewed.
30 You are sealed by the Holy Spirit
Chapter Five:
8,13 You are a child of light instead of darkness.
9 You are developing the fruit of the Spirit.
10 You are deemed acceptable to God.
15 You have godly wisdom.
17 You understand the will of the Lord.
30 You are a member of Christ’s Body, the Church.
Chapter Six:
10 You have supernatural strength and power.
11-18 You are equipped with weapons for spiritual warfare.
23-24 You are a recipient of peace, love, faith, and grace.
Paul introduces the subject of warfare by emphasizing that the battle is not a natural one and
natural weapons are ineffective. Spiritual battles must be fought with spiritual weapons. Paul
describes the armor to be used in spiritual warfare:
Wherefore take unto you the whole Armor of God, that ye may be able
to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand
therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the
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breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of
the Gospel of peace. Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye
shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the
helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of
God. (Ephesians 6:13-17)
The purpose of the armor is to be able to stand against the wiles (deceit, cunning, craftiness) of
the enemy, Satan. It is your responsibility to put on the armor:
Put on the whole Armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against
the wiles of the devil. (Ephesians 6:11)
But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh,
to fulfill the lusts thereof. (Romans 13:14)
The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the
works of darkness, and let us put on the Armor of light. (Romans 13:12)
The phrase "put on" means to "put on once and for all.” Your spiritual armor is not like an
athletic uniform you put on at game time. You put on the armor once and for all and leave it
on the rest of your life. Just as a soldier on the battlefield does not take his armor off and on,
you will not lay down your armor until you go to be with the Lord. If you do not have your
armor on at all times, you are vulnerable to the enemy. It is wise to check often that each
piece of your spiritual armor is still in place.
The first division of armor covers three things you have done in the past. "Having put"
indicates something you have already done if you are a believer.
-Having your loins girt about with truth (verse 14).
-Having on the breastplate of righteousness (verse 14).
-Having your feet shod with the preparation of the Gospel of peace (verse 15).
The second division includes things which are to be put on in the present:
-Taking the shield of faith (verse 16).
-Taking the helmet of salvation (verse 17).
-Taking the sword of the Spirit (verse 17).
In Ephesians 6:11 Paul emphasizes putting on the whole armor of God. Some of us are
preoccupied with one piece of God's armor to the extent that others are neglected. You
must have on the whole armor or you may find yourself being an expert in the use of the
"sword of the Spirit" and still defeated because you have forgotten the shield of faith.
The Belt: The first piece of armor to be buckled on is the girdle or belt of truth. In the natural
world, a suit of armor was attached to the belt which held the other pieces of armor in place.
The truth of God's Word is the spiritual belt to which all other pieces of armor are attached.
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Satan's first attack on man was on truth:
And the woman said unto the serpent...God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither
shall ye touch it, lest ye die. And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not
surely die. (Genesis 3:2-4)
The truth will protect you from lies and doctrinal errors of the enemy. Truth is the undergirding
of your spiritual armor. You are to have your loins (your spiritual vital organs) girt (covered)
with truth:
Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth... (Ephesians 6:14)
The Breastplate: In the natural world, the breastplate covered the upper body of the warrior to
protect vital organs such as his heart, lungs, etc. The spiritual breastplate of righteousness does
not refer to your righteousness, but to the covering of the righteousness of Christ:
And be found in Him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but
that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith.
(Philippians 3:9)
You do not stand on your own merits. You stand in Christ. You cannot face the
enemy without the protection of the righteousness of Christ: By the word of truth,
by the power of God, by the Armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the
left. (2 Corinthians 6:7)
The righteousness of Christ protects your spiritual "vital organs" from attacks of Satan and from
unrighteousness. The breastplate of righteousness must be buckled on to the belt of truth.
The Shoes: There are many types of shoes for different purposes. Some are for walking, others
for specific sports activities. A soldier's shoes are designed for warfare. A soldier who cannot
advance on the battlefield is disabled in warfare.
"Feet shod with the preparation of the Gospel of peace" indicate a readiness to advance in the
spiritual realm. These spiritual shoes protect your will from the temptation of the enemy who
would lead you in wrong paths. They indicate your willingness to do every good work and to
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spread the Gospel to all nations. These spiritual shoes will also enable you to stand against the
enemy as Paul encourages you to do (Ephesians 6:14).
The Shield: In the natural world, the shield was used to provide protection to the warrior's
entire body. Your spiritual shield is called the "shield of faith." There are several types of faith
mentioned in the Bible. There is saving faith, the gift of faith, and the spiritual fruit of faith. But
the word "faith" when used in relation to the "shield of faith" speaks of defensive faith. This
faith is a firm trust and confidence in God which protects your whole being. It protects you
from flaming missiles of doubt and unbelief sent by the enemy. This shield of faith is a calm and
confident trust in God which deflects all the fiery arrows of the enemy from their target.
The shield of faith is the constant application of God's Word to the issues of life. It is a faith that
enables you to overcome the evil forces of the world:
For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world; and this is the victory that
overcometh the world, even our faith. (1 John 5:4)
He shall cover thee with His feathers, and under His wings shalt thou trust: His
truth shall be thy shield and buckler. (Psalms 91:4)
Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy right hand hath holden
me up, and thy gentleness hath made me great. (Psalms 18:35)
Without faith, you have no grasp of truth. Without faith you cannot receive salvation. Without
faith you cannot go forth with the Gospel of peace. Without faith you cannot claim
the righteousness of Christ and effectively use the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God.
Faith is not an assumption or presumption. It is a fact based upon God's Word. You can
increase your faith by hearing God's Word (Romans 10:17), acting upon your present faith
(Romans 1:17), and seeking God (Hebrews 12:2).
...according to His good pleasure, which He hath purposed in Himself; That in the
dispensation of the fullness of times He might gather together in one all things in
Christ, both which are in Heaven, and which are on earth; even in Him.
(Ephesians 1:9-10)
The Sword Of The Spirit: The "sword of the Spirit" is the Word of God. It is both a defensive
and offensive weapon, to defend against attacks and prevent attacks..
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching
thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints. (Ephesians 6:18)
Prayer its associated practice of fasting are also powerful spiritual weapons. These two weapons
can be used both offensively and defensively.
Check out the summary of the armor of God and its purposes which follows:
-The girdle or belt of truth protects from the deception of Satan which can lead to
unrighteousness (sin).
-The breastplate of righteousness protects from unrighteousness (sin) which can lead to
confusion.
-Feet shod with the preparation of the Gospel of peace protects from spiritual confusion which
can result in unbelief.
-The shield of faith protects against unbelief which can result in bondage.
-The sword of the spirit, the Word of God, which is used as both an offensive and
defensive weapon to ward off every attack of the enemy.
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