Bible Study Notes in Philippians- Chapter 2

Philippians 2

 

-“If there is any encouragement in Christ, and comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from selfish ambition or (vain) conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also the interests of others (Philippians 2:1-4).” *Application* Unity under the authority of Jesus Christ is the theme here. It goes against the tolerant age that we live in where everyone is expected to be ok with each person going their own way and doing their own thing. This separates and divides. There is only one truth, one way, and one life. Jesus is that way, truth, and life. No one comes to the Father except through Him (John 14:6). We need to conform to His image in all these listed areas together with one voice of truth and conviction. Only then will our joy be complete. The other way will lead to confusion and dysfunction with hatred eventually and selfish motivations. In other words, this passage is a strong case against the belief in universalism, which is sweeping our nation. Conform to Christ and live.

-The Christ we are conforming to has an attitude that the writer of Philippians explains and extols. This is the great Kenosis (Empty, Giving it up, to humbly void) chapter explaining how Christ, who was God, emptied Himself by becoming flesh and taking on limitations all for the sake of love and our eternal redemption by His shed blood. Jesus did not consider equality with God a thing to be grasped (held on to); therefore, He let go of His majesty for a season and came to this cursed earth by taking the form of a servant (doulos, slave), being born in the likeness of men in human form. He humbled Himself by becoming obedient even to the point of death even on a cursed cross all for the salvation from our sins (Philippians 2:5-8). Because of His work, God has highly exalted Him and given Him the Name which is above every name and will cause every knee to bow to Him on earth and in Heaven and even under the earth (Hades). Every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of the Father (Philippians 2:9-11). *Application* This explains much theologically when we try to comprehend the Trinity and understand the role of the Messiah as fully man and fully God. He had to give up many of His rights and privileges as God to come and be among us for our example and salvation. Some examples of His limitations during His incarnation include His limitations in presence (He could only be at one place at a time verses the omnipresence of God the Father and Spirit), His tiredness and weariness, His hunger, His ability to experience physical death, and even some limitations in His knowledge (Matthew 24:36, Mark 13:32). Jesus gave up Heaven and its glory to come save us. What a concept for us to abide by!

-Because of this we should work out our great salvation with fear and trembling because it is God who is at work in us to work and to will His good pleasure (Philippians 2:12-13). God seeks us out and does amazing things to reconstruct us in His image even when we had fallen from His grace. He restores and replenishes our righteousness. *Application* God seeks us out and gives us a new heart and Spirit within us (Ezekiel 36:26). He gives us all we need for eternal life beginning right now on earth and godliness in His Spirit. Even though we don’t seek after God naturally, He comes to us and draws us to Himself by giving us a heart that will respond to His love, mercy, grace, and affection. God’s restoration is merited by that one condition of faith, but it is ultimately God who gives us the means to meet that condition. In other words, our approaching Him with our own resources and desires would be ultimately futile and in vain. We approach Jesus with a heart that He has given us, which measures up to His fullness and completion. Rejoice in the God who gives all good things for our benefit (James 1:17).

-With this fact in mind, we should do all things without grumbling or complaining (disputing) that we may be blameless and innocent without blemish as children of God in the midst of a crooked and perverse (twisted) generation among whom we shine as lights in the world (Philippians 2:14-15). We are to hold fast in this faith and unity until the day of Christ when He glorifies us and makes all things new (Revelation 21:5). Even if poured out as a drink offering, as Paul thought he might be and eventually was, we can be glad and rejoice together as one body in Jesus Christ (Philippians 2:17-18). *Application* Make sure your joy in Christ Jesus is evident to all even in the midst of trial and tribulation. We overcome and conquer by the word of our testimony (Revelation 12:11).

-Paul gives glowing praise for Timothy and Epaphroditus in the last section of this chapter as having the qualities of genuine concern for the welfare of the saints, steadfast service in humility, and taking risks for the work of Christ without selfish ambition (Philippians 2:19-30). *Application* Good men are rare and hard to find. These two set an example for us in our service for the Lord and those in authority over us. Submit and give all you’ve got for the work of the Kingdom in sincerity and truth with all perseverance!

 

 

Verses to Memorize- Philippians 2:1-3, 5-11, 14

Bible Study Notes in Philippians- Chapter 1

Philippians 1

 

- Background: Philippi was seized as valuable mining territory by Philip II of Macedon a little after 400 B.C. By 200 B.C. it had passed under Roman control. In 42 B.C. Philippi was the site of a battle between the forces of Octavian (later Augustus Caesar) and Antony, who defeated the armies of Brutus and Cassius. After Octavian defeated the forces of Antony at Actium, he settled some of his defeated opponents in Philippi and made the city into a Roman colony. Descendents of these individuals were recipients of Paul’s missionary journeys. It was Paul’s second missionary journey when he first visited the city. This is where the first known European convert accepted Christ, Lydia (Acts 16:12-15). Paul also freed a slave girl from demonic possession, which caused quite a stir in the city (Acts 16:21). Paul and Silas spent some time in prison there before God sent an earthquake to release them and miraculously save the jailor and his household (Acts 16:21-34). It was at Philippi, one of several times this happened, that Paul asserted his rights as a Roman citizen to make things more conducive to spreading the gospel (Acts 16:38-40).

 

Authorship: This is a letter of Paul in its classic form demonstrating his personality and character.

 

Date: It is reasonably assumed Paul wrote this letter near the end of his two year house imprisonment in Rome. A date near the mid 60s then is the likely time of this writing. However, there are some who have suggested that he wrote this letter from his incarceration in Caesarea Maritima.

 

Purpose of the Letter: Paul wanted to ease the anxieties and concerns the church felt for him in his imprisonment. He assures the believers that the Lord was at work in the midst of his persecution (Phil. 1:12-14). Paul urges unity to stem a tide of contentiousness in Philippi with his passionate plea in Philippians 2:1-11. He encouraged them to practice a true faith in humility in their relationships with one another in following the example of Christ. This passage at the beginning of chapter 2 gives us the kenosis of Christ, in other words the “emptying” of His divine rights, to become our payment for sin. It is an important theological passage into the nature of the Son of God. Paul challenges the Judaizers (legalists) who diluted or added to the requirements for salvation (Phil. 3:1-6). He also rebukes with severe language a group of perfectionists in the city (Phil. 3:12-16). Paul then issued strong warnings to another group reflecting tendencies toward sensuality and materialistic greed for the purpose of awaking the church to deal with such issues (Phil. 3:18-19). Paul ends the letter with another appeal for unity, prayer, and proper thinking (Phil. 4:1-9). He is gracious with gratitude for the gifts he has received and knows that the Lord will bless their sincere generosity (Phil. 4:10-20).

 

Questions for Thought:

-In what ways can we seek unity with the same mind and purpose as Christ in the church today?

-What does Paul’s strong affirmation of contentment in this book mean for us in the midst of life’s severe trials and tribulations?

 

*Notes from this overview were aided by:

Thomas D. Lea and David Alan Black, The New Testament: Its Background and Message, 2^nd edition, Broadman and Holman Publishers, Nashville, TN: 2003, pgs. 363-376.

 

-Paul is writing along with Timothy on this message to the saints in Philippi and in particular the overseers (episkopoi, bishops) and deacons (servants). He grants his trademark grace and peace upon them in the Name of the Father and the Son before thanking God for all his remembrances of them and making mention of his earnest and joyful prayers for them. They had partnered together with him in the gospel from the very beginning, and Paul was sure that He who began a good work in them would undeniably bring it to completion (epiteleo, to finish) at the day of Jesus Christ (Philippians 1:1-6). This “Day of Jesus Christ” becomes a recurring theme as Paul looks forward to the completion of his own life and seeing his faith become sight (Philippians 1:10; 2:16). Paul loves these people with all his heart and acknowledges how that they had become partakers with him in the grace of God (Philippians 1:7-8). Paul prayed for them to abound more and more in this love of Christ with knowledge and all discernment so that they could approve of what was excellent and be pure and blameless for their eventual meeting with Christ in His day filled with the fruit of righteousness that only comes through Jesus Christ to His praise and glory (Philippians 1:9-11). *Application* Paul truly loved this flock and points out how we should love those around us with warmth and affection. We should always keep the end in mind because one day we will meet our Creator face to face and give account for this life. This is the Day of Christ and we’d better be prepared for it by placing our faith in Him who can save. This is the essence of the gospel. Become a partaker in His grace!

-Paul begins to encourage them in their distress over his imprisonment. Paul actually states that his incarceration was for the good because of the lives that were being changed and the boldness that was coming from his stand in Christ by many (Philippians 1:12-14). He promotes the sharing of Christ even in pretense by some who had envy, rivalry, selfish ambition, and desiring his affliction (Philippians 1:15-18). *Application* Think about the heart of Paul for a moment and how he didn’t even care about his own well-being compared the unsurpassing glory of Jesus Christ being known. How much do we want Jesus talked about around us. Are we willing to suffer and be rejected just so His Holy Name can be mentioned. Do your best to get Jesus discussions started. Be bold and unashamed (Romans 1:16).

-For Paul to live was Christ and to die was gain because of his unyielding faith and determination for the gospel. He was asking for prayer and the help of the Holy Spirit for deliverance, but he was torn. His departure would mean being with Christ, but his staying would mean fruitful labor in the Lord and that could absolutely benefit the Philippians account (Philippians 1:19-26). The author then exhorts his readers to live in a manner of life pleasing to the Lord and worthy of the gospel of Christ by standing firm in one Spirit with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel truth not being frightened in anything by their opponents. This would be a clear sign for their destruction, but for them salvation. Suffering is included in this challenge for them just as it was for the apostle (Philippians 1:27-30). *Application* When was the last time you counted up the cost of being a true disciple of Christ? Here we see that life in Christ is never easy, but O so rewarding. There is a peace and rejoicing that defies logic with the Lord and His presence is strong even in the face of conflict and certain natural doom. His Light shines brightest in the darkness. Be encouraged our faith is not in vain and God will rescue His saints, the beloved.

 

Verses to Memorize- Philippians 1:6, 21

Bible Study Notes in Ephesians- Chapter 6

Ephesians 6

 

-The last chapter in Ephesians begins with a continuation of instructions and exhortations for the family unit and to children in particular. Paul reiterates the Torah’s first command with a promise in telling children to obey their parents in the Lord. This is the primary command for children in the Word of God. Their obedience to their parents will train them up to fear and respect, in time, their Heavenly Father and come to know Him as the proper authority and direction for their lives. The other side of the coin is also explained. Fathers are to raise their children in the loving discipline and instruction of the Lord, not provoking them to anger (Ephesians 6:1-4, Hebrews 12:5-15). *Application* If we want things to go well for us and have a long life in the land God has given to us we must live by these principles. It is not easy in the world we live in to discipline our children with loving correction that is focused and productive. We live in an age of tolerance and extreme license where obedience and a healthy fear of parents is becoming more and more uncommon. We are now experiencing the repercussions of that philosophy in our land with the violent and uncontrolled actions of our youth. As for you and your family, you should serve the Lord your God (Joshua 24:15). Trust Him that He will bless and reward your submission in these areas.

-Paul also gives imperatives for bondservants (slaves, in our context employer/employee primarily) and masters. The emphasis for slaves is on proper recognition of authority in a person’s given situation with obedience from a sincere heart of service (Ephesians 6:5-7). The emphasis for masters is on having proper respect for those under you without threatening (Ephesians 6:9). The author through the Spirit maintains that “whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord (Ephesians 6:8).” *Application* An important biblical concept to remember here that Paul points out is God’s impartiality (Ephesians 6:9b). It is critical for us to remember that God loves each and every one of us the exact same. He loves the lost man in a jungle tribe on the Amazon as much as He loves you. He loves the Japanese or Chinese person who has no knowledge of the Lord and His truth as much as He loves you. He loves the most hardened Islamic terrorist as much as He loves you. He loves the most notorious and ruthless national leader as much as He loves you. He loves the atheistic professor leading young people toward rejecting God as much as He loves you. He loves the homeless man that is in utter and total despair because of life circumstances as much as He loves you. God loves the whole world and gave Himself for us all (John 3:16, 2 Peter 3:9). Internalize that concept and resolve to go change the world with the message of deliverance in Christ Jesus.

-Paul’s final admonition is a perfect climax of his encouragement and challenge to the Ephesians and us as well. We are to be strong in the Lord (not weak!) and in the strength of His might (Ephesians 6:10). We are to be equipped and fitted with the whole armor of God so that we might be able to stand against the schemes and devices of the devil (Ephesians 6:11). Our fight is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, the authorities, the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places, and the cosmic powers that rule this present worldly darkness (Ephesians 6:12). Because of this fact, we are instructed to put on the full armor of God so that we might be able to stand firm in the evil day (Ephesians 6:13). The pieces of the armor are important to consider. The list includes the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of the gospel of peace in readiness, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God (this is our only offensive weapon and how we can storm the gates of hell, Ephesians 6:14-17, for a more detailed and excellent description and explanation of this whole armor of God read Designed to be Like Him: Understanding God’s Plan for Fellowship, Conduct, Conflict, and Maturity, by J. Dwight Pentecost, 1966, chapters 24-30). Paul challenges his readers and us to pray in the Spirit at all times with all prayer and supplication keeping alert with all perseverance for all the saints (Ephesians 6:18). He also implored them to pray for him that he would have the Lord’s words given to him in the opening of his mouth to speak boldly in his proclamation of the gospel of Christ and His mystery to which he was an ambassador in chains (Ephesians 6:19-20). After some brief instructions on further information coming, Paul bids them farewell with peace and love with faith along with all grace from the Lord Jesus Christ (Ephesians 6:21-23).

 

Verse to Memorize- Ephesians 6:10

Bible Study Notes in Ephesians- Chapter 5

Ephesians 5

 

-Paul continues his crusade on how to properly conduct the Christian walk filled with the Spirit of God and love in this chapter. He offers first that we need to be imitators (followers in nature) of the Lord as beloved children. We are instructed to walk in love and give ourselves up for others just as our Savior had done, which is a pleasing fragrant aroma and sacrifice to God (Ephesians 5:1-2, Romans 12:1-2). All sexual immorality, impurity, covetousness (wanting things from others selfishly), filthiness, foolish talk, crude joking, and idolatry should not even be named among the believers (Ephesians 5:2-5). Instead, there should be thanksgiving “always and for everything to God the Father in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ (Ephesians 5:4, 20).” *Application* This list of do’s and don’ts is important for us to consider. If we are walking in love and thanksgiving with our Lord we will be imitating what He demonstrated to us through His life and Word. God is NOT about these things on the don’t list. Neither should we be about these things.

-Paul then warns about deception and partnering with people that are in the darkness with shifting shadows (Ephesians 5:6-8, James 1:17). We are instructed to walk as children of the Light and expose with discernment the works of these wicked ones who do shameful things in secret. We are to take no part with them, but instead be wise, awake, and alive in all our dealings (Ephesians 5:8-15). We need to make “the best use of our time, because the days of evil (Ephesians 5:16).” We need to process and understand the perfect will of the Lord for purpose and clarity in our walk (Ephesians 5:17). This means that it is foolish then to spend time in debauchery (partying it up, playing around, seeking selfish pleasure) by things such as some under the influence of alcohol. Instead, we are to come under the influence of the Holy Spirit who can fill us and control us for every good work of God (Ephesians 5:18). Paul lists some of the fruits of that Spirit filled life. People that are on track with God will make melody with their hearts by singing (praising) psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs and giving of continual thanks. They will submit to one another in humble service and reverence for Christ (Ephesians 5:19-21). *Application* We will either be controlled by the Lord and the good things of His Spirit in life, or we will follow the wide road to destruction and submit ourselves to the evil ways of the world (Matthew 7:13). There are really only two choices we can make before God, yes or no. Decide, who you will choose, “as for me and my house we will serve the Lord (Joshua 24:15).” Expose the darkness and walk in the victorious Light!

-Now some instructions and encouragement are given for families in the context of husband and wife relating to Christ and His body, the church. The whole idea revolves around this idea of submission to one another, which is a major theme in the chapter (Ephesians 5:2, 21). Husbands should submit to their wives as the head of the home, just like Christ did in a giving up of Himself for the common good and benefit. This includes deep and abiding love that is genuine with sanctification (setting apart, holiness) and cleansing. Loving your wife is the same as loving yourself and the point that we are all in this together as a union is reiterated. The wives are to submit to their husbands, as to the Lord, in everything. They must recognize the authority that God has placed in their lives for protection and security with reverence and respect (Ephesians 5:22-33). *Application* Headship in the home starts with a loving, submissive man in total and selfless love for his wife whom he cherishes with all his heart. This is how Christ loves us and gives of Himself for our well being and eternal hope. We are to be imitators of Him. This love must be reciprocated by the wife, and in the big context the church of the Lord (His bride and body), in faithful obedience and submission out of total respect. Our problems in marriage and in the church of the Lord are, at the grass roots, selfishness. We get into trouble when we serve our own needs above the other. This is where pride, domineering, and rebellion creep in and destroy all that God wants to do in a marriage and in His church. Meditate long and hard on these Scriptural principles and you will do well. Now you know, so go love your spouse and your church!

 

Verses to Memorize- Ephesians 5:18, 20-21

Bible Study Notes in Ephesians- Chapter 4

Ephesians 4

 

-Paul continues his “tour de force” into Spirit controlled living as a new creation by urging his readers in Ephesus to walk in a manner worthy of their calling with all humility, gentleness, patience, forbearance, and unity in the bond of peace and love (Ephesians 4:1-3). Paul exalts the common theme of oneness in the body by claiming that as Christian believers there is only one hope, one Lord, one faith, and one baptism (immersion). In other words we are all in this together although we each posses a variety of giftings and abilities. God has given the church apostles (sent out ones, delegates, envoys, messengers, one holding the most responsible position of service in the Christians communities), prophets (people who proclaim a Divine message, discerners who see the way things should be), evangelists (sharers of the gospel of Jesus Christ), shepherds (pastors, care takers, nurturers, protectors), and teachers (instructors, honored educators, Ephesians 4:11). All of these ministries are for the building up of the saints for the work of the body of Christ and for the unity of the faith and the knowledge of the Son of God unto mature status in the fullness of Christ Jesus (Ephesians 4:12-13). Once mature, the faithful are not tossed to and fro by the confusion of contrary doctrines by human cunning and craftiness in deceitful scheming (Ephesians 4:14). They speak the truth in love and continue to grow steadfastly in their Lord Jesus, who is the Head (Ephesians 4:15). *Application* God has a definite role for you to play in His Kingdom work. Don’t get sidetracked by temporary pleasures and pastimes of this world. Seek out what He is calling you to and get equipped to fulfill that mission that only you can complete. Serve the Lord in your generation the very best you can with the gifts and talents He’s given you. Don’t make excuses. Be determined and focused!

-Paul further exhorts his readers to not walk in the futility of their minds as the Gentiles do with their darkened understanding and alienation from the things of God because of ignorance due to the hardness of their heart (Ephesians 4:17-18). Hard hearts produce a callousness, which gives in to sensuality (licentiousness, debauchery, insolence) and greedy impurity (Ephesians 4:19). Paul says to “put off” this old nature and “put on” the new life in Christ, which is created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. This is a renewing transformation with no more corruption or disease. It is the truth and leads us into speaking no lies to our neighbors; it keeps us from staying angry and giving any opportunity to the devil. It keeps us honest in our labor with no desire to steal or rob. It keeps our speech pure and unadulterated for the building up of each other in the love of our Savior and His grace (Ephesians 4:22-29). Paul notes that we as believers can grieve the Holy Spirit, who has sealed us for the day of redemption (Ephesians 4:30). We should never do that. Finally he says to let ALL bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor (shouting, crying out), and slander (blasphemy) be put away, along with all malice (badness, ill will, evil intent). Instead, be kind to one another, tenderhearted (compassionate), and forgiving (showing unmerited favor) one another just as God through His Son Jesus Christ forgave us (Ephesians 4:31-32). *Application* What a great world we could have if we all could simply employ these principles each and every day. Today is a great reminder of how we should live with all the joy and love of Jesus Christ. Put Him on!

 

Verses to Memorize- Ephesians 4:11-12, 15, 32

Bible Study Notes in Ephesians- Chapter 3

Ephesians 3

 

-Paul relates to his readers, and us, that he was writing to them as a prisoner for his participation with Christ Jesus (Ephesians 3:1). He goes into the primary reason for his incarceration, which was his proclamation of the true gospel of Christ’s promises to the Gentiles, a mystery recently revealed to bring the Light of God and spiritual understanding through His Holy Spirit (Ephesians 3:2-11). It is God who gives out His boldness and complete access with confidence through our faith in Him (Ephesians 3:12). It is because of this fact that Paul begs his flock NOT to lose heart over what he is suffering for them because the Kingdom is advancing as Christ is made known more and more (Ephesians 3:13). *Application* Paul demonstrates for us a supernatural response to difficult times and circumstances. He is an example for us in the area of determination and endurance for the worthy cause to which we are called in Christ Jesus. His suffering produced benefit for the church, and he accepted his plight with honor, dignity, and even optimism. There were “no reserves, no retreats, and no regrets (see life story of William Borden, 20,000 days and Counting, by Robert D. Smith, pgs. 21-23).” Paul saw the bigger picture and so should we. Remain faithful to what God has asked you to do even in turbulent times and situations. He will see you through!

-For the reason of confidence in Christ and strong endurance, Paul bows his knees BEFORE the Father giving Him praise and glory that is due Him. Paul reiterates that they, and we, can be strengthened with God’s power through His Spirit in the inner man “so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded IN LOVE, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen (Ephesians 3:16-21)!” *Application* This is a fired up pep talk from the master apostle for a weak and weary group. After hearing this charge we should be exhorted to live in the power and strength of the Lord for a long, long time, maybe even forever! Notice that it is not in your own strength, but God’s, that these miraculous accomplishments will be made. Rely on the Spirit and His work in your life! He will give you everything you need to accomplish God’s design for your life. Truly!

 

Verses to Memorize- Ephesians 3:6, 16-21

Bible Study Notes in Ephesians- Chapter 2

Ephesians 2

 

-Chapter 2 of Ephesians is all about the walk in Christ Jesus. We used to walk according to the course of this world, which follows the “prince of the power of the air (Satan, the adversary, the enemy), the spirit that works in the sons of disobedience (Ephesians 2:2).” We once lived in the passions of our natural flesh (the fallen and depraved man by birth) carrying out its desires both in mind and body. We were under the wrath of God, like everybody else. But God, who is rich in mercy, grace, and great love, even when we were dead in our trespasses (sins), made us alive (regeneration) together with Christ (Ephesians 2:3-5). God has raised us up to walk with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus so that we might be able to show the immeasurable riches of His grace and kindness in the coming ages (Ephesians 2:6-7). So it is all by His amazing grace that we have been saved; it is NOT our own doing (works based). It is a free gift of the Lord to us; therefore, we cannot boast in ourselves, only in Him (Ephesians 2:8-9). We can then walk in newness of life as His sublime workmanship, which God has prepared beforehand at the foundation of the world (Romans 6:4, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Ephesians 1:4; 2:10). *Application* How is your walk today? Are you walking with Christ Jesus or are you still walking in your own power according to the natural course of this world? The invitation is still open as long as you have breath. Join Christ and receive His ultimate gift of a new creation and you will NEVER be the same. Walk on in HIM by faith and trust! He’s done all the work for you. Become alive in Him!

-In the latter half of this chapter Paul talks about how the Spirit has brought us who are in Christ together. He is our peace because we have been brought near to Him in union by the covenant of promise through His blood. We have access to Him in one Spirit as citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the firm foundation of the apostles and prophets with Jesus as the cornerstone. He builds us up together in unity as a holy temple in the Lord into a dwelling place for God by His Holy Spirit (Ephesians 2:13-22). Therefore, the ones who were once separated from Christ and alienated from the commonwealth of Israel as strangers and aliens are now reconciled and connected to His great and awesome Kingdom and love by simple faith in His work (Ephesians 2:11-12, 19). *Application* Because of these facts, we have great confidence in who we are in Christ. You have an inheritance in Christ Jesus and are a part of His Divine family (Ephesians 1:11, 14, 18, Colossians 1:12, Hebrews 9:15). This gives you your ultimate worth and purpose in life. This is exciting news of peace, hope, and destiny. Walk together in Him!

 

Verses to Memorize- Ephesians 2:8-9