Study The Bible With Me | Part Two of Ephesians
RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:
Ephesians 4-6
SHOW NOTES:
Continuing the study of the Book of Ephesians, we dive in and explore the latter half of the scripture. Part one of the Bible Study series laid the groundwork, including the history and context of the time the letters were written to Ephesus. The latter half–Ephesians 4-6– focuses on everything from how the love of God positively influences our everyday lives to girding ourselves with the full “armor” of God.
Ephesians 4 provides a framework for the Christian way of righteous living–to be completely humble and gentle, patient and loving to one another, and making every effort to keep the unity. As written in verse 4, “There is one body and one Spirit.” Therefore, we are called to allow ourselves a deeper work of the spirit to honor our brothers and sisters in Christ. Just as the human body has ligaments that support one another, each individual in the body of Christ will be built up in love as each part does its work (Ephesians 4: 16).
Instructions for Christian living continue through Chapter 4 of Ephesians, putting off the old self to be made new in true holiness (Ephesians 4:22-24). Paul encourages the Ephesians to realign and “clean up” their lives, casting off unhealthy mindsets, judgment, self-righteousness, or any other corruption that has made its way into their lives over the years.
In the final chapter of Ephesians, Chapter 6, Paul urges citizens of Ephesus to put on the full armor of God to stand against the devil’s schemes (Ephesians 6: 11), being strong in the Lord and His mighty power (Ephesians 6: 10). The metaphorical armor Paul refers to includes the belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, and shield of faith (Ephesians 13-17). They are the habits to live and walk in–the rhythms of spirituality to guard the mind and operate in perfect truth and faith to be prepared for battles that wage against us in the spiritual realm.
Written to the Ephesians and written to us today, Paul’s letters remind us of the beautiful covenant we have through Jesus Christ. Because of Him, we don’t have to be afraid–for His spirit of truth and power is at work in every one of us.