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Ephesians, I Corinthians 12 I: Ephesians the Book This book was written by the apostle Paul from a Roman prison, in about AD 62 or 63, some 30 years after Christ's resurrection. This was a circulating letter that was probably meant for other churches as well. It is: A) A book of doctrine: redemption exhortation: relationships B) A book of prayers - Ephesians 1:15-23 Jesus is the head of the church - Ephesians 3:14-19 The fullness of God II Ephesus the City This was an important city in Western Asia Minor (what is now Turkey). Ephasus was one of the 'jewels' on a belt of Roman lands encircling the Mediterranean. Its Temple of Artemis (Diana) was one of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World. No city in the region was more famous or populous, ranking with Rome and Corinth. It held a monopoly on commercial power. Paul's preaching caused mass confusion, but many were converted. His life was threatened more than once; for example, while preaching at a theatre holding 25000 people a mob riot ensued. Ephesus eventually became a centre for evangelism and grew in grace for a period of time. Later it was rebuked (Revelations 2:1-7 “… for having lost its first love” III Ephesus the Church A) His Assessments - His mission and method - His work – God's will B) His Assignments - Providential - Particular C) His Accomplishments - Abide in Christ - Accept His gifts - Agree to use His gifts - Actively work together under the Lordship (head of the church) - Accomplish: maturity, unity and Lordship |