Archive
So What?
It’s hard to get too excited about solid theology (like in Ephesians 1) when Christians behave so poorly that nonbelievers aren’t interested in all Jesus has to offer.
Jesus “The Body”
We spend lots of time thinking about getting our bodies in shape.
But what kind of shape is the church in these days?
What do you think it would look like?
Power Prayer
In verses 15-21, Paul writes a powerful prayer for his readers.
Who do you pray for?
Belief
In verses 11-14, Paul discusses the complex interaction between human belief and God’s will.
Predestined
In verses 3-10, Paul emphasizes that Jesus pursues us. It’s not a one-way street, totally dependent upon our own efforts to become right with God.
Introduction
In Ephesians 1:1-2, Paul includes his typical greetings.
However, it is noted that not all early manuscripts included the words “in Ephesus,” so it’s likely that this letter was intended for an audience over a wide geographical range that happened to be centered around Ephesus.
Outline of Ephesians 1
- Greetings
- Spiritual Blessings
- Paul’s Prayers
Life Verses
I’m excited to be studying Ephesians in depth for the next few weeks.
My life verses are Ephesians 2:8-10.
If I Could Ask God Anything: Awesome Bible Answers for Curious Kids by Kathryn Slattery
Every parent can relate. Out of the blue, your child asks you a spiritual question.
“Who is God?”
Or, “Is it OK to pray for help on a test?”
Or even, “Why do people have to die?”
These are three of the 180 questions that Kathryn Slattery tackles in bite-sized, one-page replies intended for “curious kids.” This book is a worthwhile read for curious adults as well.
Separated into 11 logical categories–God, Jesus, Holy Spirit, The Bible, Christianity, Prayer, The Church, Christian Seasons & Holidays, Being a Christian Here & Now, Being a Christian Forever & Ever, and Big Questions–kids and adults alike are reminded that “God loves you” (1 John 3:1).
It reminded me a bit of a kids’ version of Josh McDowell’s Evidence That Demands a Verdict. If you or your child is already a skeptic, there’s nothing in this book to convince you otherwise.
But if you approach life from a perspective of faith, then you’ll find a great deal of encouragement in the simple answers and extensive Bible quotes.
Full disclosure: Thomas Nelson provided me with a free review copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
Theme: Unity
According to the Zondervan NIV Bible Commentary, unity was a common and popular theme in the first century.
Paul builds upon this interest and connects the concept of unity to the Church.
