The Bible correlates obedience to God with prosperity many times, in the Old Testament, including: Deuteronomy 5, Deuteronomy 30, 1 Kings 2, 1 Kings 3, 1 Kings 11, 2 Chronicles 31, Jeremiah 7, Zechariah 3.
However, the term obedience is not correlated to prosperity in the New Testament.
Why the change?
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.
In verses 15-21, Paul writes a powerful prayer for his readers.
Who do you pray for?
In verses 11-14, Paul discusses the complex interaction between human belief and God’s will.
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.
I’m excited to be studying Ephesians in depth for the next few weeks.
My life verses are Ephesians 2:8-10.
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.
In both 3:1 and 4:1, we read that Paul is writing this letter from prison.
As I read through Ephesians, it feels like an introduction to Christian living.
If I were able to apply a fraction of the lessons in this book to my daily routine, I’d be a much stronger Christian and witness than I am today.
