Ephesians (A Bible Commentary in the Wesleyan Tradition)
Overview
Everyone can be an heir to God's kingdom—Jew and Gentile alike—says Paul in his Ephesian letter. This is the mystery of the gospel, revealed by God to this Apostle to the Gentiles. But this is not a mystery to God. He has planned this salvation since Creation, for all humankind, through His Son, Christ Jesus.
Paul goes on to reveal several guidelines for living in a manner worthy of this salvation. Author Mark Holmes, a pastor and teacher of God's Word, aptly expounds Paul's teachings, showing that the subjects addressed within these guidelines are "a lifestyle and understanding of God. . . relationships with the world and society. . . goals, dreams, worship practices, and even the means by which one follows the will of God."
Holmes links Paul's words with a Trinitarian theme: God's initiation of the plan of salvation, Jesus' sacrifice in the working of the plan, and the Holy Spirit's power to sustain the holy life of those who choose this salvation. "If ever there were an owner's manual for the Christian, the Ephesian letter would be it."
Top Highlights
“The main theme of the Ephesian letter is God’s great plan of salvation revealed, experienced, and lived out among the Gentiles.” (Page 16)
“A problem, however, is understanding who or what was predetermined or predestined in the first place. Historically, two options have been considered: (1) God chose the individuals whom He would save; or (2) God chose the plan by which individuals would be saved. Paul presents the topic by referring to God’s choosing (see 1:4, 11) and predestining (see 1:5, 11). Both imply a prior decision by God resulting in a present experience.” (Page 36)
“The only human factor involved in our salvation is the acceptance of God’s grace by faith; everything else, both before this time and after, is the result of God’s grace working in our lives (see 2:8).” (Page 38)
“A drawback to this interpretation is that it takes the emphasis away from God’s love. Determinism appears to be inconsistent with what we understand about God being perfect love.” (Page 37)
“Two major points are developed in this section: (1) Christians are in a battle against opponents far greater than themselves; and (2) if they plan to win the battle, Christians must rely on provisions beyond their human capabilities.” (Page 187)
- Title: Ephesians: A Bible Commentary in the Wesleyan Tradition
- Author: Mark Holmes
- Series: A Bible Commentary in the Wesleyan Tradition
- Publisher: WPH
- Print Publication Date: 1997
- Logos Release Date: 2009
- Pages: 206
- Era: era:contemporary
- Language: English
- Resources: 1
- Format: Digital › Logos Research Edition
- Subject: Bible. N.T. Ephesians › Commentaries
- ISBNs: 9780898271898, 0898271894
- Resource ID: LLS:WESCOM70EPH
- Resource Type: Bible Commentary
- Metadata Last Updated: 2023-10-04T17:47:07Z
