Ephesians. Reading letters “I know it’s not easy being where you are right now...” What is not easy? Where is the place they talk about? When

Ephesians

Reading letters

“I know it’s not easy being where you are right now...”

What is not easy? Where is the place they talk about? When is now? Who is the recipient?

We can ask these questions of the letters to the churches

www.ingatestoneelimchurch.org.uk

Ephesians is a prison letter Paul is writing to the church whilst he

is in prison in Rome (3:1)

Even though Paul is in prison he takes time to write and encourage the churches (Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians and Philemon)


Timothy leads the church Paul asked Timothy to stay in

Ephesus to lead the church (1 Tim. 1:3)

Knowing this means we should read 1 and 2 Timothy to help our understanding of Ephesians


Ephesus was a major city






Background

Population of around 51,000 A transient population of trade by land

and water A high tourism trade for the 25,000 seat

ampitheatre and temple of Artemis along with all the other places of interest

The church seeks to grow in and amongst great wealth and great religion


Chosen

"For he chose us in him before the creation of the world." (1:4 NIV)


Sealed

13-14 It’s in Christ that you, once you heard the truth and believed it (this Message of your salvation), found yourselves home free—signed, sealed, and delivered by the Holy Spirit. This signet from God is the first instalment on what’s coming, a reminder that we’ll get everything God has planned for us, a praising and glorious life.


Significance Security Eternity


Documents

Ephesians. Reading letters “I know it’s not easy being where you are right now...” What is not easy? Where is the place they talk about? When