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Read the Book of Ephesians: Unlocking a Treasure Trove of Spiritual Wisdom
Have you ever felt a deep longing for a richer, more fulfilling spiritual life? Do you yearn for a deeper understanding of God's love and your place within His grand plan? If so, you're not alone. Millions of Christians throughout history have found profound answers and life-transforming insights within the Book of Ephesians. This comprehensive guide will walk you through this powerful letter, exploring its key themes, unpacking its profound truths, and showing you how to apply its timeless wisdom to your life today. Prepare to be challenged, inspired, and deeply moved as we delve into the heart of Ephesians. We'll uncover the secrets to living a life empowered by the Holy Spirit, fostering unity within the body of Christ, and understanding your incredible inheritance as a child of God.
I. Understanding the Context: Paul's Letter to Ephesus
The Book of Ephesians, written by the Apostle Paul, isn't simply a collection of abstract theological concepts. It’s a passionate letter penned to a specific audience – the church in Ephesus – during a pivotal time in early Christianity. Understanding the historical context is crucial to fully grasping the message. Ephesus, a bustling port city in Roman Asia, was a center of pagan worship and diverse cultures. The Ephesian church, comprised of both Jewish and Gentile believers, faced unique challenges, including internal divisions and the seductive allure of surrounding pagan influences. Paul's letter addresses these challenges directly, offering guidance, encouragement, and a powerful vision for Christian unity and living. He penned this letter likely while imprisoned in Rome, demonstrating the enduring power of the Gospel even in the face of adversity.
II. The Core Themes of Ephesians: A Tapestry of Truth
Ephesians isn't a simple, linear narrative. Instead, it's a rich tapestry woven with several interwoven themes that work together to create a comprehensive picture of the Christian life. Let's explore some of the most prominent:
The Supremacy of God: Ephesians consistently emphasizes the absolute sovereignty and immeasurable grace of God. He is the ultimate source of all things, the architect of salvation, and the author of our destiny. Understanding God's supreme authority lays the foundation for a life lived in humble dependence on Him.
The Mystery of Christ: Paul reveals a profound "mystery" in Ephesians – the reconciliation of Jew and Gentile into one body through faith in Christ. This unity transcends cultural and ethnic boundaries, highlighting the all-inclusive nature of God's love and the church’s mission to reach all people.
The Church as the Body of Christ: A powerful metaphor runs throughout the book, depicting the church not as a mere collection of individuals, but as a living organism, the body of Christ. Each member plays a vital role, contributing to the overall health and function of the body. This understanding fosters mutual dependence, collaboration, and a spirit of service.
Spiritual Warfare: Ephesians doesn't shy away from the realities of spiritual conflict. Paul encourages believers to equip themselves with the armor of God to withstand the attacks of the enemy and stand firm in their faith. This section provides practical strategies for navigating spiritual battles and maintaining spiritual vigilance.
Living a Life of Holiness: Ephesians calls believers to live a life that reflects the holiness and love of God. This involves putting off the old self, characterized by sin and selfishness, and putting on the new self, marked by righteousness, compassion, and love. It's a practical guide to transforming our daily lives through the power of the Holy Spirit.
III. Practical Application: Putting Ephesians into Action
The Book of Ephesians isn't just for academic study; it's a practical guide for living a life that pleases God. Its truths are not meant to remain abstract concepts but should actively shape our thoughts, actions, and relationships. We can apply its teachings by:
Cultivating a deep relationship with God: Through prayer, meditation on Scripture, and seeking His guidance in daily life, we draw closer to Him and experience the fullness of His grace.
Embracing unity within the church: Actively seeking fellowship with other believers, serving one another, and extending forgiveness builds strong bonds of unity and fosters a vibrant church community.
Standing firm against spiritual attacks: Equipping ourselves with the "armor of God" means being vigilant in prayer, studying Scripture, and resisting temptation.
Living a life of love and compassion: Reflecting God's love in our interactions with others, showing compassion to the needy, and extending forgiveness are crucial components of living out Ephesians' teachings.
Living out our purpose: Understanding our place within the Body of Christ and embracing our unique gifts allows us to effectively serve others and contribute to God's kingdom.
IV. A Detailed Outline of the Book of Ephesians
Title: The Book of Ephesians: A Study Guide
Contents:
Introduction: A brief overview of the historical context of the letter, its authorship, and its main themes.
Chapter 1: The Heavenly Blessings in Christ: Examining Paul's declaration of God's grace, the election in Christ, and the inheritance believers receive.
Chapter 2: From Death to Life in Christ: Exploring salvation's gift, the contrast between the old life and the new life in Christ, and the call to unity.
Chapter 3: The Mystery Revealed: Christ and the Church: Understanding the significance of the mystery of the gospel revealed in Christ, including its implications for Jews and Gentiles.
Chapter 4: Living as the Body of Christ: Exploring the importance of unity, the role of spiritual gifts, and practical instructions for living a holy life.
Chapter 5: Walking in the Light of Christ: Examining the call to live in love, imitating Christ's character, and being mindful of the role of the Holy Spirit.
Chapter 6: The Armor of God and Family Relationships: Focusing on spiritual warfare, equipping ourselves for spiritual battles, and the importance of honoring family relationships.
Conclusion: Summarizing the key themes of Ephesians and providing guidance for further study and application.
V. Explaining Each Point of the Outline
(This section would expand each bullet point from the outline above into a detailed explanation, mirroring the depth and detail of the previous sections. Due to the length constraints of this response, this section is omitted. Each chapter would require several hundred words of in-depth analysis, explaining its verses, its theological implications, and its practical application to modern life.)
VI. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who wrote the Book of Ephesians? The Book of Ephesians is traditionally attributed to the Apostle Paul.
2. To whom was Ephesians written? The letter was addressed to the church at Ephesus, a significant city in the Roman province of Asia.
3. What is the main theme of Ephesians? The overarching theme is the unity of all believers in Christ, both Jew and Gentile, through God's grace and the power of the Holy Spirit.
4. What is the "mystery" revealed in Ephesians? The mystery refers to the inclusion of Gentiles into God's plan of salvation, previously unseen by the Old Testament.
5. What is the significance of the "body of Christ" metaphor? It emphasizes the interconnectedness and interdependence of believers within the church.
6. How can I apply the teachings of Ephesians to my daily life? By striving for holiness, showing love and compassion to others, and actively participating in the church community.
7. What is the "armor of God" mentioned in Ephesians? It represents spiritual protection against evil influences, consisting of truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, the Spirit, and prayer.
8. What is the importance of understanding the historical context of Ephesians? It helps to understand the challenges faced by the early church in Ephesus and how Paul's message addressed those challenges.
9. Where can I find resources for further study on Ephesians? Many commentaries, Bible studies, and online resources are available to help deepen your understanding of this book.
VII. Related Articles
1. The Significance of Unity in Ephesians: Exploring the importance of unity among believers and how to foster it in the modern church.
2. Understanding God's Sovereignty in Ephesians: Examining the role of God's sovereignty in salvation and its implications for believers' lives.
3. Spiritual Warfare: Applying Ephesians 6 to Modern Life: Providing practical strategies for resisting temptation and overcoming spiritual attacks.
4. The Mystery of Christ in Ephesians: A Deeper Dive: A detailed examination of the mystery revealed in Ephesians and its implications for the church.
5. Applying the Armor of God in Daily Life: Practical strategies for using the armor of God to protect yourself from spiritual attacks.
6. The Power of Prayer in Ephesians: Exploring the role of prayer in the Christian life and its importance in overcoming challenges.
7. Living a Life of Holiness According to Ephesians: Practical steps for living a life that reflects the holiness and love of God.
8. The Importance of Family Relationships in Ephesians: Exploring the importance of honoring family relationships and how to build stronger family bonds.
9. Ephesians and the Modern Church: Applying the timeless truths of Ephesians to the challenges and opportunities facing the church today.
| read the book of ephesians: Holy Bible (NIV) Various Authors,, 2008-09-02 The NIV is the world's best-selling modern translation, with over 150 million copies in print since its first full publication in 1978. This highly accurate and smooth-reading version of the Bible in modern English has the largest library of printed and electronic support material of any modern translation. |
| read the book of ephesians: Ephesians Eric C. Redmond, 2016-06-14 The Knowing the Bible series is a resource designed to help Bible readers better understand and apply God's Word. These 12-week studies lead participants through books of the Bible and are made up of four basic components: (1) reflection questions help readers engage the text at a deeper level; (2) Gospel Glimpses highlight the gospel of grace throughout the book; (3) Whole-Bible Connections show how any given passage connects to the Bible's overarching story of redemption, culminating in Christ; and (4) Theological Soundings identify how historic orthodox doctrines are taught or reinforced throughout Scripture. With contributions from an array of influential pastors and church leaders, these gospel-centered studies will help Christians see and cherish the message of God's grace on every page of the Bible. The letter to the Ephesians is a source of great encouragement, clearly proclaiming the mystery of the gospel and the supremacy of Jesus while applying that theology to practical living. Made alive in Christ, believers have received a bountiful inheritance and lavish blessings from God, fueling us for holy living. In this study, Eric Redmond opens our eyes to Paul's teaching about God's astonishing grace—grace that enables us to walk in love, holiness, and wisdom as we become imitators of Christ. |
| read the book of ephesians: The Letter to the Ephesians Peter Thomas O'Brien, 1999 From a foremost authority on the New Testament comes a major new commentary on Ephesians -- a letter of truth, love, and unity to our superficial world. This newest volume in the Pillar New Testament Commentary series provides a rich exposition of Ephesians, one of the most significant documents ever written. Using the fruits of recent biblical research, Peter O'Brien shows how Ephesians sums up God's magnificent plan of salvation in Christ and spells out his divine purpose for believers today. A model of the scholarly excellence characteristic of the entire PNTC series (which now features a striking new jacket design), O'Brien's Ephesians will become the standard work on this profoundly influential book. - Publisher. |
| read the book of ephesians: Chosen Kristin Schmucker, 2018-11 |
| read the book of ephesians: Ephesians R. Kent Hughes, 1990 A practical and stimulating examination of one of Paul's richest epistles. A Preaching the Word commentary that is sure to equip and encourage the people of God. |
| read the book of ephesians: Ephesians For You Richard Coekin, 2015-06-22 Excites ordinary Christians in their faith and equips teachers and preachers in their work. In a world where Christianity seems increasingly sidelined and even irrelevant, we need to grasp the truths of this faith-affirming, life-changing letter. Ephesians For You helps readers see how being in Christ changes everything-our view of ourselves, our world, our future, our church, homes and workplaces. Richard Coekin, author of A Few Good Men and Our Father, brings his trademark clear teaching and challenging application to every page. Use accompanying Ephesians Good Book Guide in small group Bible studies. |
| read the book of ephesians: Ephesians Harold W. Hoehner, 2002-12 Destined to become the definitive commentary on Ephesians, this resource combines detailed exegesis and extensive interaction with contemporary scholarship. |
| read the book of ephesians: Ephesians Bruce Bickel, Stan Jantz, 2003 Pound for pound, verse for verse, the book of Ephesians is one of the most profound, powerful, and practical books in the entire Bible. This inviting little guide to the book of Ephesians gets straight to the heart of Paul’s teaching on the believer’s identity in Christ and provides straightforward explanations of the major themes of Ephesians detailed comments on the most important words and phrases thought–provoking, open–ended questions The up–to–date language and interactive style of Ephesians: Finding Your Identity in Christ will help readers feel as if Ephesians were written just to them! |
| read the book of ephesians: ...The Fellowship of the Mystery... Tom Mackey Barnes, 2021-12-12 ...The Fellowship of the Mystery... by Tom Mackey Barnes |
| read the book of ephesians: Live Abundantly Lenya Heitzig, Penny Rose, 2011 Twenty minutes a day to discover the abundance of God's riches In Live Abundantly, Bible teachers Lenya Heitzig and Penny Pierce Rose challenge you to dig deep into the book of Ephesians to find the spiritual treasure God has for you. Covering topics such as living in God's will and receiving peace no matter the circumstances, the book of Ephesians reveals the magnitude of every Christian's inheritance, a gift exceedingly abundantly above what you could ever ask for. Unearth the greatest treasure of life in this rich study. Each day's lesson is structured in five parts: Lift up(prayer) Look at(God's Word) Learn about(new insights) Live out(application) Listen to(quotes from other believers). The Fresh Life series was created by women, for women--women who crave a profound experience of God's Word without an overwhelming commitment of time. With each lesson, you will come to a deeper understanding of the truths of the Bible and develop a deeper intimacy with God. |
| read the book of ephesians: Ephesians Max Lucado, 2007 In the book of Ephesians, Paul reminds us that Jesus longs for the day he will be united with the church-his bride in all her beauty. Paul's letter celebrates the beauty of the church. Ephesians gives us wonderful examples and basic overviews of a Christian life. Paul shows us how to walk worthy of Christ as we live our life for God. Paul's focus on the beauty of the church reminds us that through salvation we become a part of God's family: a place where we can experience true belonging. The Lucado Life Lessons series brings the New Testament to life in twelve lessons filled with intriguing questions, inspirational storytelling, profound reflections, and space for journaling. Revised and updated, Lucado Life Lessons continues to be one of the best-selling study guide series available for small groups and individuals. |
| read the book of ephesians: The Purpose of God R. C. Sproul, 2011 A fresh look at the Apostle Paul's understanding of the Christian Faith |
| read the book of ephesians: The Message of Galatians John Stott, 2021-01-05 How can Christians in the midst of a pagan culture live lives truly pleasing to God? In this revised BST volume, John Stott helps us understand how Paul's letter to the Galatians holds true in the face of current challenges to our faith. Guiding readers passage by passage, he provides helpful background, highlights key themes, and offers applications for Christians today. |
| read the book of ephesians: Loved by God T. D. Jakes, 2003-10 Discover the difference between natural and spiritual wealth and how being chosen by God should affect your life. Six Pillars From Ephesians Book 1. |
| read the book of ephesians: She Reads Truth Raechel Myers, Amanda Bible Williams, 2016-10-04 Born out of the experiences of hundreds of thousands of women who Raechel and Amanda have walked alongside as they walk with the Lord, She Reads Truth is the message that will help you understand the place of God's Word in your life. |
| read the book of ephesians: Position and Condition David R. Anderson, 2017-05-31 Nothing in our Condition can ever change our Position, but a focus on our Position can radically improve our Condition. That's what Ephesians is all about. For anyone who has wondered how he can be one of God's children and still be so far from being like Jesus, this is the book for you. |
| read the book of ephesians: The Letter to the Ephesians Lynn H. Cohick, 2020-11-05 The letter to the Ephesians provokes an array of interpretive questions regarding authorship, audience, date, occasion, purpose of writing, and the nature of its moral instruction—including its words addressed to slaves and masters. Interacting critically in an arena of intense debate, Lynn Cohick provides an exegetically astute analysis of the six chapters of Ephesians, offering an insightful account of the letter’s theology and soteriology as she attends to its expansive prose and lofty vision of God’s redemption. Cohick analyzes everything from the letter’s description of the church and its appeals for discipleship to the complex relationship between Jews and gentiles within the text and in the broader cultural context. Her extensive knowledge of the social realities of women and families in the ancient world is also evident throughout. Historically sensitive and theologically rich, Cohick’s commentary will be an abundant resource for a new generation of scholars, pastors, and lay leaders. |
| read the book of ephesians: Let's Study Ephesians Sinclair B. Ferguson, 2005 If Romans is, humanly speaking, the most impressive of Paul's letters, then Ephesians is probably the most elegant. In its opening doxology blessings cascade down upon the reader. In its closing verses the smell of the battlefield lies heavily in the air and through the smoke of war we see Christians, fully clad in the armour of spiritual warfare, still standing. From beginning to end Ephesians sets before us the wonder of God's grace, the privilege of belonging to the church, and the pattern of life-transformation the gospel produces. In Let's Study Ephesians Sinclair Ferguson skillfully leads us through this wonderful letter, explaining its teaching with masterful simplicity and showing its importance and relevance to the church today. |
| read the book of ephesians: Ephesians Joyce Meyer, 2019-03-05 Internationally renowned Bible teacher Joyce Meyer provides a close study and commentary on Ephesians, emphasizing the importance of living in Christ and putting your relationship with God first. Paul's letter to the Ephesians is a well-loved book of the Bible that teaches some of the most important lessons of faith: who you are in Christ, how you are to live as His follower, and how to gain victory in the spiritual battles you face. In this study tool, Joyce Meyer takes a deep dive into those beloved verses, identifying key truths and incorporating room for personal reflection. Joyce's new series provides key Biblical commentary that will help you develop a stronger relationship with God. If you take the time to study His word, you'll see how much He loves you and who you are in His image. Change will come, and your life will bear the good fruit that God intends! |
| read the book of ephesians: Holy Bible , 2003-08 One of Booktrack's best-selling Bibles, now with a new hard slipcase and attractive binding, this pocket-sized white Bible is an ideal gift for anyone being Christened. |
| read the book of ephesians: ESV Crossway Bibles, 2008 Combining the best and most recent evangelical Christian scholarship with the highly regarded ESV text, the ESV Study Bible is the most comprehensive study Bible ever published. |
| read the book of ephesians: NIV Study Bible Zondervan, 2014-03-25 The NIV Study Bible is the #1 bestselling study Bible in the world's most popular modern English Bible translation. This best-loved Bible features a stunning four-color interior with photographs, maps, charts, and illustrations. One look inside this white Italian Duo-Tone(TM) edition reveals why this Bible is a favorite for over 9 million people. |
| read the book of ephesians: Ephesians for Beginners Mike Mazzalongo, 2015-07-29 Paul's most eloquent teaching on God's plan of salvation, and detailed instructions for achieving unity and peace in the body of Christ. |
| read the book of ephesians: Knowable Word Peter Krol, 2022-05-26 Knowable Word offers a foundation on why and how to study the Bible. Through a running study Genesis 1, this new edition illustrates how to Observe, Interpret, and Apply the Scripture-and gives the vision behind each step. |
| read the book of ephesians: Ephesians 6 Agnes de Bezenac, Salem de Bezenac, 2014-01-15 Children learn about the protective armor of God, and how they can apply this Biblical principle. Relatable illustrations help clarify the verses and applications presented, while historical facts support the concept of the armor. Suggested for ages 7 and under. For more kids products and free downloads, visit our website at http://www.icharacter.org |
| read the book of ephesians: Ephesians Richard Coekin, 2015-11-01 What is God's plan for this world? And what is your place, and your church's place, in that plan? Ephesians is a spectacular Letter from the apostle Paul to a group of churches living in a cosmopolitan, commercial, multi-religious setting-a world much Like ours. And in his Letter, Paul Lays out God's eternal cosmic plan, shows how we become a part of it, and then explains how we serve that plan in our day-to-day Lives, as church and as individuals. So Ephesians is full of precious spiritual treasures to dig up. These eight sessions will deepen your appreciation of God's sovereignty; move you to celebrate God's grace to us, blow your minds with the dimensions of Jesus' Love; thrill you with the place of your own church in God's plan, and show you how you can contribute your time and gifts to it; and explain how in your everyday lives and relationships you can please God and show Christ to those around you. You wilt see how great God's plan, centred on his Son Jesus Christ, really is-and how great it is to find your place in that plan. Book jacket. |
| read the book of ephesians: The Revised Standard Version Bible with Apocrypha Oxford University Press, 2002-11 The first major translation of the Christian Scriptures from the originallanguages to be undertaken since the King James Version (1611), the RevisedStandard Version debuted in 1952 to simultaneous acclaim and condemnation fromAmerican Christians. Mainline Protestants and Roman Catholics lauded the newtranslation, while many evangelicals villified it.The RSV dramatically shaped the course of English Bible translation work in thelatter half of the Twentieth Century, and it remains the Bible of choice formany people. This Anniversary Edition features a clear new type setting thatreaders are certain to appreciate. |
| read the book of ephesians: Book of James Alabaster Co., 2021-06 |
| read the book of ephesians: The Books of Galatians & Ephesians John Witmer, Mal Couch, 2009-06-10 In Galatians and Ephesians, Couch and Witmer help the reader discover both the heart of the apostle Paul and the heart of the New Testament gospel. In both epistles, the reader is enveloped in the truth that salvation is by Christ alone, through grace alone, by faith alone. |
| read the book of ephesians: Ephesians - Teen Bible Study Book Tony Merida, 2016-12-05 Although Ephesians is one of the New Testament's shortest books - only six chapters and 155 verses - it's perhaps the most applicable to today's culture. In his letter to the church in Ephesus, Paul conveyed his pastor heart for believers by focusing on who they are in Christ and how their new identity relates to their struggles, new life, community, pursuits of unity and holiness, and challenges. |
| read the book of ephesians: Ephesians Ralph F. Wilson, 2011-09 Ephesians will lift your spirit and transform your life. Of all of St. Paul's Epistles, his Letter to the Ephesians is his spiritual masterpiece. Though written from prison in Rome, the first half of the Letter is full of praise and worship, an exalted understanding of Christ and a transcendent view of the Church. He challenges us to leave our lowest selves and inspires us to seek our highest potential in Jesus, seated with him at the right hand of the Father. Here is salvation by grace through faith, as well as the unity and mission of the church. Paul's prayers are amazing in their breadth and scope! The second half turns from doctrine to application. He spells out what unity looks like and how gifted ministry functions in the church body. Paul's condemnation of sinful attachments is matched by his conviction that the power of Christ can free us to become like light in the Lord. He paints a portrait of a loving Christian marriage between believing spouses, and compares it to Christ and his Church. This prison epistle concludes with a challenge to put on the whole armor of God and to struggle in prayer for victory. All in all, it is an uplifting, glorious epistle indeed. This book explores Paul's letter in 16 lessons that can be used for personal enrichment, by small groups and classes, and by teachers and preachers for sermon preparation. |
| read the book of ephesians: The Living Bible, Paraphrased Tyndale House Publishers, 1971 A compilation of the Scripture paraphrases previously published ... under the following titles: Living letters, 1962; Living prophecies, 1965; Living gospels, 1966; Living psalms and proverbs, 1967; Living lessons of life and love, 1968; Living book of Moses, 1969; Living history of Israel, 1970. |
| read the book of ephesians: One-To-One Bible Reading David Helm, 2020-10 Can you think of people in your life who you would like to see progress spiritually? Here's a way to help them understand more of God in a way that is simple and personal, and that doesn't rely on getting them to a church program or event. |
| read the book of ephesians: The Epistle to the Ephesians Frederick Fyvie Bruce, 1961 The exposition is intended for the general Christian reader who is interested in serious Bible study, not for the professional or specialist student. Textual, linguistic and other critical questions have therefore been touched upon lightly; the main aim has been to bring out the meaning and message of the Epistle. The Bible text used throughout, except where otherwise indicated, is the Revised Version of 1881. - Preface. |
| read the book of ephesians: Book of Ephesians Jim Hollingsworth, 2024-11-04 No one can be considered truly educated if they have not made a serious study of the Bible. The Bible is the world's standard for truth. Although the Bible does not answer every possible question about this life and the world around us, it always guides us in the right direction to find the truth if we truly want it. The book of Ephesians was written so we would know more about Christ and our possible relationship with Him. When we have trusted in Christ, we become bound to Him and enjoy many blessings because of what He did for us on the cross. This is made clear by the use of such expressions as in Christ, in Jesus Christ, in Him, and in the Lord Jesus Christ. This book is filled with many blessings. This commentary on the book of Ephesians is written for the sinner who wants to know the truth. It is written for the Christian who wants to know more about what the Bible actually teaches and who wants to grow in his/her understanding of what the text stands for. The Greek words are first presented with the various renderings, and then there is some commentary to help the reader better understand what the words actually mean. It is the hope of the author that the reader will undertake a serious study of all of the Bible, not just what is covered in this short text. Our prayer is that you will find the present study very rewarding. |
| read the book of ephesians: Introduction to Ephesians Rev. Charles Paisley, |
| read the book of ephesians: Ephesians: Lessons In Grace Eric Elder, 2009-09-17 Twenty inspiring devotionals based on one of the most grace-filled books in the Bible. |
| read the book of ephesians: The 40 Day Challenge La Wanda Nall, 2009-02-16 The 40 Day ChallengeWeb Excerpt: Introduction to this Book: You may ask why I chose the topic, A 40 day Challenge. Why did you not select a devotional book on the traditional 365 day scale? Or you may ask why not, a 2 week trial or a 30 day trial.why 40 days? The bible is full of examples of 40 days as anointed time with God. Lets take a look at some of these examples. To start with I am going to list for you all of the examples of 40 days, 40 weeks, 40 months and 40 years that I could find in the bible. Then I will explain to you why the Lord made 40 days so important to me. 40 days: 1) Ezekiel fasted for 40 days. The Lord told him to lie on his left side 1 day for each year that the children of Israel had sinned against the Lord. 2) Jesus fasted 40 days in the wilderness and was tempted of Satan prior to starting his ministry 3) It rained upon the earth 40 days when Noah and his family went into the Ark. 4) The Egyptians embalmed Joseph and the people mourned 40 days as per their custom for him. 5) Moses in Exodus went up on the mount and was before the Lord 40 days and the Lord gave him the laws and commandments. 6) The 12 spies checked out the land for 40 days then brought Moses their report. 7) Moses went back upon the mount for another 40 days of prayer and fasting in Deut. 8) Goliath presented himself morning & evening for 40 days before the children of Israel tempting them to send a man to fight him. 9) In I Kings the prophet rose, eat and drank and went 40 days on the strength of that meal unto Horeb the Mount of God. 10) Ezekiel lay for 40 days on his left side as penance for the 40 years of iniquity of the children of Israel. 11) Jonah preached, Yet 40 days and I will destroy this city, saith the Lord. 12) Jesus was on earth 40 days after his resurrection from the dead before he ascended to heaven. 40 weeks: 1) The normal delivery time of a baby. The mother carries the baby an average of 36-40 weeks. That is 9 months give or take two weeks as most doctors figure it. 2) 40 weeks stood for new life, new birth in the Old Testament 3) Old Testament Prophecy refers to 40 weeks. This is future translated into generations. 40 months: 1) Each time that the Lord send a word of warning to the children of Israel to clean up their ways, turn from their idols and return to Bethel, he gave them 40 months of words from the prophets and challenges to change, then when they did not turn their hearts toward God, he sent them into captivity. 2) 40 months is the probationary period of God. 40 years: 1) Moses was 40 years old when he killed the Egyptian and fled to the wilderness. 2) Moses remained for 40 years in the wilderness before he returned to Egypt to lead the children of Israel out of bondage. He was 80 years old. 3) The children of Israel wondered around in the wilderness, then came to Jordan and refused to cross over. Their faith was weak. God sent them back into the wilderness to ramble some more. For a total of 40 years they wandered in the wilderness. Then God took Moses on his 120 birthday. Because their faith was so weakthey were sent back out to wander another 40 years and that generation was not allowed to see the promise land. 4) After wandering around for a 40 year period in the wilderness, then Joshua led the Children of Israel across Jordan and took Jericho. 5) Isaac was 40 years old when he took Rebekah to wife 6) Esau was 40 years old when he took the Hittite to wife 7) Joshua was 40 years old when Moses assigned him to go into Jericho as a spy 8) 40 years later, Joshua led the children of Israel into Jericho 9) In Judges the land had rest 40 years 10) Also in Judges the land was in quite for 40 years---peace. 11) When the children of Israel did not obey God in Judges, he delivered them up to the Philistines control for 40 years 12) Samuel judged Israel forty years 13) Sauls son was 40 years old when he be |
| read the book of ephesians: Set Up by God Prophetess Joann Brown, 2012-03 Then the Lord answered me and said: Write the vision. And make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time; but at the end it will speak and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, It will not tarry (Habakkuk 2:3). God gave me a series of divine vision and then he manifested himself to me in different ways. I have been through many trials and tribulations in my life. I have suffered and persevered through abuse and sickness all through the grace of God. God had a calling and a purpose for my life. He also has a purpose for you. I hope that as you read this book you follow my example of staying true to God and trusting in him. Because it is God who has the final say so in all of our lives. Today, I stand strong and healed and filled with God's Spirit, his goodness and His love and I am washed in his blood. May this book be a blessing and inspiration to you through all of your trials. Know that God will carry you through every trial. He will never leave you and through our weaknesses his glory shines. |
| read the book of ephesians: 365 Daily Devotions with Eric Elder Eric Elder, 2020-05-19 I love spending quiet time with God every day. It centers me. For over 30 years now I’ve been writing down what God has spoken to me during those quiet times with Him. I pray this book encourages you during your own quiet times with Him. This book includes devotions from: Two Weeks with GodExodus: Lessons in FreedomJesus: Lessons in LoveActs: Lessons in FaithEphesians: Lessons in GraceNehemiah: Lessons in RebuildingIsrael: Lessons from the Holy LandThe Top 20 Passages in the BibleRomans: Lessons in Renewing Your MindMaking the Most of the Darkness15 Tips for a Stronger Marriage12 Tips for ParentingPsalms: Lessons in Prayerand the inspirational Christmas novella, St. Nicholas: The Believer |
