Paul’s Farewell Ephesians 6:20-24 Studies in Ephesians 40 Paul’s Farewell Ephesians 6:20-24

Paul, an Ambassador in chains Ambassador – used twice (2 Corinthians 5:20) An official and direct representative Descriptive of apostle’s work – Matthew 16:18-19 Paul – 1 Corinthians 9:1, 15:8, 2 Corinthians 11:5, 12:11-12 Least of all saints – Eph. 3:8-9

Paul, an Ambassador in chains In chains – Eph. 3:1, 4:1, very likely in Rome Consider what it means to imprison an ambassador. Paul, a prisoner because of hostility against Christ Will we face hostility for the truth? 2 Timothy 3:12

Faithful ministers (21-22) Tychicus – a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord Acts 20:4, Colossians 4:7 2 Timothy 4:12 Titus 3:12 He is a part of Paul’s spiritual family – one upon whom he could depend to help him. Described here as a faithful servant (minister) – 1 Corinthians 4:1-2 We know little about him and others, BUT God knows…

Faithful ministers (21-22) He will make known Paul’s affairs and comfort your heart Are we willing to encourage and comfort one another? 1 Thessalonians 5:11 We need friends! We need our spiritual family! We need faithful servants who can help us and are there – Romans 12:10

Peace, love & faith (23) Peace – our goal Peace with God, with one another, with ourselves 1:2 – In his greetings 2:14-15 – Christ our peace 2:17 – He came and preached peace to you afar off 4:3 – endeavoring for peace 6:15 – our armor 6:23 – peace to the brethren

Peace, love & faith (23) Love – that which binds us together Found some 19 times in here 2:4 – God’s merciful love 3:17-19 – the love of Christ beyond comprehension, yet it roots us 4:2 – bear with one another in… 4:15-16 – we speak the truth and edify one another in love 5:25-33 – Christ loves us as a husband loves his wife 6:23-24 – Paul’s farewell (2x)

Peace, love & faith (23) Faith – believing and trusting God. Our faith ties us together gives us reason to seek unity Found 10 times in Ephesians 1:1 – faithful in Christ Jesus 1:15 – commended faith, Paul prays 2:8 – our part in salvation 3:12 – confident access in Him

Peace, love & faith (23) Faith – 4:5 – “one faith” 4:13 – till we come to the unity of the faith 6:16 – our shield 6:23 – accompanying love

Final blessing (24) Grace with all those who love the Lord Jesus Again Paul appeals to grace – our undeserved favor from God (12x in Ephesians) 1:6-7 – forgiveness, accepted in the beloved 2:5-8 – by grace we are saved 3:7-8 – grace given to Paul to preach the unsearchable riches of Christ

Final blessing (24) Grace with all those who love the Lord Jesus In conclusion, WHO will enjoy the grace of God? Those who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity God’s grace is available to all, but not all will receive it (accept it).

Final blessing (24) Grace with all those who love the Lord Jesus Many profess to love Him, but their actions betray them John 14:15, 15:10, 1 John 5:2-3 Love Him in sincerity (incorruptible) – cf. John 13:34-35

Are we living for Him in sincerity? Amen! Studies in Ephesians 40 Are we living for Him in sincerity? Amen!