Living Hope International Ministries (LHIM) was founded by Rev. Vince Finnegan in 1999. Currently dozens of home-based fellowships and churches in 6 countries are affiliated with LHIM, including Living Hope Community Church in Latham, NY, which serves as the organizational and leadership hub for LHIM. Living Hope provides a weekly Bible teaching (webcasted live each Sunday), more than a dozen free online classes, a free bimonthly publication called Glad Tidings, along with many events throughout the year including family camp and teen camp. (www.lhim.org)

Living Hope International Ministries (LHIM)

by Sean Finnegan 
 
For more information visit https://lhim.org 
 
Ephesians 6:10-11 The devil has been a schemer right from the beginning when he deceived our first parents that they should doubt, then disobey God. We must be on guard so that we are not tricked by his wiles. 
 
12 Who are the rulers, authorities, cosmic powers, and spiritual forces of evil? The Old Testament provides further details on these powers (Daniel 10:11-14, 20-11:2; Deuteronomy 32:7-9; 4:19-20; Psalm 82). 
 
13-17 Taking up the whole armor of God means resting in truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and God’s word. These spiritual qualities are powerful for waging in and winning spiritual battles, most of which take place in your mind. 
 
18 Prayer is a great key to activating God’s help in our struggles. We dare not rest on our laurels and allow ourselves to be lulled to sleep. No! Let us keep alert with all perseverance, interceding for all the saints. 
 
19-20 To think that the courageous Paul the Apostle requested prayer to proclaim the gospel boldly tells us that his greatness was due to God’s empowerment, not his own natural talents. 
 
21-24 Tychichus probably carried the letter to the church and read it aloud. Paul closes by expressing his desire for the church to have peace, love, faith, and grace. 
 
As God’s people we are in the battle, whether we like it or not, whether we want to ignore it or not, whether we fight well or not. Let me encourage you to fight the good fight. Stand strong in the Lord. Put on the whole armor of God. Be mighty in our time for His glory.

by Sean Finnegan

For more information visit https://lhim.org

Ephesians 6:10-11   The devil has been a schemer right from the beginning when he deceived our first parents that they should doubt, then disobey God. We must be on guard so that we are not tricked by his wiles.

12   Who are the rulers, authorities, cosmic powers, and spiritual forces of evil? The Old Testament provides further details on these powers (Daniel 10:11-14, 20-11:2; Deuteronomy 32:7-9; 4:19-20; Psalm 82).

13-17   Taking up the whole armor of God means resting in truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and God’s word.  These spiritual qualities are powerful for waging in and winning spiritual battles, most of which take place in your mind.

18   Prayer is a great key to activating God’s help in our struggles. We dare not rest on our laurels and allow ourselves to be lulled to sleep. No! Let us keep alert with all perseverance, interceding for all the saints.

19-20   To think that the courageous Paul the

Ephesians 6:10-24

by Vince Finnegan 
 
For more information visit https://lhim.org 
 
1-3 One of the first verses you want your children to learn and memorize 
Colossians 3:20 This is well-pleasing to the Lord. 
 
6:1 “In the Lord” implies a believer family. Children, if you want your life to be well-pleasing to the Lord, if you want your life to go well and want to live long, then honor and obey your parents. 
 
Proverbs 22:15 Children need help. They are born with a sinful nature. 
 
Exodus 20:12 Honor and respect coincide with our relationship with God. 
 
Deuteronomy 6:1-9:11:19 Parents, every situation in life is an opportunity to teach your children. 
 
Proverbs 6:20-23; 13:24; 22:6, 15; 23:13, 14; 29:15 People who fail to learn honor, obedience, and discipline have a difficult and often an unhappy life as adults. 
 
2 Timothy 3:16 Doctrine, reproof, and correction 
 
Matthew 15:3-6; 1 Timothy 5:1-5 When parents are in the sunset years of life, their children are to continue to provide honor and help as the parents did when you were young. 
 
Ephesians 6:4 - Colossians 3:21 
 
Ephesians 6:5 Fear and trembling - 1 Corinthians 2:3; 2 Corinthians 7:15; Phil. 2:12 This is an expression that means humility and respect. 
 
1 Peter 2:18 
 
Ephesians 6:6-7 Colossians 3:22 We work for Christ, not for people. Matthew 6:1ff - Not hypocrites 
 
8 When we live godly, we get godly results. 
 
9 If you are the boss, be so as a Christian. 
 
She may be your mother, but she is my wife, and no one talks to her like that.

by Vince Finnegan

For more information visit https://lhim.org
 
1-3   One of the first verses you want your children to learn and memorize 
Colossians 3:20   This is well-pleasing to the Lord. 

6:1   “In the Lord” implies a believer family. Children, if you want your life to be well-pleasing to the Lord, if you want your life to go well and want to live long, then honor and obey your parents. 

Proverbs 22:15   Children need help. They are born with a sinful nature. 

Exodus 20:12   Honor and respect coincide with our relationship with God.

Deuteronomy 6:1-9:11:19   Parents, every situation in life is an opportunity to teach your children.

Proverbs 6:20-23; 13:24; 22:6, 15; 23:13, 14; 29:15   People who fail to learn honor, obedience, and discipline have a difficult and often an unhappy life as adults. 

2 Timothy 3:16   Doctrine, reproof, and correction 

Matthew 15:3-6; 1 Timothy 5:1-5   When parents are in the sunset years of life, their children are to continue to provide honor

Ephesians 6:1-9

by Sean Finnegan 
 
For more information visit https://lhim.org 
 
Ephesians 5:22-24 Although in certain exceptional circumstances when they should do otherwise, wives are to be in subjection to their husbands as the church submits to Christ. Such a posture is radically countercultural in our present culture, but this may just be the missing key to a godly and mutually rewarding marriage. 
 
25 The bar for husbands is also set extremely high: they are to love self-sacrificially, even to the point of death, if necessary, since that is what Christ did for the church. 
 
26-30 As Christ cares for the church, so should the husband his wife. In fact, he should care for her as if she is his own body. 
 
31 Quoted from Genesis 2:24, this commandment tells husbands to leave their parents and hold fast to their wives. Don’t let your parents, in-laws, or others control your marriage. Advice is great, but in the end, it’s your marriage. 
 
32-33 What an awesome opportunity married couples have to represent Christ and the church! If your marriage is not reflecting the healthy, functional, and loving relationship between Christ and the church, then it’s time to make some changes. 
 
Recommended marriage books: 
The Meaning of Marriage by Timothy & Kathy Keller 
Love & Respect by Emerson Eggerichs 
The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman

by Sean Finnegan

For more information visit https://lhim.org

Ephesians 5:22-24   Although in certain exceptional circumstances when they should do otherwise, wives are to be in subjection to their husbands as the church submits to Christ. Such a posture is radically countercultural in our present culture, but this may just be the missing key to a godly and mutually rewarding marriage.

25   The bar for husbands is also set extremely high: they are to love self-sacrificially, even to the point of death, if necessary, since that is what Christ did for the church.

26-30   As Christ cares for the church, so should the husband his wife. In fact, he should care for her as if she is his own body. 

31   Quoted from Genesis 2:24, this commandment tells husbands to leave their parents and hold fast to their wives. Don’t let your parents, in-laws, or others control your marriage. Advice is great, but in the end, it’s your marriage. 

32-33   What an awesome opportunity married couples have to

Ephesians 5:22-33: Marriage Roles

by Vince Finnegan 
 
For more information visit https://lhim.org 
 
1 “Therefore” relates to 4:32. God wants us to be like Him. Matthew 5:43-48 
 
2 Jesus is our great example of how to imitate God. 
 
3 “Immorality” is Greek porneia, also translated fornication, which is explained in OT; “impurity” is uncleanness; “greed” is also translated covetousness; “saints” is holy ones. 
 
4 Ephesians 4:29 - Giving thanks is one of the great keys to joyful living. 
 
5 1 Corinthians 5:9-13; Galatians 5:17-21; Colossians 1:22-23; Hebrews 4:1-2 
 
6 Great deception regarding salvation is prevalent today. 
 
8 Walk - 2:10; 4:1, 17; 5:2, 8, 15 
 
13 Light dispels darkness. We cannot get rid of darkness by dwelling on darkness; rather, we are to focus on light which illuminates. 
 
14 Romans 13:11-14; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-9 
 
18 Proverbs 20:1; Romans 13:13; 1 Corinthians 5:11; 1 Thessalonians 5:7 
 
19 Colossians is a companion Epistle to Ephesians; many of the same topics are covered. Col. 3:16 
 
20 Again, be thankful. 
 
21 We are to be humble, meek, and in subjection to one another.

by Vince Finnegan

For more information visit https://lhim.org

1   “Therefore” relates to 4:32. God wants us to be like Him. Matthew 5:43-48

2   Jesus is our great example of how to imitate God.

3   “Immorality” is Greek porneia, also translated fornication, which is explained in OT; “impurity” is uncleanness; “greed” is also translated covetousness; “saints” is holy ones.

4   Ephesians 4:29 - Giving thanks is one of the great keys to joyful living.

5   1 Corinthians 5:9-13; Galatians 5:17-21; Colossians 1:22-23; Hebrews 4:1-2

6   Great deception regarding salvation is prevalent today. 

8   Walk - 2:10; 4:1, 17; 5:2, 8, 15

13   Light dispels darkness. We cannot get rid of darkness by dwelling on darkness; rather, we are to focus on light which illuminates.

14   Romans 13:11-14; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-9

18   Proverbs 20:1; Romans 13:13; 1 Corinthians 5:11; 1 Thessalonians 5:7

19   Colossians is a companion Epistle to Ephesians; many of the same topics are covered. Col. 3:16

20 

Ephesians 5:1-21

by Jerry Wierwille 
 
For more information visit https://lhim.org 
 
Eph 4:17-29 
 
Without Christ, things go very wrong in life. Paul lists 4 problems for those who do not know Christ. 
 
1. They walk in the futility of their minds. 
2. They are darkened in their understanding. 
3. They are alienated from the life of God. 
4. They have lost all sensitivity and given themselves over to unrestrained behavior. 
 
Eph 4:20-24 
 
Christ followers are called to change. Paul commands 3 changes that we are called to make after having learned the truth that is in Jesus. 
 
1. Put off the old self (cf. Eph 2:1-3). 
2. Be renewed in the spirit of your mind (cf. Eph 3:16). 
3. Put on the new self (Col 3:5-9; Rom 13:11-14). 
 
Eph 4:25-28 
 
Verses 25-32 begin the ethical instruction for living Christ-like according to the new self. 
 
Eph 4:29-32 
 
Out of all the godly behaviors Paul lists, he ends with the need to show forgiveness. Forgiveness is to be a defining characteristic of Christ’s followers.

by Jerry Wierwille

For more information visit https://lhim.org

Eph 4:17-29

Without Christ, things go very wrong in life. Paul lists 4 problems for those who do not know Christ.

1. They walk in the futility of their minds.
2. They are darkened in their understanding.
3. They are alienated from the life of God.
4. They have lost all sensitivity and given themselves over to unrestrained behavior.

Eph 4:20-24

Christ followers are called to change. Paul commands 3 changes that we are called to make after having learned the truth that is in Jesus.

1. Put off the old self (cf. Eph 2:1-3).
2. Be renewed in the spirit of your mind (cf. Eph 3:16).
3. Put on the new self (Col 3:5-9; Rom 13:11-14).

Eph 4:25-28

Verses 25-32 begin the ethical instruction for living Christ-like according to the new self.

Eph 4:29-32

Out of all the godly behaviors Paul lists, he ends with the need to show forgiveness. Forgiveness is to be a defining characteristic of Christ’s followers.

Ephesians 4:17-32

by Sean Finnegan 
 
For more information visit https://lhim.org 
 
The book of Ephesians breaks evenly into two halves: chapters 1-3 are theological, and 4-6 are practical. Today begins our focus on the practical. 
 
4:1-3 We are to walk in a way that is worthy of our calling, yet with humility, gentleness, patience, and love for one another. The best example of what this looks like is Jesus himself. 
 
4:4-6 Although the church is a diverse community, including people with different nationalities, skin colors, political views, careers, and passions, we are still unified in that we are part of the same body with the same spirit, hope, Lord, faith, baptism, and God. 
 
4:7-10 The NRSV translates v8 “When he ascended on high he made captivity itself a captive.” Paul is not talking about freeing souls from the underworld here but the abstract idea of captivity, which he himself captured in his death, resurrection, and ascension. At his death, Christ descended into the earth, and at his exaltation, he ascended far above the heavens. (See Eph 1:20-21.) 
 
4:7-13 The role of pastors, teachers, evangelists is to equip you for the work of ministry. Together we are a team who seeks to mature over time until we are like Christ. 
 
4:14 As Christ-followers, we are to be careful to detect fraudulent beliefs and practices. Probably the number one way to strengthen yourself against counterfeits is to spend time in the Scriptures every day. 
 
4:15-16 I love the phrase “speaking the truth in love!” It’s such a foreign concept in our time when truth is a weapon with which we can beat others, and love means we must compromise what we believe is right. Both are critical for us in this time. We must have truth and love.

by Sean Finnegan

For more information visit https://lhim.org

The book of Ephesians breaks evenly into two halves: chapters 1-3 are theological, and 4-6 are practical. Today begins our focus on the practical.

4:1-3   We are to walk in a way that is worthy of our calling, yet with humility, gentleness, patience, and love for one another. The best example of what this looks like is Jesus himself.

4:4-6   Although the church is a diverse community, including people with different nationalities, skin colors, political views, careers, and passions, we are still unified in that we are part of the same body with the same spirit, hope, Lord, faith, baptism, and God.

4:7-10   The NRSV translates v8 “When he ascended on high he made captivity itself a captive.” Paul is not talking about freeing souls from the underworld here but the abstract idea of captivity, which he himself captured in his death, resurrection, and ascension. At his death, Christ descended into the earth, and at his exalta

Ephesians 4:1-16

by Vince Finnegan 
 
For more information visit https://lhim.org 
 
Acts 20:25 - 38 The final time they saw Paul, he was kneeling in prayer. Now again he is kneeling, usually a posture for prayer. Luke 18:10-13 
 
Ephesians 3:14 – “for this reason – 3:1 relates for all the perceived 
 
Matthew 7:11 We pray to our Father. 
 
Ephesians 3:15 – We are God’s family. 
 
3:16 – “riches of His glory” Ephesians 1:18: Psalm 19:1; Isaiah 6:3; Exodus 34:6-7; Philippians 4:19 The extensiveness of His glory is incomprehensible to our finite human minds and imaginations. 
 
“Inner man” – 1 Corinthians 4:16; Ephesians 4:22-24 
 
Ephesians 3:17 – Proverbs 4:23 The heart determines everything about our lives. 
 
“Rooted and grounded in love” – Ephesians 1:5; 2:5; 4:15-16 
 
Ephesians 3:18 – Job 11:7-9 The comprehension of love and all spiritual blessings; it is impossible to comprehend love without interaction with others. We must share love to know love. 
 
Ephesians 3:19 – Philippians 1:9 Knowledge and application are essential but not enough to know the love of Christ. God must reveal it to us. 
 
Ephesians 3:20 – When we pray, God can do “exceeding abundantly beyond….” 
 
21 – The prayer ends with praise for God.

by Vince Finnegan

For more information visit https://lhim.org

Acts 20:25 - 38   The final time they saw Paul, he was kneeling in prayer. Now again he is kneeling, usually a posture for prayer. Luke 18:10-13 

Ephesians 3:14 – “for this reason – 3:1 relates for all the perceived 

Matthew 7:11   We pray to our Father.

Ephesians 3:15 – We are God’s family.

3:16 – “riches of His glory”   Ephesians 1:18: Psalm 19:1; Isaiah 6:3; Exodus 34:6-7; Philippians 4:19   The extensiveness of His glory is incomprehensible to our finite human minds and imaginations. 

“Inner man” – 1 Corinthians 4:16; Ephesians 4:22-24

Ephesians 3:17 – Proverbs 4:23   The heart determines everything about our lives.

“Rooted and grounded in love” – Ephesians 1:5; 2:5; 4:15-16

Ephesians 3:18 – Job 11:7-9   The comprehension of love and all spiritual blessings; it is impossible to comprehend love without interaction with others. We must share love to know love.

Ephesians 3:19 – Philippians 1:9   Knowledge and app

Ephesians 3:14-21

by Sean Finnegan 
 
For more information visit https://lhim.org 
 
3:1 Paul wrote Ephesians later in his life when he was in prison. 
 
3:2 Stewardship is a BIG word here. Christ had commissioned Paul to declare what God had done to the nations. 
 
3:3-6 In the ancient world, gods tended to go with ethnicities. The Canaanites worshipped Baal and Asherah; the Egyptians worshipped Isis and Osiris; the Greeks worshipped Zeus and Ares; the Romans worshipped Jupiter and Mars; and the Jews worshipped Yahweh. The idea of a single God pursuing worshippers from all nations probably would have been unusual. In fact, the revelation of this mystery is why Christianity is all over the world, rather than secluded on a people group. Furthermore, this inheritance and these promises are nothing short of receiving the world (Rom 4:13). 
 
3:7-8a God let Paul in on His big plan and commissioned him to tell the world. He doesn’t deserve this job since he persecuted Christians. Perhaps God delights to work with the unqualified? 
 
3:8b-9 Paul’s twofold mission is (1) to preach Messiah to Gentiles and (2) to share God’s hidden plan with everyone. 
 
3:10 The end result is that God’s wisdom be made known to heavenly authorities. Within Christian communities, ethnic diversity is something of which we should be proud. 
 
3:11-13 God’s multiethnic family has equal access to Him. You are part of something bigger than yourself, something awesome.

by Sean Finnegan

For more information visit https://lhim.org

3:1   Paul wrote Ephesians later in his life when he was in prison.

3:2   Stewardship is a BIG word here. Christ had commissioned Paul to declare what God had done to the nations.

3:3-6   In the ancient world, gods tended to go with ethnicities. The Canaanites worshipped Baal and Asherah; the Egyptians worshipped Isis and Osiris; the Greeks worshipped Zeus and Ares; the Romans worshipped Jupiter and Mars; and the Jews worshipped Yahweh. The idea of a single God pursuing worshippers from all nations probably would have been unusual. In fact, the revelation of this mystery is why Christianity is all over the world, rather than secluded on a people group. Furthermore, this inheritance and these promises are nothing short of receiving the world (Rom 4:13).

3:7-8a   God let Paul in on His big plan and commissioned him to tell the world. He doesn’t deserve this job since he persecuted Christians. Perhaps God delights to work w

Ephesians 3:1-13

by Jerry Wierwille 
 
For more information visit https://lhim.org 
 
Eph 2:11-12—Circumcision was a distinguishing mark that separated out the Jewish people from the rest of the world, but it was only a physical mark in their flesh. What God truly wanted was the change/cleansing of a person’s heart. 
 
When seeking to understand the significance of something, it is often helpful to contrast it with what has changed to better grasp the difference. 
 
Five-fold depiction of Gentiles: 1) without Christ, 2) excluded from citizenship of Israel, 3) strangers to the covenants based on the promise, 4) having no hope, 5) without God. 
 
Rom 9:5—The Jews had many advantages and privileges over those of the Gentiles. 
 
Eph 2:13-16—The Law stipulated that God’s people, Israel, were to be separate from the other nations and were to live under the rule of Yahweh as their King. In the temple, there was a separate courtyard for the Jews and another one further away from the holy place for the Gentiles. But Christ has now destroyed that barrier and brought all people together into one new humanity. 
 
Eph 2:17-20—The message that Christ brought was a message of “peace” for both Jews and Gentiles. Now everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord has “access” to God by one spirit. 
 
Focus on unity: “both groups into one” (v. 14), “one new man” (v. 15), “one body” (v. 16), “one spirit” (v. 18), 
 
Eph 2:21-22—God’s people are His building, His dwelling place through the spirit. It is not only that we now have access and are able to approach God, but that God has made His home in us by His spirit that He has given to us. We are the holy sanctuary/temple of God.

by Jerry Wierwille

For more information visit https://lhim.org

Eph 2:11-12—Circumcision was a distinguishing mark that separated out the Jewish people from the rest of the world, but it was only a physical mark in their flesh. What God truly wanted was the change/cleansing of a person’s heart.

When seeking to understand the significance of something, it is often helpful to contrast it with what has changed to better grasp the difference.

Five-fold depiction of Gentiles: 1) without Christ, 2) excluded from citizenship of Israel, 3) strangers to the covenants based on the promise, 4) having no hope, 5) without God.

Rom 9:5—The Jews had many advantages and privileges over those of the Gentiles.

Eph 2:13-16—The Law stipulated that God’s people, Israel, were to be separate from the other nations and were to live under the rule of Yahweh as their King. In the temple, there was a separate courtyard for the Jews and another one further away from the holy place for the Gentiles. But Chris

Ephesians 2:11-22

by Vince Finnegan 
 
For more information visit https://lhim.org 
 
1:18-23 Prayer 
 
2:1-3 Trapped: 1) course of this world, 2) prince of the power of the air, and 3) lusts of our flesh and minds. Romans 3:9-18 
 
3 “Lusts of the flesh” are the longings and impulses of the self-centered life, Romans 8:4-9; Galatians 5:16-21. Selfishness is not limited to the emotions but embrace intellect and reasoning processes as well. 
 
Unbelievers are subject to the wrath of God (Romans 3:19; Ephesians 5:5-6; Colossians 3:5-6; 1 Thessalonians 1:10). 
 
4-5 God’s mercy, love, and grace are the only possible way out for those who are totally unworthy and undeserving. “Us” relates back to 1:1, the faithful saints (John 3:16; 1 John 4:9-10). 
 
6 We were raised up with him and seated with Him in the spiritual realm. Ephesians 1:19- 
21 We are in Christ, empowered by him to be like him. 
 
Luke 4:18-19; Acts 10:38; 1 John 3:8; Colossians 2:15; Hebrews 2:14; Matthew 28:18 
 
Colossians 1:13; 1 John 4:4; Romans 8:37 
 
7 The crowning display of God’s grace 1:10, 11; 3:11 
 
8 Romans 3:20-22; Galatians 2:16; 1 Peter 1:5 
 
10 We were created for good works - Ephesians 4:24; John 14:12; Romans 8:29; 2 Corinthians 3:18; 4:4; Colossians 3:10; Genesis 1:26-27

by Vince Finnegan

For more information visit https://lhim.org

1:18-23   Prayer 

2:1-3   Trapped: 1) course of this world, 2) prince of the power of the air, and 3) lusts of our flesh and minds. Romans 3:9-18

3   “Lusts of the flesh” are the longings and impulses of the self-centered life, Romans 8:4-9; Galatians 5:16-21. Selfishness is not limited to the emotions but embrace intellect and reasoning processes as well. 

Unbelievers are subject to the wrath of God (Romans 3:19; Ephesians 5:5-6; Colossians 3:5-6; 1 Thessalonians 1:10).

4-5   God’s mercy, love, and grace are the only possible way out for those who are totally unworthy and undeserving. “Us” relates back to 1:1, the faithful saints (John 3:16; 1 John 4:9-10).  

6   We were raised up with him and seated with Him in the spiritual realm.  Ephesians 1:19-
21   We are in Christ, empowered by him to be like him. 

Luke 4:18-19; Acts 10:38; 1 John 3:8; Colossians 2:15; Hebrews 2:14; Matthew 28:18 

Colossians 1:13; 1 John 4:4

Ephesians 2:1-10

by Sean Finnegan 
 
For more information visit https://lhim.org 
 
Ephesians 1:11–12 God predestined the church to “be to the praise of his glory.” This is our purpose as a community, to make much of God. 
 
Ephesians 1:13–14 The spirit is God’s seal that we are His and His pledge of our future inheritance. 
 
Genesis 38:11, 13-23 Tamar provides a helpful if colorful example of how a pledge works. Just like Judah didn’t force Tamar to receive the pledge, God does not force us to stay faithful. But if we do, He has guaranteed our inheritance. 
 
Ephesians 1:15-19 Paul prayed four things for the church: 
 
1. that God would give the spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him, 
2. that they may know the hope to which God called them, 
3. that they may know the riches of His inheritance in the saints, 
4. that they may know His power toward us who believe. 
 
Ephesians 1:20-23 God demonstrated His power by raising Christ from the dead, seating him at His right hand in heaven, and bestowing on him a position above all other authorities (Daniel 7:13-14). 
 
How do your prayers sound? Although our tendency is to focus on ourselves and others who are in need, it would be better for us to become more God-focused—know Him, the hope He called us to, His inheritance, and His power.

by Sean Finnegan

For more information visit https://lhim.org

Ephesians 1:11–12   God predestined the church to “be to the praise of his glory.”  This is our purpose as a community, to make much of God.

Ephesians 1:13–14   The spirit is God’s seal that we are His and His pledge of our future inheritance.

Genesis 38:11, 13-23   Tamar provides a helpful if colorful example of how a pledge works.  Just like Judah didn’t force Tamar to receive the pledge, God does not force us to stay faithful.  But if we do, He has guaranteed our inheritance.

Ephesians 1:15-19   Paul prayed four things for the church:

1. that God would give the spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him,
2. that they may know the hope to which God called them, 
3. that they may know the riches of His inheritance in the saints,
4. that they may know His power toward us who believe.

Ephesians 1:20-23   God demonstrated His power by raising Christ from the dead, seating him at His right hand in heaven, 

Ephesians 1:11-23

by Vince Finnegan 
 
For more information visit https://www.lhim.org 
 
1:1 Paul made known what God accomplished for us in Christ Jesus. 
 
“Saints” is the Greek word hagios that occurs 15 times in Ephesians (1:1, 4, 13, 15, 18; 2:19, 21; 3:5, 8, 18; 4:12, 30; 5:3, 27; 6:18). “Saint” means holy one. 
 
2 The Epistle begins with “grace and peace,” and in 6:23 and 24 ends with “peace and grace.” “Grace” is God’s divine favor and is used 12 times (1:2, 6, 7; 2:5, 7, 8; 3:2, 7, 8; 4:7, 29; 6:24). “Peace” which is similar to the Hebrew shalom means completeness, wholeness, well-being. It occurs 8 times (1:2; 2:14, 15, 17 20; 4:3; 6:15, 23). 
 
3 “Blessed” is the Greek word eulogetos and means well-spoken of. We get the English “eulogize” from this word (1:6, 12, and 14). 
 
Verse 2 states the relationship we have with God and Jesus; verse 3 states the relationship God has with Jesus. 
 
“Heavenly places” is the invisible spiritual environment or realm, as contrasted with the visible, tangible environment we call earth. 
 
4-5 God loves you, called you, and wants you. God desires a love relationship with you that is real, personal, and everlasting. 
 
The “us” is those to whom the Epistle is addressed: 1:1 to the saints, the faithful in Christ Jesus, those who have already responded to the call. Our freewill choice is not predetermined by God; (2 Chronicles 15:2, 4, 15; Matthew 7:7-11; Deuteronomy 4:29; Proverbs 8:17). The point is by God’s grace, not your work, you are called and made to be His child. 
 
7 Israel’s freedom from the slavery of Egypt is a type for our redemption (Exodus 15:13; Deuteronomy 7:8; Romans 3:24; Colossians 1:14). 
 
8 Lavished his grace upon us – the Greek verb used expresses the superabundance of God’s giving, the overflow as of a fountain from a deep and abundant source. 
 
9 The great mystery is a major topic of the Epistle that will be revealed. We are reminded over and over the blessings we have are according to God’s kindness. 
 
10 When all the times and seasons which the Father has determined are full, the age-long purpose which He planned in Christ will attain its fullness. 
 
Further review – Acts 19:1-20:1; 20:16-38; Revelation 2:1-11

by Vince Finnegan

For more information visit https://www.lhim.org

1:1   Paul made known what God accomplished for us in Christ Jesus. 

“Saints” is the Greek word hagios that occurs 15 times in Ephesians (1:1, 4, 13, 15, 18; 2:19, 21; 3:5, 8, 18; 4:12, 30; 5:3, 27; 6:18). “Saint” means holy one. 

2   The Epistle begins with “grace and peace,” and in 6:23 and 24 ends with “peace and grace.” “Grace” is God’s divine favor and is used 12 times (1:2, 6, 7; 2:5, 7, 8; 3:2, 7, 8; 4:7, 29; 6:24). “Peace” which is similar to the Hebrew shalom means completeness, wholeness, well-being. It occurs 8 times (1:2; 2:14, 15, 17 20; 4:3; 6:15, 23). 

3   “Blessed” is the Greek word eulogetos and means well-spoken of. We get the English “eulogize” from this word (1:6, 12, and 14). 

Verse 2 states the relationship we have with God and Jesus; verse 3 states the relationship God has with Jesus.

“Heavenly places” is the invisible spiritual environment or realm, as contrasted with the visible, tangible 

Ephesians 1:1-10

by Dan Wall 
 
For more information visit lhim.org

by Dan Wall

For more information visit lhim.org

15 Put On Christ Romans 13:14

by John Cortright 
 
For more information visit lhim.org

by John Cortright

For more information visit lhim.org

14 The Day Is Near! Romans 13:11-13

by Shelby Upton 
 
For more information visit lhim.org

by Shelby Upton

For more information visit lhim.org

13 Foundational Love Romans 13:9-10

by Dan Wall For more information visit lhim.org.

12 What We Owe to God Romans 13:7-8

by John Cortright 
 
For more information visit lhim.org 
 
Romans 13:1-6 
Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. 
 
God is sovereign over the nations of the world. 
He can cause governments to rise or fall. This can be seen throughout Scripture. 
• Genesis 14:13-24 – God delivered Abraham defeating King Chedorlaomer and the kings of the east. 
• Genesis 40 & 41 – God brought Joseph to power in Egypt. Pharaoh set him over all the land of Egypt. 
• Exodus 5-14 – God delivered the children from Pharaoh in Egypt. 
• Book of Joshua – God destroyed seven nations in the land of Canaan (Acts 13:19). 
• Numbers – God raised up judges to deliver Israel from kings and nations. 
• Samuel & Kings – God brought about the nations of Israel and Judah. 
• Jonah – God did not overthrow the city of Nineveh when the people repented after Jonah’s preaching. 
• Isaiah 10:5 – God called the nation of Assyria the rod of his anger. 
• Jeremiah 27:6 – God Called King Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, His servant. 
• Daniel 5:25-28 – God told Belshazzar of Babylon that God had numbered his kingdom, put an end to it, and given it over to the Medes and Persians. 
• Isaiah 45:1; Ezra 1:2 – God called Cyrus, king of Persia, His anointed to subdue nations. 
 
See Daniel 4:17b; John 19:10-11a; and Jeremiah 18:1-10. 
 
Romans 13:2-5; 1 Peter 2:13-17; Titus 3:1 
 
We are to submit to regulations from governing authorities because this is what we have been told to do in Scripture. Our ultimate direction comes from Jesus Christ and what he has directed through the writing of his apostles. The direction here in Scripture is general wording, not specific to any one type of government, and it’s not specific to any ordinance or law. Within 10 years that this was written to the church in Rome, the Emperor Nero declared Christianity illegal and began a persecution against the church. There are times in Scripture when believers did not submit to a government ordinance because it went against God’s law (midwives not obeying Pharaoh’s command to kill the boy children; Rahab denying to the king of Jericho that men from the sons of Israel were in her house; Meshach, Shadrach, & Abednego not bowing to Nebuchadnezzar’s golden image; Daniel still praying after the law of the Medes & Persians was signed; the apostle’s saying “we ought to obey God rather than men” when told not to preach in the name of Jesus). If a government makes a law that contradicts God’s commandment, then you follow God’s commandment. But don’t use this as “freedom to cover for evil” to justify disobedience to government. 
 
Also, there is nothing in Scripture about party affiliation, whether you should vote or not, nor whether you should be involved in politics or not. What we are told is that we are to submit. 
 
Romans 13:5-6; Matthew 22:15-22; Matthew 17:24-27 
Pay your taxes! God is our sufficiency. He supplies all our needs.

by John Cortright

For more information visit lhim.org

Romans 13:1-6
Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities.

God is sovereign over the nations of the world.  
He can cause governments to rise or fall. This can be seen throughout Scripture.
• Genesis 14:13-24 – God delivered Abraham defeating King Chedorlaomer and the kings of the east.
• Genesis 40 & 41 – God brought Joseph to power in Egypt.  Pharaoh set him over all the land of Egypt.
• Exodus 5-14 – God delivered the children from Pharaoh in Egypt.
• Book of Joshua – God destroyed seven nations in the land of Canaan (Acts 13:19). 
• Numbers – God raised up judges to deliver Israel from kings and nations.
• Samuel & Kings – God brought about the nations of Israel and Judah.
• Jonah – God did not overthrow the city of Nineveh when the people repented after Jonah’s preaching.
• Isaiah 10:5 – God called the nation of Assyria the rod of his anger. 
• Jeremiah 27:6 – God Called King Nebuchadnezzar, king of Baby

11 Be Subject to Governing Authorities Romans 13:1-6

by Sean Finnegan 
 
For more information visit lhim.org

by Sean Finnegan

For more information visit lhim.org

10 Overcome Evil with Good Romans 12:17-21

9 A Humble Heart Romans 12:14-16

by John Cortright 
 
For more information visit lhim.org 
 
Romans 12:11 
not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; 
 
1. not lagging behind in diligence 
2. fervent in spirit 
3. serve the Lord 
 
Not lagging behind in diligence 
“Not lagging behind” = “Do not be slothful” (ESV), “not procrastinating” (NEV). 
This word is translated as “lazy” in Matthew 25:26. This is in reference to the one who had only received one talent and hid it in the ground. 
 
Be diligent; especially those who lead (verse 8, 1 Thess. 5:12). 
Hebrews 6:10-12 
2 Peter 1:3-10 
 
 
Be fervent in spirit 
Fervent in spirit 
“humble in spirit” = humble 
“patient in spirit” = patient 
“proud in spirit” = proud 
 
Fervent means to be eager, zealous, enthusiastic, passionate. 
Online Bible Greek Lexicon says this word can be used to boil water. Be hot. 
Revelation 3:14-19 
Don’t be lukewarm. Be fervent! 
 
 
Serving the Lord 
“Serving” is the GK word douleuo 
To be a slave, to serve, provide service. To be obedient and submit to your master 
Ephesians 6:5-8 
Colossians 3:22-24

by John Cortright

For more information visit lhim.org

Romans 12:11
not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord;

1. not lagging behind in diligence
2. fervent in spirit
3. serve the Lord

Not lagging behind in diligence
“Not lagging behind” = “Do not be slothful” (ESV), “not procrastinating” (NEV).
This word is translated as “lazy” in Matthew 25:26.  This is in reference to the one who had only received one talent and hid it in the ground.

Be diligent; especially those who lead (verse 8, 1 Thess. 5:12). 
Hebrews 6:10-12
2 Peter 1:3-10


Be fervent in spirit 
Fervent in spirit
“humble in spirit” = humble
“patient in spirit” = patient
“proud in spirit” = proud

Fervent means to be eager, zealous, enthusiastic, passionate.
Online Bible Greek Lexicon says this word can be used to boil water. Be hot.    
Revelation 3:14-19
Don’t be lukewarm.  Be fervent!


Serving the Lord
“Serving” is the GK word douleuo
To be a slave, to serve, provide service.  To be obedient 

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