Thinking about why we do what we do is a very healthy thing!

I get teased about having most of my sermons planned out through 2020; but, it is a simple thing for me. I have followed the same pattern for years and certainly since I came here in April of 2007.

My pattern is to do a New Testament Book, an Old Testament Book, and then a series on some specific biblical doctrine. Since I just completed a series of sermons on Ecclesiology in November, and doing my usual series on Christmas, I am ready to begin my series on this foundational Book!

I will be the first to admit that my reasons for studying Ephesians can be applied to studying any Book in the Bible and to any series on biblical doctrines; but, in spite of that obvious reality, I think they are still GOOD reasons…

First, we are going to study Ephesians because it is written by an Apostle of Jesus Christ and therefore Christians are commanded to study, understand, and apply it to our lives.

Second, we are going to study Ephesians because it is addressed “to the saints…” which means it is addressed to us. Since God inspired Paul to write Letters to us, we surely should take the time to read them!

Every Book in the New Testament was written either by an Apostle, (Matthew, John, Paul, James, Peter, and Jude) or by someone very closely related to an Apostle and bearing Apostolic authority, (Mark and Luke). As the LORD allows, I will take some time to demonstrate the pedigree of the writing Apostles and the relationship of Mark and Luke to Peter and Paul.

Christian believers, “the saints” have a God-ordained calling to study, understand, and apply the inspired writings of the Apostles and their associates to our everyday living.

In the several weeks ahead, as the LORD allows, we will be going verse-by-verse (and sometimes word-by-word) through Ephesians.

START READING EPHESIANS now! Read it through at one sitting. Read it again more slowly. Read it again and write down thoughts and questions that come to your mind!

“I hope to see you Sunday with your Bible in your hand, a smile on your face, and your family and friends by your side!”