PRAYER REQUESTS

***(If I have left off someone’s name, it’s not intentional; remind me, please)

Everyone on this prayer request list needs prayer; everyone not on the list needs prayer as well. Anyone who wants to have your name taken off, let me know.

PRAYER REQUESTS

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PRAYER

SCRIPTURE: “But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart” – I Samuel 16:7.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION

Next week, fortunately, I believe we will learn the meaning of DEI from a Believer’s position. Tonight we will see DEI redefined and how it is impacting the Church that Jesus built. I read this article that I want to share, but praying that I do not offend the VBS Teachers:

What happens when fairness is redefined, and hard work is replaced by forced equality? In this modern-day parable, Cynthia Garrett unpacks the hidden dangers of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) through the lens of Biblical Wisdom. If you’ve ever wondered what Jesus might say about today’s culture wars, this thought-provoking take on the “Master’s Vineyard” will challenge everything you thought you knew about Justice, Fairness, and True Equity.

Garrett says, “I have felt a strong urge over the past few weeks to discuss DEI because, like many Christians, I am also interested in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.’ I observe that the issue of fairness is complex, and I worry that Conservatives and most Christians are often portrayed as monsters pushing innocent women and children out of our nation. Unfortunately, this portrayal is misleading and designed to manipulate our emotions, leading good-hearted people – most Believers in Christ – to accept arguments that have little to do with God’s Truth regarding right and wrong. This has prompted me to reflect deeply and pray earnestly, as I always want God’s Perspective, not human emotional manipulations, to guide us.’”

This inspired me, she said, to write an example of the DEI argument as if it were one of Jesus’ Parables infused with His Perspective. I pray this blesses you as you seek to be a blessing to others, especially when loving others might not look as you think or feel it should.

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Let’s call it the “Parable of the Master’s Vineyard.”

Once, there was a great vineyard owner, a wise and generous master, who had long cared for his land. His vineyard stretched over rolling hills, with vines heavy with grapes and soil rich from careful tending. Year after year, he hired workers to care for the vines, prune and water them, and bring in the harvest at the designated time.

One morning, the master went to the marketplace to hire laborers. He sought the finest workers – those who were diligent, who loved the craft of tending vines, and who would give their best effort. Some had spent years in the vineyard, knowing exactly how to prune without harming the vine. Others were new and eager to learn, but all were chosen based on their willingness to work and their ability to bear fruit.

A New Overseer Brings Change

One day, the master appointed a new overseer to manage the hiring of laborers. This overseer had a different vision for the vineyard. He no longer sought the most skilled or dedicated workers. Instead, he decided that every group must be equally represented – not by their ability to tend the vines, but by their identity. He even believed there were new identities not previously seen tending vines and to be fair; they should also be included so they could be part of the group of workers.

“We must make the vineyard fair,” the overseer declared. “It is not right that some have worked here longer than others. We need to ensure that every group receives an equal share of the harvest, regardless of whether they know how to care for the vines or not.”

The next day, the overseer hired workers who had never pruned a vine, harvested grapes, or tended to the land. The experienced laborers warned him, “Master, these workers are good people, but they lack the skills! They will damage the vines and spoil the fruit!”

But the overseer rebuked them, saying, “It’s unfair to deny them a place in the vineyard. Everyone deserves to be treated equally.”

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The Withering of the Vineyard

Initially, the vineyard seemed unchanged. The new workers were assigned tasks while the experienced ones carried on with their work. However, as time went by, the fruit started to suffer. The unskilled workers pruned too deeply, and the branches no longer bore fruit as they once did. They neglected to water the roots because they didn’t realize when the soil was thirsty.  Then, at harvest time, they gathered the fruit carelessly, crushing grapes before they could be taken to the press. The older laborers attempted to correct their mistakes, but the overseer warned them, “You shouldn’t judge or criticize them! That would be unfair!”

Thus, the experienced workers fell silent. Some were disheartened, while others were angry. Some left the vineyard entirely, realizing that their skills and efforts no longer mattered. Others stayed, but their hands grew idle as their wisdom was no longer welcomed.

The Master Returns

At the end of the season, the master returned to inspect his vineyard. He walked through the fields and noticed that the vines were weak, the fruit was bitter, and a large portion of the harvest had been lost.

The master called the overseer and asked, “What have you done?”

The overseer smiled and said, “Master, we have created a diverse and inclusive vineyard! It is now fair. Every group has contributed equally. No one has outperformed anyone else!”

But the master shook his head and said, “You have confused fairness with foolishness. Didn’t I teach you that each worker must be faithful in what he is given? Each must work according to his ability, and the vineyard flourishes when laborers are chosen for their skill and diligence?” “You have hired workers not for their love of the vineyard but for their social identity in society. You have overlooked wisdom and the five chapters devoted to it in Proverbs in favor of appearances. And now the harvest is ruined.”

The overseer protested, “But we wanted justice!” The master said, “True justice rewards those who labor diligently, working with integrity and excellence. But you have forsaken justice for false equality. And now, there is neither justice nor reward.” With that, the master removed the overseer from his position and entrusted the vineyard back to those who knew how to tend it. However, the vines were weak, and the harvest had been lost. Restoring what had been ruined would require years of careful labor.

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The Lesson of the Vineyard

As Jesus might say, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”

In this, we see the folly of those who reject wisdom for the sake of appearances. In seeking to seem fair in their own eyes, they destroy the very thing they are entrusted to protect: the Master’s vineyard. 

A vineyard does not thrive by demanding equal outcomes; it flourishes by rewarding hard work. A society that values skill and diligence will prosper, while one that overlooks merit in favor of enforced fairness will soon see its vineyard wither and its harvest lost. 

To be fair, we must create and support opportunities and mentorship programs for everyone who wants to learn. When diversity is lacking, we should encourage Outreach Programs to Teach individuals how to engage with all the resources available for learning and contributing to the vineyard we all share. Everyone values what they have invested in and worked hard to achieve. Most people never appreciate anything simply given to them on a silver platter. Many often lack the necessary respect and admiration for what they receive without putting in any effort.

I found myself applying the logic of DEI to this parable and realized that, regardless of our feelings for others and their struggles in life, we cannot change their skills to accommodate their differences, whatever those may be. Jesus warned us that we would face tribulations in this world, and we certainly do. We all encounter numerous trials and tribulations. Some of these are significantly related to opportunity and the preparation for those opportunities. People are born into various life circumstances, many of which may seem unfair. Some have much, while others have little. Ultimately, how hard we work with what we have is our choice. If you wish to work in a vineyard, learn and prepare to do so, even if the opportunity isn’t immediately available. Then, WHEN you find that opportunity, you will be ready for the job. In a society seeking to judge hearts and force equal outcomes, remember the Truth of Zechariah 4:10a NLT: “Do not despise your small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin.”

The Lord does not judge by outward appearances. He does look at the fruit we produce. You are capable of bearing fruit if you do the work required by God. At the end of the day, a worker is worth their hire if they can compete. The journey of competition may not be fair, but your skill set can become equal to that of someone with more experience than you have, if you work hard enough. “For whatever one sows, that will he also reap” – Galatians 6:7. Trusting in Godly Principles will never fail you as you seek to advance in life with the needed help of fair scales and balances.

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To go deeper here, remember I Samuel 16:7 “But the Lord said to Samuel, Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. ‘For the Lord sees NOT as man sees, man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”’

We cannot force equity because we do not know the reasons behind inequities in the first place. There is much in this world that only God can see and judge, particularly the condition of your heart or another person’s heart.  “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?” as the Bible states in Jeremiah 17:9 NIV. 

The point is that all things should be brought before God in prayer, Seeking the Truth and Understanding of God’s instruction in the Bible and Only the Bible. Looking within your own heart will often lead to incorrect methods of feeling better about the human condition. This leaves you confused, misunderstood, and easily manipulated – none of which is a state a Believer should live in.  

When we left last week, we had read the letter to Philemon from Paul desiring that he would receive Onesimus, his runaway slave, as a brother and to put any charges on Paul’s account and not hold anything against Onesimus. Onesimus had been Converted under the Evangelistic efforts of Paul during his Second Missionary Journey, and he had become very valuable to Paul’s Ministry, contributing to the Ministry from that point until now, when Paul was sending out letters to the Churches in Asia Minor, including Philemon’s Church at Colossae. It teaches us that we should all become valuable to the Body of Christ, not only at New Life, or the Church that you attend, but also in the community at Large. The Bible addresses idleness as a negative trait, warning against laziness and emphasizing the importance of diligence. “Idleness leads to poverty and lack, while hard work is associated with prosperity” – Proverbs 10:4. It is described as a mindset of apathy and an unwillingness to engage in responsibilities” – II Thessalonians 3:6. Jesus warned about idle words, indicating that all speech will be accounted for – Matthew 12:36. Believers are instructed to avoid associating with those who are idle – II Thessalonians 3:6. These teachings highlight the value of being active and responsible in one’s duties to Christ and the Health of the Church, which is as strong as its weakest member.

The next lesson will begin page 10 of the Lesson Plan, at the first paragraph.

Let’s review the “WHO, WHAT WHEN WHERE AND WHY” of these letters.

Each one has its own flavor and message. We’re looking at a quick overview of the key themes and standout verses from Paul’s Prison Letters: While imprisoned, the

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Apostle Paul wrote to several Churches and individuals – these letters are famously known as the Prison Epistles. They were composed during his first Roman imprisonment around AD 60–62 and reflect both deep theological insight and heartfelt encouragement.

Ephesians – Unity & Identity in Christ

• Theme: The Church as the Body of Christ, Spiritual Blessings, and Christian Maturity.

• Key Verse: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not of yourselves, it is the gift of God” – Ephesians 2:8.

• The main message is: in order to defeat the devil, put on the “Armor of God.” This is a metaphor for Spiritual Strength, found in chapter 6.

Philippians – Joy in Trials (not in the three letters we’re studying in Ephesians, but Paul wrote it while in Jail)

• Theme: Finding joy and contentment regardless of circumstances.

• Key Verse: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice” – Philippians 4:4.

• Main message: Paul talks about learning to be content, whatever condition he’s in.

Colossians – Supremacy of Christ

• Theme: Christ is above all – Creator, Sustainer, and Redeemer.

• Key Verse: “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation” – Colossians 1:15.

• Main message: A warning against false teachings and philosophies that distort the Gospel.

Philemon – Forgiveness & Reconciliation

• Theme: Personal appeal for Mercy and a new way of relating to others in Christ.

• Key Verse: “Perhaps the reason he was separated from you for a little while was that you might have him back for good” – Philemon 1:15.

• Main message: Paul acts as a Mediator between Onesimus (the slave) and Philemon.

Each of these letters showcases Paul’s resilience and devotion despite confinement. God is in control!

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EPHESIANS

PART ONE

DOCTRINE: CONTINUE EMBRACING THE GREAT COMMANDMENT

OUR RICHES IN CHRIST (1-3)

 Ephesians 1:1–3

SAINTS ALIVE!

Saints are not dead. God Called sinners to become SAINTS. Sinners are dead to God; Saints are ALIVE! The Word says, “Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet (fit for) to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:¹³who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:¹⁴in whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins” – Colossians 1:12-14.

You are a Saint because God said so. Not because of what you have done or what you are doing. But because God said, “Whosoever BELIEVETH and is BAPTISED, SHALL be saved. He that believeth NOT, shall be DAMNED” – Mark 16:16.

“⁴For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone that believeth.⁵For Moses describeth the righteousness, which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them.⁶But the righteousness, which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:⁷or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.)⁸But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach;⁹that if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved¹⁰For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”

Romans 10:4–10 emphasizes that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ, not through adherence to the Law. Here's a breakdown of the key ideas:

         ✝️ Christ is the Fulfillment of the Law: Verse 4 of Romans 10, declares that Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes, meaning He completes what the Law pointed toward. (So, Christ replaced the Law with Righteousness.)

         💡 Righteousness is by Faith: Paul contrasts the righteousness based on the Law with the righteousness that comes from faith. (instead of striving through works, Believers receive righteousness by trusting in Christ.)

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         🗣️ The Word Is Near: Verses 6-8 highlight that the message of faith is accessible – “in your mouth and in your heart” – (underscoring that Salvation isn’t distant or complicated.)

         ❤️ Confession and Belief: Verses 9-10 lay out the path to Salvation:

1.“confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and 2. Believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead. This dual act – outward confession and internal belief – lead to: a) Justification by Faith (His Righteousness on you. He put His Righteousness on you I exchange for your SIN. And He bore your SIN on the Cross, so you wouldn’t have to bear it) and b) confession and belief lead to Salvation (Deliverance from Eternal Death.)

It’s a powerful passage that shifts the focus from religious rule-keeping to a personal, heartfelt Trust in Christ.

This is the ONLY WAY to become a SAINT! After you’re dead U AIN’T NO SAINT! Your work on this earth is done!

Now we just have to ACT like a Saint! We are no longer under the Penalty of Eternal Death. Your SIN is forgiven. “There is therefore now no condemnation to them that are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit” – Romans 8:1.

The next step for Saint is in “CONSECRATION.” Consecration is the giving of my life (Mind, Soul and Emotions) to God to do His Will, 100%, instead of my own. You can’t give Him the Spirit, the Spirit belongs to God… the body goes to the dust, it’s not yours – God gave you the body to house YOU, (your Soul! That’s You). It means that I present my body to Him as a “living sacrifice” (Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:⁶ For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience – Colossians 3:5, 6.)

since He GAVE His Life so that you and I can represent Heaven on earth, you can live with Him when you leave this earth, so consecration is the “Reasonable” thing to do, see also Romans 12:1, 2.

        Consecration is Voluntary.

        Consecration is to the LORD.

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        Consecration is the offering of a WHOLE LIFE to God.

        What does this tell you about Consecration? You give yourself away.

        Consecration is Final. You can’t you back, He sealed you.

        Consecration is Continual.  “… If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me” – Luke 9:23.

        Why Should I Consecrate Myself to the Lord? Because you belong to Him.

         Saints are God’s Property, our STANDING (Spiritual Position) is PERFECT, in God’s Eyes; our STANDING (our daily experience) is Imperfect in the world.

A STORY

She had gone down in history as “America’s Greatest Miser,” yet when she died in 1916, “Hetty” Green left an estate valued at over $100 million. She ate cold oatmeal because it cost to heat it. Her son had to suffer a leg amputation, because she delayed so long looking for a free clinic that his case became incurable. She was wealthy, yet she chose to live like a pauper. Eccentric? Certainly! Crazy? Perhaps – but nobody could prove it. She was so foolish that she hastened her own death by bringing on an attack of apoplexy (became unconscious, had a stroke) while arguing about the value of drinking skimmed milk!

-         What is the meaning of a Spiritual pauper?

-         How can the word Pauper apply to Jesus? (Did He have humble beginning? Did he live a life of simplicity? What did He teach about wealth?  Paul wrote that “though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor” – II Corinthians 8:9, highlighting that Jesus’ poverty was part of His Mission to identify with humanity and offer Salvation.

-         Does it apply to you in any way?

-         Would you rather the word Pauper apply to you Spiritually?

Hetty Green is an illustration of too many Believers today. They have limitless Spiritual wealth at their disposal, and yet they live like paupers. It was to this kind of Christian that Paul wrote the Epistle to the Ephesians.

Too many Christians have Christ Jesus living in their hearts, they have many Bibles at their disposal; some have been in Sunday School, Bible Study over half their lives, and will not stand up and teach the Gospel. “I can’t speak,” “I studder.” Do you know that your imperfection, whatever that is, is a test of your Faith in God to do His Work in you? Satan will remind you of your shortcomings to thwart God’s Plan to use you. You must be willing to tell Satan to “get behind me.” And yes! They will make fun of you… another test!

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The Author of Ephesians (Paul, an Apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God – 1:1a)

Some names in history we identify immediately, and “Paul” is one of them. His name was originally “Saul” (“And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man’s feet, whose name was Saul – Acts 7:58), and, since he was from the tribe of Benjamin (“⁵Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee” – Phil. 3:5), he believed in God, for God, He would kill a rock, but he would kill Jesus, Really! It is likely he was named after the first king of Israel (“… Kish… a Benjamite, a mighty man of power.’ ‘² And he had a son, whose name was Saul, a choice young man, and a goodly…” and there was not among the children of Israel a goodlier person than he…”’ – I Samuel Ch. 9). Unlike his namesake, however, Saul of Tarsus was obedient, and faithfully served God. Jesus, not so much! Saul even persecuted the Church and killed Christians.

I want us to Pick a Scripture to read and show that Paul Persecuted the Church:

Acts 8:1; Acts 8:3; I Corinthians 15:9.

-         Why do you think Saul advocated for God, but persecuted the Church of Jesus Christ?

Some say that Saul was a Rabbi. Rabbis play a central role in the Jewish community. The word “Rabbi” mean “teacher” in the Hebrew language.

They are responsible for:

-         Teaching the Jewish religion (Law) to both children and adults

-         For advising Jews on religious matters.

-         They also lead religious services

-         They ensure that everything is conducted according to Jewish Law.

-         They assure that the structure of the service follow the Daily Prayer Book (SIDDUR).

-         They read and did oversee the Torah and Haftara (selections from the Prophets and Hebrew Bible) and

-         Any special readings on Festivals.

 As a Devoted Rabbi, Saul became the leader of the antichristian movement in Jerusalem. This is how Saul is described in the Scripture: (“And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest,²And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem” – Acts 9:1–2; this is how Saul describes Himself in Scripture: “For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews’ religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it

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For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews’ religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it” – Gal. 1:13–14).

But during this activity, Saul was “arrested” by Jesus Christ and was converted to a Saint in Christ (Acts 9:3ff.; 26). Saul of Tarsus, the antichristian, became Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles (“But the Lord said unto him (Ananias), Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel – Acts 9:15). Saul was a sinner, but he was Saved By God’s Grace. Paul’s testimony is: “But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace, ¹⁶to reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood: ¹⁷neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia and returned again unto Damascus” – Galatians 1:15-17.

After his conversion and baptism by Ananias in Damascus, Paul began preaching in the Synagogues, proclaiming Jesus as the Son of God – much to the astonishment of those who knew his past. He then spent time in Arabia for reflection and Spiritual formation by Christ before returning to Damascus and eventually visiting Jerusalem.

While he was Ministering in the Church of Antioch, he was called by the Spirit to take the Gospel to the Gentiles, and he obeyed (“Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.²As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.³And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away – Acts 13:1–3).

The book of Acts records Three Missionary Journeys that took Paul throughout the Roman Empire in one of the greatest Evangelistic endeavors in Church History. About the year 53, Paul first Ministered in Ephesus but did not remain there (“And Paul after this tarried there yet a good while, and then took his leave of the brethren, and sailed thence into Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila; having shorn his head in Cenchrea: for he had a vow.¹⁹And he came to Ephesus, and left them there: but he himself entered into the synagogue, and reasoned with the Jews.²⁰When they desired him to tarry longer time with them, he consented not;²¹But bade them farewell, saying, I must by all means keep this feast that cometh in Jerusalem: but I will return again unto you, if God will. And he sailed from Ephesus” – Acts 18:19–21).

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Two years later, while on his third journey, Paul stayed in Ephesus for at least two years and saw that whole vast area Evangelized (Acts 19:1–20).

During these years, he founded a strong Church in the city that was dedicated to the worship of the goddess Diana. For a description of Paul’s Ministry in Ephesus, read Acts 20, where he met with much opposition.

Paul was a prisoner in Rome (Eph. 3:1; 4:1; 6:20 “for which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.) Paul is both Spiritually and physically imprisoned), and he wanted to share with these Believers the Great Truths the Lord had taught him about Christ and the Church.

To get a better understanding of the historical background, compare Ephesians 6:21–22, “But that ye also may know my affairs, and how I do, Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, shall make known to you all things^” with Colossians 4:7–9, “All my state shall Tychicus declare unto you, who is a beloved brother, and a faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord:⁸Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that he might know your estate, and comfort your hearts;⁹With Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They shall make known unto you all things which are done here.”

Summary of the Comparison:

Both Ephesians 6:21–22 and Colossians 4:7–9 feature Paul’s commendation of Tychicus, a trusted companion, and his role in delivering news and encouragement to the Churches.

Here’s a comparison of the two passages:

        In both letters, Tychicus is sent to inform the recipients about Paul’s situation.

        Character Description: Paul calls him a dear brother and faithful servant in both texts.

        Purpose of Sending: The goal is to provide updates and offer encouragement to the Believers.

📖 Ephesians 6:21–22 Highlights

        Tychicus is described as a faithful servant in the Lord.

        Paul says he will “tell you everything” so the Ephesians may know how Paul is doing.

        Emphasis on encouragement and transparency about Paul’s condition.

📖 Colossians 4:7–9 Highlights

        Tychicus is also called a faithful minister and fellow servant.

        He is joined by Onesimus, another trusted brother, who is “one of you.”

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        The message includes “everything that is happening here,” suggesting a broader report.

These verses show Paul’s deep trust in Tychicus and his desire to keep the Churches connected and encouraged. It’s a beautiful glimpse into the Relational fabric of the Early Church.

Onesimus and the historical backdrop of Ephesians and Colossians. These two men and letters are deeply intertwined, and their stories reveal powerful themes of transformation, unity, and reconciliation.

🧍‍♂️ Onesimus: From Slave to Brother

Onesimus was a runaway slave belonging to Philemon, a Christian in Colossae. After fleeing, he encountered the Apostle Paul – likely in Rome – where he converted to Christianity.

Name Meaning: “Onesimus” means useful in Greek – a poignant irony, as Paul writes that he was once “useless” but became “useful” both to Paul and Philemon (Philemon 1:11).

Paul’s Plea: In the letter to Philemon, Paul appeals for Onesimus to be received not as a slave, but as a beloved brother in Christ.

Possible Later Role: Early Church tradition suggests Onesimus may have become Bishop/Pastor/Elder (all the same to God, with God, there are no hierarchy/inequality) of Ephesus, mentioned by Ignatius of Antioch.

His story is a powerful example of Christian Reconciliation, challenging social norms and emphasizing Spiritual Equality.

🏛️ Historical Context of Ephesians

The Epistle to the Ephesians was likely written by Paul during his imprisonment in Rome around AD 60–61. It was intended for the Church in Ephesus, a major city in Asia Minor, and to be circulated to the Churches throughout Asia Minor, where Paul had set up Churches.

Themes:

Unity in Christ: Paul emphasizes Reconciliation between Jews and Gentiles.

Spiritual Identity: Believers are part of the Body of Christ, Chosen and Sealed by the Holy Spirit.

Ethical Living: Instructions on Christian Conduct, including relationships and Spiritual Warfare (e.g., “armor of God”).

Cultural Tensions: The letter reflects challenges in integrating Gentile Believers into a Faith rooted in Jewish tradition.

🏙️ Historical Context of Colossians

Written around the same time as Ephesians, Colossians addresses the Church in Colossae, a smaller city near Ephesus.

Key Concerns:

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False Teachings: Paul warns against philosophies that diminish Christ’s role.

Christ’s Supremacy: Emphasizes Jesus as the image of the invisible God and head of all creation.

Christian Living: Encourages Believers to live out their faith with integrity and

Spiritual Maturity.

Connection to Onesimus: Onesimus is mentioned in Colossians 4:9 as accompanying Tychicus to deliver the letter – suggesting his Restored Status and Trust within the Christian community.

How these letters influenced early Christian Theology or how they’re interpreted today? There’s so much richness to unpack.

📜 Theological Impact of Ephesians

The Epistle to the Ephesians is a cornerstone of Christian Theology, offering a sweeping vision of God’s Cosmic Plan through Christ.

Unity of the Church: Paul’s metaphor of the Church as the Body of Christ helped define Christian Identity as a Unified, Spiritual Community beyond ethnic or social divisions.

Grace and Salvation: Ephesians 2:8–9 emphasizes Salvation by Grace through Faith – not by works. This became a foundational Doctrine for Protestant Theology centuries later.

Spiritual Warfare: The “armor of God” imagery (Ephesians 6:10–18) gave Believers a framework For resilience and Spiritual Discipline.

Christ’s Cosmic Role: Ephesians presents Jesus not only as Savior but as Sovereign over All Creation, Reinforcing His Divine Authority.

🧠 Colossians and Christ-Centered Theology

Colossians complements Ephesians but focuses more intensely on the Supremacy of Christ.

Christ as Creator and Sustainer: Colossians 1:15–20 describes Jesus as “the image of the invisible God” and the one through whom all things were created.

Combatting Heresy (any belief contrary to Christianity): Paul counters early Gnostic and legalistic teachings, affirming that “Christ Alone” is sufficient for

Salvation.

New Life in Christ: Colossians 3 urges Believers to “put off the old self” and live transformed lives, which became a Model for Christian ethics of all ages.

🔗 Onesimus and the Theology of Reconciliation

Onesimus’s story, though brief, had a profound theological ripple effect.

Spiritual Equality: Paul’s appeal to Philemon to accept Onesimus “no longer as a slave, but more than a slave – a beloved brother” (Philemon 1:16) challenged social norms and laid groundwork for Christian views on human dignity throughout all ages.)

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1. Forgiveness and Restoration: Onesimus’s return with Paul’s letter modeled the Christian Process of Repentance, Forgiveness, and Reconciliation.

   Church Leadership: Early tradition suggests Onesimus later became Bishop/Pastor or Elder of Ephesus, symbolizing the Transformative Power of Grace and Inclusion

   These texts didn’t just shape theology—they shaped how Christians saw themselves, their Communities, and their Relationship with God.

    

   This Letter was written to Philemon:

   ¹Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellow laborer,²And to our beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellow soldier, and to the church in thy house:³Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.⁴thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers,⁵Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints;⁶That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.⁷ For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.⁸Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient,⁹Yet for love’s sake I rather beseech thee, being such an one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ.¹⁰I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds:¹¹Which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me:¹²Whom I have sent again: thou therefore receive him, that is, mine own bowels:¹³Whom I would have retained with me, that in thy stead he might have ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel:¹⁴But without thy mind would I do nothing; that thy benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly.¹⁵For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that thou shouldest receive him for ever;¹⁶Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord?¹⁷If thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself.¹⁸If he hath wronged thee, or oweth thee ought, put that on mine account;¹⁹I Paul have written it with mine own hand, I will repay it: albeit I do not say to thee how thou owest unto me even thine own self besides.²⁰Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord.²¹Having confidence in thy obedience I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say.²²But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall be given unto you.²³There salute thee Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus;²⁴Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers.²⁵The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen. (Written from Rome to Philemon, by Onesimus a servant.)

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PHILEMON.

Onesimus, a slave, ran away from Philemon, his master, who lived at Colosse. While in Rome, Onesimus met Paul and was converted. Tychicus, one of the Pastors of the Church at Colosse, which may have met in Philemon’s house, was also in Rome to discuss some problems with Paul. So, Paul took advantage of the presence of these two men to send three letters to his friends: the Epistle to the Ephesians, the Epistle to the Colossians, and the Epistle to Philemon. At the same time, he sent Onesimus back to his master. So, the letter was written from Rome about the year AD 62. Though Paul was on trial for his life, he was concerned about the Spiritual needs of the Churches he had founded. As an Apostle, “one sent with a Commission,” he had an obligation to teach them the Word of God and to seek to build them up in the faith (And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers – Eph. 4:11–12).

This part of the letter to Ephesus was written to the:

The Assembly – To the saints which are at Ephesus – 1:1b–2.

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workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them” – Eph. 2:4–10).

The word Saint is simply one of the many terms used in the New Testament to describe “one who has trusted Jesus Christ as Savior.” The person is “alive,” not only physically, but also Spiritually – “And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins” – Eph. 2:1. You will find Christians called Disciples (Acts 9:1, 10, 19, 25–26, 36, 38), People of the Way (Acts 9:2,

“And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem, and Saints” – Acts 9:13, 32, 41). The word Saint means “one who has been set apart [from evil, or from the world] to be used by God. It is related to the word Sanctified, which means “set apart.” When the sinner surrenders and Trusts Christ as his Savior, he is taken out of “the world” and placed “IN CHRIST.” The Believer is in the world physically, but not of the world Spiritually – Jesus prayed, “I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.¹⁵I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil^” – John 17:14–16. Like a scuba diver, the Saint exists in an alien environment because he possesses special equipment – in this case, the Indwelling Holy Spirit of God. Every True Believer Possesses the Holy Spirit – “But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his” – Rom. 8:9; “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?²⁰For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s” – I Cor. 6:19–20), and it is through the Spirit’s Power that the Christian is able to function in the world. Now for the important question: How did these people at Ephesus become Saints? The answer is found in two words: “Faithful” and “Grace” – “Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus:^” - Eph. 1:1–2). When Paul addressed his letter to the “Saints … and Faithful in Christ Jesus” he was not addressing two different groups of people. The word faithful carries the meaning of “believers in Christ Jesus.” These people were not saved by living faithful lives; rather they put their faith in Christ and were saved. This is clear from Ephesians 1:12–14, 19 – “That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ.¹³In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, ¹⁴Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory. ¹⁹And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power

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And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power.” This text calls for a lifestyle that reflects the Holiness of God, urging Believers to walk in Love, Light, and Wisdom.

 The word Grace is used twelve times in Ephesians and refers to “the kindness of God toward undeserving people.” Grace and Mercy often are found together in the Bible, and they certainly belong together in the experience of Salvation. Grace and Faith go together, because the only way to experience Grace and Salvation is through faith – “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God^” – Eph. 2:8–9. The phrase “in Christ Jesus” is used twenty-seven times in this letter! It describes the Spiritual Position of the Believer: He is identified with Christ he is in Christ and therefore is able to draw on the wealth of Christ for his own daily living.

The Aim: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ” – 1:3)

Each book in the Bible has its own special theme and message, even though it may deal with many different topics. Genesis is the book of Beginnings; Matthew is the book of the Kingdom; Galatians is the book of Liberty. Ephesians 1:3 states its theme: “The Christian’s Riches in Christ.”

THE SOURCE OF OUR BLESSINGS:

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” God the Father has made us rich in Jesus Christ! (1:3).

When you were born again into God’s Family, you were born Rich. Through Christ you share in the Riches of God’s Grace –

        “In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace” – Eph. 1:7;

        “That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in 1:3. kindness toward us through Christ Jesus” –2:7,

        God’s Glory – “The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints” – Eph. 1:18;

        “That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man” – 3:16),

        God’s Mercy – “But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us” – Eph. 2:4, and

        “The unsearchable riches of Christ” – “Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ” – Eph. 3:8. 

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Our Heavenly Father is not poor; He is rich – and He has made us rich in His Son.

J. Paul Getty, one of the richest men in the world, was worth an estimated $1.3 billion. The weekly income of some of the “oil sheiks” runs into the millions. Yet all of this wealth is but “pennies” when compared with the Spiritual Wealth we have in Christ.

In this letter, Paul explained to us what these riches are and how we may draw on them for effective Christian living.

BLESSINGS IN HIS SPIRIT

The scope of our blessings. We have “all spiritual blessings.” This can be translated “all the blessings of the Spirit,” referring to the Holy Spirit of God. In the Old Testament, God Promised His earthly people, Israel, material blessings as a reward for their obedience (Deut. 28:1–13). Today, He Promises to supply ALL our needs “according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus” – Phil. 4:19, but He does not promise to shield us from either poverty or pain. The Father has given us every Blessing of the Spirit, everything we need for a successful, satisfying Christian Life. The Spiritual is far more important than the material. The Holy Spirit is mentioned many times in this letter, because He is the One who channels our riches to us from the Father, through the Son. Not knowing and depending on the Holy Spirit’s Provision is to live a life of Spiritual Poverty or as a Pauper. No wonder Paul began his Ephesian Ministry asking some professed Christians if they really knew the Holy Spirit (remember Acts 19:1–7?).

We might ask professed Christians today, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” If the answer is no, then you are not saved. The Word says, “Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his” – Rom. 8:9.

Unless you have the witness of the Spirit you cannot draw on the wealth of the Spirit – Rom. 8:15–16, “For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.¹⁶The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God,”  

The sphere of our blessings. Our Blessings are “in heavenly places in Christ.” Perhaps a clearer translation would be “in the heavenlies in Christ.” The unsaved person is interested primarily in earthly possessions, because this is where he lives. Jesus called them “the children of this world” – Luke 16:8.

The Christian’s Life is Centered in Heaven. His Citizenship is in Heaven (Phil. 3:20); his name is written in Heaven (Luke 10:20); his Father is in Heaven; and his attention and affection ought to be centered on the things of Heaven (Col. 3:1ff.). Evangelist D. L. Moody used to warn about people who were so “heavenly

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minded they were no earthly good,” but that is not what Paul was describing. “The Heavenlies” (literal translation) describes that Place where Jesus Christ is right now (“Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ” – Eph. 1:2) and where the Believer is seated with Him (“And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus” – Eph. 2:6).

The battles we fight are not with flesh and blood on earth, but with satanic powers “in the heavenlies” (“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places” – Eph. 6:12).

The Christian really operates in two spheres: the Human, which is visible and the Divine, which is Invisible. For example, Physically, he is on the earth in a human body, but Spiritually he is seated with Christ in the Heavenly Sphere – and it is this Heavenly Sphere that provides the Power and Direction for the earthly Walk. Without His Power and Direction, we could do nothing, as John 5:15 says, “I am the vine, you are the branches: he that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me you can do nothing.”

Another example: The President of the United States is not always seated at his desk in the White House, but that executive chair represents the sphere of his life and power. No matter where he is in the world, he is the President, because only he has the privilege of sitting at that desk.

Likewise with the Christian: no matter where the Christian may be on this earth, he is seated in the Heavenlies with Jesus Christ, and this is the basis of His Life and Power.

The fact that Paul is writing here about wealth would be significant to his readers, because Ephesus was considered the bank of Asia, the place of Satan’s operation. It was also one of the Seven wonders of the world, because the great temple of Diana was in Ephesus and was known best for the center for idolatrous worship but also known as a depository for wealth. Some of the greatest art treasures of the ancient world were housed in this magnificent building.

In this letter to the Ephesian Church, Paul will compare the Church of Jesus Christ to a Temple, individually and collectively, and he will explain the great Wealth that Christ has in His Church. Paul has already used the word riches, but you may want to check other “financial” words such as Inheritance. – Eph. 1:11 is an example of financial word. It says, “In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of him who worked all things after the council of his own Will”. 

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God is the One who Predestine the Saints. Many people will say, “If God has already predestined us, why should I do all this? He already knows who will be saved.” BUT NO! In God’s Plan of Salvation and Redemption of man and the Universe, those who Believe God and who accepts Christ, will be adopted into His Family and conformed to the Image of His Son. A person must Believe God’s Plans/Promises!

When we talk about Abraham leaving his country and going to place where God Promised that He would show him, Abraham “Believed God’s Promise and He counted it unto him “Righteousness”. If you don’t Believe God, His Promises are NULL AND VOID (for you). Therefore, if you Believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, that He suffered at the hands of man, that He died on the Cross for the SIN(s) of whole world [Adam committed the sin; all humanity inherited the SIN from Adam. This SIN carries the Penalty of Eternal Death]; if you Believe that He Rose from the dead on the THIRD Day, God will SAVE your SOUI. If you do not Believe, your Soul is already condemned because SIN is ABIDING in you.

The Confession that you have THAT SIN abiding in you and ask Him for FORGIVENESS, this is Repentance. God, then, forgives you for the SIN. When you SURRENDER, (by FAITH) your life to Christ, The Holy Spirit washes your SIN away by the Blood of Jesus, then God Himself declares you “Righteous.” This opens the door for Him to use you; that’s Sanctification.

Believe God! God does not LIE! When He says a thing, that settles it, whether You Believe It or Not! He declares, “I AM GOD” “I CHANGE NOT!” “THE SAME TODAY, YESTERDAY AND TOMORROW.” There is no human being that can make that claim.

After God Saves me by the Holy Spirit washing the SIN away, God makes me Righteous, then when I COMMIT any of the sins that are included in the SIN, which are, “adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like… in Colossians 5, beginning with verse 3, some sins that are not named in Galatians, such as “inordinate affections, evil concupiscence, covetousness, which is idolatry, etc.”

Psalm 66:18 says, “If I regard (retain) sins in my heart, the Lord will not hear me.” The relationship is broken, like when electricity is disconnected from the house, Duke doesn’t hear you. There must be a call for reconnection. Our reconnection with God is Confession/Repentance. You have already Surrendered, and that is forever. You will always be God’s Child, even when you are disconnected. Confession is the call we make for reconnection. That’s why Jesus said, Matthew quoted Jesus saying, “Therefore if thou bring thy gift (prayer) to the altar and there remembers that thy brother has “ought” 

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against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar and go thy way; First be reconciled to thy brother and then come and offer thy gift” – 5:23, 24. What you do, does not send anyone to Hell. UNBELIEF sends you to Hell. You remember, the SIN that carries the penalty of Eternal Death, that sends you to Hell is FORGIVEN AT THE CROSS, when you Believe God. Any other sins you commit, you pay the consequences on earth (before God admits you into Eternity.) When you commit sin in your flesh (self/body), you pay for it in your body on the earth. Sin will never go to Heaven. Heaven is Pure, Holy, Sinless and Morally acceptable to God. So will everyone who goes to Heaven be Pure, Holy, Sinless and Morally acceptable to God.

“If I confess the “sin(s) that I commit,” God is so Faithful to me that He forgives me and remembers the sin(s) no more. Not only that, He again, cleans me up. How many sins will God forgive me in one minute, if I ask? Unlimited, but don’t practice. Don’t Tempt God!

God does not ask me to do anything that He has not done already!

Back to those “Financial Words” that makes the Saints Rich in Christ – Eph.1:14 says, “Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.”

After you “believed God” would Save your Soul by “trusting in Jesus,” you received the “Down payment on your inheritance,” or Ernest (in Real Estate, earnest money is a down payment) so, when you Believe God, He puts a down payment on your Eternal Life. What is your inheritance?

V-18 says, “The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; That you may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the Saints.” When you receive your inheritance, your eyes are open to understanding Spiritual things.  What to do if you don’t understand? Go into your secret closet, confess it to God. He already knows that you don’t understand because, He is Omniscient, and He knows He hasn’t saved you… He knows you are not surrendered…He knows He hasn’t made you righteous. When you don’t Believe God, you deceive yourself.

Eph 5:5 says, “For this you know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the Kingdom of Christ and of God.”) and fullness, or filled (Eph. 1:10, 23; 3:19; 4:10, 13; 5:18).

The Analysis

Paul’s letter to the Ephesians is as carefully structured as that great temple of Diana, and it contains greater beauty and wealth! We inherit wealth by Faith and

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