Ephesians

Peter Banford

Southwest Christadelphian Bible School (1988)

This series on Paul’s letter to the Ephesians offers a thoughtful exploration of one of the New Testament’s richest epistles. Brother Peter Banford carefully traces the apostle’s themes of unity, grace, and spiritual strength, showing how Paul’s words still inspire believers to live faithfully in Christ today. Each class builds on the last, moving from the early history of the ecclesia at Ephesus to Paul’s final exhortations to stand strong in the Lord.

The Church at Ephesus

The opening class provides a background to the believers at Ephesus, setting the stage for Paul’s letter. It examines their beginnings, their challenges, and how Paul sought to remind them of their identity as the called-out people of God.

We Should Be to the Praise of his Glory

This session highlights Paul’s reminder that salvation and hope are rooted in God’s plan and grace. Believers are called not only to receive blessings but to live in a way that reflects God’s glory in their daily walk.

The Exceeding Riches of his Grace

Paul’s words about grace are unpacked, showing how God’s generosity extends far beyond what we could deserve. This class reflects on the immeasurable blessings of being made alive in Christ and reconciled to God.

Keep the Unity of the Spirit

Here the focus shifts to the importance of unity within the body of Christ. Brother Banford explains Paul’s call to humility, patience, and love, which enable believers to maintain the oneness of the Spirit despite human weakness.

A Great Mystery

This session reflects on Paul’s teaching about the “mystery” revealed in Christ—the joining together of Jew and Gentile into one body. It also explores the imagery of Christ’s descent and ascent, emphasizing the gifts given to the ecclesia for its building up.

Be Strong in the Lord

The final class turns to Paul’s great exhortation to stand firm, clothed in the whole armor of God. The lessons of unity, discipline, and faith culminate in this call to spiritual vigilance, reminding disciples to rely on God’s strength rather than their own.

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Give ear, and hear my voice; give attention, and hear my speech.

Isaiah 28:23 (ESV)