My all-time favorite book has been an all-time best-seller
for decades. Actually this book is a collection of sixty-six books, and in that
collection, I have some favorites too. It’s a toss-up at times. I love John’s
Gospel and really enjoy Romans with its rich teaching of the faith, but also
close to the top is Ephesians, a powerful book in the New Testament. At one
time, I’d memorized most of it and still refer to it many times. This morning,
I found out a bit more by researching the history of the city of Ephesus and
comparing that with both books, Ephesians and Acts.
This city was the capital of Asia Minor, a Roman province
and the setting for Acts 19. Paul taught there every day for two years and during
that time, “The word of the Lord
continued to increase and prevail mightily.” (Acts 19:20). Soon a
congregation was established with several elders.
However, there was much opposition to Christianity in Ephesus.
Paul said in 1 Corinthians 15:32 that he fought beasts there, which could refer
to human and demonic opposition. Historical records show the people of this
city worshiped up to fifty gods and goddesses. The makers of their main idol angrily
rioted because Paul’s message was a threat to their wealth gained from selling
this idol to both residents and tourists. Of this and other false teachings, Paul
warned the Ephesian elders:
Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood. I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples after them. Therefore be alert, remembering that for three years I did not cease night or day to admonish every one with tears. (Acts 20:28–31)
A few sections in
Acts help me understand the richness of Paul’s letter to Ephesus. In that short
epistle, he packed in a great deal of truth in the first half and a great deal
of information in the second half about how to live out that truth. This is
important to all Christians but was especially needed in that city because of
its culture and religious beliefs as mentioned above.
This study in Acts
has also helped me grasp a deeper understanding of the mind of the Lord. He
motivated godly men to record what is important to our spiritual well-being,
both now and for future generations. Some of what is told in Acts gives light
on what was needed in the various churches who later received further
instruction. This shows me that God understands their history and mine also. He
prepares the people in His kingdom for the specific issues that will threaten
their faith, now or later.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Lord Jesus, as I
sort, review and purge my bookshelves, I’m also thinking about the richness of
my relationship with You and how You have led me through all sorts of trials
and good times, teaching me and helping me get a fuller grasp of truth that I
can conquer temptation and trust You no matter what comes my way. I see it in
Your Word and in the history of the early church too. You are enriching my
faith and encouraging me. You are a wonderful Lord and Savior, a dear Friend
and my Helper in every need and situation. How I love You and all that Your Word
says to me and offers to everyone who read it.
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