Paul’s Postscript

Paul’s Postscript Ephesians 6:124 Context • Paul has just finished his Christian call to arms: Stand Fast in God’s Power through Prayer • The call finishes with a personal flourish – “For which, I am an ambassador in chains …” • His declaration leads naturally to a more personal postscript, which he does routinely in his letters – but they are profoundly descriptive in their behind-the-scenes nature. • Three Themes: Partnership, Affection, GodFocused Partnership • Partnership in communication – “tell you everything”; 2x “so that”; 2x “how I am …” • Partnership in ministry – Paul sent Tychicus, a faithful lieutenant; Asian Christian who was part of Paul’s missionary team (Acts 20:1-5); delivered this letter along with Colossians (Colossians 4:7); and is still Paul’s assistant many years hence (2 Timothy 4:12) Affection • Paul is concerned not only to teach the Ephesians, but to reassure, encourage, and share – Tychicus is to act as a paraclete to their hearts. • Paul’s description of Tychicus is heartwarming – beloved and faithful. • Paul’s closing comments hit all the hallmarks of Christian vocabulary – love, faith, encourage, peace. • Notice the 2x use of “love” in verse 24 God-Focused • Paul wraps the entire letter with the phrase “God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” – see 1:2 • Grace is bestowed upon those who love the Lord Jesus in an “incorruptible” way – they love in a way that constantly and sincerely reaches out to Christ in all of life’s circumstances (much the way a husband/wife cling to each other throughout their married journey) Applications • Notice the absence either of pride or of ambition. • Notice the way these believers speak to and about each other. • Notice the palpable sense of integrally connected community. • Notice Paul’s unflinching assumption that genuine faith demands total commitment.