Ephesians Part 1 • Dr. Matthew Richardson • Oct 2 - Oct 8
Sep 27, 2023
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Dr. Matthew Richardson, an expert on Paul's letter to the Ephesians, discusses topics such as conversion, revelation, and the mysteries of God. They explore the city of Ephesus, Roman armor, parallels between Paul and Mormon, and the concept of becoming a new creature. They also touch on predestination, magic vs mysteries, and the administration of the gospel. The chapter highlights the importance of staying focused and avoiding distractions, with anecdotes about squirrels and receiving homework from an apostle.
Conversion relies on revelation and God reveals mysteries through prophets, seers, and revelators.
Unity and inclusion are important in the Church and society, accepting others through the mysteries revealed by God.
Embrace revelation to gain understanding of God's mysteries and strive for Christlike love transcending prejudice and bias.
Deep dives
The Context and Flavor of Ephesus
Ephesus was a significant and influential city in its time, known for its trade, industry, and cultural diversity. It had a Roman influence, but was also heavily influenced by Greek philosophy and thought. The city's reputation for magic and mystery provided a unique backdrop for Paul's message. Paul's writing takes into account the specific circumstances and challenges faced by the converts in Ephesus, who were mostly Gentiles. He emphasizes that conversion is a personal and ongoing process, and that faith in Jesus Christ is essential for navigating the complexities of life in a world filled with competing influences.
The Relevance of Mysteries in Ephesians
Paul repeatedly discusses the concept of mysteries in Ephesians. In Greek, the word for mystery implies a secret that can be known and revealed. Paul explains that the mysteries of the gospel are not unknowable or inaccessible, but are revealed through prophets, seers, and revelators. These individuals are instrumental in providing guidance and helping the saints navigate the challenges of their time. Paul emphasizes the importance of unity of faith and the need to stay grounded on the foundation of Christ amidst the ever-changing and confusing world.
The Call to Have Faith and Stay Committed
Paul encourages the converts in Ephesus to have faith in Christ and remain committed to their journey of conversion. He acknowledges that the path of discipleship may not always be easy or predictable, but reminds them that faith is about giving their all to God without knowing all the details. Paul highlights the significance of personal faith, the leadership of prophets, and the wisdom of bishops and church leaders to guide and strengthen individuals through their personal and collective crises and decisions. He ultimately urges the saints in Ephesus to deepen their faith and grow in Christ-like love for one another.
The Revelation of Mysteries
In this podcast episode, the speaker discusses the concept of mysteries and their revelation. The podcast refers to Ephesians and emphasizes the idea that God has made known the mysteries of His will, revealing them through prophets, seers, and revelators. The speaker highlights the importance of revelation in understanding and coming to know these mysteries. They note that mysteries can be known through patient and humble faith, and that sometimes the answers come at the right time. The speaker also discusses the significance of prophets, seers, and revelators in receiving and sharing these revelations. The primary message conveyed is the importance of seeking and embracing revelation to gain understanding of the mysteries of God.
The Great Mystery of Unity
Another key topic addressed in the podcast is the idea of unity and inclusion in the context of the Church and society. Drawing from Paul's teachings in Ephesians, the speaker highlights the mystery of how Gentiles were accepted into the household of faith through revelation. They emphasize the call to treat others with love, kindness, and respect, regardless of differences. The speaker references the teachings of President Nelson, who emphasizes the importance of treating each other in a higher, holier way and eliminating prejudice, condemnation, and contention. The podcast underscores the message that unity and acceptance are crucial in creating a welcoming and inclusive community. It encourages listeners to embrace the teachings and revelations of prophets, seers, and revelators, and strive for a Christlike love that transcends prejudice and bias.
How does conversion rely upon revelation and revelators? Dr. Matthew Richardson examines Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, discusses conversion, and how God reveals mysteries through revelation to His children.
14:07 Dr. Richardson shares a personal story about his dad’s letters
15:47 Becoming a new creature
17:14 Predestination and the fabric of conversion
22:49 Magic vs mysteries
24:59 Conversion and great mysteries
27:25 God shares all
29:04 “Unfolding the Mysteries through Revelation”
30:40 Lehi as a “visionary man”
34:58 Paul is a “prisoner of Christ”
38:01 God’s answers aren’t fast
40:17 Dr. Richardson shares a personal story about love
44:07 The dispensation of the fulness of times
47:02 Administration of the gospel
49:46 the last days and “knowledge of truth”
51:17 Distractions
52:42 Crisis vs decision
54:56 Dr. Richardson shares a story about Elder Eyring
57:59 Conversion and commitment
58:58 Dr. Richardson shares a story about his recent mission
59:42 Marriage vows and misunderstanding Paul’s words
1:04:52 Children of light and reverence
1:08:21 Prophets are for our benefit
1:11:16 Dr. Richardson shares a personal story about President Nelson
1:12:40 No more strangers in Christ and remove bias and prejudice
1:16:22 End of Part 1–Dr. Matthew Richardson
Thanks to the followHIM team: Shannon Sorensen: Cofounder, Executive Producer, Sponsor David & Verla Sorensen: Sponsors Dr. Hank Smith: Co-host John Bytheway: Co-host David Perry: Producer Kyle Nelson: Marketing, Sponsor Lisa Spice: Client Relations, Editor, Show Notes Jamie Neilson: Social Media, Graphic Design Annabelle Sorensen: Creative Project Manager Will Stoughton: Video Editor Krystal Roberts: Translation Team, English & French Transcripts, Website Ariel Cuadra: Spanish Transcripts
"Let Zion in Her Beauty Rise" by Marshall McDonald https://www.marshallmcdonaldmusic.com
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