Introduction
This epistle filled with much exhortation and edification, was undoubtedly penned for a devoted congregation, who needed to be taught of the more salient features of the Christian walk, in order to grow even more in maturity, and to be cautious of all the wiles of Satan’s kingdom, which operate through human agents planted in the ecclesia. After brief salutations, Paul immediately delves into revealing the deity of Yeshua and His headship over all things created, and the need to walk in His steps for Holy Spirit gifts and power to manifest within us.
He reminds them of, and outlines the mystery of the ages, of which Paul was chiefly sent to preach to the Gentiles through much conflict. He warns them to remain in Messiah in every waking moment to be protected by the Holy Spirit from the ever-present danger of deceit and beguilement lurking in the corridors of the ecclesia, which preys on them from both the pharisaic Judaizers on one extreme, and the pagan Christians who promote syncretism within the ecclesia. He portrays the true purpose of Yeshua’s crucifixion, and we attain great insight into what was truly abolished and nailed to the cross.
I pray that this teaching shall leave no shadow of a doubt that it was not the law/Torah that was nailed to the cross and shall give scriptural proof to blow away this gross misconception that has pervaded Christendom. Paul teaches the ecclesia the manner in which fulfilment of love for one another should be conducted between each individual member, between husband and wife and between slave and master. He closes of by stressing the importance of prayer, and gives salutations to fellow bondmen who have played significant roles in spreading the true gospel, both Jew and Gentile.