EPHESUS - THE APOSTOLIC CHURCH - A.D. 30 - 100

The character of the church at Ephesus is a fair outline of the church period from A.D. 30 - 100. This is referred to as the beginning of the Apostolic Period. Of the seven churches mentioned in Revelation 2 and 3, this is the only one where reference is made to the apostles.This was the most desirable of all the churches or church ages. It was characterized by fervent evangelism. There is strong scriptural indication that the early church preached the gospel around the world. (Romans 10:18, 16:26; Colossians 1:6, 23). It was generally praiseworthy, but ecclesiastical pretension and departure from first love characterized the close of the Apostolic Period.

THE PARABLE OF THE SOWER (Matthew 13:3-9, 18-23)

There will be a time of sowing of the Word, organization, and evangelism throughout the age. The disciples are warned in this parable against the three great antagonists of the gospel:

1. The Devil (the birds – the evil one).

2. The Flesh (the scorching sun – tribulation or persecution).

3. The World (the thorns – cares of the world and the delight in riches).

MYSTERY OF GODLINESS (1 Timothy 3:16)

Godliness springs from the knowledge of the incarnation, death, resurrection and ascension of the Lord Jesus Christ….This is how God is known; and from abiding in this flows godliness – J.N. Darby

It is the manifestation of true and perfect righteousness in Jesus Christ.

©2012 Kenute P. Curry. All rights reserved.