The Origin of the Church in Colossae (Arnold)

Have you ever wondered how the church in first century Colossae was planted? Do you know much about the background of the Christians to whom Paul was writing in his letter we call "Colossians"? Interestingly, the NT doesn't say anywhere that Paul went to the city of Colossae. Perhaps he did, perhaps he didn't. So …

The Defeat of the “Strong Man” (Arnold)

 When Jesus was answering the Pharisees' diabolical accusation that he cast out demons "by the ruler of demons" (ἐν τῷ ἄρχοντι τῶν δαιμονίων) he gave an illustration:  "...No one is able to enter a strong man’s house and steal his property unless he first ties up the strong man. Then he can thoroughly plunder his …

Slavery Compared

The discussion of slavery and Christianity is a difficult and sensitive issue.  I don’t have the time or space to go into all the details here, but one resource that is helpful in this area is Clinton Arnold’s commentary on Ephesians, specifically his essay in it called, “The Distinctive Features of Roman-Era Slavery” (pp. 419-422).  …

Sexual Impurity: Let It Not Be Named Among You

I’ve been enjoying Clinton Arnold’s commentary on Ephesians.  He explains grammar and syntax very clearly, is level-headed, is not long-winded, and is pastoral.  While studying Ephesians 5:1-5 this week in sermon preparation, I found a helpful explanation of Ephesians 5:3 (but sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, …

Great is Artemis of the Epheisans! (Acts 19:34)

Clinton Arnold’s ECNT (Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament) on Ephesians is one of my favorite newer commentaries on this epistle of Paul.  It is laid out well, easy to read and follow, and it has great features (i.e. outlines, historical context sections, etc.) that make it a useful tool for studies in Ephesians.  In …