December 3, 2025
What does Ephesians tell us about our wealth in Christ?
Ephesians 1-3
Robin Clark
Big Book Idea
As believers, God has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in Christ.
Key Verse | Ephesians 1:7
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace.
Ephesians 1-3
Chapter 1
Greeting
1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God,
To the saints who are in Ephesus, and are faithful 1 1:1 Some manuscripts saints who are also faithful (omitting in Ephesus) in Christ Jesus:
2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Spiritual Blessings in Christ
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, 4 even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love 5 he predestined us 2 1:5 Or before him in love, 5having predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, 6 to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved. 7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, 8 which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight 9 making known 3 1:9 Or he lavished upon us in all wisdom and insight, making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ 10 as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.
11 In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will, 12 so that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory. 13 In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, 14 who is the guarantee 4 1:14 Or down payment of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, 5 1:14 Or until God redeems his possession to the praise of his glory.
Thanksgiving and Prayer
15 For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love 6 1:15 Some manuscripts omit your love toward all the saints, 16 I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, 17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, 18 having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, 19 and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might 20 that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, 21 far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come. 22 And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, 23 which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.
Chapter 2
By Grace Through Faith
1 And you were dead in the trespasses and sins 2 in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience— 3 among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body 7 2:3 Greek flesh and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. 8 2:3 Greek like the rest 4 But 9 2:4 Or And God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved— 6 and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast. 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.
One in Christ
11 Therefore remember that at one time you Gentiles in the flesh, called “the uncircumcision” by what is called the circumcision, which is made in the flesh by hands— 12 remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. 14 For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility 15 by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, 16 and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility. 17 And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near. 18 For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. 19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, 10 2:19 Or sojourners but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. 22 In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by 11 2:22 Or in the Spirit.
Chapter 3
The Mystery of the Gospel Revealed
1 For this reason I, Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus on behalf of you Gentiles— 2 assuming that you have heard of the stewardship of God's grace that was given to me for you, 3 how the mystery was made known to me by revelation, as I have written briefly. 4 When you read this, you can perceive my insight into the mystery of Christ, 5 which was not made known to the sons of men in other generations as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit. 6 This mystery is 12 3:6 The words This mystery is are inferred from verse 4 that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.
7 Of this gospel I was made a minister according to the gift of God's grace, which was given me by the working of his power. 8 To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, 9 and to bring to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in 13 3:9 Or by God, who created all things, 10 so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. 11 This was according to the eternal purpose that he has realized in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12 in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through our faith in him. 13 So I ask you not to lose heart over what I am suffering for you, which is your glory.
Prayer for Spiritual Strength
14 For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, 15 from whom every family 14 3:15 Or from whom all fatherhood; the Greek word patria in verse 15 is closely related to the word for Father in verse 14 in heaven and on earth is named, 16 that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, 19 and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.
20 Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
Footnotes
[1] 1:1 Some manuscripts saints who are also faithful (omitting in Ephesus)[2] 1:5 Or before him in love, 5having predestined us
[3] 1:9 Or he lavished upon us in all wisdom and insight, making known . . .
[4] 1:14 Or down payment
[5] 1:14 Or until God redeems his possession
[6] 1:15 Some manuscripts omit your love
[7] 2:3 Greek flesh
[8] 2:3 Greek like the rest
[9] 2:4 Or And
[10] 2:19 Or sojourners
[11] 2:22 Or in
[12] 3:6 The words This mystery is are inferred from verse 4
[13] 3:9 Or by
[14] 3:15 Or from whom all fatherhood; the Greek word patria in verse 15 is closely related to the word for Father in verse 14
Table of Contents
Introduction to Ephesians
Timeline
Author, Date, and Recipients
The apostle Paul wrote this letter to the churches in Ephesus and the surrounding region c. A.D. 62 while imprisoned in Rome (Acts 28). During this time he also wrote Colossians and Philemon. All three letters were sent with Tychicus and Onesimus.
Theme
There are three main themes of Ephesians: (1) Christ has reconciled all creation to himself and to God; (2) Christ has united people from all nations to himself and to one another in his church; and (3) Christians must live as new people.
Purpose
Ephesians offers general instruction in the truths of God’s redemptive work in Christ; the unity of the church among diverse peoples; and proper conduct in the church, the home, and the world.
Key Themes
- All people are by nature spiritually dead. They disobey God’s law and are ruled by Satan (1:7; 2:1–3, 5, 11–12).
- God predestined his people to redemption and holiness in Christ (1:3–14; 2:4, 8–9).
- God’s rich mercy in Christ has saved sinners. This free gift is by grace through faith alone (1:7–8; 2:4–14).
- Jesus’ saving work was part of redeeming a fallen creation for God. For this he deserves glory, honor, and authority in this age and the next (1:15–23; 3:1–13).
- Jesus unites Jews and Gentiles into his one body, the church, as a new creation (1:23; 2:10–22; 3:1–21; 4:1–6).
- Christ’s people are saved to new lives of holiness in thought, word, and deed. They must reject their old, sinful lifestyles (4:1–3, 17–32; 5:1–20).
- Holiness in life includes submission to proper authorities, in home and family life, and those in authority must care for those in submission to them (5:21–6:9).
- Jesus has given powerful gifts to his church. These bring unity, maturity, and defense against the devil and his allies (4:7–16; 6:10–19).
Outline
- Introduction (1:1–14)
- Paul’s Prayer of Thanksgiving (1:15–23)
- Salvation by Grace through Faith (2:1–10)
- Unity and the Peace of Christ (2:11–22)
- Revelation of the Gospel Mystery (3:1–13)
- Paul’s Prayer for Strength and Insight (3:14–21)
- Unity of the Body of Christ (4:1–16)
- Paul’s Testimony (4:17–24)
- Encouragement for a Holy Lifestyle (4:25–32)
- New Life in Love (5:1–20)
- Submission to One Another (5:21–6:9)
- The Whole Armor of God (6:10–20)
- Conclusion (6:21–24)
The Setting of Ephesians
c. A.D. 62
Ephesus was a wealthy port city in the Roman province of Asia. It was a center of learning and was near several key land routes. Paul probably wrote his letter to the Ephesians while under house arrest in Rome (Acts 28).
Fact: What happens next?
What happens next? Acts ends with Paul serving Christ from within a Roman prison. During this time, he wrote Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. According to the church historian Eusebius, Paul was released, then arrested a second time, and eventually martyred in Rome.
Fact: Visions
The apostle Paul received special visions from God (see Acts 22:17–21; 2 Cor. 12:1–7; Gal. 2:2). In his first vision, he saw the Lord Jesus (Acts 9:1–7). One of the mysteries God later revealed in a vision was that the gospel was for both Jews and Gentiles (Eph. 3:6).
Fact: Temple
The temple was the means through which God dwelt with his people in meaningful fellowship (1:13; 2:4–5). It also brought glory and pleasure to God (1:8). Jesus said that he was the final temple, restoring fellowship once more between God and his people (John 2:19–22; Eph. 2:19–22).
Fact: The Dead Sea
The Dead Sea is the saltiest body of water in the world. Nearly 35 percent salt, it is six times saltier than the ocean and twice as salty the Great Salt Lake in Utah. In Ezekiel’s vision, the water from the temple turned the Dead Sea into fresh water (47:8). This is a picture of how the Lord Jesus Christ can give life to those who were dead in sin (Eph. 2:1–5).
Fact: Letter to Laodicea
Paul’s letter to Laodicea was probably lost, though some think it could be the same letter as Ephesians. Regardless, Paul expected that his letter to the Colossians would also be read aloud to the Laodiceans (4:15–16). Laodicea and Colossae were about 9 miles (14.5 km) apart (see also Rev. 1:11; 3:14).
Fact: Cornerstone
The cornerstone (118:22) is the large shaped stone at the corner of the building’s foundation. It is essential to a structure’s stability. Several NT writers compared Jesus Christ to a cornerstone (e.g., Matt. 21:42; Eph. 2:20; 1 Pet. 2:4–8).
Fact: Ephesus
Ephesus was one of the largest cities in the Roman Empire and the primary port for Asia Minor. It boasted an advanced system of aqueducts, a 25,000-seat amphitheater, a major library with more than 12,000 scrolls, and the Temple of Artemis (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World).
Fact: The household of God
Paul often describes the church as the household of God (3:4–5, 12, 15; see Gal. 6:10; Eph. 2:19). This means that the church is God’s family, and its members are brothers and sisters. Also, just like a family, there are certain roles and responsibilities for its members.
New Testament Timeline
The following chart provides a detailed New Testament timeline. Most of the dates can be determined precisely by correlating biblical events with extensive historical documents and archaeological evidence. Dates with an asterisk denote approximate or alternative dates. The extensive external confirmation of New Testament dates and events encourages great confidence in the truth and historicity of both the Old and New Testaments.
| 5 B.C.* | Jesus is born in Bethlehem. |
| 4 B.C. | Jesus’ family flees to Egypt to escape from Herod’s plan to kill Jesus (Matt. 2:13–18); Herod dies; Judas (of Sepphoris) and others rebel, requiring the Syrian Governor Varus to intervene throughout Palestine; Sepphoris, a city four miles from Nazareth, is destroyed by Roman soldiers; Judea, Samaria, and Idumea are given to Herod’s son, Archelaus; Galilee and Perea are given to his son Antipas; Jesus’ family, after returning from Egypt, resides in Nazareth (Matt. 2:19–23), a small village in southern Galilee. |
| A.D. 6 | Archelaus is exiled for incompetence; Judea becomes a Roman province; Judas the Galilean (of Gamla) leads a revolt against the tax census; the governor of Syria, Quirinius (A.D. 6–7), appoints Annas high priest (6–15). |
| 8* | Jesus (age 12) interacts with the teachers in the temple (Luke 2:41–50). |
| 8*–28/30 | Jesus works as a carpenter in Nazareth (Matt. 13:55; Mark 6:3) and probably in neighboring villages and Sepphoris, which was being rebuilt. |
| 28–29* | John the Baptist begins his ministry around the Jordan River (John 1:19). |
| 28–30* | Jesus begins his ministry in Judea, but soon focuses his efforts in Galilee. In Jerusalem, Pharisees (like Gamaliel) train disciples (like Paul) in their tradition. They send a delegation to Galilee, but the delegation rejects Jesus’ teaching. In Alexandria, Philo (20 B.C.–A.D. 50) attempts to unify Greek philosophy with Hebrew Scripture. |
| 33 (or 30) | Jesus returns to Judea, is crucified, and resurrected. James the brother of Jesus becomes a believer after witnessing the resurrected Jesus (1 Cor. 15:7; Acts 12:17). Jesus ascends to the Father’s right hand (Acts 1). Jesus’ first followers receive the Holy Spirit at Pentecost and begin to proclaim the gospel (Acts 2). |
| 33/34* | Paul witnesses the resurrected Lord on the way to Damascus and is commissioned as an apostle to the nations (Acts 9; Gal. 1:15–16). |
| 34–37 | Paul ministers in Damascus and Arabia (Acts 9:19–22; 26:20; Gal. 1:16–18). |
| 36 | Pilate loses his position for incompetence. |
| 36/37* | Paul meets with Peter in Jerusalem (Acts 9:26–30; Gal. 1:18). |
| 37–45 | Paul ministers in Syria, Tarsus, and Cilicia (Acts 9:30; Gal. 1:21). |
| 38* | Peter witnesses to Cornelius (Acts 10). |
| 39 | Antipas is exiled. |
| 40–45* | James writes his letter to believers outside Palestine (see James 1:1). |
| 41–44 | Agrippa, Herod the Great’s grandson, rules Palestine; he kills James the brother of John (Acts 12:2) and imprisons Peter (Acts 12:3). |
| 42–44 | Paul receives his “thorn in the flesh” (2 Cor. 12:7). |
| 44 | Peter leaves Jerusalem; Agrippa is killed by an “angel of the Lord” (Acts 12:23). |
| 44–46 | Theudas persuades many Jews to sell their possessions and follow him into the wilderness where he claimed he would miraculously divide the Jordan River; Roman procurator Fadus dispatches his cavalry and beheads the would-be messiah. |
| 44–47* | Paul’s Second Visit to Jerusalem; time of famine (Acts 11:27–30; Gal. 2:1–10). |
| 46–47 | Paul’s First Missionary Journey (with Barnabas) from Antioch to Cyprus, Antioch in Pisidia, Iconium, and Lystra (Acts 13:4–14:26). |
| 46–48 | Roman procurator Tiberius Alexander crucifies two sons (Jacob and Simon) of Judas the Galilean. |
| 48* | Paul writes Galatians, perhaps from Antioch (see Acts 14:26–28). |
| 48–49* | Paul and Peter return to Jerusalem for the Apostolic Council, which, with the assistance of James, frees Gentile believers from the requirement of circumcision in opposition to Pharisaic believers (Acts 15:1–29); Paul and Barnabas return to Antioch (Acts 15:30) but split over a dispute about John Mark (Acts 15:36–40). |
| 48/49–51* | Paul’s Second Missionary Journey (with Silas) from Antioch to Syria, Cilicia, southern Galatia, Macedonia, notably Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea; and then on to Achaia, notably Athens and Corinth (Acts 15:36–18:22). |
| 49 | Claudius expels Jews from Rome because of conflicts about Jesus (Acts 18:2); Paul befriends two refugees, Priscilla and Aquila, in Corinth (Acts 18:2–3). |
| 49–51* | Paul writes 1–2 Thessalonians from Corinth (Acts 18:1, 11; also compare Acts 18:5 with 1 Thess. 1:8). |
| 51 | Paul appears before Gallio, proconsul of Achaia (Acts 18:12–17). |
| 50–54* | Peter comes to Rome. |
| 52–57* | Paul’s Third Missionary Journey from Antioch to Galatia, Phrygia, Ephesus, Macedonia, Greece (Acts 18:23–21:17). |
| 52–55 | Paul ministers in Ephesus (Acts 19:1–20). |
| 53–55* | Mark writes his Gospel, containing Peter’s memories of Jesus; perhaps within a decade, Matthew publishes his Gospel, which relies on Mark and other sources. Paul writes 1 Corinthians from Ephesus (Acts 19:10). |
| 54 | Claudius dies (edict exiling Jews repealed); Priscilla and Aquila return to Rome and host a church in their home (see Rom. 16:3–5). |
| 54–68 | Nero reigns. |
| 55–56* | Paul writes 2 Corinthians from Macedonia (Acts 20:1, 3; 2 Cor. 1:16; 2:13; 7:5; 8:1; 9:2, 4; see 1 Cor. 16:5). |
| 57* | Paul winters in Corinth and writes Romans (Acts 20:3; see Rom. 16:1–2; also see Rom. 16:23 with 1 Cor. 1:14); travels to Jerusalem (Acts 21:1–16), visits with James the brother of Jesus (Acts 21:17–26), and is arrested (Acts 21:27–36; 22:22–29). |
| 57–59 | Paul is imprisoned and transferred to Caesarea (Acts 23:23–24, 33–34). |
| 60 | Paul begins voyage to Rome (Acts 27:1–2); he is shipwrecked for three months on the island of Malta (Acts 27:39–28:10). |
| 60–70* | Letter to the Hebrews is written. |
| 62 | James the brother of the Lord is executed by the Sadducean high priest Ananus. |
| 62–63* | Peter writes his first letter (1 Peter) from Rome (1 Pet. 5:13). |
| 62* | Paul arrives in Rome and remains under house arrest (Acts 28:16–31); he writes Ephesians (see verses for Colossians), Philippians (Phil. 1:7, 13, 17; 4:22), Colossians (Col. 4:3, 10, 18; see Acts 27:2 with Col. 4:10), Philemon (see Philem. 23 with Col. 1:7; Philem. 2 with Col. 4:17; Philem. 24 with Col. 4:10; also see Col. 4:9). Luke, Paul’s physician and companion (see Col. 4:14), writes Luke and Acts. |
| 62–64 | Paul is released, extends his mission (probably reaching Spain), writes 1 Timothy from Macedonia (see 1 Tim. 1:3) and Titus from Nicopolis (Titus 3:12); he is rearrested in Rome (2 Tim. 1:16–17). |
| 63–64 | Work on the temple complex is completed. |
| 64 (July 19) | Fire in Rome; Nero blames and kills many Christians. |
| 64–67* | Peter writes his second letter ( 2 Peter). Jude writes his letter. Paul writes 2 Timothy (see 2 Tim. 4:6–8). Paul and Peter are martyred in Rome. |
| 66 | First Jewish-Roman War begins with a riot between Greeks and Jews at Caesarea; Roman procurator Gesius Florus (A.D. 64–66) is murdered and a Roman garrison wiped out; Menahem, son or grandson of Judas the Galilean, murders the high priest Ananias and seizes control of the temple; Nero dispatches Vespasian with three legions. |
| 67* | Romans destroy the Qumran community, who beforehand hid the so-called Dead Sea Scrolls in nearby caves; the church in Jerusalem flees to Pella (Matt. 24:15–16; Mark 13:14; Luke 21:20–22); John migrates to Ephesus with Mary, Jesus’ mother. |
| 68 | Nero commits suicide; year of the three emperors. |
| 69 | Rebellion quelled in Galilee and Samaria; Vespasian summoned back to Rome to become emperor. |
| 70 (Aug. 30) | Titus, Vespasian’s son, after a five-month siege of Jerusalem, destroys the temple after desecrating it; the temple’s menorah, Torah, and veil are removed and later put on display in a victory parade in Rome; the influence of the Sadducees ends; the Pharisee Johanan ben Zakkai escapes and convinces the Romans to allow him and others to settle in Jamnia, where they found a school. |
| 73 (May 2)* | Before Roman general Silva breaches the fortress atop Masada following a two-year siege, 936 Jewish rebels commit suicide. |
| 75 | Titus has an affair with the Jewish princess Berenice, sister of Agrippa II (Acts 25:13, 23), whom he later abandons because of the scandal. |
| 77 | Pliny the Elder writes Natural History. |
| 77–78 | Josephus publishes Jewish War in Rome. |
| 79 | Pompeii and Herculaneum are destroyed by eruption of Vesuvius; Pliny the Elder dies attempting to investigate. |
| 81 | The Arch of Titus, celebrating his destruction of the temple, is erected in Rome. |
| 81–96 | Domitian, Titus’s brother, persecutes Christians among the Roman nobility, including his own relatives Clemens and Domitilla. |
| 85–95* | John writes his letters (1–3 John), probably in Ephesus. |
| 89–95* | John writes his Gospel, probably in Ephesus. |
| 93–94 | Josephus publishes Jewish Antiquities in Rome. |
| 94 | Domitian exiles philosophers from Rome. |
| 95* | Amidst persecution, Clement, a leader in the Roman church, writes his Letter to the Corinthians (1 Clement) appealing for peace between the young men and elders. |
| 95–96* | Exiled by Domitian to Patmos, John writes Revelation (Rev. 1:9). |
| 96–98 | Nerva, the first of five “good” emperors, ends official persecution. |
* denotes approximate date; / signifies either/or
Major Events in the Life of the Apostle Paul
| A.D. 5–10? | Born in Tarsus, an Israelite from the tribe of Benjamin and a Roman citizen (Acts 22:3, 28; Rom. 11:1; Phil. 3:5); raised in either Jerusalem (Acts 22:3?) or Tarsus |
| 15–20? | Trained as a Pharisee by Gamaliel I (Acts 22:3; 26:5; Gal. 1:14; Phil. 3:5–6) |
| 30/33? | Death, resurrection of Christ |
| 31–34 | Present at Stephen’s stoning; persecuted Christians (Acts 7:58; 8:1; 22:4a; 26:9–11; 1 Cor. 15:9; Gal. 1:13; Phil. 3:6) |
| 33/34* | Converted, called, and commissioned on the way to Damascus (Acts 9:1–19; 22:6–11; 26:12–18; Gal. 1:15–16) |
| 33/34–36/37 | Stays in Damascus a short time (Acts 9:19b); leaves for Arabia (2 Cor. 11:32; Gal. 1:17); returns to Damascus (Gal. 1:17; Acts 9:20–22?); escapes through city wall to avoid arrest (Acts 9:23–24; 2 Cor. 11:32–33) |
| 36/37* | Meets with Peter, sees James, in Jerusalem (Acts 9:26–30; Gal. 1:18) Hellenists seek to kill him; flees to Tarsus (Acts 9:28–30; Gal. 1:21) |
| 37–45 | Ministers in Syria/Cilicia (2 Cor. 11:22–27?) |
| 44–47* | Ministers with Barnabas in Antioch (Acts 11:25–26) Second Visit to Jerusalem; time of famine (Acts 11:27–30; Gal. 2:1–10) |
| 46–47 | First Missionary Journey (Acts 13:4–14:26): 1.5 years? |
| 48* | With Barnabas, spends “no little time” in Antioch (Acts 14:28; Gal. 2:11–14); writes Galatians |
| 48–49* | Returns to Jerusalem for the apostolic council (Acts 15); Paul and Barnabas return to Antioch (Acts 15:30–33), but dispute over John Mark causes them to part ways (Acts 15:36–41) |
| 48/49–51* | Second Missionary Journey (Acts 15:36–18:22): 2.5 years? |
| 49 | Paul and Silas travel to southern Galatia through Asia Minor, on to Macedonia (Philippi [1 Thess. 2:2]); Thessalonica [1 Thess. 2:2; Phil. 4:15–16]; and Berea [Acts 17:10–15]), and then to Achaia (Athens [1 Thess. 3:1] and Corinth [2 Cor. 11:7–9]) |
| 49–51* | Spends 1.5 years in Corinth (Acts 18:11); appears before Gallio (Acts 18:12–17); writes 1 and 2 Thessalonians |
| 51 | Returns to Jerusalem? (Acts 18:22) |
| 52–57* | Third Missionary Journey (Acts 18:23–21:17): 5 years? |
| 52 | Travels to Antioch, spends “some time”; travels through Galatia and Phrygia (Acts 18:23) |
| 52–55 | Arrives in Ephesus (Acts 19:1; 1 Cor. 16:8); ministers for three years (Acts 20:31) and writes 1 Corinthians; makes brief, “painful visit” to Corinth (2 Cor. 2:1), then returns to Ephesus and writes “severe letter” (now lost) to Corinth (2 Cor. 2:3–4; 7:8–16) |
| 55–56* | Travels north to Macedonia, meets Titus (Acts 20:1; 2 Cor. 2:12–13); writes 2 Corinthians |
| 57* | Winters in Corinth (Acts 20:2–3; 2 Cor. 9:4), writes to the Romans from Corinth; travels to Jerusalem; is arrested (Acts 21:27–36) |
| 57–59 | Transferred as prisoner to Caesarea, stays for two years (Acts 24:27) |
| 60* | Voyage to Rome; shipwrecked, spends three months on Malta (Acts 28:11); finally arrives in Rome |
| 62* | Under house-arrest in Rome (Acts 28:30–31), writes Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, Philemon |
| 62–67 | Released from house-arrest in Rome, travels to Spain (?), writes 1 Timothy (from Macedonia?) and Titus (from Nicopolis); is rearrested, writes 2 Timothy from Rome, is martyred |
* denotes approximate date; / signifies either/or
The Authentication of Paul’s Letters
In 2:2 Paul warns against letters that claim to come from him but do not. In 11 places in his letters Paul either identifies himself or gives his signature. This supports the conclusion that all of the NT letters attributed to Paul are in fact authentic, rather than having been written by someone else in Paul’s name.
| 1 Cor. 16:21 | I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand |
| 2 Cor. 10:1 | I, Paul, myself entreat you |
| Gal. 5:2 | Look: I, Paul, say to you |
| Gal. 6:11 | See with what large letters I am writing to you with my own hand |
| Eph. 3:1 | I, Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus |
| Col. 1:23 | of which I, Paul, became a minister |
| Col. 4:18 | I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand |
| 1 Thess. 2:18 | we wanted to come to you—I, Paul, again and again |
| 2 Thess. 2:2 | not to be . . . alarmed . . . by . . . a letter seeming to be from us |
| 2 Thess. 3:17 | I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. This is the sign of genuineness in every letter of mine; it is the way I write |
| Philem. 19 | I, Paul, write this with my own hand |
Regeneration in the New Testament
| John 1:13 | “born . . . of God” |
| John 3:3 | “born again” |
| John 3:5 | “born of water and the Spirit” |
| John 3:6 | “born of the Spirit” |
| John 3:7 | “born again” |
| John 3:8 | “born of the Spirit” |
| Eph. 2:4–5 | “God . . . even when we were dead . . . made us alive together with Christ” |
| Col. 2:13 | “you, who were dead . . . God made alive together with him” |
| Titus 3:5 | “he saved us . . . by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit” |
| James 1:18 | “he brought us forth by the word of truth” |
| 1 Pet. 1:3 | “he has caused us to be born again” |
| 1 Pet. 1:23 | “you have been born again” |
| 1 John 2:29 | “everyone who practices righteousness has been born of him” |
| 1 John 3:9 | “No one born of God makes a practice of sinning” |
| 1 John 4:7 | “whoever loves has been born of God” |
| 1 John 5:1 | “Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God” |
| 1 John 5:4 | “everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world” |
| 1 John 5:18 | “everyone who has been born of God does not keep on sinning” |
The Epistles
| Book | Author | Date | Recipients | Place of Writing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| James | James | 40–45 | Jewish Christians in or near Palestine | Jerusalem? |
| Galatians | Paul | 48 | South Galatian churches | Syrian Antioch |
| 1 Thessalonians | Paul | 49–51 | Church in Thessalonica | Corinth |
| 2 Thessalonians | Paul | 49–51 | Church in Thessalonica | Corinth |
| 1 Corinthians | Paul | 53–55 | Church in Corinth | Ephesus |
| 2 Corinthians | Paul | 55–56 | Church in Corinth | Macedonia |
| Romans | Paul | 57 | Church in Rome | Corinth |
| Philippians | Paul | 62 | Church in Philippi | Rome |
| Colossians | Paul | 62 | Church in Colossae | Rome |
| Philemon | Paul | 62 | Philemon | Rome |
| Ephesians | Paul | 62 | Churches in Asia Minor (circular letter?) | Rome |
| 1 Timothy | Paul | 62–64 | Timothy | Macedonia? |
| Titus | Paul | 62–64 | Titus | Nicopolis |
| 1 Peter | Peter | 62–63 | Churches in Roman provinces in Asia Minor | Rome |
| 2 Peter | Peter | 64–67 | Churches in Roman provinces in Asia Minor? | Rome |
| 2 Timothy | Paul | 64–67 | Timothy | Rome |
| Jude | Jude | Mid–60s | Jewish Christians in Egypt? Asia Minor? Antioch? | Unknown |
| Hebrews | Unknown | 60–70 | Jewish Christians in Rome or in or near Palestine | Unknown |
| 1 John | John | 85–95 | Churches near Ephesus? | Ephesus |
| 2 John | John | 85–95 | Church or churches near Ephesus | Ephesus |
| 3 John | John | 85–95 | Gaius | Ephesus |
Trinitarian Formulas and Expressions in Ephesians
| Reference | Father | Son | Spirit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1:3 | Blessed be the God and Father | of our Lord Jesus Christ | every spiritual blessing |
| 1:11–13 | him who works all things according to . . . his will | to hope in Christ | sealed with the promised Holy Spirit |
| 1:17 | God . . . the Father of glory | our Lord Jesus Christ | a spirit of wisdom and of revelation |
| 2:18 | access . . . to the Father | through him | in one Spirit |
| 2:22 | a dwelling place for God | In him | by the Spirit |
| 3:2–5 | the stewardship of God’s grace | the mystery of Christ | revealed . . . by the Spirit |
| 3:14–17 | the Father . . . the riches of his glory | so that Christ may dwell in your hearts | through his Spirit |
| 4:4–6 | one God and Father | one Lord | one Spirit |
| 5:18–20 | giving thanks . . . to God the Father | in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ | be filled with the Spirit |
Christ and the Church
Paul describes the relationship between Christ and the church as a profound mystery (5:32)—a hidden plan of God now revealed and fulfilled in Christ Jesus.
| Christ is the head of the church | 1:22–23; 4:15; 5:23 |
| Christ is the cornerstone of the church | 2:20 |
| Christ is the Savior and sanctifier of the church | 5:23, 26–27 |
| Christ gives the church ministry workers | 4:11–16 |
| Christ loved and sacrificed himself for the church | 5:25 |
| Christ nourishes and cherishes the church | 5:29 |
| the church and her members dwell and grow in Christ | 2:21–22; 4:15 |
| the church is a means through which God manifests his manifold wisdom | 3:10 |
| the church submits to Christ | 5:24 |
| the church is Christ’s body, and individual believers are members of his body | 1:22–23; 3:6; 4:4, 16; 5:23, 30 |
Principles of Marriage
| Principles of Marriage | Scripture Reference |
|---|---|
| Marriage is part of the “mystery” of God’s will | Eph. 1:9; 3:3; 5:32 |
| Paul’s instructions are directed to Spirit-filled believers | Eph. 5:18 |
| Wives are called to submit, men are called to love | Eph. 5:21–33 |
| Headship entails authority | Eph. 5:23–24 (compare Eph. 1:22; 4:15) |
| Submission is still required of Christian wives | Eph. 5:22; Col. 3:18 (compare Gen. 2:18; 1 Cor. 11:3) |
| Marriage involves spiritual warfare, which requires husbands and wives to put on the full armor of God | Eph. 6:10–18 |
Micah
Rather than being identified by his father or family, Micah is identified by a location: he is called “Micah of Moresheth” (1:1). The town was 22 miles (35 km) southwest of Jerusalem. Micah’s call to prophetic ministry is not recorded, and he is never referred to as “prophet,” but he is said to be speaking according to the “Spirit of the LORD” (3:8). The name “Micah” means “Who is like Yahweh?” Similarly, at the end of the book, Micah asks, “Who is a God like you?” (7:18). Both Micah’s name and his writings emphasize the matchless character and actions of the Lord. Micah announces God’s judgment on Israel for its unfaithfulness, yet he also proclaims God’s promise of great blessing through a Messiah—a prophecy fulfilled in Jesus Christ (5:1–15; Eph. 1:3–14). (Micah 6:8)
Zechariah
Zechariah was both a priest and a prophet. He was a member of a prominent family who returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel. Like Haggai, who ministered during the same time, Zechariah spoke about the need to rebuild the temple. He reassured Judah that if they would heed the words of the prophets and turn to the Lord, God would bless his people for their faithfulness. God would trouble the nations who were enjoying rest and grant rest to his troubled people, making Jerusalem once again the center of the world. Zechariah also prophesied about the coming of the Messiah. Matthew, Mark, John, Ephesians, and Revelation are among the NT books that quote Zechariah, recognizing Jesus as the fulfillment of his prophecies. (Zechariah 8:1–8)
Eph. 1:1 apostle. See note on Rom. 1:1. Paul expresses his authority simply but powerfully: he is an apostle of Christ Jesus. In Ephesians, Paul uses the term saints (“holy ones”; “consecrated people”) for all members of the church (Eph. 1:15, 18; 2:19; 3:8; 4:12; 6:18). They are called to be holy (1:4; 5:3). in Ephesus. These words are missing in several early manuscripts, but they are probably original to the letter. Some scholars believe Ephesians was intended to be shared with churches in the area; they suggest that the words “in Ephesus” were deleted in the copies that were sent outside of Ephesus. Ephesus was an important port city and was the capital of the Roman province of Asia. It was home to the temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world.
Fact: Ephesus
Ephesus was one of the largest cities in the Roman Empire and the primary port for Asia Minor. It boasted an advanced system of aqueducts, a 25,000-seat amphitheater, a major library with more than 12,000 scrolls, and the Temple of Artemis (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World).
Eph. 1:3 in Christ. All God’s blessings are ours “in Christ” (vv. 3, 9), “in the Beloved” (v. 6), and “in him” (vv. 4, 7, 11, 13). every spiritual blessing. The saving gifts of God are given by the Holy Spirit. heavenly places. The Christian’s future home (1 Cor. 15:40, 44–50).
Eph. 1:5 predestined. Previously ordained or appointed. adoption to himself as sons. See v. 11; Rom. 8:29–30. All Christians, male and female, are “sons” of God. They are all adopted heirs who will inherit blessings from their Father in heaven. according to the purpose of his will. God’s will is to pour out his grace and goodness on believers in Christ Jesus (see also Eph. 1:9, 11).
Eph. 1:7 Redemption means ransoming from captivity or slavery. The supreme OT example was the exodus, where God redeemed Israel from slavery in Egypt (see Deut. 7:8; 2 Sam. 7:23). forgiveness of our trespasses. Christians are freed from slavery to sin and guilt by Christ’s blood. His death was an atoning sacrifice (see also Eph. 2:13; Heb. 9:15).
Eph. 1:9 In Scripture, mystery refers to the revealing of something previously hidden (see note on Col. 1:26–27). The mystery of God’s will, now revealed in Christ, is “to unite all things in him” (Eph. 1:10; see also 3:3–11).
Eph. 1:10 fullness of time. The time for the fulfillment of God’s plan. unite. God has reconciled all creation in Christ.
Eph. 1:11 Have obtained an inheritance means being assured of eternal life. predestined. God is firmly in control of history. This is in sharp contrast with the pagan gods of the time, who were often viewed as inconsistent or unable to act. who works all things according to the counsel of his will. Everything that occurs is in some sense predestined by God. As for tragedies and evil, the writers of Scripture never blame God for them (see Rom. 5:12; 2 Tim. 4:14; also Job 1:21–22). They are confident that evil will eventually be defeated. They believe God’s good plans will be fulfilled. How God’s sovereignty and human responsibility work together is, nonetheless, a mystery no one fully understands.
Eph. 1:13 Sealed may mean that the Holy Spirit protects and preserves Christians until they receive their inheritance (see 4:30; 2 Cor. 1:22; Rev. 7:2–3). It could also mean the Spirit “certifies” them as genuine believers; they bear the “royal seal” (see John 3:33; Acts 10:44, 47).
Eph. 1:1–14 Introduction. Paul greets the believers in Ephesus (vv. 1–2) and offers praise to God (vv. 3–14). He expresses the letter’s two main themes: Christ has reconciled all of creation and has united the church in himself.
Eph. 1:3–14 In the original Greek, this section is one long, elegant sentence. Paul shows that the triune God began and completed reconciliation and redemption of the world for the praise of his glory.
Micah
Rather than being identified by his father or family, Micah is identified by a location: he is called “Micah of Moresheth” (1:1). The town was 22 miles (35 km) southwest of Jerusalem. Micah’s call to prophetic ministry is not recorded, and he is never referred to as “prophet,” but he is said to be speaking according to the “Spirit of the LORD” (3:8). The name “Micah” means “Who is like Yahweh?” Similarly, at the end of the book, Micah asks, “Who is a God like you?” (7:18). Both Micah’s name and his writings emphasize the matchless character and actions of the Lord. Micah announces God’s judgment on Israel for its unfaithfulness, yet he also proclaims God’s promise of great blessing through a Messiah—a prophecy fulfilled in Jesus Christ (5:1–15; Eph. 1:3–14). (Micah 6:8)
Eph. 1:15 because I have heard. Paul had spent some time in Ephesus a few years before the writing of this letter, but he would not have known the newer believers in the area.
Ephesus in the Time of Paul (c. A.D. 60)
The city plan below shows those features of the city of Ephesus that archaeologists have so far identified as dating from the time of Paul. Many of the notable buildings uncovered in the excavation at Ephesus date from later periods.
Eph. 1:17 To name the Father of glory as the God of our Lord Jesus Christ is not to deny Christ’s deity. Rather, it affirms Christ’s true humanity. Spirit of wisdom refers to the Holy Spirit giving Christians insights into God’s Word and saving knowledge of him (see 1 Cor. 2:6–12).
Trinitarian Formulas and Expressions in Ephesians
| Reference | Father | Son | Spirit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1:3 | Blessed be the God and Father | of our Lord Jesus Christ | every spiritual blessing |
| 1:11–13 | him who works all things according to . . . his will | to hope in Christ | sealed with the promised Holy Spirit |
| 1:17 | God . . . the Father of glory | our Lord Jesus Christ | a spirit of wisdom and of revelation |
| 2:18 | access . . . to the Father | through him | in one Spirit |
| 2:22 | a dwelling place for God | In him | by the Spirit |
| 3:2–5 | the stewardship of God’s grace | the mystery of Christ | revealed . . . by the Spirit |
| 3:14–17 | the Father . . . the riches of his glory | so that Christ may dwell in your hearts | through his Spirit |
| 4:4–6 | one God and Father | one Lord | one Spirit |
| 5:18–20 | giving thanks . . . to God the Father | in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ | be filled with the Spirit |
Eph. 1:18–19 Paul prays that believers will understand the blessings that are theirs in Christ: (1) their future hope; (2) God’s inheritance in the saints; and (3) their “power” in Christ. The “inheritance” here is not the Christian’s inheritance; it is his (God’s). God looks forward to enjoying forever the people he has saved. immeasurable greatness of his power. Power over supernatural forces through magic and the occult was a great concern in ancient times (Acts 19:19). The power of the living God in Christ defeats all competing authorities (Acts 19:20).
Eph. 1:22 put all things. Paul quotes Ps. 8:6 as being fulfilled by Christ’s authority over all creation and as head over the church. head. See note on 1 Cor. 11:3.
Principles of Marriage
| Principles of Marriage | Scripture Reference |
|---|---|
| Marriage is part of the “mystery” of God’s will | Eph. 1:9; 3:3; 5:32 |
| Paul’s instructions are directed to Spirit-filled believers | Eph. 5:18 |
| Wives are called to submit, men are called to love | Eph. 5:21–33 |
| Headship entails authority | Eph. 5:23–24 (compare Eph. 1:22; 4:15) |
| Submission is still required of Christian wives | Eph. 5:22; Col. 3:18 (compare Gen. 2:18; 1 Cor. 11:3) |
| Marriage involves spiritual warfare, which requires husbands and wives to put on the full armor of God | Eph. 6:10–18 |
Eph. 1:15–23 Paul’s Prayer of Thanksgiving. This section, like vv. 3–14, is a single sentence in the original Greek. Paul prays that the church will gain deep insight into the Lord’s powerful working and rich gifts in Christ.
Eph. 1:23 Christ has so identified himself with his church that it is called his body—in much the same way that husband and wife are “one flesh” (Gen. 2:24; see note on Eph. 5:28–30).
Christ and the Church
Paul describes the relationship between Christ and the church as a profound mystery (5:32)—a hidden plan of God now revealed and fulfilled in Christ Jesus.
| Christ is the head of the church | 1:22–23; 4:15; 5:23 |
| Christ is the cornerstone of the church | 2:20 |
| Christ is the Savior and sanctifier of the church | 5:23, 26–27 |
| Christ gives the church ministry workers | 4:11–16 |
| Christ loved and sacrificed himself for the church | 5:25 |
| Christ nourishes and cherishes the church | 5:29 |
| the church and her members dwell and grow in Christ | 2:21–22; 4:15 |
| the church is a means through which God manifests his manifold wisdom | 3:10 |
| the church submits to Christ | 5:24 |
| the church is Christ’s body, and individual believers are members of his body | 1:22–23; 3:6; 4:4, 16; 5:23, 30 |
Eph. 2:1 you were dead. Human beings as sons and daughters of Adam enter the world spiritually dead. They have no inclination toward God. (Paul begins with this phrase then turns to other thoughts; he will return to this theme in v. 5.) trespasses. Violations of divine commandments. sins. Offenses against God in thought, word, or deed.
Eph. 2:5 when we were dead. Paul resumes his original thought from v. 1. made us alive. Since unsaved people are dead, they have to be made alive before they can believe. This is why salvation can only be by grace alone.
Regeneration in the New Testament
| John 1:13 | “born . . . of God” |
| John 3:3 | “born again” |
| John 3:5 | “born of water and the Spirit” |
| John 3:6 | “born of the Spirit” |
| John 3:7 | “born again” |
| John 3:8 | “born of the Spirit” |
| Eph. 2:4–5 | “God . . . even when we were dead . . . made us alive together with Christ” |
| Col. 2:13 | “you, who were dead . . . God made alive together with him” |
| Titus 3:5 | “he saved us . . . by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit” |
| James 1:18 | “he brought us forth by the word of truth” |
| 1 Pet. 1:3 | “he has caused us to be born again” |
| 1 Pet. 1:23 | “you have been born again” |
| 1 John 2:29 | “everyone who practices righteousness has been born of him” |
| 1 John 3:9 | “No one born of God makes a practice of sinning” |
| 1 John 4:7 | “whoever loves has been born of God” |
| 1 John 5:1 | “Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God” |
| 1 John 5:4 | “everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world” |
| 1 John 5:18 | “everyone who has been born of God does not keep on sinning” |
Fact: The Dead Sea
The Dead Sea is the saltiest body of water in the world. Nearly 35 percent salt, it is six times saltier than the ocean and twice as salty the Great Salt Lake in Utah. In Ezekiel’s vision, the water from the temple turned the Dead Sea into fresh water (47:8). This is a picture of how the Lord Jesus Christ can give life to those who were dead in sin (Eph. 2:1–5).
Eph. 2:6–7 raised us up with him. Because of Christ’s resurrection, those who believe in him are given new spiritual life. seated us with him in the heavenly places. God has allowed his people even now to share in a measure of Christ’s authority. He is seated at the right hand of God (see 1:20–22; 6:10–18).
Eph. 2:8 grace. God’s favor on those who have broken his law and sinned against him. God’s grace offers and secures salvation. saved. Delivered from God’s wrath at the final judgment (Rom. 5:9). The perfect tense of “have been saved” means that the Christian’s salvation is fully secured. through faith. Faith is confident trust and reliance upon Christ Jesus. this . . . is the gift of God. The pronoun “this” refers to the entire process of salvation by grace through faith; it is all a gift of God.
Eph. 2:1–10 Salvation by Grace through Faith. This section, like 1:3–14 and 1:15–23, is a single sentence in the original Greek. The main theme is that God gives his saving grace to Christians. There are two subsections: 2:1–3 and 2:4–10.
Eph. 2:9–10 Salvation is not by works. If it were, then those who are saved would get the glory. created . . . for good works. Salvation is not based on works, but the good works Christians do are the result of God’s new creation work in them.
Eph. 2:11 the circumcision. That is, the Jews. To be called “uncircumcised” signified that one was a Gentile, outside the covenant people of God.
Eph. 2:12 To be separated from OT Israel was to be separated from Christ, because “salvation is from the Jews” (John 4:22; Rom. 9:4–5). strangers. See note on Eph. 2:19. In the OT, God redeemed people through his covenants of promise (compare Luke 1:72–73). The new covenant fulfills all God’s promises (2 Cor. 1:20; Heb. 8:6; 9:15). Note that Paul believed that all Gentiles apart from Christ were unsaved and without God.
Eph. 2:13 in Christ Jesus. The old division of all people into Jews or Gentiles/Greeks (Acts 14:1–5; 18:4; Rom. 3:9, 29; 9:24; 1 Cor. 1:22–24) has been changed. Now there is a new race in Christ: “the church of God” (1 Cor. 10:32). near. To have access to God (see Eph. 2:18). blood. Christ’s substitutionary death.
Eph. 2:15 law. The additional mention of commandments and ordinances identifies this as the Mosaic law, which included many commandments that served to separate Israel from the other nations. Thus the law was a “dividing wall” (v. 14) which Christ has abolished or rendered powerless both by fulfilling it and by removing believers from the law’s condemnation (see Matt. 5:17; Rom. 8:1; Heb. 9:11–14; 10:1–10). The result is a new man, denoting a new human race under the second Adam (Christ), in whose image the Christian is re-created (1 Cor. 15:45, 49; see also Eph. 4:24).
Eph. 2:16–18 On the cross, Christ put to death the hostility between Israel and the other nations. These verses describe the new, unified group being brought near to God. Paul describes Christ’s reconciliation very vividly as killing the hostility that stood in the way of peace with God. preached peace. Paul refers to Christ’s messianic ministry to the whole world both far and near, recalling Isa. 57:19. access. To draw near to God and to enjoy him forever in a new creation is both mankind’s greatest good and the ultimate accomplishment of Christ’s earthly work of redemption. one Spirit. See note on Eph. 4:4.
Eph. 2:19 Strangers (also v. 12) were foreigners with no rights or privileges (see Acts 16:20–23). Aliens were non-citizens who lived in the city and were given privileges as neighbors. Only citizens had full rights (see Acts 21:39).
Fact: The household of God
Paul often describes the church as the household of God (3:4–5, 12, 15; see Gal. 6:10; Eph. 2:19). This means that the church is God’s family, and its members are brothers and sisters. Also, just like a family, there are certain roles and responsibilities for its members.
Eph. 2:20 the foundation of the apostles and prophets. Some think “prophets” refers here to those in the early church who had the gift of prophecy (compare 3:5; 4:11); the apostles along with these prophets were “foundational” because they proclaimed God’s words, but their function has been replaced by the Bible. Others think the “prophets” here could be the OT prophets.
Fact: Cornerstone
The cornerstone (118:22) is the large shaped stone at the corner of the building’s foundation. It is essential to a structure’s stability. Several NT writers compared Jesus Christ to a cornerstone (e.g., Matt. 21:42; Eph. 2:20; 1 Pet. 2:4–8).
Eph. 2:21 All Christians everywhere are joined together as God’s holy temple. Belonging to the visible church is not optional for followers of Christ.
Eph. 2:11–22 Unity and the Peace of Christ. Paul continues the new creation theme he introduced in v. 10. The focus shifts from God to Christ Jesus and his redemption. There are three subsections: vv. 11–15, 16–18, and 19–22.
Trinitarian Formulas and Expressions in Ephesians
| Reference | Father | Son | Spirit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1:3 | Blessed be the God and Father | of our Lord Jesus Christ | every spiritual blessing |
| 1:11–13 | him who works all things according to . . . his will | to hope in Christ | sealed with the promised Holy Spirit |
| 1:17 | God . . . the Father of glory | our Lord Jesus Christ | a spirit of wisdom and of revelation |
| 2:18 | access . . . to the Father | through him | in one Spirit |
| 2:22 | a dwelling place for God | In him | by the Spirit |
| 3:2–5 | the stewardship of God’s grace | the mystery of Christ | revealed . . . by the Spirit |
| 3:14–17 | the Father . . . the riches of his glory | so that Christ may dwell in your hearts | through his Spirit |
| 4:4–6 | one God and Father | one Lord | one Spirit |
| 5:18–20 | giving thanks . . . to God the Father | in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ | be filled with the Spirit |
Christ and the Church
Paul describes the relationship between Christ and the church as a profound mystery (5:32)—a hidden plan of God now revealed and fulfilled in Christ Jesus.
| Christ is the head of the church | 1:22–23; 4:15; 5:23 |
| Christ is the cornerstone of the church | 2:20 |
| Christ is the Savior and sanctifier of the church | 5:23, 26–27 |
| Christ gives the church ministry workers | 4:11–16 |
| Christ loved and sacrificed himself for the church | 5:25 |
| Christ nourishes and cherishes the church | 5:29 |
| the church and her members dwell and grow in Christ | 2:21–22; 4:15 |
| the church is a means through which God manifests his manifold wisdom | 3:10 |
| the church submits to Christ | 5:24 |
| the church is Christ’s body, and individual believers are members of his body | 1:22–23; 3:6; 4:4, 16; 5:23, 30 |
Fact: Temple
The temple was the means through which God dwelt with his people in meaningful fellowship (1:13; 2:4–5). It also brought glory and pleasure to God (1:8). Jesus said that he was the final temple, restoring fellowship once more between God and his people (John 2:19–22; Eph. 2:19–22).
Eph. 3:1 For this reason. Paul breaks off his thought here and resumes it in v. 14 (compare the similar break in 2:1, 5). prisoner of Christ. Paul suffered imprisonment or confinement several times while serving Christ (4:1; Acts 16:23; 24:23; Col. 4:10). on behalf of you Gentiles. Paul was the apostle, teacher, and preacher to the Gentiles (1 Tim. 2:7). The sufferings he experienced during his ministry were for them (2 Cor. 6:5; 11:23).
The Authentication of Paul’s Letters
In 2:2 Paul warns against letters that claim to come from him but do not. In 11 places in his letters Paul either identifies himself or gives his signature. This supports the conclusion that all of the NT letters attributed to Paul are in fact authentic, rather than having been written by someone else in Paul’s name.
| 1 Cor. 16:21 | I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand |
| 2 Cor. 10:1 | I, Paul, myself entreat you |
| Gal. 5:2 | Look: I, Paul, say to you |
| Gal. 6:11 | See with what large letters I am writing to you with my own hand |
| Eph. 3:1 | I, Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus |
| Col. 1:23 | of which I, Paul, became a minister |
| Col. 4:18 | I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand |
| 1 Thess. 2:18 | we wanted to come to you—I, Paul, again and again |
| 2 Thess. 2:2 | not to be . . . alarmed . . . by . . . a letter seeming to be from us |
| 2 Thess. 3:17 | I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. This is the sign of genuineness in every letter of mine; it is the way I write |
| Philem. 19 | I, Paul, write this with my own hand |
Eph. 3:3 mystery. See note on Col. 1:26–27. This mystery is now revealed: Christ has come to unify Jews and Gentiles in one body through the gospel (see Eph. 1:9, 17). Christ revealed this mystery to Paul by revelation on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:1–7) and more fully at other times (see Acts 22:17–21; 2 Cor. 12:1–7; Gal. 1:12; 2:2).
Principles of Marriage
| Principles of Marriage | Scripture Reference |
|---|---|
| Marriage is part of the “mystery” of God’s will | Eph. 1:9; 3:3; 5:32 |
| Paul’s instructions are directed to Spirit-filled believers | Eph. 5:18 |
| Wives are called to submit, men are called to love | Eph. 5:21–33 |
| Headship entails authority | Eph. 5:23–24 (compare Eph. 1:22; 4:15) |
| Submission is still required of Christian wives | Eph. 5:22; Col. 3:18 (compare Gen. 2:18; 1 Cor. 11:3) |
| Marriage involves spiritual warfare, which requires husbands and wives to put on the full armor of God | Eph. 6:10–18 |
Eph. 3:5 not made known. The full realization of who Christ was and the extent of the salvation that would come to the Gentiles was not clear until after the giving of the Spirit (1 Cor. 2:8–10).
Eph. 3:6 the Gentiles are fellow heirs. See Rom. 8:17; Gal. 3:28–29.
Fact: Visions
The apostle Paul received special visions from God (see Acts 22:17–21; 2 Cor. 12:1–7; Gal. 2:2). In his first vision, he saw the Lord Jesus (Acts 9:1–7). One of the mysteries God later revealed in a vision was that the gospel was for both Jews and Gentiles (Eph. 3:6).
Eph. 3:7 minister. A servant or official given a particular area of responsibility.
Eph. 3:8 very least of all the saints. Paul never forgets that he once had been a persecutor of Christ and his church (Acts 9:4; 1 Tim. 1:13).
Eph. 3:10 now. In this age, in contrast to the time before Christ’s first coming. rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. Angelic beings.
Christ and the Church
Paul describes the relationship between Christ and the church as a profound mystery (5:32)—a hidden plan of God now revealed and fulfilled in Christ Jesus.
| Christ is the head of the church | 1:22–23; 4:15; 5:23 |
| Christ is the cornerstone of the church | 2:20 |
| Christ is the Savior and sanctifier of the church | 5:23, 26–27 |
| Christ gives the church ministry workers | 4:11–16 |
| Christ loved and sacrificed himself for the church | 5:25 |
| Christ nourishes and cherishes the church | 5:29 |
| the church and her members dwell and grow in Christ | 2:21–22; 4:15 |
| the church is a means through which God manifests his manifold wisdom | 3:10 |
| the church submits to Christ | 5:24 |
| the church is Christ’s body, and individual believers are members of his body | 1:22–23; 3:6; 4:4, 16; 5:23, 30 |
Eph. 3:1–13 Revelation of the Gospel Mystery. Paul explains his calling and ministry as an apostle to the Gentiles. This assured his Gentile readers that their inheritance in Christ is authentic because of its divine origin.
Eph. 3:14–15 For this reason. Paul returns to his thought from v. 1. named. See note on John 1:12–13.
Trinitarian Formulas and Expressions in Ephesians
| Reference | Father | Son | Spirit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1:3 | Blessed be the God and Father | of our Lord Jesus Christ | every spiritual blessing |
| 1:11–13 | him who works all things according to . . . his will | to hope in Christ | sealed with the promised Holy Spirit |
| 1:17 | God . . . the Father of glory | our Lord Jesus Christ | a spirit of wisdom and of revelation |
| 2:18 | access . . . to the Father | through him | in one Spirit |
| 2:22 | a dwelling place for God | In him | by the Spirit |
| 3:2–5 | the stewardship of God’s grace | the mystery of Christ | revealed . . . by the Spirit |
| 3:14–17 | the Father . . . the riches of his glory | so that Christ may dwell in your hearts | through his Spirit |
| 4:4–6 | one God and Father | one Lord | one Spirit |
| 5:18–20 | giving thanks . . . to God the Father | in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ | be filled with the Spirit |
Eph. 3:17–18 In v. 16 Paul speaks of the indwelling “Spirit” and here of the indwelling Christ. This suggests that the Spirit and the Son are both God. breadth . . . length . . . height . . . depth. The immeasurable dimensions of God’s riches in Christ. On saints, see note on 1:1.
Eph. 3:14–21 Paul’s Prayer for Strength and Insight. Paul prays that his readers would be strong in their faith (vv. 14–19). He concludes with words of praise to God (vv. 20–21).
S4:289 Ephesians 1-3
Listen NowDive Deeper | Ephesians 1-3
It's peculiar how many millionaires and billionaires have no interest in passing on an inheritance. A quick Google search, and you'll have an idea of the number of these financial elite who intend to assign little—if any—of their wealth to their children. While motives vary, the shared theme appears to be, "If you want riches, go earn them for yourself."
My earthly response kind of settles on . . . "bummer." But I'm also drawn to compare these circumstances to what we see in Ephesians 1. What stands out about this worldly fortune?
- Although outlandish, the wealth of these individuals is, in fact, measurable and, as such, finite.
- They have an expiration. Nothing can be done to take these riches beyond the grave. So while grand, they're fleeting.
- They've been withheld on the basis that they haven't been earned.
- The accumulated riches were never for the sake of blessing the children.
Meanwhile, we're over here having hit the paternal jackpot, grappling at the magnitude of the inheritance into which we've come. Somehow, the concept of finite, hard-fought, limited-time-only riches clicks with us, whereas the glorious nature of our eternal inheritance screeches our comprehension to a halt. Faced with something too great to fathom, we simply don't. But consider the truths of these spiritual treasures:
- Echoing Ephesians 3:20 (NIV), the value of the infinite riches of God's gift of grace is a perfect example of "immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine."
- There's no expiration. In fact, the concept of time is dwarfed by the eternal. Our wealth is secured instantly, forever.
- Not only is it not a prerequisite that we earn our riches, it's an impossibility. Our gift is guaranteed by no doing of our own.
- Our inheritance was the purpose from the beginning. God has no greater mission than gifting us his immense fortune.
My prayer today—for both author and readers—is that we'd forfeit our painstaking pursuit of earthly wealth and comprehend the incomprehensible: to embrace the glorious riches of our forever inheritance and delight in our eternal unity with God by his grace and the treasure of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross.
This month's memory verse
"And he who was seated on the throne said, 'Behold, I am making all things new.' Also he said, 'Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.'"
– Revelation 21:5
Discussion Questions
1. Do you feel you grasp the vast, infinite, and timeless gift of inheritance God intended specifically for you?
2. Consider your prayer patterns. How often are you asking for God's help financially? How often are you praising God in awe for the immeasurable spiritual wealth you have in him? How do you feel about your balance of the two?
3. How do you present yourself to others? As wanting of worldly riches or as spiritually affluent? Would they call you rich? Why? Why not?
4. How often do you or your community group focus on financial success or health compared to how often you focus on helping others come into the same spiritual inheritance you've received?