The letter to the Ephesians is often considered Paul's greatest theological work. Written from prison, it reveals God's eternal plan for the church and calls believers to live worthy of their calling.
The Structure of Ephesians
The letter naturally divides into two parts:
- Chapters 1-3: Our position in Christ (Doctrine)
- Chapters 4-6: Our practice in Christ (Application)
Paul first establishes who we are before telling us how to live.
Spiritual Blessings in Christ (Chapter 1)
Paul opens with a magnificent doxology, praising God for every spiritual blessing:
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ." — Ephesians 1:3
Key Blessings
- Chosen before the foundation of the world (v. 4)
- Predestinated unto adoption as children (v. 5)
- Redeemed through His blood (v. 7)
- Sealed with the Holy Spirit (v. 13)
From Death to Life (Chapter 2)
Paul describes our condition before Christ and our transformation:
"And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins." — Ephesians 2:1
By Grace Through Faith
"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast." — Ephesians 2:8-9
This is the clearest statement of salvation by grace alone through faith alone in Scripture.
Jews and Gentiles United
Christ has broken down the wall between Jew and Gentile, creating "one new man" (v. 15). The church is God's dwelling place through the Spirit.
The Mystery Revealed (Chapter 3)
Paul reveals the "mystery" that was hidden in previous ages:
"That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel." — Ephesians 3:6
God's eternal plan includes believers from every nation united in Christ.
Walking Worthy (Chapter 4)
The practical section begins with a call to unity:
"I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called." — Ephesians 4:1
The Basis of Unity
- One body
- One Spirit
- One hope
- One Lord
- One faith
- One baptism
- One God and Father of all
Gifts for the Church
Christ gives gifted people to the church—apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers—to equip believers for ministry.
Practical Christian Living (Chapters 4-6)
Paul addresses specific areas of life:
Put Off the Old, Put On the New
"That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man... And that ye put on the new man." — Ephesians 4:22, 24
Walk in Love
"And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us." — Ephesians 5:2
Marriage as a Picture of Christ
"Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it." — Ephesians 5:25
Marriage is designed to reflect Christ's relationship with His church.
The Armor of God
"Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil." — Ephesians 6:11
Paul concludes with the famous description of spiritual warfare and the believer's armor.
Key Themes in Ephesians
The Church
The church is Christ's body, His bride, His building, and His army. We are joined to Him and to one another.
Grace
Salvation is entirely by grace. We contribute nothing but our sin; Christ contributes everything.
Unity
Despite our differences, believers are one in Christ. Maintaining this unity requires deliberate effort.
Spiritual Warfare
We face real spiritual enemies, but God provides real spiritual armor and weapons.
Applying Ephesians
- Marvel at your blessings in Christ
- Rest in salvation by grace through faith
- Pursue unity with other believers
- Use your gifts to build up the church
- Walk in love, light, and wisdom
- Stand firm in spiritual warfare
Ephesians calls us to understand who we are in Christ and then to live accordingly. May we walk worthy of our glorious calling!