T he only good news that we ought to know and remember is that Jesus Christ had already won the war against sin and death. He has made it possible for us to join Him in the afterlife. All we need now to do is accept Him as He is. God is alive today and it may be sometimes be difficult to see this. The world and its demonic nature has still made it look like that only worldly things matter and that the ultimate goal of each one is to achieve their own personal happiness. This is the biggest lie of all, that we should do all to make us happy. Individual happiness at the expense of someone else is the biggest deception of all. The truth is, our lives are never really about us. It is ultimately about God and about others. It is about how you can provide and give joy even at our own expense. This is the model of ultimate and genuine love that Jesus shown us at the cross. "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s frie...
The Book of Ephesians is a powerful epistle written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Ephesus, a prominent city in Asia Minor. It's believed to have been penned during Paul's imprisonment, likely between 60-62 AD, as one of his "prison epistles" along with Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.
Historical Context and Authorship:
Ephesus was a significant port city known for its temple of Artemis (also known as Diana), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The city was a hub of pagan worship and various philosophical schools, making the establishment and growth of a Christian church there particularly impactful. Paul had a deep connection with Ephesus, having spent a considerable amount of time there during his missionary journeys (Acts 19). The church in Ephesus was well-established, and Paul's letter was intended to strengthen their understanding of their identity in Christ and their unity as believers.
While some scholars have debated the authorship of Ephesians, the overwhelming majority of New Testament scholars attribute it to Paul. The letter itself explicitly states Paul as the author in its opening verse: "Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To the saints who are in Ephesus, and are faithful in Christ Jesus" (Ephesians 1:1).
Key Themes and Summary:
Ephesians is often divided into two main sections:
Chapters 1-3: Doctrinal Foundation - Our Riches in Christ: This section focuses on the theological truths of salvation and the incredible blessings believers receive through Christ. Paul emphasizes God's eternal plan to unite all things in Christ, highlighting themes of predestination, adoption, redemption, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. He marvels at the "immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus" (Ephesians 2:7). A central idea is that both Jews and Gentiles are united as one body in Christ, breaking down long-standing barriers.
Notable Quote: "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9)
Notable Quote: "For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility." (Ephesians 2:14)
Chapters 4-6: Practical Application - Our Walk in Christ: Building on the doctrinal foundation, Paul transitions to practical exhortations for Christian living. He urges believers to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love" (Ephesians 4:1-2). He discusses the importance of unity within the church, the proper use of spiritual gifts, and the need to put off the "old self" and put on the "new self" created in righteousness and holiness. The letter also provides instructions for various relationships: husbands and wives, children and parents, and slaves and masters.
Notable Quote: "Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God." (Ephesians 5:1-2)
Notable Quote: "Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear." (Ephesians 4:29)
The book culminates in a powerful call to spiritual warfare, urging believers to "put on the whole armor of God" to stand against the schemes of the devil.
Notable Quote: "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil." (Ephesians 6:10-11)
Significance:
Ephesians is highly regarded for its profound theological insights and its practical guidance for Christian living. It offers a comprehensive vision of God's redemptive plan, the elevated status of believers in Christ, and the practical implications of living out one's faith in community and in the world. Its emphasis on unity, grace, love, and spiritual warfare continues to resonate with believers today.