In the early 1800s doubts surfaced among some biblical scholars regarding Paul’s authorship of the Ephesians epistle. If written by an anonymous editor in the name of Paul, his intention was to advance Paul’s teachings. This letter, in which some early manuscripts omit “in Ephesus” (1:1), was likely circulated to various church communities in Asia Minor (a province in the Roman Empire comprising most of modern-day Turkey), whose capital was Ephesus. This book offers us strength (1:19; 3:16; 6:10) and encouragement (6:22) in our walk with Jesus.
The writer prayed for their spiritual insight into knowing:
- Christ better (1:17) and the depth of God’s love for them (3:18-19)
- The rich spiritual blessings available to believers, now (1:18)
- God’s mighty strength in them through the Holy Spirit (1:19; 3:16; 6:10)
Additionally, he prayed for Christ to dwell in their hearts through faith, so they would be rooted and established in love (3:17).
The “mystery of Christ” (1:9-10; 3:4-6), in a word, is about God’s grace, which reveals his limitless and inclusive love and mercy for all people (1:11,13; 2:4). The Lord’s divine plan, without dividing lines, aims to bring unity and peace among all people.
Christ, our peace who preached a gospel of peace, has put to death the hostility existing between the favored and unfavored (2:14-18; 6:15) that began with the brothers of Cain and Abel (Gen. 4:1-16). The Gentiles now share with the Jews in a singular glorious promise in Christ to receive every spiritual blessing (1:3; 3:6).
Made alive with Christ (2:5), we shun the darkness of sin, in order to shine with the light of his holiness (5:8-14). We put on the new-self created in the likeness of Christ (4:22-24), since it was for this purpose God “predestined” (i.e., intended) for us to live (1:4-5; 2:10; 5:25-27).
Though saved by God’s grace, not our own self-righteous efforts (2:5-9), we are to “love with faith” (6:23). Genuine faith compels the believer to live with love, bearing the fruit of the light: Goodness, righteousness and truth (5:8-9); kindness and compassion (4:32); and good works (2:10).
We are advised to “submit to one another out of reverence for Christ” (5:21), because Christians should “make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (4:3).
Though, we were once separated from a relationship with God, we are now considered near and dear to him (2:12-13,17; 5:1). Put on the armor of God to stand firm against the evil forces in this world (6:10-17). In keeping with your calling in Christ (4:1), “walk in the way of love” (5:2), then you will be holy for the Lord’s glory!
*Paul spent over 2+ years preaching in Ephesus (Acts 19:8-10; 20:31). An account of his ministry and the opposition he encountered there, can be found in Acts 19.
Walking with Jesus Series, Refl. #138, July 2026
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