Ephesians Introduction
The Book of Ephesians was written by the Apostle Paul while he was in prison. It was written to the believers in Ephesus. This letter teaches about God’s great plan of salvation, the blessings believers have in Christ, and how the church should live as the body of Christ. Ephesians also teaches unity, forgiveness, love, and holy living.
Chapter 1
Ephesians 1 explains the many spiritual blessings believers have in Christ. God chose us, adopted us as His children, redeemed us, forgave our sins, and revealed His will to us through Jesus Christ. The Father began the plan of salvation, and Jesus fulfilled it. Believers also receive God’s Spirit as the guarantee of their future inheritance. Paul ends the chapter by praying that believers may know God better and understand the hope, riches, and power they have in Christ.
Chapter 2
Ephesians 2 shows the difference between the old life and the new life in Christ. Before knowing Christ, people were dead in sin and followed the ways of the world. But because of God’s mercy and love, He made believers alive together with Christ. Salvation is by grace through faith, not by works, so no one can boast. Paul also explains that Gentiles, who were once far from God’s covenant promises, have now been brought near through the blood of Christ. In Christ, Jews and Gentiles are united as one people and become part of God’s household.
Chapter 3
Ephesians 3 explains the mystery that God had hidden in the past but has now revealed. This mystery is that Gentiles can share together with Israel in the promises of God through Christ. They are fellow heirs, part of the same body, and share in the same gospel promise. Paul explains that God gave him the ministry of preaching this truth. He then prays that believers may be strengthened by God’s Spirit, that Christ may dwell in their hearts by faith, and that they may understand the great love of Christ.
Chapter 4
Ephesians 4 teaches believers to live in a way that matches their calling. Paul tells them to walk with humility, gentleness, patience, and love. He emphasizes unity in the body of Christ, because there is one body, one Spirit, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father. Christ gives different gifts to the church so believers can grow, serve, and become mature. Paul also tells believers to put off the old life and put on the new life, living in righteousness, truth, and holiness.
Chapter 5
Ephesians 5 teaches believers to imitate God and walk in love, just as Christ loved us. Paul warns against sexual immorality, uncleanness, greed, foolish talk, and the works of darkness. Instead, believers should walk as children of light, live wisely, and be filled with the Spirit. Paul also speaks about marriage. Wives are called to respect and submit to their husbands, and husbands are commanded to love their wives as Christ loved the church and gave Himself for her. Marriage is used as a picture of Christ’s love for His church.
Chapter 6
Ephesians 6 gives instructions for family and daily life. Children are told to obey their parents in the Lord, and fathers are told not to provoke their children but to bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord. Servants are told to serve sincerely, and masters are told to treat them fairly. Paul then teaches about the armor of God. Believers must stand firm against the devil by putting on truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, the Word of God, and prayer. Paul ends the letter by asking for prayer and blessing all who love the Lord Jesus Christ.