Ephesians
Introduction
The apostle Paul wrote Ephesians to the churches around Ephesus (Acts 19)
to display the scope of God’s eternal plan for all humanity—for Jews and Gentiles alike. This is the mystery of God, hidden for ages but now made known in Jesus Christ. The first three chapters focus on what Christians should believe, unfolding
the glorious riches of God’s grace in Christ. Dead sinners are made alive and gain eternal salvation “by grace …hrough faith” (2:8). The last three chapters explain the implications of God’s grace for the church, for individuals,
and for families. This second section comes to a climax with a command to stand with the armor of God against the devil. Paul wrote this letter while in prison, probably in Rome about a.d. 60. [Lutheran Study Bibie, CPH.]
Greeting
1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God,
To
the saints who are in Ephesus, and are faithful in Christ Jesus:
2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
I pray: O
Lord, help me to read and digest your Word, and let your Word shape and mold me according to your will. Amen.