What is the meaning of Ephesians 3:8? Though I am less than the least of all the saints Paul begins with striking humility. He sees himself as “less than the least,” even while holding an apostolic office. • 1 Corinthians 15:9 mirrors this: “For I am the least of the apostles…” • 1 Timothy 1:15 underscores his awareness of past sin and God’s mercy. • James 4:6 and 1 Peter 5:5 remind us that “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” His self‐assessment is not false modesty; it is clear‐eyed recognition of who he is apart from Christ and a testimony to God’s transforming power. This grace was given me God’s calling on Paul is entirely a gift. • Ephesians 2:8-9 declares that salvation itself is by grace; so is every ministry assignment. • Romans 1:5 speaks of “grace and apostleship” as a package. • Acts 9:15 records the Lord’s words that Paul is “a chosen instrument.” Grace equips, authorizes, and sustains him. We can count on the same enabling grace for any task God places before us. To preach to the Gentiles Paul’s specific charge is to carry the gospel beyond Jewish boundaries. • Acts 13:47 applies Isaiah 49:6 to Paul: “I have made you a light for the Gentiles.” • Galatians 2:7-9 shows the apostles agreeing that Paul would lead the Gentile mission. • Romans 15:16 calls him “a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles.” This reveals God’s inclusive heart and fulfills the promise to Abraham that “all nations” would be blessed (Genesis 12:3). The unsearchable riches of Christ What Paul proclaims is limitless wealth in Jesus. • Romans 11:33 exclaims, “Oh, the depth of the riches… of God!” • Colossians 1:27 speaks of “Christ in you, the hope of glory.” • Philippians 3:8 shows Paul counting everything loss “because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ.” • 2 Corinthians 8:9 reminds us that though Christ was rich, He became poor so we might become rich. These riches include forgiveness, adoption, eternal life, and an inheritance that can never perish (1 Peter 1:4). summary Ephesians 3:8 showcases Paul’s humble self-view, the grace that called and empowered him, the global scope of his mission, and the boundless treasures found in Christ. This same grace humbles and sends us, urging us to make known the immeasurable wealth of Jesus to everyone we meet. |
    |