Topical Encyclopedia Introduction:The Epistle to the Ephesians, traditionally attributed to the Apostle Paul, is a profound letter in the New Testament that addresses the nature of the Church, the body of Christ, and the believer's position in Christ. It is considered one of the "Prison Epistles," written during Paul's imprisonment in Rome around AD 60-62. The letter is addressed to the saints in Ephesus, a major city in Asia Minor, though some early manuscripts omit the specific mention of Ephesus, suggesting it may have been intended as a circular letter for multiple congregations. Authorship and Date: The Apostle Paul is widely recognized as the author of Ephesians, as stated in the opening verse: "Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To the saints in Ephesus, the faithful in Christ Jesus" (Ephesians 1:1). The epistle's style, vocabulary, and theological depth align with Paul's other writings, reinforcing his authorship. Written during his first Roman imprisonment, the letter reflects Paul's mature theological insights and pastoral concern for the Church. Purpose and Themes: Ephesians is a theological masterpiece that explores the mystery of the Church as the body of Christ and the unity of all believers, both Jews and Gentiles, in Him. Key themes include: 1. The Believer's Position in Christ: Paul emphasizes the spiritual blessings and identity of believers in Christ, highlighting their election, adoption, redemption, and inheritance (Ephesians 1:3-14). 2. Unity in the Body of Christ: The epistle underscores the unity of the Church, breaking down the dividing wall between Jews and Gentiles, creating "one new man" in Christ (Ephesians 2:14-16). 3. The Mystery of the Gospel: Paul reveals the mystery hidden for ages, now made known through the Church, that Gentiles are fellow heirs and partakers of the promise in Christ (Ephesians 3:6). 4. Christian Conduct and Ethics: Ephesians provides practical instructions for living a life worthy of the calling, emphasizing love, holiness, and submission in various relationships (Ephesians 4:1-6:9). 5. Spiritual Warfare: The letter concludes with an exhortation to stand firm against spiritual forces of evil, putting on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18). Structure: The epistle is structured into two main sections: 1. Doctrinal (Chapters 1-3): Paul expounds on the spiritual blessings in Christ, the mystery of the Church, and the believer's position in the heavenly realms. 2. Practical (Chapters 4-6): The focus shifts to the ethical implications of the believer's new identity, including unity, purity, and spiritual warfare. Key Passages: · Spiritual Blessings in Christ: "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms" (Ephesians 1:3). · Unity of the Spirit: "Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called" (Ephesians 4:3-4). · Armor of God: "Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes" (Ephesians 6:11). Historical and Cultural Context: Ephesus was a prominent city in the Roman province of Asia, known for its temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The city was a hub of commerce, culture, and pagan worship, presenting unique challenges and opportunities for the early Christian community. Paul's ministry in Ephesus, as recorded in Acts 19, laid the foundation for the church to which this epistle was addressed. Theological Significance: Ephesians is pivotal in understanding the Church's nature and mission. It presents a cosmic view of Christ's redemptive work, emphasizing the Church's role in God's eternal purpose. The letter's teachings on unity, spiritual maturity, and the believer's identity in Christ continue to resonate with Christians today, offering timeless guidance for living out the faith in a diverse and often challenging world. Smith's Bible Dictionary the Epistle To The Ephesianswas written by the apostle St. Paul during his first captivity at Rome, (Acts 28:16) apparently immediately after he had written the Epistle to the Colossians [COLOSSIANS, THE EPISTLE TO THE, EPISTLE TO], and during that period (perhaps the early part of A.D. 62) when his imprisonment had not assumed the severer character which seems to have marked its close. This epistle was addressed to the Christian church at Ephesus. [EPHESUS] Its contents may be divided into two portions, the first mainly doctrinal , ch. 1-3, the second hortatory and practical . Library The Epistle to the Ephesians The Epistle to the Ephesians. From the Epistle to the Ephesians. The Epistle to the Colossians But Let us Come to These Two Commentaries which He Alone Excepts ... The Duties of the Christian Flock. The Epistle of Ignatius to the Ephesians The Third Epistle of Ignatius to the Ephesians The Second Epistle of Ignatius to the Ephesians Colossians i. 26-28 Resources The: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics the Epistle of Paul To Philemon the First Epistle General Of John The Kingdom or Church of Christ the Second and Third Epistles Of John Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |