For the next several weeks, we will be looking at the first four chapters of the book of Ephesians. We will be taking it slow because there is so much packed in this small book. Some of the early manuscripts of the book do not contain the words, “in Ephesus”, so we are not certain of where it was sent. Perhaps it was a circular letter meant to be shared with Ephesus and other congregations. We know that Paul suggested that his letters be shared with other churches beyond the designated church. The circular form may explain why the letter is so packed with vital religious information.
Ephesus was a noted center in the Greco-Roman world. Paul’s visits there, as Acts records, indicate its significance. It was located in Asia across the Aegean Sea from Athens. The letter speaks often of Gentiles as the primary audience. The content does not seem to relate to the church in Ephesus alone but addresses the world-wide church.
The unity of the church is emphasized as part of the plan of God in Christ. There are hymns and doxologies scattered throughout the book along with practical advice about proper righteous living. There is very little of a personal nature in the text.
Paul’s special role in the church is clearly expressed, but so are the gifts that the Holy Spirit gives to the members of the church. As might be expected, Christ’s role is highly exalted throughout the text. All this is brought to bear on the mission of the church to the whole world.