Name
The title “Ephesians” comes from the intended audience designated in 1:1, “To the faithful saints in Christ Jesus at Ephesus.” The epistle’s body makes it clear that Paul’s intended audience in Ephesus includes both Jewish and Gentile Christians.
Author
Paul claims authorship of Ephesians 1:1, and 3:1.
Genre
Epistle
Literary Form
The Ephesians’ epistle is a personal letter that includes sections of poetry, worship in the form of prayer and thanksgiving, and exhortation.
Time Frame
Paul was in prison at the time of the writing of Ephesians (3:1, 4:1, 6:20). Scholars disagree whether Paul was in prison in Caesarea (Acts 24:22) or Rome (Acts 28:30). Tradition holds that Paul wrote Colossians, Philemon, Philippians, and Ephesians from Rome about A.D. 60-61.
Emphasis
The emphasis of Ephesians is on Jewish and Gentile believers being one in Christ, as demonstrated by their love for each other. There should be unity within the body of Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit, with Christ at the head.
Outline
- Introduction (1:1-14)
- Prayer of Thanksgiving (1:15-23)
- Salvation through faith alone by the grace of God (2:1-10)
- Unity of God’s people (2:11-22)
- The mystery of revealed (3:1-13)
- Prayer for strength and love (3:14-21)
- Unity within the body of Christ (4:1-16)
- Walking in Holiness (4:17-5:21)
- The relationship among God’s people (5:22-6:9)
- Putting on the armor of God (6:10-20)
- Conclusion (6:21-24)
