Week 1: Introduction to the Letter to the Ephesians

I. Opening Focus: Why Study Ephesians?

Ephesians is a spiritual blueprint for the Church—unmatched in clarity, power, and vision. It answers: What is the Church? Who is Christ? And who are we in Him? It offers identity, purpose, unity, and strength for believers living in a pluralistic and often hostile world.

II. The Meaning and Significance of “Ephesus”

Name origins: “Desirable,” “Permitted,” or “City of the Mother Goddess.” Linked to the word ephoros – “overseer,” fitting for a religious and cultural hub.

III. Authorship of Ephesians

Objections to Pauline authorship include unusual language, elevated style, and advanced theology. Critics also compare it to Colossians. However, Paul's education and spiritual insight allow for varied expression. Early Church tradition and internal evidence strongly support Paul's authorship.

IV. Place and Date of Writing

Likely written between A.D. 60–62 during Paul’s first Roman imprisonment. Written as a 'prison epistle' along with Colossians, Philippians, and Philemon.

V. The City of Ephesus in Paul’s Time

A major city of over 250,000 people. Religious, commercial, and cultural center. Home to the Temple of Artemis, pagan deities, and a Jewish synagogue. Influential and spiritually contested region.

VI. Purpose and Themes of the Letter

Paul writes to Gentile believers converted from pagan backgrounds. Themes include God's eternal plan, unity in Christ, mystery of the gospel, Christian conduct, and spiritual warfare.

VII. Structure of the Letter

Chapters 1–3: Theological – Identity and calling in Christ

Chapters 4–6: Practical – Living out the Gospel in unity

VIII. Ephesians for a Pluralistic Age

Paul repurposes pagan language to proclaim Christ's supremacy. The letter is both doctrinally rich and apologetically powerful.

IX. Key Passage for Week 1

Ephesians 3:20–21: 'Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think... to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.'

X. Preview of Upcoming Weeks

The Vision of the Church

Week 1 – Introduction to the Vision of the Church

Week 2 – The Immeasurable Power of the Church (1:16–23; 2:6; 3:20–21)

Week 3 – The Preeminence of Christ in the Church (2:11–22)

Week 4 – Unity in the Church (4:1–6)

Week 5 – The Ministry of the Church (4:7–16)

Week 6 – Holiness in the Church (5:21–32)