Ephesians 1:1
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To the saints who are in Ephesus, and are faithful in Christ Jesus:
English Standard Version (ESV)
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Paul doesn't just call them "believers" but "the faithful in Christ Jesus." This isn't just about being loyal but about actively trusting and relying on Christ for salvation. It highlights that true sainthood isn't just about being set apart but about a living, active faith.
The letter opens with Paul introducing himself as an apostle, appointed by God's will, and then addressing the believers, referred to as "saints" and "faithful," in Ephesus and surrounding areas. The exact recipients are debated by scholars, with some suggesting it was a circular letter to multiple churches in Asia Minor, not just Ephesus, as indicated by the omission of "in Ephesus" in some ancient manuscripts. This initial salutation sets the tone for a letter focused on divine grace and the church's place in God's eternal plan, contrasting with Paul's more polemical writings.
Ever wonder if your calling is truly God's plan or just a lucky break? Paul starts his letter by making a bold claim about his authority.
Paul doesn't introduce himself as just another guy with an opinion. He states he's an "apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God." This isn't a self-appointed title. It emphasizes that his authority, his mission, and his very life's work are rooted in God's sovereign choice and purpose. This "will of God" highlights that God actively intervenes and appoints individuals for specific tasks. It’s a reminder that our own callings, whatever they may be, are not accidental but can be part of God's intentional design.
The people Paul addresses are called 'saints' and 'faithful.' What does that really mean for us today?
Paul addresses the recipients as 'saints' and 'faithful.' These aren't descriptions of perfect people, but of those set apart by God ('saints') and those who trust in Christ ('faithful').
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Understand the original words
apostolos · Greek Noun
One who is sent with authority as a messenger or representative, specifically chosen by Christ to establish the church and testify to the resurrection.
Christos · Greek Noun
A title for the Messiah, meaning 'Anointed One,' indicating that Jesus is the long-awaited King and Savior promised in the Old Testament.
hagios · Greek Adjective/Noun
Those set apart as holy to God; believers who have been consecrated and made righteous through faith in Jesus.
The debate over whether 'in Ephesus' was part of the original text suggests this letter may have been intended as a circular for several churches in Asia Minor, with Ephesus being the most prominent. This understanding highlights Paul's broad concern for the churches in this region during his imprisonment.
c. AD 52-55— this verse
Paul's Extended Ministry in Ephesus
Paul spent approximately three years in Ephesus, a major Roman port city, establishing a strong Christian community and acting as a significant base for his missionary activities in Asia Minor.
c. AD 60-62
Paul's Imprisonment in Rome
While imprisoned in Rome, Paul wrote several epistles, including Ephesians, Colossians, Philippians, and Philemon, during what are often called his 'prison epistles' period.
c. AD 62
Journey of Tychicus
Tychicus was likely sent by Paul from Rome to deliver Ephesians and Colossians to their respective churches, possibly also carrying other messages or visiting other churches in Asia Minor.
vincentEphesians 1:1: "Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus:"
By the will of GodAs frequently in the introductions of the epistles, to emphasize his divine appointment. In Romans 1:1; 1 Corinthians 1:1, called is added.To the saintsSee on Romans 1:7; see on Colossians 1:2; see on Philippians 1:1.At EphesusThere is much discussion as to the genuineness of these words. They are bracketed by both Westcott and Hort, an…
gillEphesians 1:1: "Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus:"
Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God,.... See Gill on Romans 1:1 . See Gill on 1 Corinthians 1:1 . See Gill on 2 Corinthians 1:1 . See Gill on Galatians 1:1 . To the saints which are at Ephesus; of this place, see the note above upon the title of the epistle, and See Gill on Acts 18:19. The persons residing there, to whom the epistle is wr…
Paul doesn't just call them "believers" but "the faithful in Christ Jesus." This isn't just about being loyal but about actively trusting and relying on Christ for salvation. It highlights that true sainthood isn't just about being set apart but about a living, active faith.
The letter opens with Paul introducing himself as an apostle, appointed by God's will, and then addressing the believers, referred to as "saints" and "faithful," in Ephesus and surrounding areas. The exact recipients are debated by scholars, with some suggesting it was a circular letter to multiple churches in Asia Minor, not just Ephesus, as indicated by the omission of "in Ephesus" in some ancient manuscripts. This initial salutation sets the tone for a letter focused on divine grace and the church's place in God's eternal plan, contrasting with Paul's more polemical writings.
The letter opens with Paul introducing himself as an apostle, appointed by God's will, and then addressing the believers, referred to as "saints" and "faithful," in Ephesus and surrounding areas. The exact recipients are debated by scholars, with some suggesting it was a circular letter to multiple churches in Asia Minor, not just Ephesus, as indicated by the omission of "in Ephesus" in some ancient manuscripts. This initial salutation sets the tone for a letter focused on divine grace and the church's place in God's eternal plan, contrasting with Paul's more polemical writings.
"Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God,
To the saints who are in Ephesus, and are faithful in Christ Jesus:" — Paul doesn't just call them "believers" but "the faithful in Christ Jesus." This isn't just about being loyal but about actively trusting and relying on Christ for salvation. It highlights that tru…
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