The Book of Ephesians, one of the Pauline Epistles, is a profound and rich letter that delves into the very heart of Christian theology and practice. Written by the Apostle Paul, likely during his imprisonment in Rome around AD 60-62, Ephesians addresses the church in Ephesus, but its message extends to all believers, transcending time and geography. The main message of Ephesians can be distilled into the themes of unity in Christ, the mystery of the Gospel, and the call to live a life worthy of the calling we have received.
Unity in Christ
One of the central themes of Ephesians is the unity that believers have in Christ. Paul emphasizes that this unity is not just a superficial agreement but a profound spiritual reality that transcends ethnic, social, and cultural boundaries. In Ephesians 2:14-16, Paul writes:
"For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility."
Here, Paul speaks of the reconciliation between Jews and Gentiles, who were historically divided by the Mosaic Law. Through Christ's sacrificial death, the "dividing wall of hostility" has been torn down, making one new humanity. This unity is not just a theological concept but a lived reality that should be evident in the church's life.
Paul further elaborates on this unity in Ephesians 4:1-6:
"As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. 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; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all."
The call to maintain unity is grounded in the unity of the Godhead—one Spirit, one Lord, one Father. This unity is both a gift and a responsibility. Believers are called to cultivate humility, gentleness, patience, and love to maintain this unity.
The Mystery of the Gospel
Another significant theme in Ephesians is the revelation of the mystery of the Gospel. Paul uses the term "mystery" to describe truths that were previously hidden but are now revealed in Christ. In Ephesians 3:4-6, Paul explains:
"In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, which was not made known to people in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God's holy apostles and prophets. This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus."
The mystery, then, is that Gentiles are now full participants in the promises of God. This inclusion of the Gentiles was a radical and transformative revelation, breaking down centuries of division and opening the way for a truly universal church.
Paul also speaks of the cosmic scope of this mystery in Ephesians 1:9-10:
"He made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment—to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ."
The Gospel is not just about individual salvation but about God's grand plan to unite all things in Christ. This cosmic reconciliation is a central aspect of the mystery now revealed.
Living a Life Worthy of the Calling
With the theological foundation of unity and the revelation of the Gospel's mystery, Paul transitions to practical exhortations on how to live out this calling. In Ephesians 4-6, Paul provides a roadmap for Christian living, emphasizing that our conduct should reflect our new identity in Christ.
In Ephesians 4:22-24, Paul writes:
"You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness."
The transformation Paul speaks of is both internal and external. It involves a renewal of the mind and a change in behavior. This new way of life is characterized by righteousness and holiness, reflecting the character of God.
Paul goes on to address specific relationships and roles within the Christian community, including instructions for husbands and wives, children and parents, and slaves and masters (Ephesians 5:22-6:9). These instructions are grounded in mutual submission and love, reflecting the self-giving love of Christ.
Finally, Paul concludes with a call to spiritual vigilance and strength in Ephesians 6:10-18, often referred to as the "Armor of God" passage:
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand."
The Christian life is depicted as a spiritual battle, requiring divine armor to stand firm against evil. This passage underscores the need for dependence on God's strength and provision.
Conclusion
The main message of the Book of Ephesians is a multifaceted tapestry of profound theological truths and practical exhortations. At its core, Ephesians teaches that believers are united in Christ, partakers of the revealed mystery of the Gospel, and called to live lives that reflect their new identity in Him. This unity is both a gift and a responsibility, grounded in the very nature of God and manifested in the life of the church. The mystery of the Gospel reveals God's grand plan to reconcile all things in Christ, breaking down barriers and creating a new humanity. Finally, believers are exhorted to live out their calling with humility, love, and vigilance, reflecting the transformative power of the Gospel in every aspect of their lives.
