◄ Ephesians 3 ►
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Summary The Mystery of the Gospel Ephesians 3 unveils the beautiful truth of God's inclusive love and His plan to unify all through Christ. We are invited into a life rooted and grounded in love, able to comprehend the incomprehensible dimensions of Christ's love. As Paul's prayer inspires us to seek spiritual strength, his doxology encourages us to give all glory to our omnipotent God. Verses 1-6: Revelation of the Mystery Apostle Paul begins by discussing his role as a steward of God's grace and the mystery revealed to him. This mystery is the inclusion of Gentiles in God's family through the gospel. Verses 7-13: God's Eternal Plan and Paul's Stewardship Paul discusses his role as a minister of the gospel, made possible by God's grace. The purpose of his stewardship is to display God's wisdom through the Church, assuring the Ephesians that their faith should not falter due to his tribulations. Verses 14-19: Paul's Prayer for Spiritual Strength Paul prays fervently for the Ephesians, asking God to strengthen them with power through the Spirit, and for Christ to dwell in their hearts through faith. He prays for them to grasp the limitless dimensions of Christ's love. Verses 20-21: Glory to God The chapter concludes with a doxology that praises God's omnipotence, emphasizing that He is capable of exceeding all we ask or imagine. To Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 3 is a significant chapter that illuminates the divine mystery revealed to Paul - the unification of Jews and Gentiles through the gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul's prayer for spiritual strength for the Ephesians and his praise to God culminate this rich chapter. Teaching Points The Mystery Revealed Paul speaks of the mystery made known to him by revelation, which is that Gentiles are co-heirs with Israel, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus (Ephesians 3:6). Paul's Ministry Paul describes his role as a servant of this gospel by the gift of God's grace, emphasizing that his ministry is empowered by God's working (Ephesians 3:7). The Unsearchable Riches of Christ Paul highlights the boundless riches of Christ and his mission to make them known to the Gentiles (Ephesians 3:8). The Church's Role The manifold wisdom of God is to be made known through the Church to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms (Ephesians 3:10). Boldness and Access Through faith in Christ, we have boldness and confident access to God (Ephesians 3:12). Paul's Prayer for the Ephesians Paul prays for the believers to be strengthened with power through the Spirit, to grasp the love of Christ, and to be filled with the fullness of God (Ephesians 3:16-19). Doxology Paul concludes with a doxology, praising God who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20-21). Practical Applications Embrace Your Identity Recognize your identity as a co-heir with Christ and live in the fullness of that promise. Share the Gospel Like Paul, be committed to sharing the unsearchable riches of Christ with others, regardless of their background. Participate in the Church's Mission Engage actively in the Church's mission to reveal God's wisdom to the world. Approach God with Confidence Utilize the boldness and access you have in Christ to approach God in prayer and worship. Seek Spiritual Strength Regularly pray for spiritual strength and a deeper understanding of Christ's love. People 1. Paul Paul is the author of the letter to the Ephesians. In Ephesians 3:1, he refers to himself as "Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles." The Greek word used here for "prisoner" is "δέσμιος" (desmios), indicating his physical imprisonment but also his spiritual commitment to Christ. 2. Jesus Christ Jesus Christ is central to Paul's message. In Ephesians 3:11, Paul speaks of "the eternal purpose that He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord." The Greek term "Χριστός" (Christos) signifies the Anointed One, emphasizing Jesus' role as the Messiah. 3. Gentiles The Gentiles are the primary audience of Paul's ministry as mentioned in Ephesians 3:1 and 3:6. Paul explains that the mystery of Christ has been revealed to include the Gentiles as "fellow heirs, fellow members of the body, and fellow partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel." 4. God the Father God the Father is referenced in Ephesians 3:14-15, where Paul says, "For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name." The Greek word "Πατήρ" (Pater) is used, highlighting the paternal relationship and authority of God. 5. The Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit is implied in Ephesians 3:16, where Paul prays that believers may be strengthened with power through His Spirit in their inner being. The Greek word "Πνεῦμα" (Pneuma) is used for Spirit, indicating the active presence and power of God within believers. Places 1. Heavenly Realms While not a physical location, the "heavenly realms" are mentioned throughout Ephesians as a place of spiritual significance. In Ephesians 3:10, it is stated, "so that the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known through the church to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms." The Greek term used here is "ἐπουρανίοις" (epouraniois), which refers to the spiritual dimension where spiritual beings exist. 2. Mystery of Christ Ephesians 3:4-6 speaks of the "mystery of Christ," which is a spiritual revelation rather than a physical place. This mystery, previously hidden, is now revealed to the apostles and prophets by the Spirit, indicating the inclusion of the Gentiles as fellow heirs. The Greek word for mystery is "μυστήριον" (mystērion), emphasizing something once hidden but now revealed. 3. Inner Being In Ephesians 3:16, Paul prays for believers to be strengthened with power through the Spirit in their "inner being." This is not a physical location but a metaphorical place within a person where spiritual transformation occurs. The Greek term "ἔσω ἄνθρωπον" (esō anthrōpon) refers to the inner self or inner man. Events 1. Paul's Ministry to the Gentiles Paul begins by explaining his role as a minister to the Gentiles. He refers to himself as "a prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles" (Ephesians 3:1). The Greek word for "prisoner" (δέσμιος, desmios) emphasizes his commitment and the sacrifices he makes for his mission. 2. The Mystery Revealed Paul discusses the revelation of the mystery of Christ, which was not made known to previous generations. He states, "This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are fellow heirs, fellow members of the body, and fellow partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus" (Ephesians 3:6). The term "mystery" (μυστήριον, mystērion) in Greek indicates a divine truth that was previously hidden but is now revealed. 3. Paul's Commission and Grace Paul acknowledges the grace given to him to preach to the Gentiles. He writes, "To me, though I am less than the least of all the saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ" (Ephesians 3:8). The Greek word for "grace" (χάρις, charis) highlights the unmerited favor bestowed upon him. 4. The Purpose of the Mystery Paul explains the purpose of revealing the mystery: "to make known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God" (Ephesians 3:10). The Greek term for "manifold" (πολυποίκιλος, polypoikilos) suggests the diverse and multifaceted nature of God's wisdom. 5. Paul's Prayer for the Ephesians Paul offers a prayer for the spiritual strength and growth of the Ephesians. He prays "that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being" (Ephesians 3:16). The Greek word for "strengthen" (κραταιόω, krataioō) implies being made strong or fortified. 6. The Love of Christ Paul emphasizes the depth of Christ's love, praying that the Ephesians "may have power, together with all the saints, to comprehend the length and width and height and depth of His love" (Ephesians 3:18). The Greek word for "comprehend" (καταλαμβάνω, katalambanō) means to grasp or understand fully. 7. Doxology Paul concludes with a doxology, praising God for His power and glory: "Now to Him who is able to do infinitely more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen" (Ephesians 3:20-21). The Greek word for "infinitely more" (ὑπερεκπερισσοῦ, hyperekperissou) conveys the idea of exceeding abundantly beyond measure. Connections to Additional Scriptures Romans 8:17 And if we are children, then we are heirs: heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ—if indeed we suffer with Him, so that we may also be glorified with Him. Colossians 1:27 To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Hebrews 4:16 Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for Revelation Thank God for revealing the mystery of the gospel and including us in His eternal plan. Empowerment for Ministry Pray for strength and boldness to share the gospel and fulfill your role in God's mission. Understanding of Christ's Love Ask for a deeper comprehension of the love of Christ and its transformative power in your life. Unity in the Church Pray for unity within the Church as we collectively reveal God's wisdom to the world. Faith to Believe in God's Power Seek faith to believe in God's ability to do immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine. Bible Study Questions 1. How do you understand the 'mystery' that Paul speaks of in verses 1-6? 2. How does the revelation of Gentiles being co-heirs in God's family impact your understanding of the global Christian community? 3. How can you live out Paul's revelation of unity among believers in your local church and community? 4. How does Paul's humility and acceptance of his role as a steward of God's grace in verses 7-13 inspire you in your service to God and others? 5. How might the knowledge of God's wisdom being displayed through the Church change your view of its significance? 6. How does Paul's assurance to the Ephesians about his tribulations speak to your personal challenges? 7. What are some practical ways to strengthen your inner being with the power of the Holy Spirit as Paul prays in verses 14-19? 8. How can you cultivate a faith that allows Christ to dwell in your heart? 9. What does it mean for you to be 'rooted and grounded' in love? 10. How can you expand your understanding and experience of Christ's love? 11. How does the image of God doing 'immeasurably more' in verses 20-21 encourage you in your faith journey? 12. In what areas of your life do you need to acknowledge God's ability to exceed all your expectations? 13. How can you live out a doxology in your daily life, giving glory to God in all you do? 14. How does Ephesians 3 inspire you to be a vessel of unity in a divided world? 15. How can you apply the teachings in this chapter to contribute positively to discussions on ethnic or racial diversity? 16. In light of Ephesians 3, how can you foster a more inclusive and welcoming environment in your church or community? 17. How does Paul's prayer for the Ephesians challenge you in your prayer life? 18. How can the teachings in Ephesians 3 help in your personal spiritual growth? 19. How can you reflect God's wisdom and eternal purpose to those around you? 20. Reflect on the limitless dimensions of Christ's love. How does this impact your perspective on God's love, and how can it influence your relationships with others? Topics 1. The Mystery of Christ Revealed (Ephesians 3:1-6) Paul discusses the revelation of the mystery of Christ, which was not made known to previous generations but is now revealed to the apostles and prophets by the Spirit. This mystery is that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel. The Greek word for "mystery" (μυστήριον, mystērion) indicates a divine secret now disclosed. 2. Paul's Ministry to the Gentiles (Ephesians 3:7-9) Paul describes his role as a minister of this mystery by the gift of God's grace, given through the working of His power. He emphasizes his mission to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ and to bring to light the administration of this mystery. The term "minister" (διάκονος, diakonos) highlights his service-oriented role. 3. The Manifold Wisdom of God (Ephesians 3:10-13) The purpose of revealing this mystery is to display the manifold wisdom of God to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms through the church. This was according to His eternal purpose accomplished in Christ Jesus. The Greek word for "manifold" (πολυποίκιλος, polypoikilos) suggests the multifaceted and diverse nature of God's wisdom. 4. Paul's Prayer for Spiritual Strength (Ephesians 3:14-19) Paul prays for the Ephesians, asking that they be strengthened with power through the Spirit in their inner being, so that Christ may dwell in their hearts through faith. He desires that they be rooted and grounded in love, able to comprehend the breadth, length, height, and depth of Christ's love, and be filled with the fullness of God. The Greek word for "dwell" (κατοικέω, katoikeō) implies a permanent residence. 5. Doxology: Glory to God (Ephesians 3:20-21) Paul concludes with a doxology, praising God who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power at work within us. He ascribes glory to God in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. The phrase "immeasurably more" (ὑπερεκπερισσοῦ, hyperekperissou) underscores the superabundant nature of God's ability. Themes 1. The Mystery of Christ Revealed Ephesians 3:3-5 discusses the revelation of the mystery of Christ, which was not made known to previous generations but has now been revealed to the apostles and prophets by the Spirit. The Greek word for "mystery" (μυστήριον, mystērion) implies a divine secret that is now disclosed. 2. Unity of Jews and Gentiles In Ephesians 3:6, Paul explains that Gentiles are "fellow heirs, fellow members of the body, and fellow partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel." This theme emphasizes the breaking down of barriers between Jews and Gentiles, uniting them in Christ. 3. Paul’s Ministry to the Gentiles Ephesians 3:7-8 highlights Paul's role as a minister to the Gentiles, a task given to him by God's grace. The Greek term for "minister" (διάκονος, diakonos) underscores his role as a servant of the gospel. 4. The Unsearchable Riches of Christ In Ephesians 3:8, Paul speaks of the "unsearchable riches of Christ," indicating the boundless and incomprehensible blessings found in Jesus. The Greek word for "unsearchable" (ἀνεξιχνίαστος, anexichniastos) suggests something that cannot be fully explored or understood. 5. God’s Eternal Purpose Ephesians 3:11 refers to God's "eternal purpose" accomplished in Christ Jesus. This theme underscores the divine plan that has been in place from eternity, highlighting God's sovereignty and foreknowledge. 6. Boldness and Access through Faith Ephesians 3:12 states that in Christ, "we have boldness and access with confidence through faith in Him." The Greek word for "boldness" (παρρησία, parrēsia) conveys the idea of freedom to speak openly and confidently before God. 7. Strengthened with Power through the Spirit In Ephesians 3:16, Paul prays for believers to be "strengthened with power through His Spirit in your inner being." This theme emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering and sustaining believers. 8. The Love of Christ Ephesians 3:17-19 focuses on the depth and magnitude of Christ's love, which surpasses knowledge. The Greek term for "surpasses" (ὑπερβάλλω, huperballō) indicates something that exceeds or transcends human understanding. 9. Fullness of God Ephesians 3:19 speaks of being "filled with all the fullness of God," suggesting a complete and abundant experience of God's presence and attributes in the believer's life. 10. Doxology and God’s Power Ephesians 3:20-21 concludes with a doxology, praising God for His ability to do "exceedingly abundantly beyond all that we ask or imagine." The Greek phrase "exceedingly abundantly" (ὑπερεκπερισσοῦ, hyperekperissou) emphasizes the limitless power and generosity of God. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions