Main Themes of the Book of Ephesians

Who wrote the Book of Ephesians and who did they write it for?

The book of Ephesians is a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the churches in Ephesus.

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When did the events in the Book of Ephesians happen?

This letter was written around 61 AD during Paul’s house arrest in Rome.

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What is the setting of the Book of Ephesians?

Ephesus was one of the major cities within the Roman province of Asia. It was located at the intersection of many trade routes as well as the most direct route to the eastern Roman provinces, by both land and sea. Because of this, it was the most famous and populous city in Asia at the time. On one of Paul’s visits to Ephesus prior to this letter, his preaching led to so many converts that the silver trade, which supported the worship of Diana (Artemis), suffered. This caused riots that led Paul to flee to Macedonia.

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What is the purpose of the Book of Ephesians?

1. Doctrines for the body of Christ (Ephesians 1-3)
   1. Believer’s position in Christ (Ephesians 1)
   2. Believer’s past, present, and future (Ephesians 2-3)
2. Responsibilities of the body of Christ (Ephesians 4-6)
   1. Believer’s call to responsibility and purity (Ephesians 4)
   2. Believer’s call to Spirit-filled living and spiritual warfare (Ephesians 5-6)

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How does the Book of Ephesians apply to my life?

• Paul wrote this letter to the many churches that had been planted along the routes of his missionary journeys to encourage them in faith and explain their position and responsibilities as the body of Christ.
• Teaches about the riches believers have in Christ.
• Lays out foundational beliefs, principles, and practical applications for all believers.
• Encourages unity within the body of Christ.
• Teaches about the weapons and armor of Spiritual warfare.

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Summary

This letter from Paul is filled with valuable foundational truths that help believers understand our total position in our Savior. It also includes many practical life applications for these truths and our faith. Paul, being guided by the Holy Spirit, stresses the importance and goal of unity within the body of Christ, and also teaches vital tools at our disposal for combatting the very real spiritual warfare we’re all facing. The main theme of Ephesians is that the Body of Christ makes up the Glorious Church, in which all believers are called to live united, and to live as though we are saved.

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