Ephesians Introduction

Those who deny Pauline authorship cite the lack of personal references that are present in most of Paul’s other letters to churches. But personal information is not altogether lacking. The letter twice states that Paul is author (1:1; 3:1). His being a prisoner is mentioned three times (3:1; 4:1; 6:20).

Moreover, he gave an account of his calling in a way that accords with what we know from other sources about both his calling and his response to it. One idea that has been advanced by some New Testament scholars is that this letter was written to be circulated among a number of churches. If that is the case, we would not expect a large number of specific, personal references in the body of the letter. Paul may have written notes to each of the churches in which he wanted the letter to be read. Or, there is another alternative that Paul mentioned in closing the letter: “Tychicus, our dearly loved brother and faithful servant [or deacon] in the Lord, will tell you all the news about me so that you may be informed. I am sending him to you for this very reason, to let you know how we are and to encourage your hearts” (6:21-22). At the time of writing it may not have been prudent to put some kinds of information into writing. Paul assured the Ephesians that Tychicus would deliver verbally what Paul could not put in writing.

Structurally, the letter divides in half. After Paul’s greetings (1:1-2), the first half consists of a theological exposition that spells out the identity of, and the benefits for, those who are in Christ (1:3–3:21). The letter’s second half details Paul’s ethical exhortations—the responsibilities of those who find their identity in Christ (4:1–6:20).