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 written, are described by their character, as "saints"; being
separated by the grace of God the Father in eternal election;
whose sins were expiated by the blood and sacrifice of Christ;
and to whom he himself was made sanctification; and who were
internally sanctified by the Spirit of God, and lived holy lives
and conversations. The Alexandrian copy, and some others, and the
Vulgate Latin version, read, "to all the saints"; whether
officers of the church, or private members, whether rich or poor,
bond or free, strong or weak believers, of greater or lesser
abilities.
And to the faithful in Christ Jesus:
who were in Christ, not only by electing grace, but were openly
and manifestly in him, through converting grace; and abode in him
as branches in the vine; continued constant, and persevered in
faith and holiness; and were faithful to the cause and interest
of Christ, and to his Gospel and ordinances; and were hearty and
sincere in the profession of their faith in Christ, and love to
him and his: or, as the Arabic version renders it, "and to them
that believe in Jesus Christ"; with all their hearts, to the
saving of their souls; who look unto him, venture on him, rely
upon him, and trust in him for life and salvation, and who shall
certainly be saved; of such the church at Ephesus consisted, to
whom this epistle was written: of the church there, (See Gill
on Acts
20:17).