1. Introduction (Ephesians 1:1-2)
The salutation lists Paul as the author and addresses the letter to “the saints who are in Ephesus.” The earliest extant manuscripts do not include the words “in Ephesus.”
2. Praise for Unity in Christ (Ephesians 1:3-3:21)
In extravagant language, the author heaps praise on God for working in Christ to reconcile Israel and the Gentiles into one household. Gentile readers are reminded that they have moved from death to life, from “having no hope” to having been “brought near by the blood of Christ.”
3. Exhortation to Live a Life Worthy of the Gospel (Ephesians 4:1-6:20)
Unity, truthfulness, and mutual submission are the identifying marks of both the universal church and the Christian householdA household is a living unit comprised of all the persons who live in one house. A household would embrace all the members of a family, including servants and slaves. In the book of Acts, stories are told of various persons and their households, like… More. The armor of God outfits believers to withstand the devil and other cosmic powers.
4. Final Greeting (Ephesians 6:21-24)
In language nearly identical to Colossians 4:7-9, Tychicus, the apparent carrier of the letter, is commended to readers.
