Why Did Paul Write the Letter to the Ephesians?

Paul tells us plainly why he wrote his letter to the Ephesians. In Ephesians 4:1, he writes:

I urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received.

Paul is encouraging believers to live in a way that reflects the calling they received when they placed their faith in Jesus. He begins the letter by reminding them of all the blessings they received in Christ. Then he shifts to instructing them on how to live in response to those blessings. Much like James, Paul calls believers not only to believe but also to live out their faith in daily life.

Blessed in Christ

Paul opens the letter by describing the incredible blessings believers have received in Christ. God has poured out His glorious grace on us "in the Beloved One." He has given us redemption and forgiveness, not only to the Israelites but also to the Gentiles. This inclusion of the Gentiles reveals a mystery that had been hidden for ages: salvation through Christ is available to all.

Even though they were once spiritually dead in sin, they have now been saved through faith. This salvation is not something they could earn. It is a gift from God, so no one can boast. Because of Jesus, Gentile believers are "no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household." In Christ, both Jews and Gentiles are united as one people. Through all of this, God’s great love has been made known. Paul prays that believers would truly grasp how vast and deep that love is.

Walk in a Worthy Manner

In light of all that God has done, Paul urges the Ephesians to live in a way that reflects their new identity. He calls them to unity, especially between Jewish and Gentile believers. They are not to be spiritually immature or easily swayed by false teachings. Instead, they are to speak the truth, grow in their faith, and become more like Christ.

Paul encourages them to leave behind their old way of living and to "put on the new self." This new life involves renewing their minds, showing love and forgiveness, and imitating God. They are to live in right relationship with one another, both in their families and in the workplace. Rather than being controlled by anything else, they are to be filled with the Spirit.

Paul reminds them that God has equipped them with everything they need: truth, righteousness, faith, Scripture, and salvation. With these gifts, along with constant prayer, they can walk in a manner worthy of the calling they received when they first believed.

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