49 - Ephesians

TLDR: In Christ we are chosen, redeemed, and sealed; the church is His body and the mystery of Jew and Gentile as one. "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith — and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God."

Overarching Storyline

Blessing in Christ (ch. 1). Dead in sin, alive in Christ (ch. 2). Mystery: one new humanity (ch. 3). Unity, gifts, maturity (ch. 4). Walk in love, light, wisdom (ch. 5). Armor of God; stand (ch. 6).

Bible Project: Ephesians overview.

Pegs for Memorizing This Book

• Person: Paul, the church (body of Christ).
• Image: Heavenly realms, one new humanity, armor of God.
• Number: 6 (chapters), 6 (pieces of armor in 6:14–17).
• Phrase: "By grace through faith" (2:8); "Armor of God" (6:11).

Highlights

• Ephesians 2:8–9 — By grace you have been saved through faith; not by works.
• Ephesians 4:32 — Be kind and compassionate; forgive as Christ forgave you.
• Ephesians 6:10–18 — Armor of God: belt, breastplate, shoes, shield, helmet, sword.

(Link to verse entries and meditations as added.)

Before and After

• Before: Galatians; Ephesians may have been a circular letter (no specific problems); it unfolds the "in Christ" life.
• After: Philippians; Ephesians is cosmic and ecclesial; Philippians is personal and joyful.

Place in the Overarching Biblical Story

Church and cosmic Christ. Chosen before creation, united in Christ, walking in the Spirit, and standing in the armor — the letter gives identity and practice for the body of Christ.

Interesting Facts

• Circular letter? — Some early manuscripts omit "in Ephesus" in 1:1; may have been sent to several churches.
• Armor of God — Belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, gospel of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, sword of the Spirit (Word).