Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God,
To God’s holy people in Ephesus, the faithful in Christ Jesus:
Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
I read these 2 verses and immediately thought "Dear Ephesus" which was actually a pretty good indie Christian emo band I listened to in college.
But they don't really have much to do with this post today.
According to my archeological Bible, Ephesians was probably intended to be a circular letter to several churches. Ephesus at the time of the letter would have had a population of about 200,000, and was renowned for traders and silversmiths.
Letters of this time had a certain form to follow. In the Greek, the standard greeting was "chairein". Through a play on words, Paul made his greeting about grace "charis."
I think it is also important to consider how Paul defines himself and the church. He considers himself Christ's apostle, but only by the will of God. To me this signifies that he remembers always where he came from.
As for the church, they are given the definition of a holy people, faithful in Christ Jesus.
Wouldn't it be wonderful to receive a letter from someone who recognizes you as holy and faithful? What a marvelous thing to strive for in our daily lives!
1 comment:
Great thoughts Tiffany! Loved the play on words greeting.
Paul speaks with authority from both Jesus Christ and God the Father. He addresses believers who are both holy and faithful because of Christ. And that due to grace (not merit) we have peace with God.
Awesome truths.
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