Commentary on Ephesians (No. F049)

Introduction

The Epistle to the Ephesians is considered a great writing of Paul and concerns God’s eternal purpose in establishing the church. The church at Ephesus was of a very mixed Gentile background called by God, redeemed and forgiven through Christ into a body as a fellowship sealed and directed by the Holy Spirit.

The pseudo-Orthodox interpret this as a Trinitarian structure as it is directed as seen in 1:5,12,13; 2:18-20; 3:14,16,17; 4:4-6. We will examine this structure to determine its validity. We will develop the body of Christ (1:23; 4:16). How it is the building or Temple of God (2:20-22) and how it is the bride of Christ (5:23-32). The status and destiny of the elect is outlined along with their duties.

It was written about the same time as Colossians, six to seven years after Galatians, while Paul was a prisoner (3;1; 4:1; 6:20). The two epistles share many of the same phrases and expressions (see below). The general view is that it is divided into two main sections, doctrinal (chs. 1-3); and the second hortatory and practical (chs. 4-6). The letter is not addressed to the Ephesians in the salutation 1:1-2 as found in the early MSS and, because the letter contains no local allusions or references, it as assumed that the Epistle was a circular letter or encyclical Epistle, copies of which were distributed by Tychicus (6:21-22) to several Churches in Asia minor (e.g. Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos, Laodicea etc. cf. Bullinger (n. 5) below re Marcion).

It is a view that, when Paul’s works were gathered into a corpus, a copy of this was obtained from Ephesus, the capital of the Roman province of Asia and the title was then affixed to distinguish it from the others.

As we will see, it is properly an explanation of the Mysteries of God and the place of the elect in that overall Mystery.

Book Overview - Ephesians

by E.W. Bullinger

THE STRUCTURE OF THE EPISTLE AS A WHOLE.

Ephesians 1:1-2 EPISTOLARY. SALUTATION
Ephesians 1:3 - Ephesians 3:19 DOCTRINAL. AS TO OUR STANDING

Ephesians 3:20-21 DOXOLOGY.

Ephesians 4:1 - Ephesians 6:20 DOCTRINAL. AS TO OUR STATE.

Ephesians 6:21-24. EPISTOLARY. BENEDICTION.

1. EPHESIANS is the second (see Structure, p. 1660) of the great text-books of doctrinal instruction for believers in this Dispensation. In Romans is set forth all the truth concerning the standing of the sinner in Christ, as having died and risen with Him. Now we are taken a further stage and taught that the sinner not only died and rose again in Christ, but that he is now in God’s sight and purpose seated with Christ in the heavenlies. Romans ends with a reference to the revelation of the Mystery (see note on the second postscript p. 1694); Ephesians takes up that subject and unfolds it to us. The doctrinal part of Romans -ends with the eighth chapter, a chapter on which is built the foundation of the Ephesians truth.

2. The key-note is struck in the opening words, Ephesians 1:3, which prove that its sphere is heavenly. In it is revealed the "great secret" of this Dispensation of grace, viz. that individual sinners among Jews and Gentiles are being "called out" and formed into "the church which is His body", in which there is neither Jew nor Gentile. And that this church should be "to the praise of the glory of His grace" throughout eternity (Ephesians 2:7), and an object-lesson, so to speak, to supramundane rulers and authorities in the heavenlies (Ephesians 3:10), of the glorious purpose (hitherto hidden in God) of Him in "heading up" in one all things in this Dispensation of fullness of times (Ephesians 1:10), having Christ Personal as its glorified Head, and Christ Mystical, the glorified members together with Him in His Body.

This was the "secret" hid "from the ages and from the generations" (as Gr. of Colossians 1:26) which Paul was not permitted "to make known unto the sons of men" (Ephesians 3:6) until the period of Israel’s national probation was closed by the pronouncement of the decree in Acts 28:25-28 (p. 1694). But that decree once declared, he is authorized to communicate by "prophetic writings" the secret which had been revealed to him by the Spirit. As truly said by Chrysostom (died a.d. 407); -"these lofty thoughts and doctrines which...things which he scarcely anywhere else utters, he here expounds.

3. The STRUCTURE of the Epistle as a whole (above) shows that the greater part is occupied with doctrine, one-half as it concerns our standing, and the rest as it affects our state; thus showing that sound doctrine is both the foundation and the source of right practice.

4. DATE. The Epistle was written from prison in Rome, probably about the end of A.D. 62, and according to Bishop Lightfoot, after the Epistle to Philippians. See Int. Notes to latter, and Appendix-180.

5. The TITLE. To whom addressed? In some of the oldest MSS. the words "at Ephesus" (Gr. en Epheso) are not found. And the writings of some of the early Christian apologists show that these words were not in their copies, e.g. Origen (fl. A.D. 230) and Basil (fl A.D. 350). The explanation of the omission is probably that the Epistle was encyclical, and that the space now occupied in other of the MSS. by the words en Epheso was originally blank, so that the names of the various churches to which it was sent could be filled in. From Colossians 4:16 we learn that Paul wrote a letter to the Laodiceans. There can be little doubt that this is the one, as was believed by Marcion, an early Christian writer (but one much tinged by Gnosticism). If Ephesians is not the letter, then an epistle has been lost, which is unthinkable. Colossians was apparently a similar letter to be sent round the other churches (Colossians 4:16). We conclude that (1) no epistle has been lost:(2) Ephesians was addressed not only to "saints at Ephesus", but the other churches also, and therefore in a very special manner to us; and that (3) it comes to us as the second great text-book of believers" doctrine in this Dispensation, and cannot be understood without our knowing the lessons taught by the Holy Spirit in Romans , for Ephesians is built on the foundation of the doctrinal portion of Romans , ending with the eight chapter.

6. The City of Ephesus was one of the great commercial centers of Asia Minor, and was situated on the river Cayster, at no great distance from its mouth. Ephesus was chiefly noted, however, for the magnificent temple of Artemis (Diana), one of the wonders of the world (see Acts 19:27). The site of the city is now covered with ruins, the only inhabited part being a small Turkish village.

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Intent of the chapters.

Chapter 1

This letter as we see above is an encyclical letter and was probably sent to Ephesus, and the other nearby cities, Smyrna, Pergamos and probably to Laodicea among other cities in Asia Minor. It was probably the text to Laodicea that was referred to by Marcion, which is perhaps where he received the text.

The text from verse 3 goes straight into the purpose of the paper. It speaks directly about the predestination of the elect as he does in Romans 8:28-30. Here, Paul says it was from the foundation of the world and that we should be holy and blameless before Him (cf. Predestination (No. 296)). Paul says that God destines us in love to be His sons, as is Christ, and that involves our predestination spoken of by Christ where we are to become theoi or elohim, and scripture cannot be broken (cf. Ps. 82:6; Jn. 10:34-36). This was according to God’s Will and His Grace which he freely bestowed on us in the elect (vv.5-6).

He says that we have forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the richness of His Grace. This is the same text as Colossians 2:14: where the sins which were through the transgression of the law of God, and the cheirographon or bill for which were nailed to the stauros or stake, in the sacrifice of Christ. This is the second aspect of the Plan of Salvation (No. 001A) following the death of Christ, in which the Elect are Elohim (No. 001). The later Trinitarians translated the word “Cross” instead of the Greek word stauros for stake here. A stauros is no more a cross than a stick is a crutch. The Romans paraded the image of the god Attis around on the Sun cross in Rome. By the Fourth century the priests of Attis were complaining that Christians had stolen all their doctrines, which they indeed had done.

Paul’s emphasis here on the Grace of God forgiving our trespasses and not by our own efforts, was specifically to counter the theology of Ditheism/Binitarianism of the Baal worshippers of the Sun and Mystery Cults as was prevalent there in Phrygia and Asia Minor and in Rome and Thrace in the worship of Attis, Adonis and Osiris in Egypt and the Mother Goddess Cults of Cybele, Ishtar, Easter or Ashtoreth and Isis with Horus in Alexandria and also Minerva (the virgin) at Rome as the third aspects of the Triune God, which finally superimposed its worship on Christianity in Binitarianism and then Trinitarianism from 381 at Constantinople and finally at Chalcedon in 451 CE, and ultimately in the Sardis and Laodicean Eras in the 20th Century (cf. Binitarianism and Trinitarianism (No. 076) and Ditheism (No. 076B)).

The emphasis on grace was essential to counter the Philosophy here and among the Galatians and Colossians and at Laodicea; where universally the Greeks regarded a vicarious sacrifice as of no effect, if Christ were not God, as God was God, which is contrary to Scripture and the Will of God. They did not understand the concept of the Love of God and the Hebrew word ahabah from the Song of Songs had to be borrowed and turned into Agape by the LXX.

God had made known to the elect, in all wisdom and insight, the mystery of His Will which He set forth in Jesus Christ (v. 9). This was His Plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in Him, both in heaven and on earth. This involves both Hosts, human and spiritual, hence all of His Creation as elohim, or sons of God (vv. 11-12).

The elect also were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit (No. 117), (through baptism on repentance). It is the guarantee of our inheritance, until we acquire possession of it to the praise of His Glory (vv. 13-14).

In verses 15 and 16 we see Paul speak of the love of the elect towards Christ and the saints. In verse 17 we see that God is identified as the God of Jesus Christ and the Father of Glory. This is the clear Subordinationist text of Psalm 45:6-7 which is reiterated in Hebrews 1:8-9. Paul hopes that God gives them a spirit of wisdom so that they may know the hope to which he has called them and what are the riches of His Glorious Inheritance in the Saints and what is the immeasurable greatness of His power in we who believe according to the workings of His Great Might, which He accomplished in Christ when he raised him from the dead and made him sit at His Right Hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority, and power and dominion and every name that is named. This occurred from his resurrection from the dead and was not the case previously. This was to be not only in this age but in the age to come. He put all things under his feet and has made him the head over all things for the church which is his body, which is the fullness of God who fills all in all (vv. 18-23).

This is a clearly Subordinationist Unitarian text that is intended to counter the Binitarianism of Attis, Mithras, Adonis, Osiris and the Sun and Mystery Cults and show the Plan of Salvation as listed above.

Chapter 2

Paul then reinforces that the elect were dead in their trespasses and sins, which is the transgression of the Law of God (cf. also Col. 2:14; 1Jn 3:4 and Commentary on James (F059). They once walked according to the course of the world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the Sons of Disobedience (cf. 6:11-12; Col. 1:13).

Paul says that among these we all once lived in the passions of our own flesh following the desires of body and mind so we were by nature children of wrath like the rest of mankind (v 3).

God through His great mercy and love for us and Christ, even when we were dead in our sins through our trespasses (which is transgression of the law) made us alive together with Christ and so by grace we were saved (vv. 4-5) he raised us up with Christ and made us sit with and in Christ in the heavenly places (through the Spirit) (v.6). This was done so that in the coming ages God might show the riches of His Grace towards us in Christ Jesus (vv. 7-8). For by Grace we have been saved through faith and it is not our own doing. It is not because of works lest any man should boast (v. 9). For it is the elect that are the workmanship of God created in Christ Jesus for good works which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them (v. 10) (cf. We are not saved by Good Works (No. 189)).

Paul then drives home the salvation of the Gentiles (v. 11) which deals with the issue of the circumcision and the uncircumcision as was decided at the Acts 15 Conference (No.069). They were at that time separate from Christ, alienated from the Commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise (cf. Israel as the Plan of God (No. 001B) and Israel as the Vineyard of God (No. 001C). It shows then that they who were far off have been brought into Israel through the blood of Christ into the Covenant of God (cf. The Covenant of God (No. 152) and Christianity and Islam in the Covenant of God (No. 096C).

It is from their inclusion by Baptism that they are given the Holy Spirit and thus they are all bound together as one with God as we see below.

From verse 14 Paul then goes on to say that Christ is our peace who has made the Gentiles and Israel one by breaking down the dividing wall of hostility by abolishing in his flesh the law of Commandments and ordinances that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two so making peace and might reconcile us both to God in one body by the stauros (stake, incorrectly translated cross in v. 16 by the devotees of the Mystery and Sun cults) thus ending the hostility.

The text reads “that the law of the Commandments in decrees having abolished in order that the two he might create in himself into one new man making peace.”

To understand this text we must look at Commentary on Colossians 2:14 (F051) where all those of the body are placed in the Body of Christ and the debts occurred in trespasses of the sins we owe God as a bill of indebtedness (cheirographon) is paid for by Christ who nailed it to the stake on which he was killed. So did Christ do away with the law? By no means. He fulfilled the sacrificial law by his death on the stake (cf. The Relationship Between Salvation by Grace and the Law (No. 082) and Distinction in the Law (No. 096)).

He thereby preached peace to those both near and far off and thus all were fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ being the chief cornerstone. The whole structure is joined together through the Holy Spirit in Christ and grows into a Holy Temple and thus we are the Temple of God. We are built into it for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit (vv. 17-22) (cf. also Man as the Temple of God (No. 282D)).

Thus the Holy Spirit is the means of communicating the power of God among us all and tying us all to God and thus cannot be a separate person, as this is contrary to the purpose for which it had been created among the Elohim as sons of God.

Chapter 3

Paul then continues on from verses 1-6 to explain why he considers himself a prisoner for Jesus Christ on behalf of the Gentiles. He assumes that they are aware of the stewardship of God’s Grace given to him for them. He explains that the Mystery of God was made known to him by revelation (as it is given to the prophets and apostles before and after him). He says that the mystery was not made known to those in other generations, but now it is revealed to the apostles and prophets of the church that the Gentiles are made fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the Spirit in Christ through the gospel. This was revealed to Jacob (Gen. 48:17- 22).

From verse 7 Paul explains that he was made a minister of the gospel according to the grace of God by the working of His Power which was so with all prophets and apostles before they were formed in the womb (cf. e.g. Jer. 1:5) and he was given the responsibility of preaching to the gentiles (and from Rome) where Peter was to preach to the Israelites and Hebrews in Parthia and the East from Antioch (122D).

Paul then proceeds to make a statement that it was God who created all things and which was forged to state that God created all things through Christ (cf. Eph. 3:9 KJV). The KJV reads: "And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:"

The words dia ‘Iesou Christou or by Jesus Christ are incorrect. The words have been added to the Receptus and hence appear in the KJV but they do not appear in the ancient texts. They do not appear in the modern versions of the Bible. The Interlinear Greek-English New Testament by Alfred Marshall and the Interlinear Greek-English New Testament by Robert K. Brown and Philip W. Comfort also do not show the added words "by Jesus Christ" in the Greek text. Further, the Concordant Greek Text of the New Testament by the late A.E. Knoch that is based on the Greek Text from Uncial Manuscripts (Sinaiticus, Vaticanus, and Alexandrinus) with an ultraliteral English translation in the sublinear do not include the words "by Jesus Christ" further proving that the KJV is in error.

The RSV correctly relates the text:

Ephesians 3:9 and to make all men see what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things; (RSV)

Compare also Job 38:4-7 where God created the world and its system and summoned all the sons of God to the creation and all their Morning Stars sang and the elohim sons of God shouted for joy and Satan was among them (Job 1:6; 2:1). Also use is made of Hebrews 1:1-2 and makes note of the creation of the world.

Hebrews 1:1-2

God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, 2) Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; (KJV, emphasis added).

In like fashion, this text has also been mistranslated because the word is aion and means age not the worlds as the English of the KJV tries to imply (cf. Companion Bible note to v. 2).

There are a number of forgeries and mistranslations in the Bible usually intentionally to support Trinitarianism and its polytheistic theology. Cf. Forgeries and Additions/Mistranslations in the Bible, No. 164F).

3:10 reveals that it was that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might be revealed to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places. Thus all the sons of God would see through the church the wisdom of God. This was for the eternal purpose he had realised in Christ Jesus our Lord (v. 11). Paul states also that it is in Christ that we have confidence of access to God through Him (v. 12) and so Paul asks them not to lose heart over what he is suffering for them which is the glory of the elect (v. 13).

From verse 14 -19 Paul then continues on with the sequence and procedure where he bows his knees before God, who is the source and naming of every family on heaven and on earth. It is according to the riches of His Glory that he grants the elect to be strengthened with His Might through His Spirit in the inner man. It is thus a pervasive process to all the elect and so that Christ may dwell in their hearts through faith that the elect being rooted and grounded in love, which is a product of the spirit emanating from God, so that all the saints can comprehend the dimensions or extent of the love of God in Christ, which surpasses knowledge. This was in order that we may be filled with all the fullness of God which is the purpose of God in the creation of mankind as we see elsewhere and that He may be all in all (see below). In verse 20 he concludes with his address that we by the power of God that works within us are able to do far more than all we ask or think. To him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Thus the Gift of God in the Holy Spirit was to be in effect for all ages. He thus explains the purpose of the elect and the purpose of the calling and the gift of the Holy Spirit through the death of the Christ. This ends the section dealing with the theological doctrine of the encyclical. Paul then goes on to deal with the behaviour of a life worthy of the calling in chapter 4 with the ethical implications of the doctrine from Chs 4-6.

Chapter 4

So the life of the called elect must be in all meekness and lowliness with patience forbearing one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (cf. Col. 2:12-13). Then he continues with what are called the seven elements of unity in the faith. There is one body and one Spirit, and one hope in our calling (v. 4). There is one Lord, One Faith and One Baptism (v. 5). There is one God and Father of us all. Who is above all and through all and in all (v. 6). God sent Jesus Christ and understanding that fact is eternal life (Jn. 17:3). It is through the Holy Spirit that God becomes all in all and it is through that fact and the power of the Holy Spirit that Christ is able to access us also to implement the will of God. The false doctrine of the Triune god strikes at the heart of the very purpose of the elect.

In verse 7 Paul states that Grace was given to each of the elect according to the measure of Christ’s gift. Therefore it is said that “when he ascended on high he led a host of captives and he gave gifts to men” (v.8) (cf. Psa. 68:18; Col. 2:15). Thus the unity also had a divergence of gifts, (even among the rebellious that God might also dwell in them. (Ps. 68:18b).

Verse 9 then goes on to refer to the descent of Christ to Tartaros as referred to by Peter (1Pet. 3:18-19; 4:6). (cf. also Forty Days after Christ’s Resurrection (No. 159A). Some groups have developed a doctrine of Antichrist that Christ went to Tartaros when he was in the tomb for three days and nights. This separates the divinity of Christ from his humanity and is the doctrine of antichrist. Verse 10 says that he who ascended was also he who descended into the lower parts of the earth (thus he also saved the fallen host as he did with humanity (cf. Judgment of the Demons (No. 080)).

His gifts were that some should be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists and some pastors and teachers. These are to equip the saints for the work of Ministry, for the building up of the Body of Christ, until we all the have unity of the faith and the knowledge of the son of God. This was to reach mature manhood to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, so that we are no longer tossed and carried about by every wind of doctrine; And by the cunning of men, and their deceitful wiles in craftiness. Rather the elect are to speak the truth in love and are to grow up into the Christ who is the head, through whom the body is joined and knit together by all joints with which it is supplied. When each part is working properly it makes growth and properly builds itself in love.

From verse 17 onwards

Paul says that we are no longer to live as the gentiles do in the futility of their minds, darkened in understanding and alienated from the life of God; because of their ignorance and hardness of heart, they have become callous and given up to licentiousness and greed to practice every kind of uncleanness. He then says that the elect did not so learn Christ, assuming that they had heard of him and were taught in Him as the truth is in Christ.

Paul then says to put off your old nature which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful lusts and be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and put on the new nature, created after the Likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. It is in that way that we do away with sin and attain righteousness through the Holy Spirit and we are able to attain the Nature of God in no more sinning, which is transgression of the laws of God.

The fact is that Paul and the elect kept the law as stated by James and covered in the text (cf. Paul: Part I, Paul and the Law (No. 271)). Any attempt to turn this text into an Antinomian thesis is intellectual dishonesty. The Law proceeds from the Nature of God and that nature is conferred on us through Christ so that we may become elohim as sons of God Eloah who is Ha Elohim; Or The One True God (Ton Theon). We grow in the Spirit so that we do not sin because we cannot sin due to the power of God within us. This change follows from the doctrine of being Consubstantial with the Father (No. 081).

Verses 25-32 explain this more fully and ties it to sin which is transgression of the law (cf. also 1Jn. 3:4).

Therefore put away false hood (9^th). Let everyone speak the truth to their neighbour for we are members one of another. He who sins against his neighbour, sins against himself. Be angry but do not sin (6^th), do not let the sun go down on your anger and give no opportunity to the devil. Let the thief no longer steal (8^th). Rather let him labour doing honest work with his hands (8^th and 4^thsecond element), so that he may be able to give to those in need (10^th,5^th + 2^nd Great Commandment (cf. also Tithing (No. 161)). Let no evil talk come out of your mouth (3^rd). Speak only that which is good for edifying that fits the occasion imparting grace to the hearer. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God in whom the elect are sealed for the Day of Redemption in the Resurrection (1^st + 2^nd).

Christian Doctrine is to be displayed by Christian Conduct (cf. Col. 3:1-3; 8; Phil. 2:5-8))

Let all bitterness and wrath and anger be put away with all malice and be kind to one another, tender hearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave us who repent (6^th) (Col. 3:8). The Seventh Commandment was covered above regarding fornication and sin against the body. Thus Paul couched the Ten Commandments and the Second Great Commandments in the text and the First Great Commandment is implied in the basis of the text.

Antinomians are thus in breach of the Bible texts in total and will be dealt with by the Witnesses Enoch and Elijah (Mal. 4:5; Rev. 11:3ff.) and by Christ and the Host at their return and they will not enter the Kingdom of God in the Millennial system.

Chapter 5 continues on with the exhortation to be imitators of God, and walk in love as Christ loved us, and who gave himself up as a fragrant offering and sacrifice (vv. 1-2). Next (in vv. 3-4) the 7^th Commandment is again reinforced as is the 10^th and breaches forbidden to be found among the saints. These are they who keep the Commandments of God and the Faith and Testimony of Jesus Christ (Rev. 12:17; 14:12).

No, fornicator or the covetous or idolater will have any inheritance in the Kingdom of Christ and of God (v. 5) (cf. also Col. 3:5). The saints are not to be deceived with empty words, for in that way the wrath of God will come upon the sons of disobedience (v. 6). These are those who disobey the Laws of God (L1).

Do not associate with these people who break the Commandments of God, for once the saints were darkness and now they are light in the Lord, For the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true (vv. 7-9). Try to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness but expose them. For it is a shame even to speak of the things these sinners do in secret (vv. 10-12). Anything exposed by light becomes visible and in being exposed becomes light (cf. Isa. 60:1-5, perhaps also an early hymn).

The caution is to look how the saints walk, as wise making best use of the time, because the days are evil (vv. 15-16). Do not be foolish and understand what the will of the Lord is. Do not get drunk with wine for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit (vv. 17-18). Paul says we should address one another in Psalms and Hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the lord with all our hearts (v. 19) and always giving thanks to God the Father in the name of Christ.

From verse 21 we are told to be subject to one another in reverence to Christ. Then Paul exhorts the families to deal with one another, wives be subject to their husbands as to the Lord (v. 22).

The husband is head of the wife as Christ is head of the church (v. 23). Having then established the order of the system (v. 24) Paul then demands that husbands love their wives as Christ loves the church and gave himself up for her (v. 25). Christ sanctified the church, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, so that he might present the church to himself in splendour, without spot or wrinkle so that it is made holy and without blemish. In that way husbands should love their wives as their own bodies as Christ does the church because we are members of Christ’s Body (vv. 26-30) (cf. 2Cor.11:2; Rev. 21:2). He then gives further doctrine on marriage (from vv. 31-33) (cf. Gen 2:24); in that the two shall become one flesh as marriage refers to Christ and the church.

Chapter 6 then goes on to deal with the children under the Fifth Commandment (Ex. 20:12) which he identifies as the First Commandment with a promise of long life on the earth. Who in their right minds can suggest Paul was doing away with the law in his texts. Similarly fathers are urged not to provoke their children to wrath but bring them up in the discipline and instruction in the Lord.

From verse 5 Paul gives instruction to slaves and by implication employees. Each is to obey his master not just in fear and trembling but in singleness of heart, not as men pleasers but as servants of Christ.

So also masters treat the servants well as one would have God and Christ treat us from Heaven in the faith. God and Christ are masters of both and there is no partiality or Respect of Persons (No. 221) with God. Whatever good we do others we will receive again from the Lord.

From verse 10 Paul exhorts the saints to be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. In Verse 11 he deals with the whole armour of God and lists it item by item. We do not contend against flesh and blood but against the Fallen Host in the principalities and powers, against the world rulers of this present darkness and against the spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. He exhorts us to gird ourselves with the girdle of Truth, The breastplate of righteousness; Shod your feet with the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God. He instructs us to pray at all times in the Spirit in prayer and supplication. We are to make supplication for the saints and in that case for Paul in his circumstances there in prison.

From 21 he concludes by saying that Tychicus will inform them of the situation of the brethren there. He concludes with the blessing (v. 23).

Ephesians (RSV)

Chapter 1

¹Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To the saints who are also faithful in Christ Jesus: ²Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. ³Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, ⁴even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. ⁵He destined us in love to be his sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, ⁶to the praise of his glorious grace which he freely bestowed on us in the Beloved. ⁷In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace ⁸which he lavished upon us. ⁹For he has made known to us in all wisdom and insight the mystery of his will, according to his purpose which he set forth in Christ ¹⁰as a plan for the fulness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth. ¹¹In him, according to the purpose of him who accomplishes all things according to the counsel of his will, ¹²we who first hoped in Christ have been destined and appointed to live for the praise of his glory. ¹³In him you also, who have heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and have believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, ¹⁴which is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory. ¹⁵For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, ¹⁶I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, ¹⁷that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, ¹⁸having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, ¹⁹and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power in us who believe, according to the working of his great might ²⁰which he accomplished in Christ when he raised him from the dead and made him sit at his right hand in the heavenly places, ²¹far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come; ²²and he has put all things under his feet and has made him the head over all things for the church, ²³which is his body, the fulness of him who fills all in all.

Chapter 2

¹And you he made alive, when you were dead though the trespasses and sins ²in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience. ³Among these we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, following the desires of body and mind, and so we were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. ⁴But God, who is rich in mercy, out of the great love with which he loved us, ⁵even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), ⁶and raised us up with him, and made us sit with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, ⁷that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. ⁸For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not your own doing, it is the gift of God-- ⁹not because of works, lest any man should boast. ¹⁰For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. ¹¹Therefore remember that at one time you Gentiles in the flesh, called the uncircumcision by what is called the circumcision, which is made in the flesh by hands- ¹²remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. ¹³But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near in the blood of Christ. ¹⁴For he is our peace, who has made us both one, and has broken down the dividing wall of hostility, ¹⁵by abolishing in his flesh the law of commandments and ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, ¹⁶and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby bringing the hostility to an end. ¹⁷And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near; ¹⁸for through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. ¹⁹So then you are no longer strangers and sojourners, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, ²⁰built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, ²¹in whom the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord; ²²in whom you also are built into it for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.

Chapter 3

¹For this reason I, Paul, a prisoner for Christ Jesus on behalf of you Gentiles-- ²assuming that you have heard of the stewardship of God's grace that was given to me for you, ³how the mystery was made known to me by revelation, as I have written briefly. ⁴When you read this you can perceive my insight into the mystery of Christ, ⁵which was not made known to the sons of men in other generations as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; ⁶that is, how the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel. ⁷Of this gospel I was made a minister according to the gift of God's grace which was given me by the working of his power. ⁸To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, ⁹and to make all men see what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things; ¹⁰that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places. ¹¹This was according to the eternal purpose which he has realized in Christ Jesus our Lord, ¹²in whom we have boldness and confidence of access through our faith in him. ¹³So I ask you not to lose heart over what I am suffering for you, which is your glory. ¹⁴For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, ¹⁵from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, ¹⁶that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with might through his Spirit in the inner man, ¹⁷and that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, ¹⁸may have power to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, ¹⁹and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fulnes of God. ²⁰Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, ²¹to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, for ever and ever. Amen.

Chapter 4

¹I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, ²with all lowliness and meekness, with patience, forbearing one another in love, ³eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. ⁴There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call, ⁵one Lord, one faith, one baptism, ⁶one God and Father of us all, who is above all and through all and in all. ⁷But grace was given to each of us according to the measure of Christ's gift. ⁸Therefore it is said, "When he ascended on high he led a host of captives, and he gave gifts to men." ⁹(In saying, "He ascended," what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower parts of the earth? ¹⁰He who descended is he who also ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things.) ¹¹And his gifts were that some should be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, ¹²to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, ¹³until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ; ¹⁴so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the cunning of men, by their craftiness in deceitful wiles. ¹⁵Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, ¹⁶from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by every joint with which it is supplied, when each part is working properly, makes bodily growth and upbuilds itself in love. ¹⁷Now this I affirm and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds; ¹⁸they are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart; ¹⁹they have become callous and have given themselves up to licentiousness, greedy to practice every kind of uncleanness. ²⁰You did not so learn Christ! -- ²¹assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus. ²²Put off your old nature which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful lusts, ²³and be renewed in the spirit of your minds, ²⁴and put on the new nature, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. ²⁵Therefore, putting away falsehood, let every one speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another. ²⁶Be angry but do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, ²⁷and give no opportunity to the devil. ²⁸Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his hands, so that he may be able to give to those in need. ²⁹Let no evil talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for edifying, as fits the occasion, that it may impart grace to those who hear. ³⁰And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, in whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. ³¹Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, with all malice, ³²and be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

Chapter 5

¹Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. ²And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. ³But fornication and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is fitting among saints. ⁴Let there be no filthiness, nor silly talk, nor levity, which are not fitting; but instead let there be thanksgiving. ⁵Be sure of this, that no fornicator or impure man, or one who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. ⁶Let no one deceive you with empty words, for it is because of these things that the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. ⁷Therefore do not associate with them, ⁸for once you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of light ⁹(for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), ¹⁰and try to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. ¹¹Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. ¹²For it is a shame even to speak of the things that they do in secret; ¹³but when anything is exposed by the light it becomes visible, for anything that becomes visible is light. ¹⁴Therefore it is said, "Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give you light." ¹⁵Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, ¹⁶making the most of the time, because the days are evil. ¹⁷Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. ¹⁸And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but be filled with the Spirit, ¹⁹addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with all your heart, ²⁰always and for everything giving thanks in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God the Father. ²¹Be subject to one another out of reverence for Christ. ²²Wives, be subject to your husbands, as to the Lord. ²³For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. ²⁴As the church is subject to Christ, so let wives also be subject in everything to their husbands. ²⁵Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, ²⁶that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, ²⁷that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish. ²⁸Even so husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. ²⁹For no man ever hates his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, as Christ does the church, ³⁰because we are members of his body. ³¹"For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh." ³²This mystery is a profound one, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church; ³³however, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.

Chapter 6

¹Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ²"Honor your father and mother" (this is the first commandment with a promise), ³"that it may be well with you and that you may live long on the earth." ⁴Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. ⁵Slaves, be obedient to those who are your earthly masters, with fear and trembling, in singleness of heart, as to Christ; ⁶not in the way of eye-service, as men-pleasers, but as servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, ⁷rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to men, ⁸knowing that whatever good any one does, he will receive the same again from the Lord, whether he is a slave or free. ⁹Masters, do the same to them, and forbear threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and that there is no partiality with him. ¹⁰Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. ¹¹Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. ¹²For we are not contending against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. ¹³Therefore take the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. ¹⁴Stand therefore, having girded your loins with truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, ¹⁵and having shod your feet with the equipment of the gospel of peace; ¹⁶besides all these, taking the shield of faith, with which you can quench all the flaming darts of the evil one. ¹⁷And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. ¹⁸Pray at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, ¹⁹and also for me, that utterance may be given me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, ²⁰for which I am an ambassador in chains; that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak. ²¹Now that you also may know how I am and what I am doing, Tych'icus the beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord will tell you everything. ²²I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are, and that he may encourage your hearts. ²³Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. ²⁴Grace be with all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with love undying.

Bullinger’s Notes on Ephesians (for KJV)

Chapter 1

Verse 1

Jesus Christ. The texts read Christ Jesus (App-98).

saints. See Acts 9:13. 1 Corinthians 1:2.

Ephesus. See Introductory Notes.

in. Same as at, above.

Christ Jesus. As above.

Verse 2

Grace. App-184. Occurs twelve times in Eph.

Verse 3

Blessed, &c. Compare 2 Corinthians 1:3. 1 Peter 1:3. Always applied to God.

hath = having. Note the use and importance of aorist participles throughout this section.

with. App-104.

all = every.

spiritual. See 1 Corinthians 12:1.

blessings = blessing (singular) Greek. eulogia. See Romans 15:29.

heavenly places = the heavenlies, i.e. heavenly spheres. Greek. epouranios. Compare Ephesians 1:20; Ephesians 2:6; Ephesians 3:10; Ephesians 6:12.

Verse 4

According = Even.

hath chosen = chose out. Greek. eklegomai. Compare Acts 1:2.

world. App-129. Compare 2 Timothy 1:9.

without blame. Greek. amomos. Here; Ephesians 5:27. Colossians 1:22. Hebrews 9:14. 1 Peter 1:19. Jude 1:24. Revelation 14:5.

before Him = in His sight. See 2 Corinthians 2:17.

love. App-135. Some insert "in love" after "predestinated us" in Ephesians 1:5.

Verse 5

predestinated = foreordained. Greek. proorizo. See Acts 4:28. Romans 8:29.

unto, to. Greek. eis. App-104.

adoption of children. Greek. huiothesia. See Romans 8:15. Compare App-108.

according to. Greek. kata. App-104.

good pleasure. Greek. eudokia. See Romans 10:1.

Verse 6

praise. See Romans 2:29.

glory. Greek. doxa. See p. 1511.

wherein. The texts read which.

made . . . accepted = literally en-graced. App-184. Compare Luke 1:28.

Beloved. App-135. Compare Matthew 3:17, Matthew 17:5; &c. and see App-99.

Verse 7

we have. Compare Romans 5:1.

redemption = the redemption. See Romans 3:24; Romans 5:1.

through. Greek. dia. App-104. Ephesians 1:1.

His blood. The price of the redemption. Compare Acts 20:28. 1 Corinthians 6:20. 1 Peter 1:18, 1 Peter 1:19; &c.

sins = transgressions. App-128.

riches, &c. Compare Ephesians 1:18; Ephesians 2:7; Ephesians 3:8, Ephesians 3:16. Romans 9:23. Colossians 1:27.

Verse 8

hath. Omit.

prudence. Greek. phronesis. Only here and Luke 1:17.

Verse 9

Having made known. Greek. gnorizo. As in Ephesians 3:3. Philippians 1:1, Philippians 1:22 (wot). Compare App-132.

unto = to.

hath. Omit.

purposed. Greek. protithemi. See Romans 1:13.

Verse 10

That in. Greek. eis. App-104.

dispensation. Greek. oikonomia. See 1 Corinthians 9:17.

fulness. Greek. pleroma. First occurance: Matthew 9:16.

He might gather together in one = to sum up (literally: "head up"). Greek. anakephalaioomai. See Romans 13:9. The verb in this place being in Mid. voice is reflexive, implying "for Himself" (compare verses: Ephesians 1:5, Ephesians 1:9).

both. Omit.

in. The texts read epi, as below.

heaven = the heavens (plural) See Matthew 6:9, Matthew 6:10.

even. Omit.

Verse 11

have. Omit.

obtained an inheritance. Greek. kleroomai. Only here.

being = having been.

purpose. Greek. prothesis. See Romans 8:28.

worketh. Greek. energeo. See 1 Corinthians 12:6.

Verse 12

That = To the end that. Greek. eis. App-104.

first trusted = have before hoped. Greek. proelpizo. Only here. The "we" being the saved members of the Pentecostal church closed by the judgment pronouncement of Acts 28:25, Acts 28:28 (see Longer Note, p. 1694).

Verse 13

In Whom, &c. The Ellipsis (App-6) should be supplied from the subject of Ephesians 1:11. In (Greek. en) Whom ye were made an inheritance also; or, allotted as God"s own inheritance.

after, &c. = having heard. See Ephesians 1:5.

word of truth. The Word always the instrument of the new begetting. Compare John 17:17. James 1:18. 1 Peter 1:23.

salvation. Only occurance of the word in Eph.

in Whom, &c. = in (Greek. en) Whom ye also on believing were sealed.

believed. App-150.

sealed. Compare Ephesians 4:30. Matthew 27:66. John 3:33. 2 Corinthians 1:22. Revelation 7:3; &c. A seal affixed implies possession, or security, as well as being a distinctive mark.

with. No preposition. Dative case.

that = the (Emph.)

holy Spirit. Although both articles occur (see App-101.), yet it is clear from the "earnest, a pledge" (Ephesians 1:14) that it is the gift, not the Giver.

promise = the promise. See John 16:13, and compare Acts 1:4, which latter refers to the beginning of the fulfillment of the promise in John 16:13.

Verse 14

Which . . . possession. In parenthesis.

the earnest = a pledge. See 2 Corinthians 1:22. The gift of the new nature (spirit) is a pledge of God"s future gifts in the same kind, thus differing from any ordinary pledge. Compare 1 Peter 1:4.

inheritance. Greek. kleronomia. See Acts 20:32. Compare our inheritance here, and His inheritance, Ephesians 1:18.

purchased possession. Greek. peripoiesis. Here; 1 Thessalonians 5:9. 2 Thessalonians 2:14. Hebrews 10:39. 1 Peter 2:9. Compare Acts 20:28.

Verse 15

Wherefore = on account of this. Greek. dia (App-104. Ephesians 1:2) touto.

after I = having.

your = among (Greek. kata. App-104.) you.

the Lord Jesus. i.e. Jesus (App-98.) as Lord (App-98. A). See Romans 10:9.

Verse 16

give thanks. Greek. eucharisteo. First occurance: Matthew 15:36. With its noun and adjective occuring fifty-five times (thirty-eight in Paul"s Epp.) See App-10.

making mention, &c. See Romans 1:9. In a papyrus of second century A.D. the mention of assurance of intercession for a sister in the same words is found in a letter from a soldier.

Verse 17

That = In order that. Greek. hina.

Father of glory. Compare 1 Corinthians 2:8.

unto = to.

Verse 18

understanding = mind. Compare Matthew 22:37; &c. Greek. dianoia, but the texts read kardia, heart.

being = having been.

that. Greek. eis. See Ephesians 1:12.

the hope of His calling. i.e. to the sonship, Ephesians 1:4-5; our acceptance as sons in the "Beloved" (Son). Compare Galatians 1:4, Galatians 1:5-7.

His inheritance in the saints. Compare Ephesians 2:7. Titus 2:14; &c. Israel will be God"s inheritance ("peculiar treasure", Exodus 19:5) on earth. The church which is His body will be His inheritance in heaven. In Titus 2:14 the Greek periousion (peculiar treasure) is used by the Septuagint for segullah, Exodus 19:5. Deuteronomy 7:6; Deuteronomy 14:2; Deuteronomy 26:18. Compare Malachi 3:17. A cognate word is used in Psalms 135:4.

Verse 19

exceeding = surpassing. See 2 Corinthians 3:10; 2 Corinthians 9:14.

greatness. Greek. megethos. Only here.

believe. App-150.

according to . . . all in all. Parenthetic (Figure of speech Parembole. App-6), the main argument being continued in Ephesians 2:1, which should read, "Even you", &c.

according to. Same as Ephesians 1:5.

working. App-172. Occurs: Ephesians 3:7; Ephesians 4:16. Philippians 1:3, Philippians 1:21. Co Ephesians 1:1, Ephesians 1:29; Ephesians 2:12. 2 Thessalonians 2:9, 2 Thessalonians 2:11.

His mighty power. Literally the strength (App-172.) of

Verse 20

wrought. Greek. energeo, as in Ephesians 1:11.

when He raised = having raised. App-178.

from the dead. App-139.

set = sat. Compare Mark 16:19.

Verse 21

Far above. Greek. huperano. Here; Ephesians 4:10. Hebrews 9:5

all = every. principality. Greek. arche. See Romans 8:38, and App-172.

might = power. Greek. dunamis, Ephesians 1:19.

dominion. Greek. kuriotes. Here, Colossians 1:16. 2 Peter 2:10. Jude 1:8.

also, &c. = the coming one also.

Verse 22

hath. Omit.

put, &c. Compare 1 Corinthians 15:27.

the. Omit.

church. App-186. Here, the "church" of the Mystery. In these verses: note the sevenfold (App-10) Headship of the Lord, above (1) all principality, (2) power, (3) might, (4) dominion, (5) every name, (6) all things, (7) the church.

Verse 23

His body Compare Ephesians 3:5, Ephesians 3:6.

fulness. See Ephesians 1:10. His members "fill up" the body of Christ, and the body of Christ fills up and completes "the dispensation of the fulness of the times". The apostle adopts the term used by the Gnostics, pleroma (Colossians 2:9, Colossians 2:10). See note on Ephesians 2:2 (prince).

filleth all in all. He fills up all the members with all spiritual gifts and graces.

Chapter 2

Verse 1

And you = Even you. Resuming from Ephesians 1:19.

hath He quickened. Omit. The Ellipsis in Authorized Version and Revised Version supplied from Ephesians 2:5.

in = by. No preposition. Dative case.

trespasses. App-128. The texts prefix "your".

Verse 2

Wherein = In (Greek. en) which.

in time past = once.

the course (aion) of this world = the age of this world (App-129.)

course. Greek. aion. App-129.

prince = ruler, i.e. Satan. Compare 2 Corinthians 4:4. Greek. archon. In this Epistle Paul uses the very terminology of the Gnostic teaching that the universe was ruled by AEONS, emanations of Deity. The archon here being the one who had dominion over the air, and the whole body of AEONS forming the pleroma (fulness) of the spiritual world, in contrast with the emptiness (kenona) or unsubstantial character of the material world (kosmos).

worketh = is working. See Ephesians 1:11.

children of disobedience. Hebraism: not disobedient children, but sons (App-108.) of Satan in a special manner, being those in whom he works, and on whom the wrath of God comes (Ephesians 5:6).

disobedience = the disobedience. See Romans 11:30.

Verse 3

also we . . . past = we also all once lived.

conversation. See 2 Corinthians 1:12.

lusts. Greek. epithumia, strong desire. See Luke 22:15. Not necessarily evil desire, as see the verb in 1 Timothy 3:1.

flesh. Old nature. See Romans 7:5.

fulfilling = doing. Greek. poieo.

flesh. The coarse lusts of the body.

mind. Greek. dianoia, thought. The refined lusts of the mind.

by nature. See Romans 2:27.

the. Omit.

wrath. See Romans 1:18.

even as. Add "also".

Verse 4

Who is = being.

mercy. Compare Romans 9:23.

for = on account of. App-104. Ephesians 2:2.

love, loved. App-135.

Verse 5

sins. As trespasses in Ephesians 2:1.

hath. Omit.

quickened . . . together = made . . . alive with. Greek. suzoopoieo. Only here and Co Ephesians 1:2, Ephesians 1:13.

by No preposition. Dative case. grace. App-184.

are = were.

Verse 6

hath raised, &c. = raised . . . together (with Him). Greek. sunegeiro. Only here. Co Ephesians 1:2, Ephesians 1:12; Ephesians 3:1.

made us, &c. = made us to sit down together. Greek. sunkathizo. Only here and Luke 22:55.

heavenly places. As in Ephesians 1:3.

Christ Jesus. See Ephesians 1:1.

Verse 7

That = In order that. Greek. hina.

exceeding. See Ephesians 1:19.

kindness. See Romans 2:4. App-1

84.

Verse 8

through. Greek. dia. App-104. Ephesians 2:1.

faith. App-150. We are saved by grace, not by faith, which is the channel through (dia) which flows to us the Divine stream of saving grace. Both alike God"s gifts.

Verse 9

lest any man = in order that (Greek. hina) no (Greek. me.) one (Greek. tis. App-123.)

boast. See Romans 2:17.

Verse 10

workmanship = handiwork. Greek. poiema. Only here and Romans 1:20. Refers to the new creation of verses: Ephesians 2:5, Ephesians 2:6.

created = having been created. Gr ktizo. See Romans 1:25.

hath before ordained = afore prepared. Greek. proetoimazo. See Romans 9:23, the only other occurances.

that = in order that. Greek. hina.

Verse 11

Uncircumcision. See Romans 2:25.

the. Omit.

made by hands. Greek. cheiropoietos. In the Epp. only here and Hebrews 9:11, Hebrews 9:24. Made Jews by rite. Compare Romans 2:28, Romans 2:29.

Verse 12

without = apart from.

being aliens = having been estranged from. Greek. apallotrioo. Only here; Ephesians 4:18. Colossians 1:21.

commonwealth = polity. Greek. politeia. Only here and Acts 22:28.

Israel. In the Prison Epp. only here and Philippians 1:3, Philippians 1:5.

strangers. Greek. xenos. See Acts 17:21.

promise = the promise

without God. Greek. atheos. Only here.

Verse 13

now. Emph.

sometimes = once.

are = were.

the blood. i.e. His death, not His life. Compare Ephesians 1:7, Romans 5:9. Philippians 1:2, Philippians 1:8. Colossians 1:14, Colossians 1:20.

Verse 14

peace. Peace itself, objectively, and its Author (1 Thessalonians 5:23. 2 Thessalonians 3:16), to us and in us. Compare Isaiah 9:6; Isaiah 52:7; Isaiah 53:5; Isaiah 57:19. Micah 5:5. Haggai 2:9. Zechariah 9:10. Luke 2:14. John 14:27; John 20:19, John 20:21, John 20:26.

hath = having.

both. Jews and Gentiles.

hath broken down = having destroyed. See 1 John 3:8.

middle wall. Greek. mesotoichon. Only here. The type is seen in the stone palisade, about three cubits high, which separated the Court of the Gentiles from that of the Jews, to pass which was death to any Gentile. A notice, of which Josephus speaks, was found in 1871.

partition = the partition. Only here; Matthew 21:33. Mark 12:1. Luke 14:23 (hedge).

between us. Omit.

Verse 15

abolished = done away with. Greek. katargeo. See Romans 3:3.

His flesh. i.e. His death.

enmity. See Romans 8:7.

the law . . . in ordinances = the law of the dogmatic commandments. Compare Romans 8:4.

ordinances. Greek. dogma. See Co Ephesians 1:2, Ephesians 1:14.

for to make = in order that (Greek. hina) He might create (as Ephesians 2:10).

twain = the two, Jew and Gentile.

one new man = into (Greek. eis) one new (Greek. kainos. See Matthew 9:17) man.

Verse 16

reconcile = bring together again. Greek. apokatallasso. Only here and Colossians 1:20, Colossians 1:21. The intensive form, katallasso with prefix apo (App-104.), implies reinstatement. Here it refers to the bringing together again of the two, so that "in one body" they may be united to God, in Christ. See App-196.

the cross. Compare 1 Corinthians 1:17. Galatians 1:6, Galatians 1:12, Galatians 1:14.

the enmity. i.e. of the law of dogmatic commandments (Ephesians 2:15) which was against us (see Colossians 2:14), and which we could not keep.

thereby = by (Greek. en) it, i.e. the cross.

Verse 17

came = having come (Aor.)

and preached peace = He preached the good news (App-121.) peace.

and. The texts add "peace".

Verse 18

access = the access. Greek. . prosagoge. Occ Ephesians 3:12. See Romans 5:2.

Spirit. App-101.

Verse 19

Now therefore = So then.

no more = no longer. Greek. ouketi.

foreigners = sojourners. Greek. paroikos. See Acts 7:6.

fellowcitizens. Greek. sumpolites. Only here. Whose seat of government (politeuma) is in heaven. See Philippians 1:3, Philippians 1:20.

household. Literally the domestics. Greek. oikeios. Only here; Galatians 1:6, Galatians 1:10. 1 Timothy 5:8.

Verse 20

And are = Having been. Compare Acts 20:32.

the foundation . . . prophets. The foundation laid by the apostles and prophets (compare Hebrews 2:3, Hebrews 2:4; Hebrews 6:1, Hebrews 6:2), or (2) the foundation of the apostles and prophets themselves, laid by God.

foundation. Greek. themelios. See App-146.

apostles and prophets. App-189.

Jesus Christ. The texts re "Christ Jesus". App-98.

the. Omit.

chief corner stone = foundation corner-stone. Greek. akrogoniaios. Only here and 1 Peter 2:6. See Septuagint of Isaiah 28:16. Christ is both foundation corner-stone, and head of the corner. Compare Psalms 118:22. See Acts 4:11.

Verse 21

all the building = Every building (Greek. oikodome). The texts omit "the". Compare 1 Corinthians 3:9.

fitly framed together = harmoniously fitted together. Greek. sunarmologeo. Only here and Ephesians 4:16.

groweth = is growing, increasing.

Temple = Sanctuary. Greek. naos. See Matthew 23:16.

Verse 22

builded together = being built in together. Greek. sunoikodomeo. Only here.

for. App-104.

habitation. Greek. katoiketerion. Only here and Revelation 18:2.

Chapter 3

Verse 1

This chapter is parenthetical, and within it is another parenthesis, verses: Ephesians 3:2-13. Both must be carefully noted.

For this cause = On this account.

Jesus Christ = Christ Jesus. App-98.

Gentiles. Compare Acts 22:21; Acts 26:23.

Verse 2

If = If indeed. Greek. eige. See App-118.

have. Omit.

dispensation = stewardship. Greek. oikonomia. See Ephesians 1:10.

the = that.

grace. App-184.

God. App-98.

is = was.

to . . . -ward. Greek. eis. App-104. The grace of God which concerned them and us. Not the grace of God as to "the kingdom", or "the heavenly calling" (see App-193), but the gospel of God"s grace as to the church which is the body of Christ.

Verse 3

revelation. App-106.

He. All the texts read "was".

unto = to.

mystery. See Ephesians 5:32. 1 Timothy 3:16. App-193.

as = even as.

wrote afore. See Romans 15:4.

in (App-104.)

few words = briefly. See Romans 16:25, Romans 16:26.

Verse 4

whereby = according to (App-104.) which.

may = can.

knowledge. App-132.

the mystery. i.e. the great secret (Ephesians 5:32). See App-193.

Christ. App-98.

Verse 5

in other ages = to (no preposition, Latin case) other generations.

unto, unto = to, to.

sons. App-108.

men. App-123.

is = was.

now. Emph. This present time.

revealed. Greek. apokalupto. App-106.

holy apostles and prophets. See Ephesians 2:20, and compare "prophetic writings" (Romans 16:26). App-189.

the Spirit. App-101.

Verse 6

That, &c. The subject of the revelation.

fellowheirs = joint-heirs. Greek. sunkleronomos. See Romans 8:17. Occurs elsewhere, Hebrews 11:9. 1 Peter 8:7.

of the same body = members-of-a-joint-body. Greek. sussomos. Only here. Not joined on to an existing Jewish body, but a new body "of the twain".

partakers = joint-partakers. Greek. summetochos. Only here and Ephesians 5:7.

His = the, as all the texts.

Christ. The texts read Christ Jesus. See Ephesians 1:1.

by. App-104. Ephesians 3:1.

gospel. See App-140.

Verse 7

Whereof = of which.

a minister = minister (App-190.) i.e. of the good news concerning the "secret".

according to. App-104.

gift. Greek. dorea.

unto = to.

by. Same as "according to", above.

effectual working = working. App-172.

power. App-172.; Ephesians 176:1.

Verse 8

Unto = To.

who . . . least = to the less than the least. Greek. elachistoteros. Only here. That is what Paul was. What he became, see 1 Corinthians 15:10 (laboured more abundantly, &c).

saints. In Ephesians 3:5, "holy". See Acts 9:13.

is = was.

preach. App-121.

among = to.

unsearchable = untraceable. Only here and Romans 11:33, which see.

riches. See Ephesians 1:7.

Verse 9

And . . . God = And to enlighten all as to what is the stewardship (committed to me) of the mystery (App-193) that hath been hidden from the ages in God.

make . . . see = enlighten. See Ephesians 1:18.

fellowship. The texts read oikonomia (Ephesians 3:2), instead of koinonia.

from . . . world = from the ages. App-151.

hid. Greek. apokrupto. See 1 Corinthians 2:7.

created. See Ephesians 2:10.

by Jesus Christ. The texts omit.

Verse 10

To the intent that = In order that. Greek. hina.

unto = to.

principalities = rulers. Greek. arche. App-172.

powers = authorities. Greek. exousia. App-172. See Ephesians 1:21.

heavenly places = the heavenlies. See Ephesians 1:3.

might be known = may be made known.

church. App-186.

manifold. Greek. polupoikilos. Only here. Implies "infinitely diversified".

wisdom. See Ephesians 1:8.

Verse 11

eternal purpose = purpose (Greek. prothesis. See Ephesians 1:11) of the ages (App-151.)

which. i.e. which (purpose).

purposed = made. Greek. poieo.

Christ Jesus our Lord. App-98.

Verse 12

access. See Ephesians 2:18.

with. Greek. en. App-104.

confidence = confident assurance. See 2 Corinthians 1:15.

faith. App-150.

Verse 13

desire = beg. App-134.

faint not = not (Greek. me) to be cast down.

at. Greek. en App-104. The parenthesis ending with Ephesians 3:13, the teaching is continued from Ephesians 3:1, "For this cause", &c.

Verse 14

This verse going back to the subject of Ephesians 3:1 is Figure of speech Anachoresis App-6.

Father. App-98.

of . . . Christ. The texts omit.

Verse 15

the whole family = every (Greek. pasa) family. No article.

family. Greek. patria. Only here; Luke 2:4. Acts 3:25.

heaven-the heavens. See Matthew 6:9, Matthew 6:10.

earth = upon (Greek. epi) earth (Greek. ge. App-129.) See Ephesians 1:10.

named. See Ephesians 1:21.

LONGER NOTE on Ephesians 3:15.
"The whole family in heaven and earth. ".

1. The word "family" is an unfortunate rendering of the Greek patria. Our English word takes its derivation from the lowest in the household, famulus, the servant, or slave. The Latin familia was sometimes used of the household servants, and sometimes of all the members of a family under the power of a pater familias. But the idea of patria is Hebrew, a group or class of families all claiming descent from one pater (father), e.g. the twelve tribes of Israel. "Joseph was of the house and lineage (family, Greek. patria) of David" (Luke 2:4). The word occurs only in Luke 2:4. Acts 3:25. Acts 3:15, and denotes a clan all descended from a common stock.

2. To apply this: God has many families in heaven and earth, both in this age and in that which is to come. But with selfish disregard of this fact we see only the family, and that of course must be the "church", for that is the family to which we belong. Thus we claim everything for ourselves, especially if blessing, mercy, or glory is attached, and so we completely ignore the fact that many of these families of God are named in Scripture. in Ephesians 1:21 we have "principality", "power", "might", "dominion"; the first two being again mentioned in Ephesians 3:10, the principalities and powers in the heavenlies to whom God is even now manifesting His manifold wisdom by means of the church (His body) as an object-lesson. Others are mentioned in Colossians 1:16. 1 Peter 3:22. What these heavenly families may be we do not know. The Greek words reveal to us no more than the English do, because they pertain to the unseen world of which we no nothing.

To limit this verse to the "church" as many do, and to interpret it in wholly unscriptural terms of the "church militant" and the "church triumphant", and in hymn-book diction to sing.

One family we dwell in Him,
One church, above, beneath;
Though now divided by the stream,
The narrow stream of death

is not only to lose the revelation of a great truth of God, but to put error in its place. Rightly divided, the families of God named in the N.T. are: in heaven, principalities, powers, might, dominions, thrones, angels, and archangels. Among the families on earth are Israel, the Israel of God (Galatians 1:6, Galatians 1:16), and the church of God (1 Corinthians 10:32).

Verse 16

That = In order that. Greek. hina.

would grant = may give.

you = to you.

to be strengthened. See 1 Corinthians 16:13.

might. App-172.

Spirit. App-101.

inner. See Romans 7:22.

man. App-123.

Verse 17

Christ, &c. See Romans 8:9.

dwell. See Acts 2:5.

rooted. Greek. rhizoomai. Only here and Colossians 2:7.

grounded = founded. Greek. themelioo. See App-146and Matthew 7:25.

love. See Ephesians 2:4. App-135.

Verse 18

able = fully able. Greek. exischuo. Only here. Compare App-172.

saints = the saints. See Ephesians 3:8.

what . . . height. Omit "is". After "height" read "of love is", i.e. God"s love in Christ. In breadth, boundless : in length, endless: in depth, fathomless, exhaustless: in height, measureless.

Verse 19

And = Even.

know. App-132.

knowledge. App-132.

might = may.

filled. See Ephesians 1:23. App-125.

fulness. Greek. pleroma. See Ephesians 1:23.

Verse 20

That = Who.

exceeding abundantly. Literally beyond (Greek. huper) of (Greek. ek) abundance = infinitely.

above. Greek. huper. App-104.

all = all things.

power. Same as "might" Ephesians 3:16.

worketh. See Ephesians 1:11.

Verse 21

Unto = To.

glory = the glory. See p. 1511.

by. Greek. en.

throughout . . . end App-151.

Chapter 4

Verse 1

I therefore. Resuming his teaching after the parenthesis of Ephesians 3:1-21.

prisoner. See Ephesians 3:1.

Lord. App-98.

beseech. Greek. parakaleo. App-134. Compare 1 Thessalonians 4:1. 1 Timothy 2:1; &c.

vocation = calling, as Ephesians 1:18.

are = were.

Verse 2

With. App-104.

lowliness = humility of mind. See Acts 20:19.

meekness. See 1 Corinthians 4:21.

forbearing = bearing with. See 2 Corinthians 11:1.

love. App-135.

Verse 3

Endeavouring. Compare 2 Timothy 2:15 (studying).

unity. Literally oneness. Greek. henotes. Only here and Ephesians 4:13.

Spirit. App-101.

bond. See Acts 8:23.

peace = the peace.

Verse 4

There is. Supply the Ellipsis by "Ye are ".

body. See Ephesians 2:15, Ephesians 2:16. Spirit. App-101.

are called = were called also.

Verse 5

Lord. App-98.

faith. i.e. doctrine; by Metonymy, App-6. See App-150.

baptism. Greek. baptisma. App-115. The baptism of the Spirit by Whom we are baptized into the one body. (See How to Enjoy the Bible, by the late Dr. E. W. Bullinger, p. 128.)

Verse 6

God. App-98.

Father. App-98. Note the seven occurances of "one"; body, Spirit, hope, Lord, faith, baptism. God and Father; three on either side of the Lord Jesus Christ.

through. App-104. Ephesians 4:1.

you. The texts omit.

all. The indwelling of God in the members of the body by pneuma theou. See Romans 8:9.

Verse 7

unto = to.

every = each.

is = was.

grace = the grace. App-184.

according to. App-104.

measure. Greek. metron. See Romans 12:3.

gift. Greek. dorea. See Ephesians 3:7.

Christ. App-98.

Verse 8

When, &c. From Psalms 68:18. See App-107.

up. Omit.

on. App-104.

high. See Luke 1:78. Rendered "height" in Ephesians 3:18. Revelation 21:16.

led . . . captive. Greek. aichmaloteuo. Only here and 2 Timothy 3:6. In Luke 21:24. Romans 7:23. 2 Corinthians 10:5, the word is aichmalotizo.

captivity = a body of captives. See Matthew 27:52. Romans 1:4.

gave. Having received according to Psalms 68:18, He gave.

gifts. Greek. doma. Here; Matthew 7:11. Luke 11:13. Philippians 4:17.

unto = to.

men. App-123.

Verse 9

(Now . . . ascended = (Now this fact), He ascended.

what is it = what does it imply.

but = except. Greek. ei (App-118) me (App-105).

also descended = descended also.

lower parts. i.e. Hades. App-131.

earth. App-129.

Verse 10

also That ascended = That ascended also.

far above. Greek. huperano. See Ephesians 1:21.

heavens = the heavens. Matthew 6:9, Matthew 6:10.

that = in order that. Greek. hina.

fill. See Ephesians 1:23.

Verse 11

some. Add "indeed" (Greek. men).

apostles, prophets. App-189.

pastors = (as) shepherds. So every other occurance (seventeen in all).

teachers. Greek. didaskalos.

Verse 12

perfecting. Greek. katartismos. Only here. For the verb, see App-125. Compare Romans 9:22.

saints. See Acts 9:13.

ministry. App-190.

edifying. As in Ephesians 2:21.

the body of Christ. See Ephesians 1:23.

Verse 13

come = attain. Greek. katantao. Compare Philippians 1:3, Philippians 1:11.

and = even.

knowledge = full, or perfect, knowledge. App-132.

Son of God. See 2 Corinthians 1:19. App-98.

unto, unto. App-104.

perfect = complete, full grown. App-123.; Ephesians 125:1.

man. App-123.

stature. See Matthew 6:27.

fulness. Greek. pleroma. Compare Ephesians 3:19; Ephesians 3:1. Ephesians 3:23.

Verse 14

be = maybe.

no more = no longer. Greek. meketi.

children. App-108.

tossed to and fro. Literally "surging about (as waves)". Only here.

carried about = borne hither and thither. See 2 Corinthians 4:10.

wind. Greek. anemos.

doctrine = the teaching. Greek. didaskalia. The evil teaching of the ruler of the power of the air and of demons. Compare 1 Timothy 4:1.

by = (or) by. Greek. en. App-104.

sleight. Greek. kiibeia; hence our "cube". Only here.

and cunning craftiness = with (Greek. en) subtilty. Greek. panourgia. Compare 2 Corinthians 11:3.

whereby . . . deceive = with a view to (Greek. pros. App-104.) the wile, or stratagem (Greek. methodeia : only here and Ephesians 6:11), of the error (Greek. plane). The association of methodeia with Satan (in Ephesians 6:11) shows that, here, plane = planos; i.e. the method or scheme is that of the devil himself, and not merely error.

Verse 15

speaking the truth. Literally truthing it. Greek. aletheuo. Only here and Galatians 4:16. See App-175Ephesians 1:2.

may grow up. See Ephesians 2:21.

Which = Who.

Head. See Ephesians 1:22.

Verse 16

From. App-104.

fitly joined together = being perfectly fitted together. Only here and Ephesians 2:21.

compacted = knit together. Greek. sumbibazo. See Acts 9:22. Occurs: Colossians 2:2.

joint = ligament. Greek. haphe; only here and Colossians 2:19. Here the ligament is "the bond of peace" (Ephesians 4:3).

supplieth = of the supply, i.e. from the Head. Greek. epichoregia; only here and Philippians 1:19. Genitive of relation. App-17.

the = an.

effectual working. Gr. energeia. See Ephesians 1:19.

every = each several.

increase. Greek. auxesis. Only here and Colossians 2:19.

Verse 17

testify. Greek. marturomai. See Acts 20:26.

henceforth . . . not = no longer. Greek. meketi.

other. Omit.

Gentiles = the Gentiles. They were Gentiles, but now are members of the church His body. Compare 1 Corinthians 10:32.

vanity. See Romans 8:20.

mind. Compare Romans 1:21.

Verse 18

Having . . . darkened = Having been darkened. Greek. skotizo. See Romans 1:21. 2 Corinthians 4:4.

the understanding = in the understanding. See Ephesians 1:18.

being = having been.

alienated. Greek. apallotrioomai. See Ephesians 2:12.

the life of God. Only occurrence.

life. Greek. zoe. Only here in Eph. App-170.

through. App-104. Ephesians 4:2.

ignorance. See Acts 3:17.

because of. App-104. Ephesians 4:2.

blindness = hardness. Greek. porosis. Compare Romans 11:25.

Verse 19

past feeling. Literally, hardened. Greek. apalgeo. Only here.

have given . . . over = gave up.

unto = to.

lasciviousness. See Mark 7:22.

to work = unto (Greek. eis) the working.

work. Greek. ergasia, a word implying regular occupation, craft for gain. Compare Acts 16:16; Acts 19:24, Acts 19:25.

uncleanness. Compare Romans 1:24.

greediness = covetousness. Greek. pleonexia. Always "covetousness", except here and 2 Peter 2:14.

Verse 20

have . . . learned = did . . . learn.

Verse 21

If so be. App-118.

have. Omit.

have been taught = were instructed.

as the truth is in Jesus. Frequently misquoted. No article. See John 14:6.

as = even as.

the. Omit.

Jesus. App-98.

Verse 22

put off = put away. See Romans 13:12.

concerning. App-104.

former. Greek. proteros. Only here as adjective

conversation. Greek. anastrophe. Compare Galatians 1:1, Galatians 1:13.

the old man. The old (Adam) nature. See Romans 6:6.

man. App-123.

corrupt = being corrupted. Greek. phtheiro. Compare 1Cor. Ephesians 15:33.

the deceitful lusts = the desires of the deceit (Greek. apate). Here, the desires of the deceiver, as in Ephesians 4:14 "the error" is used for the cause of it, the devil. Compare Revelation 12:9; Revelation 20:3, Revelation 20:8, Revelation 20:10.

Verse 23

renewed. Greek. ananeoo. Only here. Occurs frequently in Apocrypha. Implies that the whole course of life now flows in a different direction. See 2 Corinthians 4:16; 2 Corinthians 5:17.

spirit. App-101.

Verse 24

put on. Greek. enduo. See Romans 13:12, Romans 13:14. Galatians 1:3, Galatians 1:27.

the new man. The new nature.

which = that which.

after. App-104.

is = was (Aor.)

created. Greek. ktizo. See Ephesians 2:10.

righteousness . . . holiness = true holiness and righteousness. Contrast Adam, Genesis 1:27.

righteousness. App-191.

true. Literally of the truth. Greek. alstheia, as Ephesians 4:21.

holiness. Greek. hosiotes. Only here, and Luke 1:75.

Verse 25

putting = having put. Greek. apotithemi. As Ephesians 4:22.

lying = the lie. Greek. to pseudos. Compare John 8:44. Romans 1:25. 2 Thessalonians 2:11.

speak, &c. From Zechariah 8:16.

for = because.

members. Compare Ephesians 5:30.

Verse 26

angry. Greek. orgizo, imperative. Positive command, the context showing that "righteous indignation" is referred to.

and = yet.

sin not. Literally be not sinning. Compare 1 John 2:1. Greek. hamartano. App-128. The anger is to be transitory. The quotation is from Psalms 4:4 (Septuagint), where Hebrew reads, "tremble, and sin not", the meaning of which is shown by the use here, for it is as easy to tremble from anger as from other powerful emotions.

go down. Greek. epiduo. Only here.

upon. App-104.

wrath. Greek. parorgismos. Only here. The verb occurs Ephesians 6:4, and compare Romans 10:19, the only other occ

Verse 27

Neither. Gi. mede.

place = opportunity.

devil. The ruler of the darkness, Compare Ephesians 6:12; the deceiver of verses: Ephesians 4:14, Ephesians 4:22; the "lie" of Ephesians 4:25. Now revealed as the devil. See Revelation 12:9.

Verse 28

labour. As Acts 20:35.

the thing = that.

give. See Romans 12:8.

Verse 29

corrupt. Literally putrid.

communication = word. App-121.

out of. App-104.

the . . . edifying. See Revised Version margin Some ancient texts, including the vulgate, read "of the faith", instead of "to the use".

minister = give.

grace. App-184.

unto = to.

Verse 30

grieve. Greek. lupeo, occurs frequently; compare Romans 14:15.

the holy Spirit. App-101.

whereby = by (Greek. en) Whom. The Giver here is the Sealer.

are = were.

sealed. Compare Ephesians 1:13, where the sealing is the gift.

the = a.

redemption. Final deliverance; now we have the earnest. See Ephesians 1:14.

Verse 31

bitterness. Greek. pikria. See Romans 3:14 and Figure of speech Polysyndeton. App-6.

wrath. Luke 4:28.

anger. Greek. orge.

clamour = uproar. See Acts 23:9.

evil speaking = railing. Greek. blasphemia. See 1 Timothy 6:4.

from. App-104.

with. App-104.

malice. As Romans 1:29. App-128.

Verse 32

kind = gracious. Greek. chrestos. App-184.

tenderhearted = tenderly compassionate. Greek. eusplanchnos. Only here and 1 Peter 3:8.

forgiving, forgiven. App-184.

one an other = each other.

for Christ"s sake = also in (Greek. en) Christ (App-98. IX).

hath forgiven = forgave.

Chapter 5

Verse 1

followers = imitators. Greek. mimetes. See 1 Corinthians 4:16.

God. App-98.

dear = beloved. App-135.

children. App-108.

Verse 2

love. App-135.

Christ. App-98.

hath loved = loved. App-135.

us. The texts read "you".

hath given = gave up. Compare Romans 4:25. John 19:30.

sweetsmelling savour = an odour of a sweet smell.

sweetsmelling. Greek. euodia. See 2 Corinthians 2:15.

savour. Greek. ocme. Compare John 12:3.

Verse 3

uncleanness. As in Romans 1:24.

not . . . once = not even. Greek. mede.

among. App-104.

saints. See Acts 9:13.

Verse 4

Neither = Nor.

filthiness. Greek. aischrotes. Only here.

foolish talking. Greek. morologia. Only here.

nor = or.

jesting = ribaldry. Occurs only here.

convenient = befitting. Greek. aneko. Only here; Colossians 3:18. Philemon 1:8.

giving of thanks. Greek. eucharistia. The verb in Ephesians 5:20.

Verse 5

know. App-132.

whoremonger = fornicator.

covetous = avaricious. Greek. pleonektes. See 1 Corinthians 5:10, 1 Corinthians 5:11; 1 Corinthians 6:10.

who = which.

idolater. Compare 1 Corinthians 5:10.

inheritance. As in Ephesians 1:14.

kingdom of Christ = kingdom of the Messiah. App-114.

of God. See App-114.

Verse 6

no man. Greek. medeis.

deceive. Greek. apatao. Occurs only here; 1 Timothy 2:14. James 1:26.

vain = hollow. See Colossians 2:8. First occurance: Mark 12:3 (empty).

words. App-121.

because of. App-104. Ephesians 5:2.

the wrath of God. See Romans 1:18.

upon. App-104.

children = sons. App-108.

disobedience = the disobedience. See Ephesians 2:2.

Verse 7

Be = Become.

partakers = partners. See Ephesians 3:6.

Verse 8

sometimes = once.

darkness. The darkness of blindness. Compare Ephesians 4:18.

light. Not in the light, but having received the Light, are light. App-130.

Lord. App-98.

children. App-108.

Verse 9

Spirit. App-101., but the texts read "light".

goodness. Compare Romans 15:14.

righteousness. App-191.

truth. See Ephesians 4:21.

Verse 10

acceptable. As in Romans 12:1.

unto = to.

Lord. App-98.

Verse 11

have . . . fellowship = have partnership. Greek. sunkoinoneo. Only here; Philippians 1:4, Philippians 1:14. Revelation 18:4.

unfruitful works. Compare dead works, Hebrews 6:1; wicked works, Co Ephesians 1:1, Ephesians 1:21; all works of the darkness, Romans 13:12. Consequently, the works of the devil, 1 John 3:8. Compare John 8:44, and contrast Ephesians 2:10.

darkness = the darkness.

reprove = convict. See Luke 3:19.

Verse 12

shame. See 1 Corinthians 11:6.

done = being done.

in secret. Greek. kruphe. Only here.

Verse 13

made manifest. Greek. phaneroo. App-106.

Verse 14

Awake. App-178.

sleepest = art sleeping. Greek. katheudo. App-171.

arise. App-178.

from the dead. App-139.

shall . . . light = will shine upon thee. Greek. epiphauo; occurs only here. A paraphrase of Isaiah 60:1, Isaiah 60:2. App-107.

Verse 15

See. App-133.

circumspectly. App-125.

fools = unwise. Greek. asophos; only here.

wise. Greek. sophos. First occurance: Matthew 11:25.

Verse 16

Redeeming. Greek. exagorazo; literally to buy out. See Galatians 1:3, Galatians 1:13 -

time. Greek. -kairos. Compare App-195. Here, the opportunity.

evil. Greek. poneros. Compare Ephesians 6:13. App-128.

Verse 17

Wherefore = On account of (App-104Ephesians 5:2) this.

unwise. See Luke 11:40.

understanding. The texts read "understand ye". Compare Romans 3:11.

will. App-102.

Verse 18

be . . . drunk. Greek. methuskomai. Only here; Luke 12:45. 1 Thessalonians 5:7.

wherein = by (Greek. en) which.

excess = debauchery. Greek. asotia. Only here; Titus 1:6. 1 Peter 4:4. The adverb only in Luke 15:13.

filled. See Ephesians 3:19.

with = by (Greek. en).

Spirit. See App-101, and Note at end of Ap.

Verse 19

in = with. No preposition.

psalms. Greek. psalmos. See 1 Corinthians 14:26.

hymns. Greek. humos; only here and Colossians 3:16.

spiritual songs. As sung by spiritual persons.

spiritual. Greek. pneumatikos. See 1 Corinthians 12:1.

songs. Greek. ode, a song of thanksgiving. Here; Colossians 3:16. Revelation 5:9; Revelation 14:3, Revelation 14:3; Revelation 15:3, Revelation 15:3.

making melody. Greek. psallo See Romans 15:9.

in = with. No preposition.

Verse 20

Giving thanks. See Ephesians 5:4; Ephesians 1:16.

always. App-151.

and = even.

Father. App-98.

the name. See Acts 2:38.

Lord Jesus Christ. See Ephesians 1:17 and App-98.

Verse 21

Submitting. Same as "subject", Ephesians 5:24.

God. The texts read "Christ".

Verse 22

husbands. App-123.

Verse 23

the = a.

even as Christ = as Christ also.

church. App-186.

and He is = He Himself (being).

the saviour = Saviour. Greek. soter; only here in Eph.: not in Rom., Cor., Gal.

the body. See Ephesians 1:23.

Verse 24

Therefore = But.

subject. The same as "submit" in Ephesians 5:21.

Verse 25

love, loved. App-135.

gave = gave up. See Ephesians 5:2.

it = her (feminine pronoun).

Verse 26

That = In order that. Greek. hina.

sanctify. Greek. hagiazo. See 1 Corinthians 1:2.

and cleanse = having cleansed. Greek. katharizo.

with the washing = by (no preposition: dative case) the laver. Greek. loutron; only here and Titus 3:5 which says Figure of speech Anthropopatheia (App-6), the laver being put for Christ"s death and its results. Compare Numbers 19, especially Numbers 19:9 and Numbers 19:17 . Has nothing to do with baptism.

the word. Greek. rhema. First occurance: Matthew 4:4. See Mark 9:32.

Verse 27

present. Greek. paristemi. See Romans 12:1.

it. The texts read Greek. autos = Himself.

glorious. Greek. endoxos. Elsewhere, Luke 7:25; Luke 13:17. 1 Corinthians 4:10.

spot = blemish. Greek. spilos; only here and 2 Peter 2:13

wrinkle. Only here.

should = may.

without blemish = faultless. Greek. amomos. See Ephesians 1:4.

Verse 28

men. Same as "husbands", above.

wives = own wives. Compare "own husbands", Ephesians 5:22.

wife = own wife.

Verse 29

no man = no one. Greek. oudeis.

yet. Omit.

nourisheth. Greek. ektrepho. Only here and Ephesians 6:4.

cherisheth. Greek. thalpo. Only here and 1 Thessalonians 2:7.

the Lord. The texts read "Christ also".

Verse 30

members. See Ephesians 4:25. Compare Romans 12:4, Romans 12:5; 1 Corinthians 6:15; 1 Corinthians 12:27.

of His body. Being part of the Bridegroom, the church which is His body is not the "bride", as is so commonly taught.

of . . . bones. The texts omit.

Verse 31

For, &c. From Genesis 2:24. See App-107.

cause. Omit.

man. App-123.

shall be = shall.

joined = cleave. Greek. proskoollaomai. Occurs elsewhere, Matthew 19:5. Mark 10:7. Acts 5:36.

they = the.

shall be one flesh. Men and their wives being "one flesh", a man ought to love his wife, inasmuch as she is himself, as Christ loves His own body, the church. The apostle does not once hint that Christ is the husband, or that the church is the wife, but uses the "great mystery" of Ephesians 5:32 in regard to the reciprocal obligations of husband and wife.

one = for (Greek. eis. App-104.) one. Does this suggest one, in the offspring?

Verse 32

a = the.

mystery. See Romans 16:25, Romans 16:26 and App-193.

concerning. Greek. eis. App-104.

and = and concerning.

Verse 33

every one = each.

in particular. Greek. kath (App-104.) hena.

reverence = fear (as her "head"). Greek. phobeo. Occurs ninety-three times; always rendered "fear" or "be afraid", except here.

Chapter 6

Verse 1

Children. App-108. Compare Colossians 3:20.

Lord. App-98.

right. App-191.

Verse 2

Honour, &c. From Exodus 20:12.

Verse 3

That = In order that. Greek. hina.

earth. App-129.

Verse 4

ye = the.

provoke . . . to wrath. See Romans 10:19.

bring . . . up = nurture. As in Ephesians 5:29. Compare 2 Timothy 3:15.

in the nurture = with (Greek. en) discipline. Greek. paideia. Only here; 2 Timothy 3:16. Hebrews 12:5, Hebrews 12:7, Hebrews 12:8, Hebrews 12:11.

admonition. Greek. nouthesia. Only here; 1 Corinthians 10:11. Titus 3:10.

Verse 5

masters. Greek. kurios. See App-98.

fear and trembling. Compare 1 Corinthians 2:3, the same phrase.

singleness. Greek. haplotes. See Romans 12:8.

unto = to.

Verse 6

eyeservice. Only here and. Colossians 3:22.

menpleasers. Only here and Colossians 3:22.

the. Omit.

heart = soul. App-110. Ephesians 6:2.

Verse 7

good will. Greek. eunoia. See 1 Corinthians 7:3, the only other occurance.

Verse 8

This verse contains an example of Figure of

any man = each one.

receive. Compare 2 Corinthians 5:10.

Verse 9

And, ye masters = The masters also.

forbearing = refraining from. See Acts 16:26 (loosed).

your Master. The texts read, "both their Master and yours".

heaven = heavens. See Matthew 6:9, Matthew 6:10.

neither is there = and there is not (Greek. ou).

respect of persons. As in Romans 2:11.

Verse 10

Finally = From henceforth. The texts read tou loipou, as Galatians 1:6, Galatians 1:17.

my brethren. The texts omit.

be strong = be empowered; pass, of Greek. endunamoo. Compare Acts 9:22.

Verse 11

Put on. See Ephesians 4:24. whole armour = panoply. Greek. panoplia; only here, Ephesians 6:13, and Luke 11:22. Frequently in Apocrypha.

that, against. The same Greek. word, pros. App-104.

wiles. See Ephesians 4:14.

Verse 12

we wrestle = to us the wrestling (Greek. pale; only here) is.

against. Greek. pros, Ephesians 6:11.

flesh and blood = blood and flesh; i.e. human beings, contrasted with the wicked spirits mentioned below.

rulers = world-rulers. Greek. kosmokrator; only here.

the = this.

darkness. The present order of things.

of . . . world. The texts omit.

spiritual wickedness. Literally spiritual (hosts) of the wickedness (Greek. poneria. App-128.) These are the wicked spirits of the evil one (Greek. poneros, see 1 John 2:13, and App-128.

high places = the heavenlies. See Ephesians 1:3.

Verse 13

Wherefore = On account of (Greek. dia) this.

take unto you = take up.

withstand. Greek. anthistemi. See Romans 9:19.

the evil day. Perpetually, because the days are evil; Ephesians 5:16. Compare Galatians 1:1, Galatians 1:4.

done. Greek. katergazomai. See Romans 1:27.

stand = stand (fast). Greek. histemi. Compare 2 Thessalonians 2:15.

Verse 14

Stand, &c. Here are defined the panoplia of God. These are seven (App-10); three for enduement, girdle, breastplate, shoes; two are weapons of defense, shield and helmet; two for offence, sword and spear.

having your loins girt about = having girded your loins.

truth. Greek. aletheia. See App-175.

having on = having put on, as in Ephesians 6:11.

breastplate of righteousness. Compare Messiah"s panoply, Isaiah 11:5; Isaiah 59:17.

righteousness. App-191.

Verse 15

shod = having shod. Occurs: Mark 6:9, Acts 12:8.

preparation. Greek. hetoimasia; only here. The verb occurs first in Matthew 3:3.

gospel. App-140. peaces the peace.

Verse 16

Above. Greek. en. App-104.

shield. Greek. thureos. The shield is Christ Himself. Compare Genesis 15:1.

quench. Compare 1 Thessalonians 5:19.

darts. Greek. belos, anything thrown. Occurs only here. Satanic temptations.

wicked = wicked one. See Ephesians 6:12.

Verse 17

take = receive. Greek. dechomai. Occurs fifty-nine times (fifty-two "receive"). We receive, we do not take, salvation.

helmet. Only here, and 1 Thessalonians 5:8. Compare Isaiah 59:17.

salvation. Greek. soterion. See Luke 2:30; Luke 3:6. Acts 28:28.

word = utterance. Greek. rhema. The written word. See Mark 9:32, and compare Isaiah 8:20. Matthew 4:4, Matthew 4:6, Matthew 4:7.

Verse 18

always = on (Greek. en) every occasion.

watching. Literally lying sleepless. See Mark 13:33. Luke 21:36. Hebrews 13:17.

thereunto = unto (Greek. eis) this.

perseverance. Only here; the verb in Romans 12:12.

saints = the saints. See Acts 9:13.

Verse 19

utterance. App-121.

I . . . mouth. Literally in (Greek. en) opening (Greek. anoixis, only here) of my mouth.

boldly = with (Greek. en) boldness.

make known. As Philippians 1:1, Philippians 1:22.

Verse 20

I am an ambassador. Greek. presbeuo; only here and 2 Corinthians 5:20. Ancient inscriptions show that presbeuo and presbutes (ambassador) were the terms employed in the Greek East to indicate the Emperor"s Legate.

bonds = a chain. See Acts 28:20. 2 Timothy 1:16. Compare Mark 5:3. An ambassador in a chain!

therein = in (Greek. en) it; i.e. the mystery.

speak boldly = speak freely, as in Acts 26:26.

Verse 21

my affairs = the things concerning (App-104.) me.

do = fare. Greek. prasso. Compare Acts 15:20.

Tychicus. See Acts 20:4. Colossians 4:7. 2 Timothy 4:12. Titus 3:12. Named in association with Trophimus (Acts 20:4), he also was probably an Ephesian. Compare Acts 21:29.

a = the.

Verse 22

the same = this very.

our affairs = the things concerning (App-104.) us.

comfort. Greek. parakaleo. App-134.

Verse 23

Peace. See Ephesians 1:2. The seventh and last occurance in the Ep. of grace and peace.

love. App-135. Tenth and last OCC in Eph.

faith. As Ephesians 6:16, but without article.

the Lord Jesus Christ. See Ephesians 1:3.

Verse 24

Grace = The grace. App-184.

sincerity. Literally uncorruptness. Greek. aphtharsia. See Romans 2:7. 1 Corinthians 15:42.

Amen. Omit, with all the texts.

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