Unveiling God’s Eternal Plan: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on Ephesians 3

Executive Summary ✨

Ephesians 3, *The Mystery of Christ Revealed*, is a cornerstone of Pauline theology, revealing God’s eternal plan to unite Jews and Gentiles in one body through the Gospel. Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles, emphasizes his calling to preach the unfathomable riches of Christ, a mystery hidden for ages but now revealed through the Church. The chapter then transitions into a powerful prayer, seeking that believers be strengthened by the Spirit and rooted in love, comprehending the immeasurable dimensions of Christ’s love. This love surpasses all understanding, filling us with the fullness of God. This chapter ultimately reveals the profound truth that believers can experience the transformative power of Christ through faith and grow in unity with one another.

This exploration aims to unpack Paul’s profound message in Ephesians 3, providing a Coptic Orthodox lens to see how this “mystery” impacts our daily lives. We will delve into the meaning of Paul’s apostleship, the revealed mystery of Christ, and his fervent prayer for the Ephesians, ultimately understanding how we, too, can be filled with the fullness of God through faith and love. *The Mystery of Christ Revealed* is not just a historical doctrine, but a living reality we are called to embrace.

Commentary Sections

Ephesians 3:1-2 – Paul, the Prisoner of Christ for the Gentiles

Ephesians 3:1-2 (KJV): For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles, If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward:

Ephesians 3:1-2 (NKJV): For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for you Gentiles— if indeed you have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which was given to me for you,

Paul begins by identifying himself as “the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles.” This imprisonment wasn’t simply a political consequence; it was a direct result of his mission to preach the Gospel to the Gentiles, a mission that often brought him into conflict with Jewish authorities. This highlights a crucial element of Coptic Orthodox spirituality: suffering for Christ’s sake. Like St. Paul, we are called to endure hardship for the sake of the Gospel, knowing that our suffering is not in vain. The phrase “dispensation of the grace of God” refers to the stewardship entrusted to Paul, the responsibility to administer God’s grace to the Gentiles, a task that required him to endure hardship.

Patristic Insight: St. Athanasius states, “Ὅτι ἀνάγκη καὶ τοὺς μαθητὰς τοῦ Χριστοῦ διὰ θλίψεων εἰσελθεῖν εἰς τὴν βασιλείαν τῶν οὐρανῶν” (De Incarnatione Verbi Dei, PG 25:192), meaning, “For it is necessary that the disciples of Christ also enter the kingdom of heaven through tribulations.” This echoes the truth that our journey to salvation is not devoid of hardship.

Spiritual Application: Are we willing to suffer for the sake of Christ? This doesn’t necessarily mean physical imprisonment, but are we willing to stand up for our faith in the face of ridicule, opposition, or social pressure? Let us consider how we can use online marketing tips to spread the gospel. How can we offer our lives as a living sacrifice, embodying the spirit of sacrifice and dedication exemplified by St. Paul?

Ephesians 3:3-4 – The Mystery Made Known

Ephesians 3:3-4 (KJV): How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)

Ephesians 3:3-4 (NKJV): how that by revelation He made known to me the mystery (as I have written afore in few words), by which, when you read, you may understand my insight into the mystery of Christ),

Paul emphasizes that the “mystery” was not discovered through human intellect but revealed by divine revelation. This revelation, according to Paul, isn’t just about acknowledging Jesus as the Messiah, but recognizing God’s plan to include Gentiles as co-heirs with Jews in the Kingdom of God. This was a radical concept in the first century, challenging the established religious and social norms. This revelation dismantles any notion of exclusivity in salvation, highlighting God’s impartiality and universal love.

Archaeological evidence supports the existence of significant cultural and religious tensions between Jews and Gentiles in the first century, reinforcing the groundbreaking nature of Paul’s message of unity. The environment of Ephesus, a diverse port city, was ripe for such tensions, making the message of unity even more compelling.

Spiritual Application: Do we actively seek revelation from God through prayer, Scripture, and the sacraments? Are we open to challenging our own preconceived notions about who is included in God’s grace? We need to recognize the presence of God in our lives through revelation.

Ephesians 3:5-6 – Gentiles as Fellow Heirs

Ephesians 3:5-6 (KJV): Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:

Ephesians 3:5-6 (NKJV): which in other ages was not made known to the sons of men, as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to His holy apostles and prophets: that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ through the gospel,

These verses present the core of the “mystery”: that Gentiles are “fellow heirs, of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel.” This breaks down the wall of separation between Jew and Gentile, creating one unified body in Christ, the Church. The Coptic Orthodox Church, from its earliest days, embraced this unity, welcoming people from all nations and backgrounds. This echoes the prophetic vision of Isaiah: “I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth” (Isaiah 49:6).

Patristic Insight: St. Cyril of Alexandria writes, “Διὰ τοῦτο οὐκ ἔστιν Ἰουδαῖος οὐδὲ Ἕλλην, οὐκ ἔστι δοῦλος οὐδὲ ἐλεύθερος, οὐκ ἔστιν ἄρσεν καὶ θῆλυ· πάντες γὰρ ὑμεῖς εἷς ἐστε ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ” (Commentarius in Epistolam ad Galatas, PG 74:748), translating to, “Therefore there is neither Jew nor Greek, neither slave nor free, neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” This emphasizes the radical equality and unity in Christ.

Spiritual Application: Do we embrace the diversity within our Church community? Are we actively working to break down barriers of race, ethnicity, and social class? We are called to promote the gospel of Christ.

Ephesians 3:7-9 – Paul’s Ministry to the Gentiles

Ephesians 3:7-9 (KJV): Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power. Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; 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:

Ephesians 3:7-9 (NKJV): of which I became a minister according to the gift of the grace of God given to me by the effective working of His power. To me, who am less than the least of all the saints, this grace was given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, and to make all see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the ages has been hidden in God who created all things through Jesus Christ,

Paul emphasizes his unworthiness, calling himself “less than the least of all saints,” yet acknowledging the incredible grace bestowed upon him to preach the “unsearchable riches of Christ.” This highlights the importance of humility in Christian service. It wasn’t Paul’s own ability that made him effective, but the power of God working through him. The “unsearchable riches of Christ” encompass the fullness of His divine nature, His saving grace, and the promise of eternal life. This is a treasure beyond human comprehension.

Spiritual Application: Are we serving God with humility, recognizing that our abilities come from Him? Are we diligently seeking to understand the “unsearchable riches of Christ” through Scripture, prayer, and the sacraments?

Ephesians 3:10-12 – The Church as a Display of God’s Wisdom

Ephesians 3:10-12 (KJV): To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord: In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him.

Ephesians 3:10-12 (NKJV): to the intent that now the manifold wisdom of God might be made known by the church to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places— according to the eternal purpose which He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord, in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through faith in Him.

Here, Paul reveals that the Church isn’t just a human institution, but a divine display of God’s “manifold wisdom” to the “principalities and powers in heavenly places.” The Church, through its unity and love, demonstrates God’s wisdom in uniting Jews and Gentiles, breaking down age-old animosities. We can now access God through the faith of Christ with boldness. This echoes the Book of Wisdom (Deuterocanonical), which speaks of God’s wisdom as a guiding principle in creation and redemption.

Spiritual Application: Are we living in a way that reflects the “manifold wisdom of God?” Are we actively contributing to the unity and love within our Church community? Are we living in harmony with others?

Ephesians 3:13 – Paul’s Sufferings for Their Glory

Ephesians 3:13 (KJV): Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.

Ephesians 3:13 (NKJV): Therefore I ask that you do not lose heart at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.

Paul reassures the Ephesians, urging them not to lose heart because of his sufferings. He emphasizes that his tribulations are actually for their glory. This reminds us that suffering for Christ and His Church is not a sign of defeat but a participation in His victory. This suffering strengthens the entire body of Christ.

Spiritual Application: Do we see suffering as an opportunity to glorify God? Do we support and encourage those who are suffering for their faith? We need to encourage others.

Ephesians 3:14-19 – Paul’s Prayer for Spiritual Strength

Ephesians 3:14-19 (KJV): For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.

Ephesians 3:14-19 (NKJV): For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height— to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.

This is the heart of Ephesians 3: Paul’s fervent prayer for the Ephesians (and for us). He prays that they be strengthened by the Spirit in their “inner man,” that Christ may dwell in their hearts through faith, and that they may be “rooted and grounded in love.” This speaks to the importance of spiritual growth and inner transformation. He yearns for them to comprehend the immeasurable dimensions of Christ’s love, a love that surpasses all human understanding. His ultimate desire is that they be “filled with all the fullness of God.” This echoes the Coptic Orthodox emphasis on theosis, the process of becoming like God through grace.

Patristic Insight: St. Gregory of Nazianzus writes, “Θεὸν γὰρ γενέσθαι δεῖ πρῶτον, εἶτα θεῶσαι τοὺς ἄλλους” (Orationes, PG 36:632), meaning, “For one must first become God, then deify others.” This speaks to the transformative power of God’s grace in making us like Him.

Spiritual Application: Do we regularly pray for spiritual strength and inner transformation? Are we actively seeking to be “rooted and grounded in love?” Are we striving to comprehend the immeasurable love of Christ, and to be filled with the fullness of God? Do we consider web hosting as a form of service to God?

Ephesians 3:20-21 – Doxology to God

Ephesians 3:20-21 (KJV): Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.

Ephesians 3:20-21 (NKJV): Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

Paul concludes with a powerful doxology, praising God who is able to do “exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think.” This is a reminder of God’s limitless power and His boundless grace. He is worthy of glory in the Church throughout all ages. This emphasizes the eternal nature of God’s plan and His unwavering love for humanity. This passage serves as a reminder of God’s omnipotence and His capacity to exceed our expectations.

Spiritual Application: Do we approach God with faith, believing that He is able to do “exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think?” Do we give Him glory for His grace and power in our lives?

Subtopic Sections

The Importance of Unity in Christ 🤝

Ephesians 3 highlights the central theme of unity between Jews and Gentiles, a foundational principle for the Church.

• Breaking Down Barriers: The Gospel dismantles social and religious barriers, uniting diverse people in one body.
• Shared Inheritance: Gentiles are not second-class citizens but equal heirs to God’s promises in Christ.
• Living in Harmony: We are called to actively foster unity within the Church, embracing diversity and resolving conflicts.
• Witness to the World: Our unity is a powerful witness to the world, demonstrating the transformative power of Christ’s love.
• Reflection of the Trinity: The unity of the Church mirrors the perfect unity of the Holy Trinity.

The Power of God’s Grace 💪

Paul emphasizes that his ministry is a result of God’s grace, not his own merit. This underscores the centrality of grace in the Christian life.

• Undeserved Favor: Grace is God’s unmerited favor, freely given to those who believe.
• Empowerment for Service: Grace empowers us to serve God effectively, using our gifts and talents for His glory.
• Humility in Ministry: Recognizing our dependence on grace fosters humility in our service to God and others.
• Transformation and Growth: Grace transforms us from the inside out, enabling us to grow in holiness and love.
• Eternal Salvation: Grace is the foundation of our salvation, securing our eternal life in Christ.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about Ephesians 3:

Q: What exactly is the “mystery” that Paul is referring to in Ephesians 3?
A: The “mystery” is God’s plan to include the Gentiles as fellow heirs with the Jews in the Kingdom of God, uniting them in one body, the Church, through faith in Jesus Christ. This was a hidden plan, now revealed through the Gospel.

Q: Why does Paul emphasize his unworthiness in Ephesians 3?
A: Paul emphasizes his unworthiness to highlight the overwhelming grace of God that enabled him to minister to the Gentiles. By acknowledging his own limitations, he underscores the power of God working through him.

Q: How can we apply Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 3 to our daily lives?
A: We can apply Paul’s prayer by regularly seeking spiritual strength through the Holy Spirit, rooting ourselves in love, striving to comprehend Christ’s boundless love, and praying to be filled with the fullness of God in all aspects of our lives.

Conclusion

Ephesians 3, *The Mystery of Christ Revealed*, provides a profound understanding of God’s eternal plan, emphasizing the unity of all believers in Christ, the power of divine grace, and the importance of spiritual growth. The chapter compels us to embrace diversity, serve with humility, and seek a deeper understanding of Christ’s love, ultimately striving to be filled with the fullness of God. By understanding and embracing this *Mystery of Christ Revealed*, we can live more fully as members of the Body of Christ. May we heed Paul’s words and diligently seek to be strengthened by the Spirit and rooted in love, so that we, too, can comprehend the immeasurable dimensions of Christ’s love, which surpasses all knowledge. May we all pursue this life-changing transformation with sincerity and zeal.

Tags

Ephesians, Paul, Mystery, Gentiles, Church, Unity, Grace, Love, Prayer, Coptic Orthodox

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Explore Ephesians 3: *The Mystery of Christ Revealed* with Coptic Orthodox commentary, uncovering Paul’s profound message on unity, grace, and the immeasurable love of Christ.