Ephesians 1:1-2 - Homiletics

Address and salutation.

Character and scope of the Epistle as a whole (see Introduction); circumstances of the writer; jubilant tone of the Epistle; cordiality of the Ephesian Church.

I. The writer speaks with authority. He is an "apostle," sent and commissioned directly by Christ, and acting in his name—a real ambassador of the Lord of glory.

II. He holds this office "by the will of God;" pursues neither an irregular nor a merely volunteer course unsanctioned by the supreme Ruler, but acts by the will of God.

III. The Church is a society of " saints ," and "faithful," or believing, "in Christ Jesus." If we want these attributes, we may be of Israel, but we are not Israel.

IV. Divine blessings are invoked and brought near to the Church, viz.

This salutation is more than a pious wish or even prayer; the blessings are brought as it were to the door of all. It rests with them either to receive them or not. "Glorious things are spoken of thee, O city of God!" The blessings brought near are very precious, for God in Christ with all his fullness is there. Let us beware of trifling with the offer. Let us open the door and welcome the Lord of grace and peace.