Epiphany Season · Epiphany of the Lord · Year C
Ephesians 3:2-3a, 5-6
Paul the Preacher to the Gentiles
January 6, 2028
Overview & Insights
“That you may have power to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge.” (Ephesians 3:18–19)
When the apostle completed his section on the spiritual blessings in Christ (1:3–14), he proceeded to offer a prayer of thanksgiving and petition (1:15–23). After this theological discussion in 2:1–22, it appears that he is once again ready to turn to prayer because the statement, “For this reason” (3:1), refers to what he has just said; furthermore, the actual prayer in 3:14ff. appears to relate to this section and would be a fitting climax to the thoughts that he has developed. But instead of a prayer, the apostle’s thought is diverted to another topic of discussion—one that is related to Paul’s call and mission as a proclaimer of God’s secret. After a rather lengthy presentation of this subject (3:2–13), he returns to his initial intention to pray and subsequently offers one of the most beautiful and comprehensive prayers in the NT.
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Commentary
Commentary on Ephesians 3:1-12 Working Preacher
Luther Seminary commentary on Paul's stewardship of the mystery that Gentiles are full heirs with Israel.
Ephesians 3:1-12 Commentary Center for Excellence in Preaching
Reformed preaching commentary on the mystery of Christ now disclosed to apostles and prophets by the Spirit.
Ephesians 3 Commentary Enduring Word · David Guzik
David Guzik's verse by verse reading of Paul's stewardship and the mystery of Gentile inclusion.
Ephesians 3:2 Commentaries BibleHub
Aggregated classic commentary on the dispensation of grace given to Paul for the Gentiles.
Ephesians 3 - Barnes' Notes StudyLight
Barnes' Notes verse by verse on the mystery of Christ revealed to the apostles and prophets.
The Epiphany of the Lord Catholic Productions · Brant Pitre
Dr. Brant Pitre's Catholic exegesis linking Paul's mystery of the Gentiles to Isaiah's vision of nations streaming to the light.
Background & Word Study
The Church Fathers
Questions preachers ask
What is Paul’s prayer?
Paul prays that the church, rooted and grounded in love, may grasp the breadth and length and height and depth of Christ’s love and be filled with all the fullness of God (Ephesians 3:13–21).
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