Epiphany · The Epiphany of Our Lord · Year B
Ephesians 3:1-12
Paul the Preacher to the Gentiles
January 6, 2027
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 the mystery made known to Gentiles as Epiphany on a cosmic scale.
Ephesians 3:1-12 Commentary Center for Excellence in Preaching
Reformed preaching commentary expanding Epiphany to the whole heavenly realm.
Ephesians 3 - The Mystery Revealed Enduring Word · David Guzik
David Guzik's verse-by-verse exposition of Paul's stewardship of the mystery.
Ephesians 3:1 Commentaries BibleHub
Classic commentators on Paul the prisoner and the parenthesis of chapter 3.
Ephesians 3:1-3 Commentary Precept Austin
Deep study-notes commentary on the dispensation of grace given to Paul for the Gentiles.
Background & Word Study
Ephesians (Enter the Bible) Enter the Bible
Luther Seminary background on the setting and themes of Ephesians.
Overview: Ephesians BibleProject
Animated overview of the literary design and message of the letter.
Ephesians 3:1 Interlinear BibleHub
Greek word-by-word interlinear with parsing and Strong's numbers.
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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