Epiphany · The Epiphany of Our Lord · Year C
Ephesians 3:1-12
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
Reads 'mystery' as the term tying this text to the day's theme of manifestation.
Ephesians 3:1-12 Commentary Center for Excellence in Preaching
A Reformed homiletical angle on Paul's boldness in approaching God.
Ephesians 3 Commentary Enduring Word · David Guzik
Verse-by-verse evangelical notes on Paul's stewardship of the mystery.
Ephesians 3:1 Commentaries BibleHub
Classic commentaries gathered in one place for cross-checking.
Ephesians 3 Resources Precept Austin
An inductive-study hub with verse-by-verse links and outside resources.
Ephesians 3:1 Interlinear BibleHub
Greek interlinear for checking 'mystery' and 'stewardship' in the original.
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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