This study is part of our series of verse by verse studies of Ephesians, the 49th book in the Bible. Taught by our pastor, Simeon Forder, at our Sunday morning service on the 5th October 2025.

About this book

The letter to the Ephesians is very much one of encouragement, to live the new life we now have in Christ, and not one of correction in the same way that Paul wrote to the Corinthians or to the churches in Galatia. Indeed, the key in all this is who we are, and what we have in Christ. Indeed, in the opening 14 verses we read “in Christ Jesus”, “in Christ”, “in Him”, “in the Beloved”, “in Him”, “in Himself”, “in Christ”, “in Him”, “in Him” (again), “in Christ”, “in Him”, and“in whom” — and it is that foundation that we need, for as one commentator put it “if we simply think through, bask in, and meditate on the doctrine of what Christ has done for us, we find ourselves saying, “I want to serve Him.” Duty then becomes not a demand but a delight.”

About this passage

Chapter two is a continuation of (and building upon) those things that Paul had already said, with the first ten verses showing the contrast between how these believers once were, and how they now are — yet not through their efforts, but by God’s grace. In verses 11-13 he will then remind them how they (who were once far from God) have been brought near by Jesus’ blood shed on the cross for them. And then, from v14-18, how they have been reconciled to God, having removed all barriers between them and Him. And finally, in verses 19-22 he will explain how that has not only brought us close to God, but to each other, as we now grow in the presence of our common Saviour. Another way of putting it, is that as we move through this chapter Paul will speak of God’s work for us, in us, through us, and among us.

Application questions

• Are you relying on your own goodness to save you?
• How will you respond to God’s offer of forgiveness?
• In light of God’s grace, how will you serve Him?
• What is God calling you to do? What has He prepared for you to do?