MyJC

Written to “Those who are saints and are faithful.” Early manuscripts do not contain the words “at Ephesus” – this was probably a letter intended to be passed around to churches in that area and the name “Ephesus” was just stuck in later.

Written by Paul, roughly 60 – 63 AD, (30 to 33 years past the crucifixion/resurrection/ascension of Christ) .

• Paul is “Saul” from the stoning of Steven (Acts 7:54 – 8:1) and was converted by Christ directly on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:1-9).
• Paul was set aside for missionary work by the Holy Spirit (Acts 13:1-3).
• Paul made three missionary journeys. On the second and third ones, he was passed through the area of Ephesus.
• First time preaching the Word of God in Ephesus is brief: Acts 18:18-21.
• However, on the third missionary journey he spends more time in the area and a riot breaks out. Acts 19:1-41
• These people were passionate about their idolatry. Paul was passionate about the gospel.
• Read I Corinthians 15:1-5: this is the gospel. Jesus said in Mark 1:15 that we must repent and believe the gospel in order to be saved.
• On his way back he stopped in Miletus and sent for the elders of the church at Ephesus to come to him.
• After the third Journey – Paul was arrested and eventually sent to a prison in Rome.
• While in prison he wrote many letters called the prison “Epistles” (epistle means letter) – this is one of those.
• Paul wrote nearly ½ the books in the New Testament – 13 of 27 (more than ½ if he wrote the book of Hebrews as some people think). He wrote more than any other NT author by volume.
• W e don’t know for sure how Paul died. Traditionally, he was executed by beheading.

• The city of Ephesus was enthusiastic for idolatry. Yet, a clear presentation of the gospel was able to make converts in the middle of intense persecution. Never underestimate the power of the gospel.
  
• Paul is one example to us of how to imitate Christ. Paul was dedicated to the Word of God, bold and passionate in sharing the gospel, and subordinate to those in authority in the church when they are correct.