Ephesians
Authorship
Paul identifies himself as author of the letter (). Many scholars believe that Paul did not write it, or that a disciple compiled Pauline teaching in this letter after his death. Although pseudepigraphic letters did exist, the style is consistent with Paul’s undisputed letters, especially when we take into account that, unlike most of Paul’s letters, this was probably a circular letter (see note on ). The differences reflect the sorts of variations we find among multiple works by single authors elsewhere in antiquity. Paul probably wrote this letter later in his ministry, using the same sort of Stoic language that often comes to the fore in Philippians, which was probably written in the same period. Such philosophic language accounts for some differences with Paul’s earlier letters. Some language might reflect regional philosophic currents or counter the language of false teachers (cf. perhaps ).
Some parts of this letter also elaborate with significant repetition, sometimes with synonyms (e.g., “power” and “strength”). This flowery language characterized a style of oratory known as epideictic, used to praise figures, virtues, and (most relevant here) deities. It also fits the style of rhetoric especially preferred in the province of Asia Minor, where ancient Ephesus was located.
Paul wrote this letter from Roman custody, probably in Rome itself. As believers near Ephesus would have known, Paul was in Roman custody () because he had been accused of bringing a Gentile into the temple (). Ethnic and cultural differences between Jews and Gentiles became a major issue in the Ephesian church (cf. ); Paul’s situation allows him to address it eloquently ().
Paul’s Roman custody also makes clear to him Roman concerns about religions subverting traditional Roman values related to the household (see notes on ). Paul also takes into account some local converts’ background with astrology and magic (in Ephesus, see ; cf. notes on , ; ). ◆
Quick Glance
The apostle Paul
Audience:
Believers in the church at Ephesus and probably other Christians in western Asia Minor
Date:
About AD 60
Theme:
Paul seeks to establish unity in the church and in other Christian relationships and envisions both salvation and the church in cosmic terms.