The New Testament: Ephesians

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INTRODUCTORY ISSUES Throughout many of Paul’s letters there are many debates pertaining to the authorship, destination, date, and the purpose. In the book of Ephesians many scholars debate on the authorship and if Paul actually wrote the letter, or if it was a scribe. Although there are some debates on whether Paul actually wrote it or not, he does refer to himself twice in the letter. In 1:1 and in 3:1 Paul states himself, 1:3 states, “For this reason, I Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles” (NIV) In verse 1:3 Paul states that he is a prisoner, therefore it is debated that he did not specifically write this because he was imprisoned in Rome at this time. According to Wallace “This, of course, is not to say that the letter must be by Paul, but it is to argue that without such internal testimony, no such claim could be made” (Wallace). Many scholars also debate on the vocabulary usage and the structure of the letter. Some believe that the structure is similar, but the vocabulary seems to be different than his New Testament epistles. Hoehner claims that,” Though the book has a close affinity with Colossians, critics claim that Ephesians is uncharacteristic of Paul” (Hoehner 613). The destination of Ephesians is somewhat debated, but many do believe that the letter was sent to the church of Ephesus. “Some to claim that Ephesus is a better starting point, others suggest Caesarea.” (Wallace) Although this is an argument that has many valid points, it is obvious that Paul was imprisoned in Rome while he wrote Ephesians. It is said by Hoehner that “Ephesians was probably delivered by Tychicus (Eph. 6:21-22), who also took Paul’s letter to Colossians (Col. 4:7-9)” (Hoehner 613). As for the date goes m... ... middle of paper ... ...be protected from sin and evil. Paul goes on to say pray for the Lord’s people and to also pray for him as well. Chapter 6 ends with a conclusion where Paul gives Tychicus the authority to bear this epistle and he considered him and faithful servant of the Lord. The end if concluded with grace and love from the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. WORK CITED "Ephesians." NIV Quest Study Bible. London: NIV, 2003. N. pag. Print. Wallace, Daniel B. "Ephesians: Introduction, Argument, and Outline." Bible.org. N.p., 28 June 2004. Web. 17 Apr. 2014. Walvoord, John F., Roy B. Zuck, and Harnold W. Hoehner. "Ephesians." The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures. Wheaton, IL: Victor, 1983. 613-45. Print. Wommack, Andrew. "Home - Andrew Wommack Ministries." Home - Andrew Wommack Ministries Commentary- Ephesians. N.p., n.d. Web. 17 Apr. 2014.

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