Built to Move Forward

Ephesians is one of Paul’s Prison Epistles, written while he was under house arrest in Rome around A.D. 60–62. Though physically confined, Paul writes with spiritual authority and vision, reminding believers of their identity in Christ and their unity as His body.

The letter unfolds in two main movements:

Chapters 1–3 focus on doctrine—who we are in Christ and the spiritual blessings we have received.

Chapters 4–6 focus on practice—how we are to live in light of that identity.

Paul emphasizes that the church is not a building but a living body, called to maturity, unity, and mission. Even in chains, Paul proclaims that Christ is exalted, the church is empowered, and God’s purposes cannot be stopped.

Big Idea

Because we are united to Christ and to one another, we must live worthy of our calling by growing in maturity, unity, and faithful service.

—or even more concise—

In Christ, we are chosen, united, and equipped—so we must walk worthy of the calling we have received.