Chapter 3

3:1-6 The mystery was made known to Paul. What is the mystery? The mystery is that the Gentiles are now members of one body with Israel. They have joined together with the family of Israel to become one big family. 

3:7-13 Paul was given the grace to preach to the Gentiles this mystery in Christ. The church is to make known God’s wisdom to spiritual beings. In other words, the people of Christ (His church), the wisdom of God is to be made known to other spiritual powers. We as the church, by our words and actions, take part in revealing the mystery and wisdom of God to spiritual beings as they watch us. 

3:14-21 Paul’s prayer to the Ephesians and it’s content is described here. Paul prays for 2 main strengths for the Ephesians: 

1. He prays for strength with power through the Spirit out of the riches of God.
   1. He prays for this specifically so that Christ may dwell in their hearts through faith (v.17)
2. He prays for power so they can grasp the love of Christ so they can be filled with the fullness of God. 
   1. Paul prays for this for them on the condition that they are established and rooted in love.  

God can do more than we can ever imagine. His power is at work within us.