Ephesians, Who is Writing, and Who is Written to

Who Is Writing?

Paul begins this letter by reminding the readers who he is and why he has the authority to speak to them.

“This letter is from Paul, chosen by the will of God to be an apostle of Christ Jesus.” — NLT

Paul emphasizes that he is not an apostle by his own decision, but by the will of God. He is a messenger, someone sent with a divine commission to proclaim the Gospel and build the Church.

What Is an Apostle?

  • One who is sent
  • A messenger with a commission

Paul’s apostleship began with a dramatic encounter with Jesus Christ in Acts 9:3–16, while he was on a mission to persecute the Church. Jesus Himself appeared to Paul and called him to a new mission: to carry the name of Christ to the Gentiles, kings, and the people of Israel.

So when Paul writes this letter, he does so as someone commissioned directly by Christ—with divine authority and purpose.

Who Is Being Written To?

“I am writing to God’s holy people in Ephesus, who are faithful followers of Christ Jesus.” — NLT

Paul addresses:

  • God’s holy people
  • Faithful followers of Christ Jesus

These aren’t just casual believers. Paul is writing to those who are faithfully walking with Christ—those who have experienced a transforming relationship with Him. In the verses that follow, Paul unpacks what it means to be God’s holy people and how this identity was made possible.

Faithfulness Matters

We are not called to a casual belief in Jesus. We are called to faithfulness—a life fully surrendered to Him. This faith is not static; it transforms. It gives us a new identity and purpose. The message of Ephesians leads us to understand:

  • Who we are in Christ
  • What Christ has done on our behalf
  • How this identity changes every area of our lives

The faithful follower of Christ will be transformed. There is no other outcome.

Grace and Peace

From the beginning of the letter, Paul’s prayer is that believers would experience the grace and peace that come from being in Christ.

This is not a one-time event—it’s a lifelong journey. A supernatural walk with Christ that began the moment we believed, and continues into eternity.

The story doesn’t end with belief.

The story continues.