The Church at Ephesus – A Deeper Look
The book of Ephesians is a vital letter for every believer. It helps us understand who we are in Christ and how that identity should shape the way we live each day.
Paul shows us what it means to be made new — from being spiritually dead to being alive in Christ. Because of Jesus’ sacrifice, we are now clean before God and called to walk in the new life He’s given us.
Ephesians doesn’t just give head knowledge — it encourages us to know and experience God personally. And from that relationship, we’re called to live lives that reflect His calling and purpose for us.
Paul and the Ephesian Church
- Founder: Paul (Acts 18–19)
- Initial Visit: On his second missionary journey (Acts 18:19–21)
- Extended Stay: Returned during his third journey and stayed for about three years, longer than anywhere else (Acts 20:31)
During that time:
- He taught daily in the hall of Tyrannus
- Many people came to faith and the church was planted
Powerful Ministry and Spiritual Impact
(Acts 19)
- God performed extraordinary miracles through Paul
- People who had practiced sorcery burned their magic scrolls as a sign of repentance
- Paul’s message disrupted the idol-making industry for the goddess Artemis (Diana), sparking a major riot
Paul’s Emotional Farewell
(Acts 20:17–38)
When Paul later met with the Ephesian elders in Miletus:
- He gave a heartfelt goodbye
- He warned them about false teachers who would try to harm the church
- It was a moment filled with tears, love, and deep spiritual concern
Why Ephesus Still Matters Today
The Church at Ephesus is one of the seven churches Jesus addresses in the book of Revelation. That alone tells us how important it is. Paul also prayed in Ephesians 3:19 that we would “know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge.”
Without this love — both for God and for one another — our faith can become dry, lifeless, and purely intellectual. And that leads to dead works instead of living faith.
Let’s take a look at this great book together!