Groundwork

The gospel has spread quickly despite persecution and reached the city of Ephesus. Ephesus is a large, influential port city known for commerce and idol worship, especially devoted to the Greek goddess Artemis. Paul helped establish the church there during an earlier missionary journey. Now, he writes from a prison in Rome. Paul’s purpose is clear: to strengthen and encourage believers. Before telling them how to live in a culture opposed to Jesus, Paul first grounds them in their identity in Christ. The gospel reshapes who they are and how they behave, including how they handle relationships.