Our text for today develops the themes of the previous verses, just as Paul’s prayer in the latter part of chapter one enhanced themes he had listed in the first half. But what is going on in this book? Paul doesn’t correct bad doctrine (as he does in Colossians) or warn warring factions (as he does in First Corinthians and Galatians).
Simply, in Ephesians, Paul showcases God’s Mystery, for ages hidden, but now made manifest by the coming of Jesus. He explains why Jesus is “a big deal,” the biggest of deals, because in and through Him God is regaining control over an out-of-control, rebellious world.
We saw in verses 1-10 that God has awakened us dead sinners and forgiven us, giving us spiritual life by His grace. Now Paul shows us what has become of us now-forgiven sinners, and it is truly glorious.
In Jesus, God transcends anything in the Prophets or the hopes of pious Jews. God’s plan is not to restore ethnic Israel to a narrow strip of land. He is building the redeemed from every nation into a New Temple for His dwelling place in the New Creation. The New Jerusalem is His redeemed people who reign with him forever. Revelation 21