What does Ephesians 1:12 mean?

Explanation

The verse Ephesians 1:12 is centred on the theme of Christian identity and purpose.

It expresses that believers are meant to live in a way that brings praise and glory to God.

They are the ones who have put their trust in Christ, and through this trust, they are called to reflect God's character and intentions to the world.

This glorification is not just a future reality but something that begins in the present lives of believers as they live out their faith in Jesus Christ.

Historical Context

Ephesians was a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Ephesus, a major city of Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey) that was a hub of trade and had a diverse population.

Written around A.D. 60 while Paul was in prison (likely in Rome), this letter was meant to strengthen and encourage the Ephesian Christians in their faith.

At the time, followers of Christ were often a minority and faced challenges from both Jewish and Gentile communities.

Theological Insights

The verse touches on several theological themes:

• Predestination: The idea that believers were chosen by God for a special purpose from the outset.
• Christology: Who trusted in Christ implies a recognition of Jesus's role in salvation.
• Ecclesiology: It points to the collective nature of faith, highlighting the church as a whole rather than individual believers.

These concepts are explored differently within various Christian traditions.

Some view predestination as God's sovereign choice, while others see it as foreknowledge of those who would choose Him.

Practical Applications

This verse serves to remind believers that their actions and lives should reflect their faith in Christ.

Practical application involves: 1.

Engaging in worship and praise as a regular practice. 2.

Exhibiting trust in Jesus through obedience and making decisions that align with Christian principles. 3.

Serving and participating in community life, demonstrating the change that faith in Christ brings about.

Cross-References

• Ephesians 1:6 "[To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.]"
• 1 Peter 2:9 "But ye [are] a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:"
• Ephesians 2:10 "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them."

Language Study

The key phrase in the original Greek language is "εἰς ἔπαινον τῆς δόξης," translated as "to the praise of his glory." The word "δόξης" (doxēs) for "glory," refers to the high reputation and honor belonging to God.

The Greek word for trust, "προηλπικότας" (proelpikotas), denotes those who were hoping beforehand or who first anticipated salvation through Christ.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Similar to the concept of living as a testament to the divine found in Ephesians, many ancient cultures and religions sought to live in ways that honored their gods.

For instance, in Roman society, people would perform acts of piety to earn favor with the gods.

In Judaism, the idea of living for God's glory is also prevalent, especially in the keeping of the Law as an expression of the covenant with God.

Scientific Perspectives

Generally, science does not directly intersect with the concepts in this verse since it's theological in nature.

However, psychological studies on religious beliefs suggest that having a sense of purpose, like that of living to glorify God, can affect a person's well-being and outlook on life.

Commentaries

Commentators have various interpretations of this verse.

Some focus on the predestinarian aspect and God's sovereignty like John Calvin.

Others, like John Wesley, might emphasize the responsibility of believers to live holy lives, reflecting trust in Christ through their actions.

Matthew Henry comments on the privilege of the saints to be purposed for God's praise and the joy that results from a close relationship with Christ.