Ephesians 2:1-10

3. The motive: grace 2:1-10

Paul proceeded to conclude his revelation of the Christian’s individual calling in Christ (Ephesians 1:3 to Ephesians 2:10). He began this section of the epistle by explaining the purpose of our calling (i.e., the glory of God, Ephesians 1:3-14). He then expounded the means whereby we appreciate our calling (i.e., knowledge given by the Holy Spirit through God’s revelation, Ephesians 1:15-23). Finally, He enunciated the motive for our calling (i.e., the unmerited grace of God, Ephesians 2:1-10).

These verses continue the theme of redemption (Ephesians 1:7). This pericope is a condensation of Paul’s exposition of redemption in Romans. Whereas we were once dead to God (Ephesians 2:1-3), we are now alive in God (Ephesians 2:4-10).

". . . what Paul does in this passage is to paint a vivid contrast between what man is by nature and what he can become by grace." [Note: Stott, p. 69.]

"Having described our spiritual possessions in Christ, Paul turns to a complementary truth: our spiritual position in Christ. First he explains what God has done for all sinners in general; then he explains what God did for the Gentiles in particular." [Note: Wiersbe, 2:17.]