The Bible Douay-Rheims Book 56: Ephesians

The letter opens with a rich theological section that describes the spiritual blessings believers have in Christ. Paul praises God for choosing predestining and adopting believers as His children highlighting the grace and redemption found in Christ''s sacrifice. He emphasizes the mystery of God''s will which includes the unification of all things in Christ both in heaven and on earth. This theme of unity is central throughout the letter as Paul underscores the breaking down of barriers between Jews and Gentiles making them one body in Christ. In the second half of Ephesians Paul shifts to practical exhortations on how believers should live in light of their identity in Christ. He urges the Ephesians to walk in a manner worthy of their calling emphasizing qualities such as humility gentleness patience and love. Paul provides guidance on various relationships including those between husbands and wives parents and children and masters and servants encouraging mutual respect and love rooted in the example of Christ.