A Full Outline of the Book of Ephesians
Ephesians is one of Paul’s most carefully shaped letters. It begins with the grace of God, moves toward the identity believers receive in Christ, and then shows how that identity takes shape in daily life. The structure is balanced and intentional, moving from proclamation to practice, from gift to response. An outline helps readers see that flow and understand how each section fits into the larger message.
I. Greeting (Ephesians 1:1-2)
Paul opens the letter by introducing himself and blessing the believers with grace and peace. It is a simple beginning that prepares the way for the depth that follows.
II. Spiritual Blessings in Christ (Ephesians 1:3-14)
This opening section is a long burst of praise. Paul describes the blessings God has given in Christ: choosing, adopting, redeeming, forgiving, and sealing believers with the Holy Spirit. This passage sets the tone for the entire letter.
For further study: Blessed Be the God and Father of Jesus, Blessings in Christ, Redemption and Forgiveness in Christ, The Mystery Revealed in Our Inheritance, A Comprehensive Look at Ephesians 1:1-14.
III. Paul’s Prayer for Wisdom (Ephesians 1:15-23)
Paul thanks God for the believers and prays that they would grow in wisdom and understanding. He wants them to grasp the hope of their calling and the greatness of God’s power revealed in Christ’s resurrection and exaltation.
For further study: Prayer for Wisdom and Revelation.
IV. From Death to Life (Ephesians 2:1-10)
Paul describes human life apart from Christ and then turns toward the mercy and grace of God. Salvation is a gift, and believers are created for good works that God has prepared.
For further study: Our State Without Christ, God’s Mercy and Love, Salvation by Grace Through Faith, Ephesians 2:1-10 Salvation by Grace Through Faith, Created for Good Works.
V. Reconciliation and Unity (Ephesians 2:11-22)
Paul speaks of Gentiles who were once far off now being brought near through Christ. Jesus breaks down the dividing wall of hostility and forms a new household of God.
For further study: Remembering Our Former Separation, Christ Is Our Peace, Citizens and Members of God’s Household, Unity in Christ.
VI. The Mystery of Christ (Ephesians 3:1-13)
Paul describes his calling to announce the mystery that Gentiles are fellow heirs with Israel. The wisdom of God is made known through the church as it lives out this unity.
For further study: Paul’s Calling to Reveal the Mystery of Christ, The Church’s Role in God’s Plan, Mystery of Christ Revealed.
VII. Paul’s Prayer for Strength (Ephesians 3:14-21)
Paul prays that believers would be strengthened in their inner being and grasp the immeasurable love of Christ. He closes with a doxology celebrating the power of God.
For further study: Paul’s Prayer for Inner Strength, A Prayer for Spiritual Strength and Knowledge, The Love of Christ That Surpasses Understanding.
VIII. Walking Worthy of the Call (Ephesians 4:1-16)
Paul begins the practical half of the letter with a call to unity. Believers are to live in humility, patience, and love. Christ gives gifts to the church so that the body may grow in maturity.
For further study: Live Worthy of Our Calling, Gifts Given to the Church, Maturity in Christ, The Unity of the Body of Christ.
IX. Putting Off the Old Self (Ephesians 4:17-32)
Paul contrasts old patterns of life with the new life in Christ. Believers are to speak truth, practice forgiveness, and live in kindness and compassion.
For further study: Put Off the Old Self, New Life in Christ, Speak the Truth in Love.
X. Walking in Love, Light, and Wisdom (Ephesians 5:1-20)
Paul invites believers to imitate God by walking in love, walking in the light of Christ, and walking in wisdom. These three movements frame Christian character and daily faithfulness.
For further study:
XI. Household Relationships (Ephesians 5:21-6:9)
Paul describes relationships within the Christian household. He frames everything in mutual submission and calls each member of the household to act in light of Christ.
For further study: Instructions to Children, Parents, Slaves, and Masters.
XII. Standing Firm in Spiritual Strength (Ephesians 6:10-20)
Paul ends the letter by urging believers to stand firm in God’s strength. He describes the whole armor of God, a picture of spiritual readiness grounded in truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, the word, and prayer.
For further study:
The Call to Spiritual Strength
Ephesians 6:14-17 The Armor of God
Why Paul Commands Us to Put On the Whole Armor of God
The Breastplate of Righteousness
The Shoes of the Gospel of Peace
XIII. Final Greetings (Ephesians 6:21-24)
Paul closes by commending Tychicus, who will deliver the letter and encourage the believers. He ends with a blessing of peace, love, faith, and grace.
