Ephesians 3:1

For this cause. This phrase evidently refers to the immediately preceding statement concerning the Gentiles who are no longer strangers and foreigners but who have been built into a holy temple, as well as more generally to the whole purpose of God. Thus Paul tactfully invites their attention to some say. On the importance of the instruction in this chapter see TM 391.

Paul. Compare 2 Cor. 10:1; Gal. 5:2; Col. 1:23, 24; Philemon 19. The emphasis is doubtless because of the following statement concerning his great commission. He himself is amazed that he should be the instrument of God in making known the great redemptive work he has thus far been describing.

Prisoner. Concerning Paul’s imprisonment at this time see p. 30. Paul often referred to his imprisonment, in fact, three times in this epistle (cf. chs. 4:1; 6:20). It is better to be in prison for a good cause than to be free and failing in duty and privileges.

Of Jesus Christ. That is, a prisoner belonging to Christ, or one for Christ’s sake.

For you Gentiles. Paul was in prison because of his labors for the Gentiles (Acts 21:28), particularly for his maintaining that they were equally heirs to the promises. It was thus he had gained the hatred of his own countrymen. His breadth of vision leaped across all national barriers.