The purpose of this essay
The purpose of this essay is to conduct an intertextual analysis of Ephesian 2:8–13 in order to understand how the passage pertains to divine empowerment and leadership. Through analysis of the text, including its arrangement and context structure, I will pinpoint the text's distinctive layers. As a result, I will develop a deeper understanding of the text's elements that are occasionally disregarded by individuals. The Grace of God is able to free men's minds from the shackles of culture through faith. The article builds on Paul's discussion of the new religion and the difficulties that must be overcome. This periscope forms part of Paul’s messages to the early church as being the Body of Christ as well as keeping their body pure and holy (Ephesians 2:8-13). This text begins by reminding the church that it is only through their faith that God has graciously saved them and not through their deeds (2:8-9), which is described as a gift from God. Therefore, no one can boast. In the preceding verse (2:10), Paul asserts that they (Him and other Believers) are God’s workmanship through the supervision of Jesus that God had destined for them in advance. Verse 11-13 is mostly concerned with the reconciliation of the Jews and the Gentles that is through Christ. Paul explains to the church that the new faith no longer considers physical circumcision but through the blood of Christ, all (circumcised and uncircumcised) can share in the new faith.
The Structure and Composition of the Text
The text is divide into two parts, which forms the main theme: “Grace through Faith” and “One in Christ” (ESV). The key words that highlights the passage message include Grace- Shows that the gift was free and undeserved, Faith- believing with no empirical evidence, and Hope- anticipating for something positive. The text uses a narrative structure in which the message being communicated flows from one point to another. Paul as the leader, was therefore emphasizing and at the same time comparing the old and the new faith. Moreover, the text uses flashback to achieve a comparison ground between the two faiths.
Context
This periscope was set to remind the church that the old is gone and everyone should embrace the new faith. Before Christ came, the Israel based their faith on the Law of Moses. The new faith that is based on the doctrines of Christ no longer applied the old faith’s constriction. Similarly, it was not meant for just the Jews but everyone. This message was significant at this time because the gentle were still being discriminated by the Jews. Also, some believes wanted to combine their old believes in the new faith. The text however lacks any internal reference as to who exactly or which church the message was being directed.
Communication of the Passage
Based on the above analysis, this periscope is concerned with the church comprehension of the new faith. As the leader, Paul is affirming to the believers that the limitation that were accrued to the previous faith no longer bound them. For instance, physical circumcision is no longer a factor for consideration. Moreover, he is recognizing them for believing in a new faith, which has enable the grace of God to save them. Paul also claim that the believers are vessels, crafted by God to be used for his work. In narrative way and through the use of flashback, Paul is able to deliver his message to the intended audience in a concise manner. This passage depict God as a kind, merciful, pure and holy.
Application: The Significance of the Passage
Authentic Leadership is important. It is also a gift from God. Paul depicts his leadership determination by constantly reminding the church of their faith and its value. Therefore, he is able to help the believers focus on fulfilling and living according to the will of God (Ephesians 2:8). The periscope also acts as a reminder of what God’s purpose is to the human race (2:10). Moreover, divine transformation and empowerment is portrayed to have significant impact on the development of the followers’: motivation (2:9), empowerment and vision (2:10).
Reference
Bible Gateway passage: Ephesians 1-6 - New International Version. (2017). Bible Gateway. Retrieved 7 December 2017, from https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+1-6
Ephesians Summary. (2017). Biblehub.com. Retrieved 7 December 2017, from http://biblehub.com/summary/ephesians/1.htm
Paul in Ephesians and Colossians. (2017). Shmoop.com. Retrieved 7 December 2017, from https://www.shmoop.com/ephesians-and-colossians/paul.html
The book of Ephesians tells how the gospel affects our everyday story. | The Bible Project. (2017). The Bible Project. Retrieved 7 December 2017, from https://thebibleproject.com/explore/ephesians/
THE LETTER OF ST. PAUL TO THE EPHESIANS. (2017). Biblescripture.net. Retrieved 7 December 2017, from http://biblescripture.net/Ephesians.html
