A.T. Robertson Commentary Ephesians 3

For this cause (τουτου χαριν). Use of χαριν (accusative of χαρις) as a preposition with the genitive and referring to the preceding argument about God's elective grace. It is possible that Paul started to make the prayer that comes in verses 14-21 when he repeats τουτου χαριν. If so, he is diverted by his own words "the prisoner of Christ Jesus in behalf of you Gentiles" (ο δεσμιος του Χριστου Ιησου υπερ υμων των εθνων) to set forth in a rich paragraph (1-13) God's use of him for the Gentiles.

If so be that ye have heard (ε γε ηκουσατε). Condition of first class with ε and first aorist active indicative and with the intensive particle γε that gives a delicate touch to it all. On οικονομιαν (stewardship, dispensation) see 1:9; 3:9; Colossians 1:25.

By revelation (κατα αποκαλυψιν). Not essentially different from δι' αποκαλυψεως (Galatians 1:12). This was Paul's qualification for preaching "the mystery" (το μυστηριον. See 1:9).

As I wrote afore (καθως προεγραψα). First aorist active indicative of προγραφω as in Ro 15:4, not picture forth as Ga 3:1. But when and where? Epistolary aorist for this Epistle? That is possible. A previous and lost Epistle as in 1 Corinthians 5:9 ? That also is abstractly possible. To the preceding discussion of the Gentiles? Possible and also probable.

In few words (εν ολιγω). Not = προ ολιγου, shortly before, but as in Ac 26:28 "in brief space or time" = συντονως (Acts 24:4), "briefly."

Whereby (προς ο). "Looking to which," "according to which."

When ye read (αναγινωσκοντες). This Epistle will be read in public.

My understanding in the mystery of Christ (την συνεσιν μου εν τω μυστηριω του Χριστου). My "comprehension" (συνεσιν, Colossians 1:9; 2:2). Every sermon reveals the preacher's grasp of "the mystery of Christ." If he has no insight into Christ, he has no call to preach.

In other generations (ετεραις γενεαις). Locative case of time. He had already claimed this revelation for himself (verse 3). Now he claims it for all the other apostles and prophets of God.