Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Ephesians 3:11

"according to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:" — Ephesians 3:11 (ASV)

Again Paul reverts to God’s overall “purpose” (GK 4606) recognizable through all his dealings (1:11). This purpose is “eternal,” suggesting not only the infinite length but also the complexity of God’s age-long purpose (Hebrews 1:1). In v.9 the “ages past” appear to begin in time and end with Christ. This purpose God “accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Paul has more than its conception and predetermination in mind here; he is also deeply concerned with its historical realization.