John Calvin Commentary Ephesians 3:1

"For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus in behalf of you Gentiles,--" — Ephesians 3:1 (ASV)

For this cause. Paul’s imprisonment, which should have been regarded as a confirmation of his apostleship, was undoubtedly presented by his adversaries in an opposite light. He therefore points out to the Ephesians that his chains served to prove and to declare his calling, and that the only reason he had been imprisoned was that he had preached the gospel to the Gentiles. His unshaken firmness was no small additional proof that he had discharged his office in a proper manner.

The prisoner of Jesus Christ. To strengthen his authority still more, he speaks in lofty terms of his prison. In the presence of the world and of wicked men, this might have appeared to be foolish boasting; but, in addressing godly persons, it was a dignified and faithful manner.

The glory of Christ not only overcomes the disgrace of the chains but converts what was in itself a source of shame into the highest honor. If he had merely said, “I am a prisoner,” this would not have conveyed the idea of his being an ambassador. Imprisonment alone has no claim to this honor, as it is usually the mark of wickedness and crime.

But the crowns and scepters of kings, to say nothing of the imposing splendor of an ambassador, are less honorable than the chains of a prisoner of Jesus Christ. Men might think otherwise, but it is our duty to evaluate the reasons. So highly should the name of Christ be revered by us, that what men consider to be the greatest disgrace should be viewed by us as the greatest honor.

For you Gentiles. Another circumstance that would greatly interest the Ephesians was that Paul’s persecutions were endured for the Gentiles — that his troubles and dangers were on their account.