Ephesians

If Romans is the constitution of the faith, Ephesians is the majestic hymn. It doesn't address a specific crisis; instead, it explores the cosmic plan of God. The letter is divided into two perfect halves. The first half is all theory: it describes how we were "dead in sin" but have been "seated with Christ" in heavenly places. It emphasizes that salvation is a gift of grace, not a reward for works.

The second half is all practice: because of this high status, how should we walk? It ends with the famous imagery of the "Armor of God," reminding believers that they are in a spiritual battle. While Ephesians focuses on the universal church, Paul also wrote personal notes of friendship, like the one to the Philippians.