The Essence of the New Testament: A Survey by Elmer L. Towns & Ben Gutierrez

Author:Elmer L. Towns & Ben Gutierrez [Towns, Elmer L. & Gutierrez, Ben]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Religion/Biblical Studies/New Testament
Publisher: B&H Publishing Group
Published: 2016-07-31T16:00:00+00:00

AUTHOR

The Great Theater of ancient Ephesus as viewed from the Arcadian Way on the way to the harbor.

Conservative scholars contend that Paul is the author, based on both internal and external evidence. The internal evidence points to the salutation: “Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus” (1:1), as well as familiar Pauline vocabulary and theology. There is also external evidence that Paul wrote Ephesians. The letter was frequently quoted as written by Paul by many early church fathers in the second century, including Irenaeus, Clement of Alexandria, and Tertullian.

Those who deny that Paul wrote the book of Ephesians point to the lack of personal references found in most of Paul’s other letters. However, there are several places where Paul speaks personally (6:24), and Paul says twice that he is the author (1:1; 3:1) and mentions three times that he is a prisoner (3:1; 4:1; 6:20). Some scholars believe the letter was written to be circulated among a number of churches in the region (cf. Revelation 2–3). If so, we would expect few specific personal references. Then again, Paul wrote, “Tychicus, our dearly loved brother and faithful servant in the Lord, will tell you all the news about me so that you may be informed. I am sending him to you for this very reason, to let you know how we are and to encourage your hearts” (6:21–22). Therefore personal references are not necessary, and any personal message by Paul would be delivered by Tychicus.

The Great Theater of ancient Ephesus as viewed from the Arcadian Way on the way to the harbor.

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