Commentaries and Other Bible Study Helps - Prayer Tents - Prayer Tents

3:8 very least of. This is not false humility on Paul's part, since he is acutely aware that he had once been a persecutor of Christ and his church (Acts 9:4; Phil. 3:6; 1 Tim. 1:13). saints. See note on Eph. 1:1.

3:10 manifold. Taking various forms, or of many different kinds. God's wisdom has many facets and aspects, like an intricately cut diamond (see 1 Cor. 1:26-29). now. In this age, in contrast to the time before Christ's first coming. Rulers and authorities in the heavenly places refers to angelic beings. God's redemptive purposes are of interest to angels (1 Pet. 1:12) and the whole host of heaven, who are better able to glorify God when they behold in wonder what God has done and does in creating the church (Psalm 148; Rev. 7:11; 19:1-8). See note on Eph. 6:12.

3:11 eternal purpose. God's redemption in Christ originated in the fathomless sea of eternity with God's "manifold wisdom" (v. 10). See the emphasis on God's plan and purpose in 1:3-14. realized in Christ Jesus. God's plan of salvation to the ends of the earth had to be put into effect in human history, which God did through the earthly work of his incarnate Son.