21Tychicus, the dear brother and faithful servant in the Lord, will tell you everything, so that you also may know how I am and what I am doing. 22I am sending him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are, and that he may encourage you.
23Peace to the brothers, and love with faith from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 24Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love.
Ephesians 6:21-24
Introduction
- At the end of the epistle, Paul concludes by saying goodbye, having said all that is necessary about:
- the new reality created by God (the multinational church)
- the new style of life that its members are to live out
- The last four verses are more “housekeeping” in nature than content-oriented.
- First, he commends Tychicus and indicates that he will convey information to them about his state of affairs, endorsing him as ambassador.
- Second, he concludes the letter with the traditional Greek “wish for blessing,” though in a non-traditional, Christianised fashion. In fact, by his choice of benediction, he sums up the whole book. The two key words here are “grace” and “peace.” No two words could summarise the message of the letter more succinctly.
- Summing up the entire book are the two key words he chooses to use in his choice of benediction: ‘grace’ and ‘peace’.
1. Encouragement
- Paul worries about them, and wants to reassure them and encourage their faith. Yet it s Paul who is in prison facing trial and who, by all accounts, should be the one receiving encouragement.
Reflection: Do you always ensure that you always show support to your brothers and sisters, both in times of need or celebration?
2. Peace & Love
- This has been a major theme of his letter. This peace between people became possible when Jesus made peace between God and humanity (by reconciling men and women to God through the Cross). Jesus’ message was a message of peace (2:14-18).
Reflection: Reflect on your attitudes of gentleness, kindness, and humility. As a good Christian do you always ensure that everything that passes your lips are said out of love and compassion rather than careless abandon or the heat of the moment?
3. Grace
- Paul’s final request is that they continue to receive God’s grace. Grace, too, has been a theme in Ephesians. It is by grace that we have been saved (1:6-7; 2:5-8); it was by grace that Paul was called into ministry (3:7); and it is by grace that each Christian has received gifts of ministry (4:7).
Reflection: Are you quite sure of your understanding of God’s grace, and what it means for you as a saved Christian?
Challenge
This week, take some time out to sincerely compliment at least one person a day without asking for or expecting anything in return.
