Ephesians 1:1 (KJV) To the “Unfaithful in Christ?”

Ephesians 1:1 (KJV)

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus:

There are two classes of believers addressed in the text.

The saints
Pastor Randy White of Taos, New Mexico, claims this is a designation of Jewish believers. I’m not ready to accept that claim, but it fits Ephesians’ context.

The faithful in Christ Jesus
I wonder if there is such a thing as “the unfaithful in Christ Jesus?” We certainly don’t see them in the Bible unless we see them in those who were rebuked by name.

Could this be considered a dig against those who weren’t faithful? No question some opposed the premise of the church being one new man, composed of Jews and Gentiles bonded in Christ. 

Could everyone who is in Christ by faith be called faithful? I think that’s how we view it today. Anyone who believes themselves to be a Christian believes themselves to be faithful. Faithfulness, in some ways, is not of us anyway but of Christ.

Could this reference only the believers who would willingly receive this teaching? Was Paul saying that this letter was meant only for those who faithful to his teaching and preaching?

I’ve learned that some claim to be saved but have no intention of obeying the Bible. A faithful believer is one, I believe, willing to embrace the teaching of the Bible, especially in those areas that are contrary to human nature, and most especially in those areas related to the local church.

To my readers:
Thank you! It is a great joy to me to know you read the thoughts and lessons God has given me in His word. I would love to hear from you. Please feel free to leave comments.

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Ephesians 1:1 (KJV) To the “Unfaithful in Christ?”