Ephesians 2:1-2

2:1

As for you – Sharp change in tone; preparing to show similarities and contrasts between Jewish Christians and Gentile Christians

dead – no life, no awareness or sensation, unresponsive, beyond hope

in – location, where; NLT = because of – as a result

your – my, not Adam’s, but my

transgression – crossing the line, testing the limits

and sins – this seems to me to be more deliberate than transgressions. There is a reason he lists both transgressions as well as sins. The former seems milder in nature, perhaps unintentional or resulting from neglect, while “sins” seems more deliberate and akin to rebellion.

2:2

in which – figuratively where; condition of life you used to live – this was my lifestyle

when – at that former time

you followed – I followed; we think we are liberated when we “do our own thing.” But really we are following the ways of this world – What sources do I still allow to lead me into the ways of this world? I still watch too much TV. Thank You for the sensitivity to avoid some of its garbage. But I invite You to speak to me about more. What else is there that still pulls me away?

and – these go together

the ruler of the kingdom of the air – code phrase for Satan/accuser or Devil/enemy. No distinction between “the ways of the world and “ruler of the kingdom of the air.” I easily forget that “the world” is the working, the expression of the Devil’s leading. To follow the former is to follow the latter.

the spirit – we don’t see him with our natural eyes; but he is there all the same

who - personhood; living being

is now at work – present, ongoing tense

in those who are - present tense

disobedient – whenever I disobey, I align myself with God’s enemy. And God’s enemy is my enemy.