Ephesians 3:11-14

3:11

according to his eternal purpose – another reflection of his manifold wisdom, i.e., from eternity He operated with this goal in mind and employed principles consistent with this goal.

which he accomplished – so at least in one sense the goal, purpose, has already been achieved. As in other elements of God’s plan, there is both an “already” and also a “not yet” aspect. God has achieved the purpose of revealing to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms. That is, God’s demonic enemies already know that they are defeated and all people are invited to the Kingdom. I am the one who forgets this already-achieved aspect and fails to act accordingly. What would it look like if I daily, constantly, saw that my Commander has already defeated his and my enemy?

in Christ Jesus our Lord – our chief, leader, boss, captain, owner

3:12

in him and through faith in him – two factors involved, each with equal value: in him, becoming part of Christ Jesus, belonging to him, entering in, joining others who are in him; second, through faith in him, believing, trusting, relying that He did, does and will do all He claimed/claims.

we may approach God – He (Paul? God?) stops me again with this amazing privilege to approach God

with freedom [NLT: boldly] – I don’t care for NLT here. ‘Boldly’ feels like I might forget who is God and who is not. But ‘with freedom’ tells me He is still God, but the door to His throne room is always open to me/us.

and [with] confidence – assurance that my prayer, request will receive favorable audience with the King.

3:13

I ask you – Paul to Ephesians

Therefore – in light of Paul’s apostleship, the particular mission God has given him to the Gentiles; and also in light of his/our free, confident access to God

not to be discouraged – loss of courage, consider giving up

because of – on account of, in reaction to

my sufferings – The follower of Christ should expect sufferings. I wish I had been taught this from the start.

for you – Paul embraces these sufferings as an expected result of bringing the Good News to the Gentiles.

which are your glory – something to be proud of! Ephesians should be proud, glad, thankful, that God ordained Paul to suffer on their behalf. Look at how important they are. I’m starting to have thoughts that I may be given the privilege of suffering for Christ. I don’t know if this is God preparing me or if it is my own pride suggesting it. It could be one explanation for the long dry spell I have experienced. Time will tell.