Ephesians 2:5 - Summary and Commentary

Verse: Ephesians 2:5 - "Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)"

Introduction

The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, articulates the profound theological truths surrounding salvation, grace, and the believer's new identity in Christ. Ephesians 2:5 specifically highlights God's initiative in our salvation, emphasizing His mercy and grace. In this commentary, we will explore various insights from prominent public domain commentators including Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke.

The State of Humanity

In this verse, Paul begins with the condition of humanity: "when we were dead in sins." This phrase encapsulates the essential doctrine of original sin and human depravity. Matthew Henry emphasizes that spiritual death refers to the total inability to do good or to seek God without divine aid.

• Matthew Henry: "Man, by the fall, became entirely dead in sin; even the best of men by nature are dead in trespasses and sins."
• Albert Barnes: Barnes reflects on this state as highlighting the need for regeneration, stating that "dead in sins" illustrates a separation from spiritual life, indicative of a need for awakening by God's Spirit.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke points out that this spiritual death reflects an alienation from God, making it evident that human efforts are futile without divine intervention.

God's Intervention: Grace and Quickening

Continuing with "hath quickened us together with Christ," Paul introduces the concept of being made alive in Christ. The quickening indicates a powerful act of God, breathing life into the spiritually dead.

• Matthew Henry: "This act of quickening shows God's sovereignty; it is His work alone that revives the soul from its death and sin." He emphasizes that this life is a gracious gift, not earned by human merit.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes notes that "quickened" here signifies bestowed vitality and spiritual awareness, indicating that believers are brought into a new identity and existence through their union with Christ.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke reflects on the unity of believers with Christ, emphasizing that because Christ was raised, Christians share in that resurrection life. This creates a profound connection between the believer and the Savior.

The Role of Grace

The Apostle Paul makes it clear that the basis of this quickening is grace: "(by grace ye are saved)." This pivotal phrase underlines the unmerited favor of God, a central theme throughout Pauline theology.

• Matthew Henry: Henry states that grace is the source of salvation, underscoring that it does not depend upon human effort. He explains how the believer's state of being "dead in sin" necessitates the reliance solely on God’s grace.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes elaborates that "grace" implies that salvation is a free gift from God, one that cannot be earned. He stresses the assurance that this grace is sufficient for all who believe.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke reiterates that grace enables the transformation of the heart, allowing one to respond to God's call. He calls it the "divine favor," which is essential for salvation, and not a mere forgiveness of sins but a complete transformation.

Theological Implications

This verse encapsulates several theological principles critical for understanding the implications of salvation:

• Union with Christ: The quickening signifies a powerful union with Christ that not only provides life but also guarantees future resurrection (Romans 6:5).
• Spiritual Transformation: The transition from spiritual death to life indicates a profound change in one’s nature, reflecting the biblical doctrine of regeneration.
• Assurance of Salvation: The phrase "by grace ye are saved" assures believers of their standing before God, which is secure because of Christ's finished work.
• Response to Grace: Understanding that salvation is an act of grace fosters a response of gratitude, humility, and a desire to live in accordance with God’s will.

Conclusion

Ephesians 2:5 serves as a compelling reminder of the heart of Christian doctrine—our helplessness apart from Christ and the overwhelming grace extended to us. The insights provided by Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke deepen our understanding of this verse, illuminating its ramifications for personal faith and communal theology. Pastors, students, theologians, and scholars alike should find rich nourishment in this passage, promoting a life of gratitude and devotion to the One who quickens the dead.