Evaluation
Overall Score: 8.0/10
A clear, structured exposition that helps teachers unfold Paul’s sweeping vision of grace and life in Christ.
Summary
At a Glance
- Length
- 312 pages
- Type
- Expositional, Expository (Mid-Level)
- Theo. Perspective
- Baptist, Broadly Evangelical, Reformed
- Overall score
- 8 / 10
- Strength
- Strong verse-by-verse exposition that faithfully communicates Paul’s sweeping gospel themes with pastoral warmth.
- Limitation
- The commentary remains mid-level, offering little original-language or advanced exegetical analysis.
John MacArthur’s Ephesians offers a clear, steady exposition of one of Paul’s richest and most theologically dense letters. We are led through Paul’s soaring declaration of God’s eternal purposes, the believer’s union with Christ, the grace that saves, and the Spirit’s work in forming a new humanity in the church. MacArthur follows his familiar verse-by-verse method, combining doctrinal clarity with pastoral application, making the commentary accessible for teachers and preachers who want a dependable guide through this majestic epistle.
The work is directed toward pastors, Bible study leaders, and serious lay readers who desire straightforward exposition rather than extensive scholarly debate. MacArthur provides brief but helpful comments on Greek terms, cultural background, and theological themes, always returning quickly to the flow of Paul’s thought. His commitment to the authority and sufficiency of Scripture shapes every section of the commentary.
Why Should I Own This Commentary?
This volume shines in its treatment of the opening chapters of Ephesians, where Paul unfolds the believer’s spiritual blessings in Christ. MacArthur’s exposition of election, adoption, redemption, and the sealing work of the Spirit is consistently clear and pastorally warm. He helps readers grasp Paul’s vision of the church as the fruit of God’s eternal triune purpose, giving teachers a firm foundation for preaching these grand themes.
We find his handling of Ephesians 2 particularly strong. MacArthur’s emphasis on salvation by grace alone and the creation of one new humanity in Christ offers both doctrinal depth and practical application. His discussion of unity, reconciliation, and the church’s mission is grounded solidly in the text and presented with pastoral sensitivity.
The commentary continues to be useful in the latter chapters, where Paul turns to the practical outworking of the gospel. MacArthur provides clear guidance on Christian maturity, relationships within the home, and spiritual warfare. His exposition of the armour of God passage in chapter 6 is especially helpful for preachers seeking clarity and structure.
While the commentary does not explore the deeper academic debates surrounding authorship, Greco-Roman background, or Pauline rhetoric, it excels in its intended purpose: equipping pastors and teachers with reliable, text-centred exposition they can use confidently in ministry.
Closing Recommendation
We recommend MacArthur’s Ephesians as a strong mid-level exposition that serves preaching and teaching exceptionally well. Pastors, elders, and Bible study leaders will benefit from its clarity, doctrinal steadiness, and pastoral warmth. It is especially valuable for those preparing sermons, discipleship material, or thematic teaching on grace, identity in Christ, or the life of the church.
Though best used alongside more technical works for deeper study, this commentary provides a dependable foundation and deserves a place on the shelf of anyone committed to faithfully teaching Paul’s letter to the Ephesians.
Classification
- Level: Mid-level
- Best For: Busy pastors, General readers, Pastors-in-training
- Priority: Useful supplement