What does Ephesians 1:1 mean?

This letter begins by distinguishing its author and audience. Its first word, "Paul," clearly identifies the writer as the apostle who had lived among the Ephesian believers for a significant amount of time. They knew him well and required little introduction. Instead, he simply noted himself as an apostle "of Christ Jesus by the will of God." Both the specific name "Christ Jesus" and God's will are important themes throughout the letter. "Christ Jesus" is used eleven times in this book. Paul heavily favored this title for Jesus, with the title being used only once outside of Paul's writings, by Luke (Acts 24:24), a close associate of Paul.

Paul writes to the saints in Ephesus, though some early manuscripts omit "in Ephesus." As a result, many believe this letter was intended for more than one church. While it may have been directly penned to the believers in Ephesus, Paul probably intended this letter to be shared and read among other churches in the area. These believers are called "faithful in Christ Jesus." Paul starts his letter with an affirming, positive note for this church that certainly included many of Paul's personal friends.