Who was Paul a prisoner for according to Ephesians 3:1?
Paul identifies himself as the prisoner of Jesus Christ for the Gentiles. His imprisonment was connected to the gospel of grace given to him for Gentile needs. This was a distinct revelation, not merely an extension of Peter's preaching, and it came through Paul to those whom he was commissioned to serve.
Les explains that in Ephesians 3:1 Paul writes, "I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ, for whom? Gentiles!" The context ties Paul's imprisonment to the tremendous gospel of grace, because he was commissioned strictly for the needs of the Gentiles. Les emphasizes that the dispensation of the grace of God was given to Paul for the Gentiles, and that this doctrine was a whole new revelation rather than an extension of what Peter preached.
For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles,
More Questions
What does Paul call himself in Ephesians chapter 3 verse 1?
In Ephesians chapter 3 verse 1, Paul calls himself the prisoner of Jesus Christ for the sake of the Gentiles.
Why did Paul say he was a prisoner of Jesus Christ for the Gentiles?
Paul's ministry was directed specifically at pagan Gentiles, to bring them out of their sin and spiritual darkness and into the knowledge of the gospel.