Ignatius - Epistle to the Ephesians

Saint Ignatius of Antioch’s Epistle to the Ephesians is one of his seven authentic letters written on his journey to martyrdom in Rome (c. 107 AD). Addressed to the Christian community in Ephesus, it expresses deep gratitude for their love and faith, especially for sending their bishop Onesimus to meet him. Ignatius exhorts the Ephesians to unity under their bishop, priests, and deacons, emphasizing obedience, humility, and harmony in the Church.

The letter is profoundly Christ-centered, highlighting the mystery of the Incarnation, the reality of Christ’s humanity and divinity, and the salvific power of His Passion and Resurrection. Ignatius warns against heresies that denied Christ’s flesh (early Docetism) and insists on the Eucharist as “the medicine of immortality.”

The Epistle to the Ephesians is a moving testimony to early Christian faith, ecclesial order, and martyrdom, rich with theological and pastoral insight into the life of the Church as the Body of Christ united in love and truth.