49 The Epistle of Ignatius to the Ephesians Shorter and Longer Versions Ignatius, who is also called Theophorus, to the Church which is at Ephesus, in Asia, de- servedly most happy, being blessed in the greatness and fulness of God the Father, and predes- tinated before the beginning5 of time, that it should be always for an enduring and unchange- able glory, being united6 and elected through the true passion by the will of the Father, and Jesus Christ, our God: Abundant happiness through Jesus Christ, and His undefiled grace. Ignatius, who is also called Theophorus, to the Church which is at Ephesus, in Asia, de- servedly most happy, being blessed in the greatness and fulness of God the Father, and predes- tinated before the beginning7 of time, that it should be always for an enduring and unchange- able glory, being united8 and elected through the true passion by the will of God the Father, and of our Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour: Abundant happiness through Jesus Christ, and His undefiled joy.9 5 Literally, “before the ages.” 6 These words may agree with “glory,” but are better applied to the “Church.” 7 Literally, “before the ages.” 8 These words may agree with “glory,” but are better applied to the “Church.” 9 Some read, as in the shorter recension, “grace.” Epistle to the Ephesians: Shorter and Longer Versions 138 Epistle to the Ephesians: Shorter and Longer Versions