Second, the argument based on differing theological emphases must
demonstrate that the differences are not due to the purpose(s) of the letters
and/or to theological development. Those using theological emphases to disprove
Pauline authorship must be demonstrate a contradiction. If, as I will propose
(see below), Ephesians was a circular letter, an emphasis on the universal
church is to be expected. Additionally, as Paul’s ministry proceeded, he may have
felt a need to be more explicit about the teaching of the universal church.
Also, concerning Ephesians and the undisputed Paulines, the christological
emphases mentioned above are just that, emphases. In Ephesians, the
death of Christ is evident (e.g. 1.7) and in the undisputed Paulines, the resurrection
and exaltation are not lacking (e.g. Rom. 4.25; and esp. Phil. 2.6-11). These
complementary themes occur throughout Paul’s works. (Joseph F. Fantin, The Lord
of the Entire World: Lord Jesus, a Challenge to Lord Caesar? [New Testament
Monographs 31; Sheffield: Sheffield Phoenix Press, 2011], 278)
