So that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory.  – Ephesians 1:12

Perhaps more technical then previous passages, this verse in particular can hold a significant key in understanding the rest of this epistle. It is well known that Paul was not one of the first of the Jewish believers (1 Cor 15:8). There is no reason to believe that Paul here is speaking concerning his place of conversion amongst other Jews.

Instead, it should be presumed that Paul here is clearly delineating between Jews and Gentiles. It was in fact the “Jews first” and only after the Gentiles (Rom 1:16; 2:9-10). This has some impact on the preceding verses but it will be crucial in understanding the original audience and meaning of the second, and very important, chapter of this epistle.