What does Ephesians 1:15 mean?

Verse 15 begins a new segment of Paul's letter, extending through the end of the chapter in verse 23. Paul points out two things he had heard about the Ephesian believers. Paul had already lived among the Ephesian believers for three years and knew of their faith. That Paul has also "heard of" their faith likely refers to what others have said about the Ephesian believers. These others are likely those who had visited Paul in Rome.

Beyond faith, Paul had also gotten good reports about the Ephesians' genuine, well-known concern for one another in the church. Because of this, Paul could give thanks for them in his prayers (Ephesians 1:16). Their congregation was largely united, though Paul taught church leaders were to equip believers toward unity (Ephesians 4:12–13). Paul saw love for one another as a source of strength in the one body of Christ (Ephesians 4:1–6). The use of the term "saints" here once again shows that, in Paul's view, all Christians are "saints." We are a "set apart" people, meant to live holy lives before the Lord.