What does Ephesians 2:1 mean?

The first section of this chapter begins by noting believers "were dead" in their sins. These immoral actions were part of their life, following the lead of the Devil, rather than God (Ephesians 2:2). This verse highlights the impact of sin: sin causes death. "For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 6:23). This spiritual death began as the result of sin in the garden of Eden (Genesis 2:17). Even as saved believers, we still struggle with sin and disobedience. The one who claims to be without sin deceives himself (1 John 1:8).

The reference to "trespasses and sins" uses both Greek words typically used in reference to sin. These are from the root words paraptoma and hamartia. The combination of these expressions covers both willful, knowing sins as well as mistakes and errors. Jesus taught that we are to forgive the trespasses of others as God has forgiven us (Matthew 6:14; Mark 11:25). Jesus died for our trespasses (Romans 4:25). When we believe, He does not count our trespasses against us (2 Corinthians 5:19). In Ephesians 1:7 Paul celebrated that we have "forgiveness of our trespasses." He will mention our spiritual failures again in Ephesians 2:5 (also Colossians 2:13).