kind intention or purpose (viz. of redemption) which he had purposed in himself.’ Instead of ὧν Aimself, many commentators read 7 him, referring to Christ. But this would introduce tautology into the passage. The apostle would then say: ‘ Which he purposed in Christ, to bring together in Christ.’
V.10. This verse is beset with difficulties. The general sense seems to be this: The purpose spoken of in the preceding verse had reference to the scheme of redemption ; the design of which is to unite all the subjects of redemption, as one harmonious body, under Jesus Christ.
Eis οἰκονομίαν τοῦ πληρώματος τῶν καιρῶν, ava- κεφαλαιώσασθαι, κτλ. The first question relates to the connection with what precedes. This is indicated by the preposition εἰς, which does not here mean én, as though the sense were, He purposed in, or during, the dispensation, &c.; much less wntil ; but as to, in refer- ence to. The purpose which God has revealed relates to the economy here spoken of. The second question is, what is here the meaning of the word οἰκονομία ἢ The word has two general senses in the New Testament. When used in reference to one in authority, it means plan, scheme, or economy. When spoken of one un- der authority, it means an office, stewardship, or ad- ministration of such office. In this latter sense Paul speaks of an οἰκονομία as having been committed unto him. As the business of a steward is to administer, or dispense, so the apostle was a steward of the mysteries of God. It was his office to dispense to others the