Charles Hodge on Ephesians 3:11

V. 11. This exhibition of the manifold wisdom of God was contemplated in the original conception of the plan of redemption; for the apostle adds, it was according to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord. Πρόθεσιν τῶν αἰώνων, purpose formed in eternity—which existed through all past ages—not, purpose concerning the ages, or different periods of the world. Compare 2 Tim. 1, 9, πρόθεσιν—πρὸ χρόνων αἰωνίων. The words ἡν ἐποίησε may be rendered either, as by our translators, which he purposed, or, which he executed. The latter method is preferred by the majority of commentators, as better suited to the context, and especially to the words in Christ Jesus our Lord, as the title Christ Jesus always refers to the historical Christ, the incarnate Son of God. The purpose cf God to make provision for the redemption of men has been fulfilled in the incarnation and death of his Son.