OUR POSITION IN CHRIST

1. Our Spiritual Blessings in Christ (Ephesians 1:3-10) 

2. God’s Purchased Possession (Ephesians 1:11-14) 

3. Enlightened by God’s Spirit (Ephesians 1:15-23) 

Central Truth: Living in Christ is a place of great blessing. 

Focus: Examine and rejoice in the inheritance we have in Christ. 

Evangelism Emphasis: Jesus gave His life to redeem lost people. 

Text: “In whom [Jesus Christ] we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace” (Ephesians 1:7). 

INTRODUCTION 

When Paul bade the Ephesian elders farewell, he was aware that he might never return to Ephesus (Acts 20:25). During his visit to Jerusalem, he encountered a great difficulty and was eventually sent to Rome as a prisoner. From Rome, he wrote a number of letters, or epistles. The first of these letters was written to the Ephesians. 

Paul’s letter to the Ephesians is joyful and victorious. It is a letter about the nature of Christ’s church. He describes to the Ephesians what manner of church the Christian fellowship should be. God has taken diverse members from many walks of life and through Jesus Christ forged them into a fellowship of believers. The letter affirms that Christ is the foundation of the Church, believers in Christ are the brothers and sisters of the Church, and eternal life is the destiny of the Church. The epistle is a glorious statement of victory and promise. It does not indicate any degree of discouragement even though it was written from prison. 

The first major section of chapter 1 (vv. 1-14) is Paul’s praise to God for providing salvation to all who will believe. Some have called it the “hymn of salvation.” It is an expression of praise and blessing. It is Trinitarian in character, showing the work of the Father (vv. 3-6); the work of the Son (vv. 7-12); and the work of the Holy Spirit (vv. 13-14). The passage contains salvation truth, and each verse is filled with wonderful insights into God’s mighty acts of salvation. 

The second major section runs from verse 15 to 23. There we see Paul’s thanksgiving and prayer for the Ephesians that culminates with a description of God’s power. 

1. OUR SPIRITUAL BLESSINGS IN CHRIST 

A. Blessed and Chosen (Ephesians 1:1-4) 

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: 4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love. 

The Apostle Paul pronounces a blessing on the “saints” in Ephesus (vv. 1-2), and then urges them to join him in praise for God’s blessings. The Greek word for “blessing” (v. 3) is based on the verb eulogeo, which means “to speak well of.” It is the word from which the English word eulogy, which we are used to hearing in the context of a funeral, is derived. But Paul uses it differently. God is to be eulogized; that is, we are to speak well of Him. 

God is the source of all blessings and the originator of the plan of salvation. We bless Him because He has blessed us. Every blessing—whether physical, material, or spiritual—is to be attributed to God. The “us” (v. 3), who are blessed by God, includes Jews and Gentiles in the church at Ephesus and beyond. 

Paul states that believers are blessed “in Christ” (v. 3.), which speaks of the intimate relationship between Christians and Christ. Believers are in union with Christ. It is God who chose us to be blameless before the creation of the world (v. 4). God’s plan of salvation was not an afterthought. 

The importance of the word “chosen” (v. 4) lies in God’s initiative rather than a dislike for those who are not chosen. God did not select believers because He was obligated to do so or because they have any legal claim to God. 

The word holy in verse 4 includes the idea of belonging to God and involves the inward moral state which prevails in the Christian as a result of God’s operation in the heart. This observation is buttressed by the use of amomos, translated “without blame,” or literally, “blameless.” Its background is in the Old Testament sacrificial system, where it refers to the absence of defects in sacrificial animals (Lev. 1:3, 10). In the New Testament it is used of the offering of Christ (Heb. 9:14; 1 Peter 1:19). Therefore, in the context of Ephesians, the combination of “holy” and “without blame” refers to Christian living. Whereas the former refers to inner spiritual quality, the latter refers to the outer manifestation or conduct of that life. We are chosen not only for salvation, but also for holiness. 

• Explain the two uses of the word “blessed” in verse 3. 

• What happened “before the creation of the world” (v. 4 NIV)? 

B. Predestined and Accepted (Ephesians 1:5-6) 

5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, 6 To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. 

Traditionally or historically, two views have been espoused regarding predestination: (1) God predestined individuals whom He would save, or (2) God chose or predestined the plan by which people would be saved. A right understanding of the passage shows that Paul’s emphasis of predestination is on what rather than who. God took the initiative to predetermine the destiny of believers as children adopted into the family of God. We are chosen to be holy and blameless. 

Adoption as an important aspect of redemption is mentioned repeatedly by Paul (Rom. 8:15, 23; 9:4; Gal. 4:5). In its usage, Paul stresses the process by which believers become sons and daughters of God. It is a new relationship that is made possible through the work of God. The purpose of our adoption is the glory of God. Having been adopted by God, and having become His “beloved,” we have the responsibility to live to the glory of our heavenly adoptive Father. 

Adoption carries with it various benefits. First, it frees us from fear (Rom. 8:15). Second, it allows us an intimate relationship, even to cry, “Abba, Father” (v. 15). Third, it provides an inner assurance of relationship as God’s Spirit bears witness with our own (v. 16). Fourth, we become coheirs with Christ (v. 17). Paul recognizes the significant part grace plays in our salvation. 

A New Kind of Man 

God became man to turn creatures into sons: not simply to produce better men of the old kind but to produce a new kind of man.—C. S. Lewis 

C. Redemption and Revelation (Ephesians 1:7-10) 

7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; 8 Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; 9 Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: 10 That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him. 

In verse 7, Paul moves on to accentuate the work of Christ in salvation. The key word is redemption, meaning “to release on ransom.” It is deliverance at a cost. As John Chrysostom said, “The wonder is not only that He gave His Son, but that He did so in this way, by sacrificing the One He loved. It is astonishing that He gave the Beloved for those who hated Him.” 

Sinners are in a spiritual bondage, sold under sin, and there is no freedom from this hopeless captivity apart from Christ. But praise God! We can sing and shout that “Jesus paid it all.” Redemption is accompanied by the forgiveness of sins for all those who will put their trust in Christ and appropriate the blessing of salvation He provided through the shedding of His blood. 

Not only has God given us redemption and forgiveness “according to the riches of his grace” (v. 7)—that is, in accordance with the wealth of His grace—He has done so in an extreme manner (v. 8). Grace is lavished upon us. Picture the Old Testament vision of anointing with oil that was done to the priests. When the oil was poured, it ran down the cheeks and through the beard until it flowed on the ground. 

Paul concludes his description of God’s salvation plan by referring to its revelation to humankind by God. Paul calls it “the mystery of his will” (v. 9). Mystery means something incomprehensible or unexplainable. It is something that was hidden but is now made known. It is known through faith and not human reason. Believers are given “wisdom and prudence” (v. 8) so their eyes may be open to God’s purpose. Today many people have problems with the idea of salvation. How can a sinner become a saint? How does God transform lives? How are prayers answered? How do people get healed? These are mysteries that need to be accepted by faith. They are intended by God’s own good pleasure and purposed in Christ (v. 9), and put into effect when times reach their fulfillment; that is, when the time is right (v. 10). When the situation is right, God acts. God’s timing itself is a mystery because we do not know why He acts at the time He acts. 

• Describe a “mystery” God has revealed to you in your walk with Him. 

2. GOD’S PURCHASED POSSESSION (Ephesians 1:11-14) 

11 In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: 12 That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. 13 In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, 14 Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory. 

Paul makes a subtle distinction between the Jews (“we,” v. 11), and Gentiles (“ye,” v. 13). The thought here is that Israel was specially chosen by God, not due to her personal privilege but for salvation purposes. The “we” group is defined as those who have “obtained an inheritance” and been “predestinated” (v. 11) according to God’s purpose. God’s choice of Israel was so she would live “to the praise of his glory” (v. 12). 

Paul seeks to reemphasize what he has already said in verse 3 about God’s initiative in the salvation plan for humanity. God had a design: believers are predestined according to His purpose. Further, Paul says in verse 11, God works out all things according to His will. Note that this is the second time Paul employs the word will (see v. 5). Believers are often engrossed with determining the will of God for each decision. As important as that may be, it is better that we take a long and broad view of God’s will in line with His purpose that is revealed in the Bible. We are chosen for “the praise of His glory.” 

We do not have to wait until Christ comes or until the “sweet by and by” before we begin directing our praises to the heavenly Father. As the new people of God, we are summoned to bring praise to God in the same manner that Israel was called as a nation to declare God’s glory in their life, witness, and worship (Ex. 19:5, 6; Isa. 43:1, 21; Jer. 13:11). As we live a godly and productive life, people will see our good works and glorify God. 

In verse 13 of the lesson text, Paul addresses the Gentiles and, in so doing, asserts the unity of Jews and Gentiles (non-Jews) in Christ. Paul, although a Jew, joins himself with his Gentile readers. The readers would no doubt have been struck by Paul’s repetition of the phrase “in whom” (vv. 11, 13) and “in Christ” (v. 12). The ethnic and religious barriers between Jews and Gentiles are now broken down in Christ. 

The non-Jews have heard the word of truth, believed in Christ, and have been sealed with the Holy Spirit. As John Wesley suggests, the sealing of the believer implies “a full impression of the image of God on their souls.” To be sealed with the Holy Spirit is a mark of ownership, and “the Spirit’s presence is the down payment of our inheritance” in Christ (v. 14 CSB). 

How are believers “sealed,” and when does this occur (v. 13)? 

Better Things Ahead 

The indwelling of the Holy Spirit is God’s way of assuring us of better things to come. Salvation is a gift from God, and we will receive it in full when Christ comes the second time.—French L. Arrington 

3. ENLIGHTENED BY GOD’S SPIRIT 

A. Reason to Give Thanks (Ephesians 1:15-16) 

15 Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, 16 Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers. 

Paul expresses his thankfulness to God on behalf of his readers. Thankfulness was an integral part of Paul’s life, and he did not keep it to himself or express it sparingly. 

Thankfulness is becoming an endangered species. It is easier to grumble than to give thanks. When we fail to express our thanks to God, we are like the nine lepers who failed to return to Jesus to thank Him for healing them (Luke 17:11-19). 

Paul moves from praise to God to prayer. The combination of prayer and thanksgiving, and constancy in prayer, are characteristic of Paul (Rom. 1:8-10; Col. 1:3; 3:15-17; 4:2). Paul’s reason for prayer in our text is based on the information he received concerning the faith of the Ephesians and their love for one another. He often mentions these qualities together, not only in prayers but also in other contexts (2 Cor. 8:7; Gal. 5:6; 2 Thess. 1:3; Phil. 4:5-7). The Ephesians have become participants in the blessings of God’s saving plan. 

The integrity of an individual, local church, Christian organization, or denomination is evident in the way they live out their beliefs, and the Ephesians lived out their beliefs. However, today many believers, groups, churches, and denominations are known for the wrong reasons. They are no longer known by attributes such as love, faith, work, hope, and endurance, but of strife, politics, intolerance, and hypocrisy. Sometimes the damage is so great that the “Christian” individual or organization becomes synonymous with hypocrisy, conflict, and prejudice. 

What’s in It for God? 

Most theology taught today is anthropology; it is man-centered. You and I are living in the “me generation.” People only ask, “What’s in it for me?” No one seems to ask, “What’s in it for God?”—R. T. Kendall, For an Audience of One  

B. Ability to Know God (Ephesians 1:17-21) 

17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: 18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, 19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, 20 Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, 21 Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come. 

When Paul prays, he does so with confidence because he approaches “the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory” (v. 17). His requests are atypical of those we hear at prayer meetings. Paul’s request has to do with “knowledge,” or a full-grown understanding of spiritual things. He prays that God may give the Ephesians “the spirit of wisdom” so they may know Him better. For Paul, to know God is to be enlightened. Paul’s prayer is not a request for a superficial religion, but a faith that cuts to the core of the individual and effects transformation (v. 18). The enlightenment for which Paul prayed would give his readers understanding of three things: (1) the hope of Christ’s calling, (2) the riches of the glory of the inheritance in the saints, and (3) Christ’s incomparable power for believers (vv. 18-19). God’s revelation to us provides a source of anticipation by which we lead our lives. 

Paul elaborates on the thought of God’s power as revealed in Christ. He describes its ability and expression. First, it is manifested in the resurrection of Christ. The Resurrection is the chief demonstration of the power of God. As someone said, “If we keep silent about the Resurrection, we would not be speaking of God.” Second, the surpassing and majestic power of God is manifested in the ascension and exaltation of Christ. He is above every created power—friendly and hostile, human and spiritual—that presently exercises authority in the world. He is in control. 

Brooke Westcott wrote: 

We can face the sorrows and sadness of personal and social history “in the hope of God’s calling.” We can rejoice in the possession of capacities and needs to which our present circumstances bring no satisfaction when we look to the “wealth of the glory of God’s inheritance in the saints.” We can overcome the discouragements of constant failures and weaknesses by the remembrance of the power of God shown in raising Christ. 

• What does Paul’s example teach us about praying for others? 

C. Authority to Empower (Ephesians 1:22-23) 

22 And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, 23 Which is his body, the fullness of him that filleth all in all. 

Jesus’ authority is greater than the claims of all other leaders, earthly or otherwise. He is the head of all things, for God has placed all things under His feet. God has done this “for the church, which is his body” (NIV). Everything is under Christ’s power for the benefit of His people. 

Because earthly kings and rulers are subject to Christ’s authority, their oft-repeated efforts to destroy the Church have failed. Because the angels in Heaven are under divine command, they help to meet the needs of Christ’s body (see Heb. 1:14). Because Satan and his forces must bow before Christ, “the gates of hell shall not prevail against [the Church]” (Matt. 16:18). 

• Describe Christ’s relationship with the Church. 

OUR POSITION IN CHRIST 

Paul was well aware of the pain, suffering, and disappointment in this world; but instead of focusing on those things, he gave more attention to the positive aspects of the peace and joy found in the spiritual realm of living in Christ. 

After we enter the spiritual realm of a new life in Christ, we become a new person. Our citizenship is now in Heaven; we are only pilgrims and sojourners in this world. Our affections are on things above (see 2 Cor. 5:17; Col. 3:2; 1 Peter 2:11). Whereas, before, we were strangers to God, now we are children of God, as well as joint heirs with Jesus Christ. We are governed by the compelling power of Christ’s love instead of our own lust. 

New life in Christ provides a source of strength and satisfaction for today, as well as an assurance of an even richer life in the world to come. 

Daily Devotions  

M.  Covenant People (Genesis 17:1-9)

T.    Treasured People (Deuteronomy 7:6-11)  

W.  Redeemed People (Psalm 107:1-9) 

T.  Blessings for Believers (Matthew 5:1-12) 

F.  Christlike Conduct (Colossians 3:12-17) 

S.  Redeemed in Christ (1 Peter 1:18-25) 

Adopted from the Evangelical Sunday School Lesson Commentary 2021-2022.