Beginning our series on Ephesians, we’ll cover the first half of the first chapter (Eph 1:1-14). What emerges are three main
points: (1) you are blessed in Christ, (2) you are redeemed for new creation, and (3) you are sealed for an inheritance. Thus, God has equipped you with every advantage in Christ.
Ephesians 1:1-2 Since, the words “in Ephesus” are missing from several of our earliest manuscripts and the letter lacks any specifics about the recipients, Paul likely wrote Ephesians to be read by multiple churches right from the start. It is a comprehensive and masterful summary of Christianity and is well worth your time.
Ephesians 1:3-6 From our creation, God blessed us (Gen 1:28). Then after humanity’s initial rebellion, our world became cursed, and our flesh became fallen. God chose Abraham and then Israel so that through them He could bless the world. In Christ—the quintessential Israelite—we receive the blessings that result in holiness, adoption, and an inheritance (Gen 1:28; 12:2-3; Deu 7:6-14).
Ephesians 1:7-10 In Christ we have redemption through his blood, resulting in forgiveness of our sins. Grace may be freely available, but it is not cheap. It cost something: Christ was the price. To be redeemed is for a captive or slave to be set free. This was all part of God’s plan to unite all things in heaven and earth in Christ.
Ephesians 1:11-14 In Christ we have an inheritance. Guaranteeing God’s promise of this bright future, He’s sealed us with His spirit. In their world, a seal meant possession, like a rancher’s brand. The idea s not that you can live however you want and you will still be saved. Rather, it’s that God has marked you His own, giving you a new identity in Christ that you should live out joyfully.
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