Ephesians 1 - IN CHRIST

 

Ephesians 1 reveals God’s eternal plan of salvation and the believer’s identity in Christ. Paul begins by praising God for the spiritual blessings believers already possess—not because of works, but because they are “in Christ.”

The chapter emphasizes who God is, what He has done, and who we are now as believers.

1. Do I live daily aware that I am chosen and adopted by God? (1:1–6)

Believers were chosen by God before the foundation of the world to be holy and adopted as His children. This choice is rooted in God’s love and grace, not human merit.

 “He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world…” (1:4)

We are not an afterthought. Our life has eternal purpose. Knowing we are chosen gives security, humility, and gratitude—security in God’s love, humility because it is by grace, and gratitude because it is undeserved.

 

2.           Am I resting in Christ’s complete forgiveness? (1:7–10)

Through Jesus’ sacrifice, believers receive redemption and forgiveness. God reveals His mystery: to unite all things in Christ, restoring what sin has broken.

 “In Him we have redemption through His blood…” (1:7)

Forgiveness is not cheap—it was paid for by Christ’s blood. When guilt returns, remember that redemption is complete, not partial. Christ restores both our past and our future.

 

3. Do I live as an heir of the Lord and Hope for what is to come? (1:11–14)

Believers are God’s inheritance and also heirs with Christ. The Holy Spirit seals us as a guarantee of what is to come.

 “You were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit.” (1:13)

The Holy Spirit is God’s assurance that He will finish what He started in you. Even when circumstances shake you, your salvation remains secure.

 

4. Do I seek spiritual insight as much as practical help? (1:15–19)

Paul prays not for material blessings, but for spiritual revelation—that believers may know:

• The hope of God’s calling
• The riches of His inheritance
• The greatness of His power

 “That the eyes of your understanding being enlightened…” (1:18)

Many believers possess spiritual riches but live unaware of them. Ask God not just for help, but for understanding of what you already have in Christ.

 

5. Do we live a life reigned by Christ who has supreme authority? (1:20–23)

God raised Christ from the dead and placed Him above all authority, power, and dominion. The Church is Christ’s body, expressing His fullness on earth.

 “He put all things under His feet…” (1:22)

No power—spiritual, political, or personal—is above Christ. When fear rises, remember who reigns. As His body, the Church is called to live under His authority and reflect His glory.