Ephesians 1:3-6: Blessings in Christ
Introduction
In the opening verses of Ephesians 1, the Apostle Paul begins a powerful exploration of the spiritual blessings that believers in Christ enjoy. He immediately draws our attention to the lavish grace and profound love that God has lavished upon us. But what does all this mean for us today? How can these ancient words shape our lives in a very real and practical way? Let’s dive in and explore Ephesians 1:3-6, unpacking its meaning and reflecting on how it can inform our journey of faith.
Ephesians 1:3-6 Explained: A Spiritual Blessing Overflow
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 1:3, NRSV).
Paul begins by setting the tone with a deep sense of gratitude. The phrase “blessed be God” isn’t just a cursory expression; it’s an invitation to pause and marvel at God’s abundant goodness. The Lord is not distant or disconnected; He is the source of every spiritual blessing we have. These blessings are not fleeting, material gifts but eternal spiritual riches, secured “in Christ” and “in the heavenly places.”
What Does Ephesians 1:3-6 Mean?
In these verses, Paul draws attention to the “spiritual blessings” believers have in Christ. But what exactly are these blessings? According to Clinton E. Arnold in Ephesians (Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament), the blessings refer to God’s grace, peace, and favor that are experienced by Christians through the work of Christ. They are not just a future promise but a present reality for all who are united with Christ through faith. These blessings are in “the heavenly places” because they are part of the new realm believers enter through Christ, which has both present and future implications.
What stands out here is the complete sufficiency of God’s grace. There is nothing lacking in our spiritual inheritance. We are not left wanting, nor do we need to earn God’s favor. It’s all been granted to us freely in Christ.
Ephesians 1:4-5: Chosen in Christ Before the Foundation of the World
“Just as he chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless before him in love. He destined us for adoption as his children through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of his will.” (Ephesians 1:4-5, NRSV)
In these verses, Paul introduces a powerful idea: that God’s choice of us was not a reactionary one but a deliberate decision made before the world was even created. The doctrine of election—the belief that God chooses whom He will save—is often challenging, but here, Paul presents it as part of God’s loving plan. According to Harold W. Hoehner in Ephesians: An Exegetical Commentary, the “before the foundation of the world” phrase underscores God’s eternal will and purpose, highlighting that His choice wasn’t based on anything in us but solely on His love.
Notice that God didn’t simply choose us to save us from sin. His choice was also that we would be “holy and blameless before him in love.” The goal of God’s choosing is transformation—He chose us not just to avoid hell but to live lives of purity, set apart for His purposes.
What a comforting thought it is to know that our identity as God’s children was settled before we were born. God chose you, not because of anything you have done, but because of His love. Your worth doesn’t come from your actions or your status—it comes from being chosen by God. This is a radical foundation for our self-understanding.
Ephesians 1:6: To the Praise of His Glorious Grace
“To the praise of his glorious grace that he freely bestowed on us in the Beloved.” (Ephesians 1:6, NRSV)
This final verse in our pericope emphasizes the ultimate purpose of God’s actions: that all glory would go to Him. This grace has been “freely bestowed” on us—not as something we could ever earn but as a gift, generously given. Paul’s phrase, “in the Beloved,” points to Jesus, the one in whom God’s favor rests. Christ is the channel through which all of God’s grace flows.
According to Andrew T. Lincoln in Ephesians (Word Biblical Commentary), this phrase “to the praise of his glorious grace” points to the overarching purpose of salvation: God’s glory. Everything God does is ultimately for His glory, and the salvation of His people is no exception.
Meaning for Today: Living in the Reality of Spiritual Blessings
These verses are more than just theological statements—they are deeply personal and practical. So, how does this passage apply to our lives today? Let’s break it down.
1. You Are Chosen by God
There’s something deeply humbling and empowering about being chosen by God. It wasn’t because of your perfection or your righteousness that God chose you—it was because of His love and grace. This should ground our identity. We don’t need to search for validation in the eyes of others or in our achievements. Our worth is secure because God has chosen us.
2. Your Life Has Purpose
God’s plan for you is not just to get by in life, but to live a life that is “holy and blameless.” This doesn’t mean perfection—it means a life set apart, reflecting God’s character and love to the world. Wherever you are, you have been placed there for a purpose. Whether you’re working a job, raising a family, or serving in the community, your life is part of God’s eternal plan. You are living for something much bigger than yourself.
3. God’s Grace is Lavish and Free
So often, we feel like we have to earn God’s favor. We try to prove ourselves through our actions, but this passage reminds us that God’s grace is freely given. You don’t have to prove yourself to God. His love for you is already secure, and His blessings have already been poured out. This is freedom! You are loved, accepted, and blessed in Christ.
4. Live for God’s Glory
Finally, we are reminded that our ultimate purpose is to bring glory to God. This might sound abstract, but it’s incredibly practical. In all our actions, relationships, and decisions, we can live with an awareness that we are called to reflect God’s glory. How does this change the way we interact with others? How does it shift our perspective on challenges? Everything we do, big or small, can be a means of reflecting God’s grace and goodness to the world around us.
Key Takeaways from Ephesians 1:3-6
• You are chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world, not based on anything you’ve done but purely out of God’s love.
• God has blessed you with every spiritual blessing—nothing is lacking in your inheritance in Christ.
• God’s purpose for you is holiness—He wants you to live a life set apart, reflecting His character and love.
• Everything God does is for His glory—our salvation, our lives, and everything in them are meant to bring praise to God.
Final Reflection
Ephesians 1:3-6 offers a profound glimpse into the heart of God. We are not accidents or afterthoughts; we are beloved children, chosen by a God who has blessed us abundantly in Christ. These spiritual blessings are not just a future hope but a present reality. They define our identity, purpose, and daily life. As we reflect on these truths, may we live lives that are worthy of the calling we’ve received, bringing praise to the One who has freely bestowed His grace upon us.
Let this passage be a reminder that your life, no matter where you are or what you’re going through, is part of a grand, eternal plan—a plan that began long before you were born and will continue long after you’re gone. You have been chosen, blessed, and called to live for God’s glory. So, what will you do with this gift? How will you live today, knowing that you are chosen and loved by the Creator of the universe?
