Ephesians 1:7-10: Redemption and Forgiveness in Christ
Introduction
In Ephesians 1:7-10, Paul offers an invitation to reflect on two of the most profound blessings that believers receive through Jesus Christ: redemption and forgiveness. These concepts are central to the gospel, and they help us understand the gravity of what Christ accomplished through his life, death, and resurrection. Paul emphasizes that these blessings are not the result of anything we’ve done but are gifts that are “according to the riches of his grace” (Ephesians 1:7). This passage not only assures us of our new identity in Christ but also calls us to live in the light of these spiritual realities. Let’s unpack what this passage means and how it applies to our lives today.
Ephesians 1:7-10 Commentary: Redemption and Forgiveness
Paul’s letter to the Ephesians is filled with rich theological insights, and this passage is no exception. In these verses, Paul highlights the immense spiritual blessings that belong to every believer in Christ. These blessings are made possible by the “grace that he lavished on us” (Ephesians 1:8), and they define the believer’s identity. In particular, Paul focuses on two key aspects of salvation: redemption and forgiveness.
Ephesians 1:7 – Redemption Through Christ’s Blood
“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace that he lavished on us.”
(Ephesians 1:7, NRSV)
Paul begins with a declaration of redemption—a concept that is both theological and intensely personal. Redemption is the act of purchasing freedom, and in the context of the gospel, it refers to the price that was paid for our deliverance from sin and death. This price, according to Paul, was “his blood”—the sacrificial death of Jesus as Paul thinks. In the ancient world, the word “redemption” was often used to describe the buying back of slaves, and in this case, it’s the ultimate redemption, as Christ buys us back from the bondage of sin.
Andrew T. Lincoln, in his commentary, explains that redemption is not only a freedom from sin but also a re-establishment of a right relationship with God. Sin had once created a barrier between humanity and God, but through Christ’s sacrifice, that barrier is removed. Now, those who are in Christ are no longer slaves to sin but are free to live in the fullness of life that God intended. The redemption in Christ is not just about being freed from sin’s grip—it’s about being brought into a new family, a new way of living.
Furthermore, Paul’s use of the phrase “through his blood” highlights the seriousness of our sin. The concept of blood was intimately tied to sacrifice in the Jewish sacrificial system, where blood was shed as a way of atoning for sin. The shedding of Jesus’ blood on the cross was the ultimate atonement, and through it, we are completely freed. Paul insists we think about the implications of Jesus’ death and not just his virtuous life.
Ephesians 1:7 – The Forgiveness of Our Trespasses
Paul also stresses the forgiveness that is a central aspect of redemption. The “forgiveness of our trespasses” speaks to the moral dimension of sin. To trespass means to cross a boundary, to overstep what is right. In the case of humanity, sin is the trespassing of God’s commands, leading us to live in a way that is separate from his holiness.
F.F. Bruce, in his commentary, highlights that forgiveness in this context means remission of the debt that our sins have incurred. This is not forgiveness based on any merit of our own, but a gift given according to the riches of God’s grace. The word “lavish” here is critical—it paints a picture of God’s grace being poured out in abundance. It’s not merely a trickle or a small portion, but a generous, overflowing gift that covers all of our sins, past, present, and future. In Christ, there is no condemnation for those who believe. God’s forgiveness is complete and eternal, and there is no sin too great for God’s grace.
Ephesians 1:8 – Lavished Grace with Wisdom and Insight
“With all wisdom and insight he has made known to us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure that he set forth in Christ.”
(Ephesians 1:8, NRSV)
In verse 8, Paul continues to unpack the greatness of God’s grace, now highlighting the wisdom and insight with which God has acted. The grace that God offers us is not random or chaotic but is part of a carefully planned and wise divine strategy. God’s grace is not just something given because of a whim; it is part of a larger narrative, a mystery that has been revealed in Christ. This mystery is the plan of salvation that God set into motion before time, and it is now fully revealed to those who are in Christ.
Harold W. Hoehner notes that this mystery is not something that could have been figured out by human reasoning. It required divine revelation, and that revelation came in the person of Jesus Christ. This was God’s good pleasure, the expression of his will and desire to bring humanity back into relationship with Himself through Jesus.
For believers, this is an incredible privilege. We are no longer in the dark about God’s plan for the world. It has been revealed to us, and this revelation changes everything. As we grow in our understanding of God’s grace, we are invited to participate in the work of redemption, sharing the gospel with others and living in light of the incredible salvation we’ve received.
Ephesians 1:9-10 – God’s Plan for the Fullness of Time
“As a plan for the fullness of time, to gather up all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.”
(Ephesians 1:9-10, NRSV)
In these closing verses, Paul expands on the scope of God’s redemptive plan, which is not just about individual salvation, but about the reconciliation of all things in Christ. This is the ultimate goal of God’s work in history—to gather all thingstogether under Christ’s lordship. This includes everything—things in heaven and things on earth—all will be restored, reconciled, and united in Christ.
This cosmic scope of salvation is both a present reality and a future hope. As believers, we experience the beginnings of this reconciliation now, but its full manifestation will occur when Christ returns. The ultimate fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan will be when all things are made new, and Christ reigns as the head over all creation.
In the words of F.F. Bruce, the “fullness of time” refers to God’s appointed moment in history when Christ entered the world, and it also points to the future consummation of that work when Christ returns. This is a hope-filled promise for all believers: the struggles, pain, and brokenness of this world will not have the final word. Christ will return to restore all things and bring about a new heaven and new earth, where God will dwell with his people forever.
Meaning for Today: How Ephesians 1:7-10 Applies to Our Lives
So, what does all this mean for us today? How do these deep theological truths impact our daily lives?
1. You Are Redeemed and Forgiven in Christ
First and foremost, these verses remind us that we are redeemed and forgiven through Jesus Christ. This truth has the power to change the way we view ourselves. Too often, we let past mistakes define us, but Paul reminds us that in Christ, we are set free from the power of sin and death. Our sins have been forgiven, and we have been brought into a new relationship with God. This is not something we could have earned or deserved; it is purely the result of God’s grace.
This means that if you are struggling with guilt or shame, remember that in Christ, you are forgiven. God has lavished his grace upon you. You are no longer defined by your mistakes but by your identity in Christ.
2. God’s Grace is Lavish and Abundant
The grace of God is not sparse or limited. It is lavished on us. This means that God’s grace is more than sufficient for our needs. When you feel unworthy or inadequate, remember that God’s grace covers all things. There is nothing that can separate you from his love. This lavish grace invites us to approach God with confidence, knowing that He delights in giving us what we need.
3. Live with Hope in God’s Ultimate Plan
Finally, this passage reminds us that God has a grand plan for the universe, and we are part of that plan. The reconciliation of all things in Christ is not just a future hope; it is a present reality that shapes the way we live now. As we look ahead to the return of Christ and the renewal of all things, we are called to live as agents of reconciliation. We are to share the good news of God’s grace with others and work to bring healing and restoration wherever we can.
Key Takeaways from Ephesians 1:7-10
• Redemption and forgiveness are gifts freely given to us in Christ, not based on our merit but on God’s grace.
• God’s grace is lavished on us, and this grace is part of his eternal plan to gather all things in Christ.
• The ultimate fulfillment of God’s plan is still to come, but as believers, we already experience the blessings of this plan.
As you reflect on these truths, let them shape your identity and give you hope. You are redeemed, forgiven, and part of a much larger story that will culminate in the restoration of all things under Christ. Let this truth guide your actions and bring you peace in every circumstance.
