Gene Cunningham - June 9, 2003
Ephesians #5
Eph 1:4 references our election in Christ "He chose us in Him" (Acts 17:26) -- the choice is Christ, which includes us. This is a spiritual blessing "in the heavenly places" (outside of time). Illustrated in Heb 7:7-10, God chose Abraham, but also all his descendants. Rom 5:18 John Calvin himself viewed as Christ having died for all setting up the potential for all to be saved. Eph 1:7-12 outlines what we've been provided in Him -- the work of the Son: (1) redemption through His blood, (2) forgiveness of sins, (3) revelation of wisdom and understanding, (4) unity and harmony, and (5) eternal inheritance. When Christ sat down at the Father's right hand (Psa 110:1) and we are seated with Him now as believers -- united with Him forever (Col 3:1-3). The "blood" is the life. Shedding His blood He accomplished propitiation for our sins; His blood is a picture of His spiritual death for us. He said "It is finished" before He gave up His spirit (John 19:28-30).
Scripture References: Acts 17:26, John 19:28-30, Ephesians 1:4, Colossians 3:1-3, Psalms 110:1, Ephesians 1:7-12, Romans 5:18, Hebrews 7:7-10
From Series: "Ephesians"
More than any book Ephesians reveals the blessings from God based on our relationship with Jesus Christ by grace through faith. Eph 1:3 is the a key verse. Other key verses by chapter include Eph 2:8 Eph 3:19 Eph 4:1 Eph 5:18 and Eph 6:10-11.