Ephesians 1 – Chosen in Christ Before the Foundation of the World

Overview

Ephesians 1 is one of the most theologically rich chapters in the New Testament, serving as an opening doxology and prayer from the Apostle Paul. Writing under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Paul praises God for the spiritual blessings believers have in Christ. The chapter lays a foundation for the rest of the epistle by emphasizing God’s sovereign work in salvation, the believer’s position in Christ, and the role of the Holy Spirit in sealing the believer.

Key elements include:

The eternal plan of God (vv. 3–6)
Redemption through Christ’s blood (vv. 7–10)
The inheritance and sealing by the Holy Spirit (vv. 11–14)
A prayer for spiritual wisdom and revelation (vv. 15–23)

This chapter affirms the sovereignty of God, the eternal security of the believer, and the centrality of Christ in God’s redemptive purposes. It highlights that salvation is the work of the Triune God: chosen by the Father, redeemed by the Son, and sealed by the Spirit. It also underlines the authority of God’s Word in revealing these truths.

Historical and Literary Context

Authorship and Date

Paul is the divinely inspired author (v. 1).
Likely written between A.D. 60–62 during Paul’s Roman imprisonment (Acts 28:30–31).
Addressed to the saints in Ephesus and, by extension, to faithful believers everywhere.

Setting of Ephesus

Ephesus was a major city in Asia Minor, known for its temple to Artemis and for being a commercial and religious hub.
The Ephesian church was founded during Paul’s third missionary journey (Acts 19), and he spent about three years nurturing the believers there.

Literary Features

The opening doxology (vv. 3–14) is a single sentence in the Greek, structured in a trinitarian pattern.
Paul transitions from praise to prayer in vv. 15–23, petitioning God for illumination for believers to grasp their rich spiritual inheritance.

From a conservative evangelical standpoint, the historical account of Paul’s ministry and the authorship of the epistle are accepted as literal, not symbolic or allegorical. The epistle is viewed as divinely inspired Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16), carrying full authority for doctrine and practice.

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points

1. God’s Sovereignty in Salvation (vv. 3–6)

God the Father “chose us in Him before the creation of the world” (v. 4). This reflects His sovereign, gracious initiative in salvation, not based on human merit or foreseen faith, but on His will and purpose.
The doctrine of election, rightly understood, magnifies the grace of God and brings assurance to the believer.
Evangelicals affirm that God’s election is consistent with His justice and love, and it results in lives of holiness and praise to His glory.

2. Redemption Through Christ (vv. 7–10)

Believers are redeemed through the blood of Christ, a clear reference to substitutionary atonement.
Forgiveness is not achieved through works or religious effort but through the riches of God’s grace.
This is in harmony with the broader evangelical doctrine of justification by faith alone (Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 3:21-26).

3. Inheritance and Eternal Security (vv. 11–14)

Believers receive an inheritance and are part of God’s eternal plan.
The Holy Spirit is given as a “deposit guaranteeing our inheritance” (v. 14), indicating assurance and permanence.
The sealing of the Spirit affirms the believer’s security and identity in Christ until final redemption.

4. The Power of God and the Exaltation of Christ (vv. 15–23)

Paul’s prayer includes a plea that believers would know the “hope” of their calling, the “riches” of their inheritance, and the “incomparably great power” of God (vv. 18–19).
Christ has been raised from the dead and exalted above all rule and authority (vv. 20–21), demonstrating the absolute lordship of Jesus.

5. Trinitarian Work of Salvation

The Father elects, the Son redeems, and the Spirit seals—showing salvation is fully God’s work from beginning to end.
This affirms the unity of the Trinity and the centrality of Christ in evangelical theology.

6. Christ as Head of the Church (v. 22)

Christ is the head over all things for the Church. This emphasizes His authority, leadership, and provision.
The Church is His body, which carries out His mission in the world.

Verse-by-Verse Analysis

Ephesians 1:1-2
“Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, to God’s holy people in Ephesus, the faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”

Literal Meaning: Paul opens with apostolic authority, not self-appointed but “by the will of God.” The recipients are believers, “holy people,” set apart in Christ.
Doctrinal Insight: This underscores divine calling and authorship. Apostolic teaching is authoritative (2 Timothy 3:16-17; Acts 2:42).
Application: We are called to live as saints — set apart and faithful, in full submission to God’s will.

Ephesians 1:3
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.”

Literal Meaning: God has already blessed believers with every spiritual blessing — not material, but eternal — in Christ.
Cross-Reference: 2 Peter 1:3 – God “has given us everything we need for a godly life.”
Doctrinal Insight: Believers are not lacking; all blessings are in Christ, emphasizing union with Him.
Application: Rejoice and live in gratitude, even amid earthly lack. Our greatest blessings are spiritual and eternal.

Ephesians 1:4
“For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight.”

Literal Meaning: God chose believers before creation — not based on foreseen merit, but His sovereign grace.
Cross-Reference: Romans 8:29-30 – those He foreknew, He predestined and called.
Doctrinal Insight: The doctrine of election affirms God’s sovereignty and grace. Holiness is the purpose, not the condition, of election.
Application: Live in humble holiness, knowing we were chosen to reflect God’s character.

Ephesians 1:5-6
“He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ… to the praise of his glorious grace.”

Literal Meaning: God determined beforehand that we would become His children through Christ.
Cross-Reference: Galatians 4:4-7 – adoption as sons grants full inheritance and intimacy with the Father.
Doctrinal Insight: Predestination results in adoption. This is grace in action, not earned status.
Application: Rest in your secure identity as a child of God, not striving for approval, but living from adoption.

Ephesians 1:7-8
“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins…”

Literal Meaning: Jesus’ sacrificial death redeems us; His blood secures our forgiveness.
Cross-Reference: Colossians 1:14; Hebrews 9:22 – without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness.
Doctrinal Insight: The atonement is central. Christ’s death satisfies God’s justice and expresses His grace.
Application: Walk in freedom and forgiveness. Sin’s penalty is paid.

Ephesians 1:9-10
“…to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ.”

Literal Meaning: God’s eternal plan is to unite all creation under Christ’s lordship.
Cross-Reference: Philippians 2:9-11 – every knee will bow to Christ.
Doctrinal Insight: God’s redemptive plan centers on Christ. History is moving toward His reign.
Application: Live under Christ’s authority now, anticipating His return and rule.

Ephesians 1:11-12
“In him we were also chosen… in order that we… might be for the praise of his glory.”

Literal Meaning: God’s people are predestined for His purposes, to glorify Him.
Cross-Reference: Isaiah 43:7 – God created us for His glory.
Doctrinal Insight: The purpose of salvation is worship — not man’s exaltation, but God’s.
Application: Make God’s glory your highest aim in all of life.

Ephesians 1:13-14
“…you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance…”

Literal Meaning: The Spirit seals the believer, a mark of ownership and security.
Cross-Reference: 2 Corinthians 1:22 – God “set his seal of ownership on us.”
Doctrinal Insight: The Spirit guarantees that God will complete what He began. Eternal security is grounded in God’s faithfulness.
Application: Trust God’s promise; the Spirit’s presence in your life is a foretaste of eternity.

Ephesians 1:15-19
Paul’s Prayer: “…that you may know him better… the hope… the riches… the power…”

Literal Meaning: Paul prays for spiritual enlightenment, not more blessings, but deeper knowledge of them.
Cross-Reference: Colossians 1:9 – spiritual wisdom and understanding.
Doctrinal Insight: Growth comes through knowing God more intimately, not through new experiences or revelations.
Application: Pray regularly for spiritual insight for yourself and others.

Ephesians 1:20-23
“…he raised Christ from the dead… and appointed him… head over everything for the church…”

Literal Meaning: God exalted Christ above all powers. He rules the universe for the sake of His Church.
Cross-Reference: Psalm 110:1 – “Sit at my right hand…”
Doctrinal Insight: Christ’s resurrection and exaltation affirm His supremacy. He is not merely a figurehead but the sovereign Lord.
Application: Submit to Christ’s lordship. The Church is His body — live accordingly.

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ

Ephesians 1 exalts Jesus Christ as the center of God’s redemptive plan:

Election is “in Him” (v. 4)
Adoption is “through Jesus Christ” (v. 5)
Redemption is “through His blood” (v. 7)
All things are brought into unity under Christ (v. 10)
Inheritance is received “in Him” (v. 11)
The Spirit seals those who are “in Christ” (v. 13)

This aligns with Luke 24:27 where Jesus is the central figure of all Scripture. The chapter demonstrates that from eternity past to eternity future, Jesus Christ is the means, the mediator, and the goal of God’s saving work.

He is the Redeemer (v. 7)
The Head of the Church (v. 22)
The Inheritance Giver (v. 11)
And the King enthroned above all (v. 21)

The theological implication is profound: every blessing the believer receives is tied to union with Christ. Apart from Him, we are nothing (John 15:5), but in Him, we are richly blessed (Colossians 2:10).

Connection to God the Father

Ephesians 1 emphasizes the initiative and love of the Father:

He is the origin of all blessings (v. 3)
He chose us before creation (v. 4)
He predestined us for adoption (v. 5)
He acts “according to the good pleasure of his will” (v. 5)
He is the One who raised and exalted Christ (v. 20)

This reveals the Father’s sovereign will and gracious heart. He is not distant or indifferent, but actively involved in every step of salvation. This matches with John 6:37–39, where the Father gives a people to the Son, and none will be lost.

God the Father is seen as:

Planner of Redemption
Adopter of sons
Glorifier of Christ
Giver of the Spirit

His love is purposeful, eternal, and unchanging (Romans 8:29-39). Understanding the Father’s role enhances our reverence and trust in His goodness.

Connection to the Holy Spirit

Though the Holy Spirit is mentioned by name only a few times in Ephesians 1, His role is foundational and essential to the believer’s identity and experience of salvation. This chapter presents a Trinitarian view of salvation, with the Spirit’s ministry completing the work initiated by the Father and accomplished by the Son.

Key References:

Ephesians 1:13-14

“When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance…”

Doctrinal Role of the Holy Spirit in Ephesians 1:

Sealing: The Spirit marks the believer as God’s possession (v. 13). This seal is not only a symbol but a spiritual reality—signifying ownership, security, and authenticity (cf. 2 Corinthians 1:22).
Indwelling: The Spirit is given at the moment of faith (“when you believed”)—confirming the evangelical conviction that the Spirit indwells every true believer.
Guaranteeing: The Spirit is the down payment (Greek arrabōn) of the believer’s future inheritance, showing that what God started, He will finish (Philippians 1:6).
Empowering Knowledge: In Paul’s prayer (vv. 17–19), he asks God to give believers the “Spirit of wisdom and revelation” so they can know God more deeply. The Spirit is the agent of illumination.

Application:

The Holy Spirit is not a mystical force but a personal presence within every Christian, assuring, empowering, and enlightening us to live faithfully until Christ’s return.

Sermon Outline and Flow

Title: “Blessed in Christ: Chosen, Redeemed, and Sealed”

Text: Ephesians 1:1-23
Theme: God has blessed His people with every spiritual blessing in Christ, planned by the Father, secured by the Son, and sealed by the Holy Spirit.

I. God the Father: The Planner of Salvation (vv. 3–6)

Main Point: Before the world began, the Father chose us in Christ.
Key Verse: v. 4 – “He chose us in him before the creation of the world…”
Application: You are not an accident—you are part of God’s eternal purpose.
Transition: But how does this plan become a reality? Through Jesus Christ.

II. God the Son: The Provider of Redemption (vv. 7–12)

Main Point: Christ accomplished our salvation through His blood.
Key Verse: v. 7 – “In him we have redemption through his blood…”
Illustration: A man on death row pardoned by a governor—not because he deserved it, but because someone else intervened.
Application: We are forgiven, not because of what we do, but because of what Christ did.
Transition: Once redeemed, how do we know we belong to God forever?

III. God the Holy Spirit: The Preserver of Our Inheritance (vv. 13–14)

Main Point: The Holy Spirit seals and guarantees our eternal future.
Key Verse: v. 13 – “…you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit…”
Illustration: A sealed letter ensures its contents and destination. God’s Spirit seals us for glory.
Application: If you have the Spirit, you are secure in Christ. Walk in that confidence.

IV. Paul’s Prayer: Know What You Already Have (vv. 15–23)

Main Point: Paul prays that we grow in our understanding of God’s power, hope, and riches.
Key Verse: v. 18 – “…that you may know the hope to which he has called you…”
Illustration: A man lived in poverty not knowing he had inherited a fortune. Many Christians live in spiritual poverty, unaware of what they already possess in Christ.
Application: Ask God to open your eyes. Pray for spiritual wisdom.
Transition to conclusion: What does this mean for how we live today?

Conclusion: Live as a Blessed Child of God

Call to Action:
- If you are in Christ, live in praise, confidence, and holiness.
- If you are not in Christ, believe in Him today and be sealed with the Spirit.
- For all: Don’t live as spiritual beggars—rejoice in the riches of your inheritance.

Illustrations and Examples

1. Adoption Analogy (vv. 5–6)

Illustration: A couple adopts a child from another country. The child does nothing to earn this adoption—it is based on the parents’ love and initiative.
Point: So too, God predestined us to adoption. Our identity comes from the Father’s love, not our merit.

2. Bank Guarantee Analogy (v. 14)

Illustration: When you purchase a home, you put down earnest money to show you’re serious. The Holy Spirit is God’s “earnest money”—a guarantee He will finish what He started.
Point: The Spirit assures us that heaven is not just a wish but a certainty.

3. Royal Seal Example (v. 13)

Illustration: In ancient times, a king sealed a letter with his signet ring to verify authority and ownership.
Point: The Spirit is God’s seal on your life. You belong to Him—and no one can break His seal (John 10:28-29).

4. Forgotten Inheritance Story (vv. 18–19)

Illustration: A man lived poor and homeless, unaware that a distant relative had left him a vast estate. Years later, he died never claiming what was his.
Point: Many Christians fail to realize the “riches of their inheritance.” We must grow in our knowledge of what we already possess in Christ.

Application for Today’s Christian

Ephesians 1 is deeply theological, but its truths are immensely practical. Paul’s goal is not only that believers understand these spiritual blessings but that they live in light of them. Here are several ways Christians today can apply this chapter in daily discipleship, stewardship, and faithfulness:

1. Live with Identity Rooted in Christ

You are chosen, adopted, redeemed, and sealed (vv. 3–14).
Application: Let this identity drive your decisions and guard your heart against insecurity, performance-driven religion, or fear of rejection.
Discipleship Tip: Teach others their identity in Christ, especially new believers who struggle with assurance or past failures.

2. Live for the Praise of His Glory

Paul repeats this phrase three times (vv. 6, 12, 14) as the purpose of salvation.
Application: Let every part of your life—your work, family, speech, and conduct—reflect the goodness of God.
Stewardship Tip: Steward your time, talents, and treasures for His glory, not personal gain.

3. Walk in Holiness and Gratitude

We were chosen to be holy and blameless (v. 4).
Application: Pursue purity, not to earn God’s love, but because you already have it.
Faith in Action: Practice gratitude in your prayer life—daily thank God for the spiritual blessings He has already given.

4. Pray for Deeper Understanding of God

Paul prays for spiritual wisdom (vv. 17–19).
Application: Don’t just seek new experiences—ask the Spirit to deepen your knowledge of who God is.
Discipleship Tip: Disciple others through Bible study and prayer that emphasizes knowing God personally, not just accumulating facts.

5. Stand Secure in the Spirit’s Seal

The Spirit seals you and guarantees your future (v. 13–14).
Application: In times of trial or doubt, remember you are marked by God and secure in Him.
Encouragement Practice: Remind other believers who struggle with assurance that their security is God’s promise, not their performance.

Connection to God’s Love

Ephesians 1 is a powerful declaration of God’s love for His people—eternal, sovereign, and gracious. It shows that salvation is not a last-minute rescue plan, but part of God’s design from before time began.

How the Chapter Reveals God’s Love:

He Chose Us Before We Chose Him (v. 4)
- God’s love is not reactionary; it is proactive and eternal.
- This reveals the initiating love of the Father, a love not based on our worth but on His will.
He Adopted Us as Sons (v. 5)
- Adoption is a legal, relational, and deeply personal act. It’s one thing to forgive an enemy—it’s another to bring them into your family.
- This shows God’s relational love, giving us access to Him as “Abba, Father” (Gal. 4:6).
He Redeemed Us at Great Cost (v. 7)
- Forgiveness came “through his blood.” This wasn’t cheap—it cost Jesus everything.
- Redemption is sacrificial love, a demonstration of divine mercy and justice meeting at the cross.
He Gave Us the Holy Spirit (v. 13–14)
- The Spirit is God’s presence with us, and His promise to bring us home.
- This is abiding love—a love that walks with us daily and keeps us to the end (Romans 8:16-17).
He Wants Us to Know Him Deeply (vv. 17–19)
- God doesn’t hide from us—He reveals Himself through His Word and Spirit.
- This is inviting love—drawing us not only to obedience but into intimate relationship.

Summary: Ephesians 1 shows a God who is not distant or indifferent but deeply involved, purposefully loving, and eternally committed to His people.

Broader Biblical Themes

Ephesians 1 doesn’t stand alone—it fits into the grand storyline of the Bible, affirming several key themes that run from Genesis to Revelation.

1. Creation and Purpose

God’s choosing of believers “before the foundation of the world” (v. 4) shows His eternal purpose and intent in creation.
Like in Genesis 1, God’s work is deliberate and good.
Theme: God’s people are created for His glory and likeness (cf. Genesis 1:27; Isaiah 43:7).

2. Covenant and Election

God’s choice of a people is a theme from Abraham (Genesis 12), Israel (Deuteronomy 7:6), and now the Church.
Theme: The people of God are chosen not because of merit but because of God’s promise and grace.

3. Redemption

The idea of redemption (v. 7) links back to the Exodus (Ex. 6:6) and forward to the cross.
Theme: God rescues His people from bondage—whether slavery in Egypt or sin through Christ.

4. Inheritance

The “inheritance” (vv. 11, 14, 18) parallels the Promised Land given to Israel and points to our heavenly inheritance in the new creation.
Theme: God’s promises lead to eternal rest and reward (cf. 1 Peter 1:4).

5. Trinitarian Salvation

Salvation is shown to be the work of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—reflecting perfect unity and harmony.
Theme: The Trinity works together in perfect love to bring about the redemption of God’s people.

6. Christ as the Fulfillment of All Things

God’s plan is “to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ” (v. 10).
Theme: Jesus is the center of the story—from Genesis to Revelation, the climax of history is His reign (cf. Revelation 21:1-5).

Reflection Questions

Use these questions to encourage deep engagement with the truths of Ephesians 1 in personal devotion, discipleship, or small group settings.

1. Identity and Purpose

What does it mean to you personally that God chose you in Christ before the foundation of the world (v. 4)?
How does knowing you are adopted as God’s child (v. 5) shape how you see yourself today?

2. God’s Grace and Redemption

In what areas of your life do you need to live more fully in the truth that you are forgiven and redeemed through Christ’s blood (v. 7)?
How can reflecting on God’s grace lead you to praise and worship even in hard times?

3. The Work of the Holy Spirit

Are you confident that you are sealed with the Holy Spirit? How do you know?
How does the Spirit’s guarantee of your inheritance give you hope for the future (vv. 13–14)?

4. Knowing God More Deeply

Paul prayed that believers would know the “hope,” “riches,” and “power” they have in Christ (vv. 18–19). Which of these do you feel you understand least? Why?
What steps can you take this week to grow in your knowledge of God’s character and promises?

5. Living for God’s Glory

How are you currently living “to the praise of His glory” (vv. 6, 12, 14)?
What might need to change in your daily life—at home, at work, or in ministry—to better reflect God’s purpose for you?

6. The Lordship of Christ

Ephesians 1 ends by declaring that Christ is exalted above all things and is the head of the Church (vv. 20–23).
Do you truly live as if Jesus is Lord over every area of your life?
Where do you need to submit more fully to Christ’s authority—your time, decisions, relationships, or attitudes?

7. Encouraging Others

How can the truths of Ephesians 1 help you encourage someone who is struggling with doubt, fear, or feeling unloved?
Who in your life needs to be reminded of their worth and identity in Christ this week?