What does it mean to be "blessed...in the heavenly realms"? Ephesians 1:3—The Foundation “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms.” “Blessed” — What God Has Done - The Greek verb behind “blessed” (eulogēsen) speaks of a real, irrevocable act. - God Himself initiates the blessing; we simply receive. - The tense points to a completed action with ongoing results—our spiritual account is already credited in full. “In the Heavenly Realms” — Our New Address - Not a poetic flourish. Scripture states we are literally “seated…with Him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:6). - “Heavenly realms” refers to the unseen, spiritual sphere where Christ now rules (Philippians 2:9-11). - Our citizenship is “in heaven” (Philippians 3:20); that citizenship is active now, not merely future. - Because Christ physically ascended, our blessings are anchored where moth and rust cannot touch them (Matthew 6:20). The Content of Our Spiritual Blessings Ephesians 1:4-14 lists at least seven: 1. Chosen before the foundation of the world (v. 4) 2. Adopted as sons through Jesus Christ (v. 5) 3. Redeemed through His blood (v. 7) 4. Forgiven of trespasses (v. 7) 5. Lavished with wisdom and understanding (v. 8) 6. Granted an inheritance (v. 11) 7. Sealed with the Holy Spirit, guaranteeing what is to come (v. 13-14) Present and Future Dimensions - Present: We draw on these resources for daily holiness and bold prayer (Hebrews 4:16). - Future: The full manifestation awaits Christ’s return when faith becomes sight (1 Peter 1:4-5). Living From Our Position - Identity: We no longer strive for approval; we operate from acceptance (Romans 8:1). - Security: No earthly loss can cancel heavenly wealth (Romans 8:38-39). - Purpose: “Good works…God prepared beforehand” flow out of heavenly blessing (Ephesians 2:10). - Hope: Trials are re-framed by the certainty of eternal riches (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). Scriptures That Illuminate the Theme - Ephesians 2:6 — Raised and seated with Christ. - Colossians 3:3 — “Your life is hidden with Christ in God.” - 2 Peter 1:3 — “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness.” - Romans 8:32 — If God gave His Son, He will “graciously give us all things.” - Hebrews 6:19 — Hope is “an anchor for the soul, firm and secure,” already lodged behind the veil. Takeaway Being “blessed…in the heavenly realms” means God has already, literally, and lavishly supplied every spiritual resource in Christ, secured beyond the reach of earthly circumstance, and available right now for holy living, confident prayer, and unshakeable hope. |
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