A theme central to the book of Ephesians, and indeed to all of Paul’s teaching, is that we should know that we are “in Christ.” These words, “in Christ” or “in Him” reverberate through this epistle 19 times.

Acceptance by God can come about in only on way. We must be holy as our Father in heaven is holy.

Remember that I mentioned that verses 3-14 are a single sentence in Greek? The next two words in our text bring that into the forefront. They are “in love.”

He chose that all who would agree to be reconciled, would be forgiven of their sins and wickedness and placed into relationship with God through the Lord Jesus Christ.

The Kingdom of God is within us. We carry in our being the heavenly realm.

Ephesians 1:3-14 are all contained within a single very lengthy sentence in the Greek. Notably, there are three sections we might observe. Each section ends with praise for God and each highlights a different Person of the Trinity.

I find it difficult to read the word “saint” without commenting on the Greek behind it. (Okay, I find it hard not to comment on the Greek much of the time.) But “saint” translates a Greek word that I think we would all benefit from committing to memory.

As is Paul’s way, he presents us first with the doctrinal truth upon which his practical instructions rest. First he tells us what God has done for us and who He has made us. Only when this has been established does he instruct, admonish or command.