Blessed in Christ: Ephesians 1:3-6
In this episode of Timeless Truth, Pastor Jim Thomas unpacks Ephesians 1:3–6, a soaring celebration of spiritual blessings in Christ. We’re invited to reflect on what it means to be chosen, blessed, and adopted by God the Father, not by our merit, but by His love and the kind intention of His will.
More About This Episode:
Discover the life-changing truth that you were chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world. Reflect on God as Father—the One who blesses us with every spiritual blessing. Gain clarity on the doctrines of election and adoption—not as causes for confusion, but as calls to humility, holiness, and gratitude. Explore how your identity in Christ shapes how you live, love, and serve today.
Theological Emphases:
Trinitarian Structure of Ephesians 1:
- God the Father – Planning, choosing, and calling us (vv. 3–6)
- God the Son – Redeeming us (vv. 7–12)
- God the Spirit – Sealing and sanctifying us (vv. 13–14)
Doctrine of Election & Predestination:
- A divine revelation, not human speculation
- An incentive to holiness, not a license to sin
- A cause for humility, not boasting
Key Quotes:
“No question is as prominent or as important in our society as the question ‘Who am I?’”
Christopher Watkin, Biblical Critical Theory
“Many of our spiritual troubles arise from our failure to remember that we are citizens of two kingdoms.”
John Stott, God’s New Society
“The grace of God in Christ provides us with a new identity, a heavenly one… Our identity, our citizenship, is heavenly.”
Sinclair Ferguson, Worthy: Living in Light of the Gospel
“The predestinating love of God is commended more by those who lead holy and Christlike lives…”
F. F. Bruce
“What is a Christian? The richest answer I know is that a Christian is one who has God as Father.”
J.I. Packer, Knowing God
