---
title: "Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible -  Ephesians 1"
description: "CHAPTER 1   :-. INSCRIPTION:
ORIGIN OF THE CHURCH
IN THE FATHER"
image: "/images/missing.jpg"
url: "https://realbiblebelievers.com/commentaries/commentary-critical-and-explanatory-on-the-whole-bible/ephesians/1"
---

CHAPTER 1

. INSCRIPTION:
ORIGIN OF THE CHURCH
IN THE FATHER'S
ETERNAL COUNSEL,
AND THE SON'S
BLOODSHEDDING: THE
SEALING OF IT
BY THE SPIRIT.
THANKSGIVING AND PRAYER
THAT THEY MAY
FULLY KNOW
GOD'S GRACIOUS
POWER IN CHRIST
TOWARDS THE SAINTS.

**1. by**—rather, "*through*
the will of God": called to the apostleship through that same
"will" which originated the Church ([Ephesians 1:5](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/5);
[Ephesians 1:9](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/9); [Ephesians 1:11](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/11);
compare [Galatians 1:4](../../../kjv/galatians/1/4)).
**which are at Ephesus**—(See
[Galatians 1:4](../../../kjv/galatians/1/4))
**to the saints . . . and to
the faithful**—The same persons are referred to by both
designations, as the *Greek* proves: "to those who are
saints, and faithful in Christ Jesus." The *sanctification*
by God is here put before man's *faith.* The twofold aspect of
salvation is thus presented, God's grace in the first instance
*sanctifying* us, (that is, setting us apart in His eternal
purposes as holy unto Himself); and our faith, by God's gift, laying
hold of salvation ([2 Thessalonians 2:13](../../../kjv/2-thessalonians/2/13);
[1 Peter 1:2](../../../kjv/1-peter/1/2)).

**2.** ([Romans 1:7](../../../kjv/romans/1/7);
[1 Corinthians 1:3](../../../kjv/1-corinthians/1/3); [2 Corinthians 1:2](../../../kjv/2-corinthians/1/2);
[Galatians 1:3](../../../kjv/galatians/1/3)).

**3.** The doxologies in almost all
the Epistles imply the real sense of grace experienced by the writers
and their readers ([1 Peter 1:3](../../../kjv/1-peter/1/3)). [1 Peter 1:3](../../../kjv/1-peter/1/3) sets forth summarily the Gospel of the grace of God: the
FATHER'S work of love, [1 Peter 1:3](../../../kjv/1-peter/1/3) (choosing us to *holiness,* [1 Peter 1:3](../../../kjv/1-peter/1/3); to *sonship,* [Ephesians 1:5](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/5);
to *acceptance,* [Ephesians 1:6](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/6)):
the SON'S, [Ephesians 1:6](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/6) (*redemption,* [Ephesians 1:7](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/7);
*knowledge of the mystery of His will,* [Ephesians 1:7](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/7); *an inheritance,* [Ephesians 1:7](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/7)); the HOLY
SPIRIT'S, [Ephesians 1:7](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/7) (*sealing,* [Ephesians 1:13](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/13);
giving an *earnest* of the inheritance, [Ephesians 1:13](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/13)).
**the God and Father of . . .
Christ**—and so the God and Father of us who are in Him ([Ephesians 1:13](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/13)). God is "the God" of the *man* Jesus, and
"the Father" of the *Divine Word.* The *Greek*
is, "*Blessed* us," not "hath blessed us";
referring to the past original counsel of God. As in creation ([Ephesians 1:13](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/13)) so in redemption ([Genesis 12:3](../../../kjv/genesis/12/3);
[Matthew 5:3-11](../../../kjv/matthew/5/3-11); [Matthew 25:34](../../../kjv/matthew/25/34))
God "blesses" His children; and that not in mere *words,*
but in *acts.*
**us**—all Christians.
**blessings**—*Greek,*
"blessing." "All," that is, "*every
possible* blessing for time and eternity, which *the Spirit*
has to bestow" (so "spiritual" means; not "spiritual,"
as the term is now used, as opposed to *bodily*).
**in heavenly*****places*******—a phrase five times found in this Epistle, and not elsewhere
([Ephesians 1:20](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/20); [Ephesians 2:6](../../../kjv/ephesians/2/6);
[Ephesians 3:10](../../../kjv/ephesians/3/10); [Ephesians 6:12](../../../kjv/ephesians/6/12));
*Greek,* "in *the* heavenly places." Christ's
ascension is the means of introducing us into the heavenly places,
which by our sin were barred against us. Compare the change made by
Christ ([Colossians 1:20](../../../kjv/colossians/1/20); [Ephesians 1:20](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/20)).
While Christ in the flesh was in the form of a *servant,* God's
people could not realize fully their heavenly privileges as sons. Now
"our *citizenship* (*Greek*) is in heaven" ([Ephesians 1:20](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/20)), where our High Priest is ever "blessing" us. Our
"treasures" are there ([Matthew 6:20](../../../kjv/matthew/6/20);
[Matthew 6:21](../../../kjv/matthew/6/21)); our aims and
affections ([Colossians 3:1](../../../kjv/colossians/3/1); [Colossians 3:2](../../../kjv/colossians/3/2));
our hope ([Colossians 1:5](../../../kjv/colossians/1/5); [Titus 2:13](../../../kjv/titus/2/13));
our inheritance ([1 Peter 1:4](../../../kjv/1-peter/1/4)). The
gift of the Spirit itself, the source of the "spiritual
blessing," is by virtue of Jesus having ascended thither ([1 Peter 1:4](../../../kjv/1-peter/1/4)).
**in Christ**—the center
and source of all blessing to us.

**4. hath chosen us**—*Greek,*
"*chose* us out for Himself" (namely, *out of*
the world, [Galatians 1:4](../../../kjv/galatians/1/4)): referring to
His original choice, spoken of as *past.*
**in him**—The repetition
of the idea, "in Christ" ([Galatians 1:4](../../../kjv/galatians/1/4)), implies the paramount importance of the truth that it is *in
Him,* and by virtue of union to Him, the Second Adam, the Restorer
ordained for us from everlasting, the Head of redeemed humanity,
believers have all their blessings ([Galatians 1:4](../../../kjv/galatians/1/4)).
**before the foundation of the
world**—This assumes the eternity of the Son of God ([John 17:5](../../../kjv/john/17/5);
[John 17:24](../../../kjv/john/17/24)), as of the election of
believers in Him ([2 Timothy 1:9](../../../kjv/2-timothy/1/9);
[2 Thessalonians 2:13](../../../kjv/2-thessalonians/2/13)).
**that we should be
holy**—positively ([Deuteronomy 14:2](../../../kjv/deuteronomy/14/2)).
**without blame**—negatively
([Ephesians 5:27](../../../kjv/ephesians/5/27); [1 Thessalonians 3:13](../../../kjv/1-thessalonians/3/13)).
**before him**—It is to Him
the believer looks, walking as in His presence, before whom he looks
to be accepted in the judgment ([1 Thessalonians 3:13](../../../kjv/1-thessalonians/3/13); compare [Revelation 7:15](../../../kjv/revelation/7/15)).
**in love**—joined by
BENGEL and others with [Revelation 7:15](../../../kjv/revelation/7/15), "in love having predestinated us," c. But *English
Version* is better. The words qualify the whole clause, "that
we should be holy . . . before Him." Love, lost to man by the
fall, but restored by redemption, is the root and fruit and sum of
all holiness ([Ephesians 5:2](../../../kjv/ephesians/5/2) [1 Thessalonians 3:12](../../../kjv/1-thessalonians/3/12);
[1 Thessalonians 3:13](../../../kjv/1-thessalonians/3/13)).

**5. predestinated**—more special
in respect to the *end* and precise *means,* than "chosen"
or *elected.* We are "chosen" *out of the rest of
the world;* "predestinated" *to all things that secure
the inheritance* for us ([Ephesians 1:11](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/11);
[Romans 8:29](../../../kjv/romans/8/29)). "*Foreordained.*"
**by Jesus**—*Greek,*
"*through* Jesus."
**to himself**—the Father
([Colossians 1:20](../../../kjv/colossians/1/20)). ALFORD
explains, "adoption . . . *into* Himself," that is, so
that we should be *partakers of the divine nature* ([Colossians 1:20](../../../kjv/colossians/1/20)). LACHMANN reads,
"unto *Him.*" The context favors the explanation of
CALVIN: God has regard *to
Himself* and the glory of His grace ([Ephesians 1:6](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/6);
[Ephesians 1:12](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/12); [Ephesians 1:14](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/14))
as His ultimate end. He had one only-begotten Son, and He was pleased
*for His own glory,* to choose out of a lost world many to
become His adopted sons. Translate, "*unto* Himself."
**the good pleasure of his
will**—So the *Greek* ([Matthew 11:26](../../../kjv/matthew/11/26);
[Luke 10:21](../../../kjv/luke/10/21)). We cannot go beyond
"the good pleasure of His will" in searching into the
causes of our salvation, or of any of His works ([Luke 10:21](../../../kjv/luke/10/21)). ([Job 33:13](../../../kjv/job/33/13).) Why
needest thou philosophize about an imaginary world of optimism? Thy
concern is to take heed that thou be not bad. There was nothing in us
which deserved His love ([Ephesians 1:1](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/1);
[Ephesians 1:9](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/9); [Ephesians 1:11](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/11))
[BENGEL].

**6.** ([Ephesians 1:7](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/7);
[Ephesians 1:17](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/17); [Ephesians 1:18](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/18)).
The end aimed at ([Psalms 50:23](../../../kjv/psalms/50/23)),
that is, that the glory of His grace may be praised by all His
creatures, men and angels.
**wherein**—Some of the
oldest manuscripts read, "*which.*" Then translate,
"which He graciously bestowed on us." But *English
Version* is supported by good manuscripts and the oldest versions.
**us accepted**—a kindred
*Greek* word to "grace": *charitos, echaritosen:*
translate, "graciously accepted"; "made us subjects of
His grace"; "embraced us in the arms of His grace"
([Romans 3:24](../../../kjv/romans/3/24); [Romans 5:15](../../../kjv/romans/5/15)).
**in the beloved**—pre-eminently
so called ([Matthew 3:17](../../../kjv/matthew/3/17); [Matthew 17:5](../../../kjv/matthew/17/5);
[John 3:35](../../../kjv/john/3/35); [Colossians 1:13](../../../kjv/colossians/1/13)).
*Greek,* "Son of His love." It is only "IN
HIS BELOVED"
that He loves us ([Ephesians 1:3](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/3);
[1 John 4:9](../../../kjv/1-john/4/9); [1 John 4:10](../../../kjv/1-john/4/10)).

**7. In whom**—"the Beloved"
([Ephesians 1:6](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/6); [Romans 3:24](../../../kjv/romans/3/24)).
**we have**—as a *present*
possession.
**redemption**—*Greek,*
"*our* (literally, '*the*') redemption"; THE
redemption which is the grand subject of all revelation, and
especially of the New Testament ([Romans 3:24](../../../kjv/romans/3/24)), namely, from the power, guilt, and penal consequences of
sin ([Matthew 1:21](../../../kjv/matthew/1/21)). If a man were
unable to redeem himself from being a bond-servant, his kinsman might
redeem him ([Leviticus 25:48](../../../kjv/leviticus/25/48)). Hence,
antitypically the Son of God became the Son of man, that as our
kinsman He might redeem us ([Leviticus 25:48](../../../kjv/leviticus/25/48)). Another "redemption" follows, namely, that "of
the purchased possession" hereafter ([Leviticus 25:48](../../../kjv/leviticus/25/48)).
**through his blood**— ([Leviticus 25:48](../../../kjv/leviticus/25/48)); as the instrument; the propitiation, that is, the
consideration (devised by His own love) for which He, who was justly
angry ([Isaiah 12:1](../../../kjv/isaiah/12/1)), becomes
propitious to us; the expiation, the price paid to divine justice for
our sin ([Acts 20:28](../../../kjv/acts/20/28); [Romans 3:25](../../../kjv/romans/3/25);
[1 Corinthians 6:20](../../../kjv/1-corinthians/6/20); [Colossians 1:20](../../../kjv/colossians/1/20);
[1 Peter 1:18](../../../kjv/1-peter/1/18); [1 Peter 1:19](../../../kjv/1-peter/1/19)).
**the forgiveness of
sins**—*Greek,* "the remission of *our
transgressions*": not merely "*pretermission,*"
as the *Greek* ([Romans 3:25](../../../kjv/romans/3/25))
ought to be translated. This "remission," being the
explanation of "redemption," includes not only deliverance
from sin's penalty, but from its pollution and enslaving power,
negatively; and the reconciliation of an offended God, and a
satisfaction unto a just God, positively.
**riches of his grace**—
([Ephesians 2:7](../../../kjv/ephesians/2/7)); "the exceeding
riches of His grace." Compare [Ephesians 1:18](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/18);
[Ephesians 3:16](../../../kjv/ephesians/3/16), "according to the
riches of His glory": so that "grace" is His "glory."

**8.** Rather, "which He made
to abound towards us."
**all wisdom and
prudence**—"wisdom" in devising the plan of redeeming
mankind; "prudence" in executing it by the means, and in
making all the necessary arrangements of Providence for that purpose.
Paul attributes to the Gospel of God's grace "all" possible
"wisdom and prudence," in opposition to the boasts of
wisdom and prudence which the unbelieving Jews and heathen
philosophers and false apostles arrogated for their teachings. Christ
crucified, though esteemed "foolishness" by the world, is
"the wisdom of God" (). Compare [Ephesians 3:10](../../../kjv/ephesians/3/10),
"the *manifold* wisdom of God."

**9.** "He hath abounded,"
or "made (grace) to abound toward us" (), *in that He made known* to us, namely, experimentally,
in our hearts.
**the mystery**—God's
purpose of redemption hidden heretofore in His counsels, but now
revealed ([Ephesians 6:19](../../../kjv/ephesians/6/19); [Romans 16:25](../../../kjv/romans/16/25);
[Colossians 1:26](../../../kjv/colossians/1/26); [Colossians 1:27](../../../kjv/colossians/1/27)).
This "mystery" is not like the heathen mysteries, which
were imparted only to the initiated few. All Christians are the
initiated. Only unbelievers are the uninitiated.
**according to his good
pleasure**—showing the cause why "He hath made known to us
the mystery," namely, His own loving "good pleasure"
toward us; also the *time* and *manner* of His doing so,
are according to His good pleasure.
**purposed**— ([Colossians 1:27](../../../kjv/colossians/1/27)).
**in himself**—God the
Father. BENGEL takes it,
"in *Him,*" that is, *Christ,* as in [Ephesians 1:3](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/3);
[Ephesians 1:4](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/4). But the proper name, "in
*Christ,*" [Ephesians 1:10](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/10),
immediately after, is inconsistent with His being here meant by the
pronoun.

**10.** Translate, "*Unto*
the dispensation of the fulness of the times," that is, "which
He purposed in Himself" () *with a view to* the economy of (the gracious
*administration belonging to*) the fulness of the times (*Greek,*
"fit times," "seasons"). More comprehensive than
"the fulness of the time" (). The whole of the Gospel *times* (plural) is meant,
with the benefits to the Church *dispensed* in them severally
and successively. Compare "the ages to come" (). "The ends of the ages" (*Greek,* ); "the times (same *Greek* as here, 'the
seasons,' or 'fitly appointed times') of the Gentiles" (); "the seasons which the Father hath put in His own
power" ([Acts 1:7](../../../kjv/acts/1/7)); "the
times of restitution of all things which God hath spoken by the
prophets since the world began" ([Acts 3:20](../../../kjv/acts/3/20);
[Acts 3:21](../../../kjv/acts/3/21)). The coming of Jesus at
the first advent, "in the fulness of time," was *one*
of these "times." The descent of the Holy Ghost, "when
Pentecost was *fully come*" ([Acts 3:21](../../../kjv/acts/3/21)), was another. The testimony given by the apostles to Him "in
due time" ("in its own seasons," *Greek*) ([Acts 3:21](../../../kjv/acts/3/21)) was another. The conversion of the Jews "when the *times*
of the Gentiles are fulfilled," the second coming of Christ, the
"restitution of all things," the millennial kingdom, the
new heaven and earth, shall be severally instances of "the
dispensation of the fulness of the times," that is, "the
dispensation of" the Gospel events and benefits belonging to
their respective "times," when severally filled up or
completed. God the Father, according to His own good pleasure and
purpose, is the Dispenser both of the Gospel benefits and of their
several fitting times ([Acts 1:7](../../../kjv/acts/1/7)).
**gather together in one**—*Greek,*
"sum up under one head"; "recapitulate." The
"good pleasure which He purposed," was "to sum up all
things (*Greek,* 'THE
whole range of things') in Christ (*Greek,* 'the Christ,' that
is, *His* Christ)" [ALFORD].
God's purpose is to sum up the whole creation in Christ, the Head of
angels, with whom He is linked by His invisible nature, and of men
with whom He is linked by His humanity; of Jews and Gentiles; of the
living and the dead ([Ephesians 3:15](../../../kjv/ephesians/3/15));
of animate and inanimate creation. Sin has disarranged the creature's
relation of subordination to God. God means to gather up all together
in Christ; or as [Colossians 1:20](../../../kjv/colossians/1/20) says,
"By Him to reconcile all things unto Himself, whether things in
earth or things in heaven." ALFORD
well says, "The Church of which the apostle here mainly treats,
is subordinated to Him in the highest degree of conscious and joyful
union; those who are not His spiritually, in mere subjugation, yet
consciously; the inferior tribes of creation unconsciously; but
objectively, all are summed up in Him."

**11. In whom**—by virtue of union
to whom.
**obtained an
inheritance**—literally, "We were made to have an
inheritance" [WAHL].
Compare [Ephesians 1:18](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/18), "*His*
inheritance in the saints": as *His* inheritance is there
said to be *in them,* so *theirs* is here said to be *in
Him* ([Acts 26:18](../../../kjv/acts/26/18)). However,
[Ephesians 1:12](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/12), "That we should
BE TO . . . His glory"
(not "that we should *have*"), favors the translation
of BENGEL, ELLICOTT,
and others, "We were *made* an inheritance." So the
literal Israel ([Deuteronomy 4:20](../../../kjv/deuteronomy/4/20); [Deuteronomy 9:29](../../../kjv/deuteronomy/9/29);
[Deuteronomy 32:9](../../../kjv/deuteronomy/32/9)). "Also" does
not mean "we also," nor as *English Version,* "in
whom also"; but, besides His having "made known to us His
will," we were also "made His inheritance," or "we
have also obtained an inheritance."
**predestinated**— ([Deuteronomy 32:9](../../../kjv/deuteronomy/32/9)). The foreordination of Israel, as the elect nation, answers
to that of the spiritual Israelites, believers, to an eternal
inheritance, which is the thing meant here. The "we" here
and in [Ephesians 1:12](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/12), means *Jewish*
believers (whence the reference to the election of Israel nationally
arises), as contrasted with "you" ([Ephesians 1:12](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/12)) *Gentile* believers.
**purpose**—repeated from
"purposed" ([Ephesians 1:9](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/9);
[Ephesians 3:11](../../../kjv/ephesians/3/11)). The Church existed in
the mind of God eternally, before it existed in creation.
**counsel of his . . . will**—
([Ephesians 1:5](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/5)), "the good
pleasure of His will." Not arbitrary caprice, but infinite
wisdom ("counsel") joined with sovereign will. Compare his
address to the same Ephesians in [Ephesians 1:5](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/5), "All the counsel of God" ([Ephesians 1:5](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/5)). Alike in the natural and spiritual creations, God is not
an agent constrained by necessity. "Wheresoever counsel is,
there is election, or else it is vain; where a will, there must be
freedom, or else it is weak" [PEARSON].

**12.** ([Ephesians 1:6](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/6);
[Ephesians 1:14](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/14)).
**who first trusted in
Christ**—rather (we Jewish Christians), "who have before
hoped in *the* Christ": who before the Christ came, looked
forward to His coming, waiting for the consolation of Israel. Compare
[Acts 26:6](../../../kjv/acts/26/6); [Acts 26:7](../../../kjv/acts/26/7),
"I am judged for *the hope of the promise made of God unto our
fathers: unto which our twelve tribes,* instantly serving God day
and night, *hope to come.*" [Acts 26:7](../../../kjv/acts/26/7), "*the hope of Israel*" [ALFORD].
Compare [Ephesians 1:18](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/18); [Ephesians 2:12](../../../kjv/ephesians/2/12);
[Ephesians 4:4](../../../kjv/ephesians/4/4).

**13. In whom ye also**—Ye
Gentiles. Supply as *English Version,* "trusted," from
[Ephesians 1:12](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/12); or "are."
The priority of us Jews does not exclude you Gentiles from sharing in
Christ (compare [Acts 13:46](../../../kjv/acts/13/46)).
**the word of truth**—the
instrument of sanctification, and of the new birth ([John 17:17](../../../kjv/john/17/17);
[2 Timothy 2:15](../../../kjv/2-timothy/2/15); [James 1:18](../../../kjv/james/1/18)).
Compare [Colossians 1:5](../../../kjv/colossians/1/5), where also, as
here, it is connected with "hope." Also [Colossians 1:5](../../../kjv/colossians/1/5).
**sealed**—as God's
confirmed children, by the Holy Spirit as the seal ([Acts 19:1-6](../../../kjv/acts/19/1-6);
[Romans 8:16](../../../kjv/romans/8/16); [Romans 8:23](../../../kjv/romans/8/23);
[1 John 3:24](../../../kjv/1-john/3/24); see on [1 John 3:24](../../../kjv/1-john/3/24)). A seal impressed on a document gives undoubted validity to
the contract in it ([John 3:33](../../../kjv/john/3/33);
[John 6:27](../../../kjv/john/6/27); compare [John 6:27](../../../kjv/john/6/27)). So the sense of "the love of God shed abroad in the
heart by the Holy Ghost" ([John 6:27](../../../kjv/john/6/27)), and the sense of adoption given through the Spirit at
regeneration ([Romans 8:15](../../../kjv/romans/8/15); [Romans 8:16](../../../kjv/romans/8/16)),
assure believers of God's good will to them. The Spirit, like a seal,
impresses on the soul at regeneration the image of our Father. The
"sealing" by the Holy Spirit is spoken of as *past*
once for all. The witnessing to our hearts that we are the children
of God, and heirs ([Ephesians 1:11](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/11)),
is the Spirit's *present* testimony, the "earnest of the
(coming) inheritance" ([Ephesians 1:11](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/11)).
**that Holy Spirit of
promise**—rather, as the *Greek,* "The Spirit of
promise, even the Holy Spirit": The *Spirit promised* both
in the Old and New Testaments ([Joel 2:28](../../../kjv/joel/2/28);
[Zechariah 12:10](../../../kjv/zechariah/12/10); [John 7:38](../../../kjv/john/7/38);
[John 7:39](../../../kjv/john/7/39)). "The word"
*promised* the Holy Spirit. Those who "believed the word of
truth" were sealed by the Spirit accordingly.

**14. earnest**—the first
instalment paid as a pledge that the rest will follow ([Romans 8:23](../../../kjv/romans/8/23);
[2 Corinthians 1:22](../../../kjv/2-corinthians/1/22)).
**until**—rather, "*Unto*
the redemption," c. joined thus, "ye were sealed ([2 Corinthians 1:22](../../../kjv/2-corinthians/1/22)) unto," that is, *for the purpose of and against,*
the accomplishment of "the redemption," namely, not the
*redemption* in its first stage, made by the blood of Christ,
which secures our *title,* but, in its final completion, when
the actual *possession* shall be ours, the full "redemption
of the body" ([Romans 8:23](../../../kjv/romans/8/23)), as
well as of the soul, from every infirmity ([Romans 8:23](../../../kjv/romans/8/23)). The deliverance of the creature (the body, and the whole
visible creation) from the bondage of corruption, and from the
usurping prince of this world, into the glorious liberty of the
children of God ([Romans 8:21-23](../../../kjv/romans/8/21-23);
[2 Peter 3:13](../../../kjv/2-peter/3/13)).
**of the purchased
possession**—God's people *purchased* ("acquired,"
*Greek*) as His *peculiar* (*Greek*) possession by the
blood of Christ ([Acts 20:28](../../../kjv/acts/20/28)). We
value highly that which we pay a high price for; so God, His Church
([Ephesians 5:25](../../../kjv/ephesians/5/25); [Ephesians 5:26](../../../kjv/ephesians/5/26);
[1 Peter 1:18](../../../kjv/1-peter/1/18); [1 Peter 2:9](../../../kjv/1-peter/2/9);
"my *special* treasure," [1 Peter 2:9](../../../kjv/1-peter/2/9), *Margin*).

**15. Wherefore**—because ye are
in Christ and sealed by His Spirit ([Ephesians 1:13](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/13);
[Ephesians 1:14](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/14)).
**I also**—on my part, in
return for God's so great benefits to *you.*
**after I heard**—ever
since I have heard. Not implying that he had only *heard* of
their conversion: an erroneous argument used by some against the
address of this Epistle to the Ephesians (see on [Ephesians 1:14](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/14)); but referring to the report he had heard *since* he
was with them, as to their Christian graces. So in the case of
Philemon, his "*beloved fellow laborer*" ([Ephesians 1:14](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/14)), he uses the same words ([Philemon 1:4](../../../kjv/philemon/1/4);
[Philemon 1:5](../../../kjv/philemon/1/5)).
**your faith**—rather, as
*Greek,* "the faith among you," that is, which many
(not all) of you have.
**love unto all the saints**—of
whatever name, simply because they are saints. A distinguishing
characteristic of true Christianity ([Philemon 1:5](../../../kjv/philemon/1/5)). "*Faith* and *love* he often joins
together. A wondrous pair" [CHRYSOSTOM].
*Hope* is added, [Ephesians 1:18](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/18).

**16.** ().
**of you**—omitted in the
oldest manuscripts. Then the translation may be as *English Version*
still, or as ALFORD,
"making mention of *them*" (your "faith and
love").

**17.** A fit prayer for all
Christians.
**the God of our Lord
Jesus**—appropriate title here; as in he treats of *God's* raising *Jesus* to be Head
over all things to the Church. Jesus Himself called the Father "*My*
God" ([Matthew 27:46](../../../kjv/matthew/27/46)).
**the Father of glory**—(Compare
[Acts 7:2](../../../kjv/acts/7/2)). The Father of that
infinite glory which shines in the face of Christ, who is "the
glory" (the true Shekinah); through whom also "the glory of
the inheritance" ([Ephesians 1:18](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/18))
shall be ours ([John 17:24](../../../kjv/john/17/24);
[2 Corinthians 3:7-4](../../../kjv/2-corinthians/3/7-4)).
**the spirit of wisdom**—whose
attribute is infinite wisdom and who works wisdom in believers ([2 Corinthians 3:7-47](../../../kjv/2-corinthians/3/7-47)).
**and revelation**—whose
function it is to *reveal* to believers spiritual mysteries
([John 16:14](../../../kjv/john/16/14); [John 16:15](../../../kjv/john/16/15);
[1 Corinthians 2:10](../../../kjv/1-corinthians/2/10)).
**in the knowledge**—rather,
as *Greek* (see on [1 Corinthians 2:10](../../../kjv/1-corinthians/2/10)),
"in the *full knowledge* of Him," namely, God.

**18. understanding**—The oldest
manuscripts, versions, and Fathers, read "heart." Compare
the contrary state of unbelieving, the *heart* being in fault
([Ephesians 4:18](../../../kjv/ephesians/4/18); [Matthew 13:15](../../../kjv/matthew/13/15)).
Translate, "Having the eyes of your heart enlightened"
([Ephesians 5:14](../../../kjv/ephesians/5/14); [Matthew 4:16](../../../kjv/matthew/4/16)).
The first effect of the Spirit moving in the new creation, as in the
original physical creation ([Genesis 1:3](../../../kjv/genesis/1/3);
[2 Corinthians 4:6](../../../kjv/2-corinthians/4/6)). So THEOPHILUS
to AUTOLYCUS (1.3), "the
ears of the heart." Where spiritual *light* is, there is
*life* ([John 1:4](../../../kjv/john/1/4)). The heart
is "the core of life" [HARLESS],
and the fountain of the thoughts; whence "the heart" in
Scripture includes the *mind,* as well as the inclination. Its
"eye," or inward vision, both receives and contemplates the
light ([Matthew 6:22](../../../kjv/matthew/6/22); [Matthew 6:23](../../../kjv/matthew/6/23)).
The eye is the symbol of intelligence ([Matthew 6:23](../../../kjv/matthew/6/23)).
**the hope of his calling**—the
hope appertaining to His having called you; or, to the calling
wherewith He has called you.
**and**—omitted in the
oldest manuscripts and versions.
**riches of the glory**—
([Colossians 1:27](../../../kjv/colossians/1/27)).
**his inheritance in the
saints**—The inheritance which he has in store in the case of the
saints. I prefer explaining, "The inheritance which He has in
his saints." (See on [Ephesians 1:11](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/11);
[Deuteronomy 32:9](../../../kjv/deuteronomy/32/9)).

**19. exceeding**—"surpassing."
**power to us-ward who
believe**—The whole of the working of His grace, which He is
carrying on, and will carry on, in us who believe. By the term
"saints" ([Ephesians 1:18](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/18)),
believers are regarded as *absolutely perfected,* and so as
being God's inheritance; in this verse, as in the course of *fighting*
the good fight of faith.
**according to**—in
accordance wit,h, what might be expected from.
**working**—*Greek,*
"the energizing"; translate, "the effectual working"
([Ephesians 3:7](../../../kjv/ephesians/3/7)). The same superhuman
power was needed and exerted to make us believe, as was needed and
exerted to raise Christ from the dead ([Ephesians 3:7](../../../kjv/ephesians/3/7)). Compare [Philippians 3:10](../../../kjv/philippians/3/10),
"the power of His resurrection" ([Colossians 2:12](../../../kjv/colossians/2/12);
[1 Peter 1:3-5](../../../kjv/1-peter/1/3-5)).
**of his mighty power**—*Greek,*
"of the strength of His might."

**20. in Christ**—as our
"first-fruits" of the resurrection, and Head, in virtue of
God's mighty working in whom His power to us-ward is made possible
and actual [ALFORD].
**when he raised him**—"in
that He raised Him." The raising of Christ is not only an
earnest of our bodies being hereafter raised, but has a spiritual
power in it involving (by virtue of our living union with Him, as
members with the Head) the resurrection, spiritually of the
believer's soul now, and, consequently, of his body hereafter
([Romans 6:8-11](../../../kjv/romans/6/8-11); [Romans 8:11](../../../kjv/romans/8/11)).
The Son, too, as God (though not as man), had a share in raising His
own human body ([John 2:19](../../../kjv/john/2/19); [John 10:17](../../../kjv/john/10/17);
[John 10:18](../../../kjv/john/10/18)). Also the Holy Spirit
([Romans 1:4](../../../kjv/romans/1/4); [1 Peter 3:18](../../../kjv/1-peter/3/18)).
**set*****him*******—*Greek,* "made Him sit." The glorious spirits
*stand* about the throne of God, but they do not *sit at God's
right hand* ([Hebrews 1:13](../../../kjv/hebrews/1/13)).
**at his own right hand**—
([Psalms 110:1](../../../kjv/psalms/110/1)). Where He remains
till all His enemies have been put under His feet ([Psalms 110:1](../../../kjv/psalms/110/1)). Being appointed to "rule in the midst of His
enemies" during their rebellion ([Psalms 110:1](../../../kjv/psalms/110/1)), He shall resign His commission after their subjection
[PEARSON] ([Mark 16:19](../../../kjv/mark/16/19);
[Hebrews 1:3](../../../kjv/hebrews/1/3); [Hebrews 10:12](../../../kjv/hebrews/10/12)).
**in the heavenly places**—
([Ephesians 1:3](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/3)). As Christ has a
literal body, heaven is not merely a state, but a *place;* and
where He is, there His people shall be ([Ephesians 1:3](../../../kjv/ephesians/1/3)).

**21.** *Greek,* "Far (or
high) above all ([Ephesians 4:10](../../../kjv/ephesians/4/10))
principality (or rule, [1 Corinthians 15:24](../../../kjv/1-corinthians/15/24)),
and authority, and power ([1 Corinthians 15:24](../../../kjv/1-corinthians/15/24)), and dominion (or lordship)." Compare [Philippians 2:9](../../../kjv/philippians/2/9);
[Colossians 1:16](../../../kjv/colossians/1/16); [Hebrews 7:26](../../../kjv/hebrews/7/26);
[1 Peter 3:22](../../../kjv/1-peter/3/22). Evil spirits (who are
similarly divided into various ranks, [1 Peter 3:22](../../../kjv/1-peter/3/22)), as well as angels of light, and earthly potentates, are
included (compare [Romans 8:38](../../../kjv/romans/8/38)).
Jesus is "King of kings, and Lord of lords" ([Romans 8:38](../../../kjv/romans/8/38)). The higher is His honor, the greater is that of His
people, who are His members joined to Him, the Head. Some
philosophizing teachers of the school of Simon Magus, in Western Asia
Minor, had, according to IRENÆUS
and EPIPHANIUS, taught
their hearers these names of various ranks of angels. Paul shows that
the truest wisdom is to know Christ as reigning above them all.
**every name**—every being
whatever. "Any other creature" ([Romans 8:38](../../../kjv/romans/8/38)).
**in this world**—*Greek,*
"age," that is, the present *order of things.* "Things
present . . . things to come" ([Romans 8:38](../../../kjv/romans/8/38)).
**that . . . to come**—"Names
which now we know not, but shall know hereafter in heaven. We know
that the emperor goes before all, though we cannot enumerate all the
satraps and ministers of his court; so we know that Christ is set
above all, although we cannot *name* them all" [BENGEL].

**22. put . . . under**—*Greek,*
"put in subjection under" ([Psalms 8:6](../../../kjv/psalms/8/6);
[1 Corinthians 15:27](../../../kjv/1-corinthians/15/27)).
**gave . . . to the church**—for
her special advantage. The *Greek* order is emphatic: "HIM
He gave as Head over all things to the Church." Had it been
anyone save HIM, her Head,
it would not have been the boon it is to the Church. But as *He*
is Head over all things who is also her Head (and she the body), all
things are hers ([1 Corinthians 15:27](../../../kjv/1-corinthians/15/27)). He is OVER
("far above") all things; in contrast to the words, "TO
*the Church,*" namely, *for her advantage.* The former
are subject; the latter is joined with Him in His dominion over them.
"Head" implies not only His dominion, but our union;
therefore, while we look upon Him at the right hand of God, we see
ourselves in heaven ([Revelation 3:21](../../../kjv/revelation/3/21)).
For the Head and body are not severed by anything intervening, else
the body would cease to be the body, and the Head cease to be the
Head [PEARSON from
CHRYSOSTOM].

**23. his body**—His mystical and
spiritual, not literal, body. Not, however, merely figurative, or
metaphorical. He is really, though spiritually, the Church's Head.
His life is her life. She shares His crucifixion and His consequent
glory. He possesses everything, His fellowship with the Father, His
fulness of the Spirit, and His glorified manhood, not merely for
Himself, but *for her,* who has a membership of His body, of His
flesh, and of His bones ([Ephesians 5:30](../../../kjv/ephesians/5/30)).
**fulness**—"the
filled-up receptacle" [EADIE].
The Church is *dwelt in and filled by Christ.* She is the
receptacle, not of His inherent, but of His *communicated,
plenitude* of gifts and graces. As His is the "fulness"
([John 1:16](../../../kjv/john/1/16); [Colossians 1:19](../../../kjv/colossians/1/19);
[Colossians 2:9](../../../kjv/colossians/2/9)) inherently, so she is
His "fulness" by His impartation of it to her, in virtue of
her union to Him ([Ephesians 5:18](../../../kjv/ephesians/5/18);
[Colossians 2:10](../../../kjv/colossians/2/10)). "The *full
manifestation* of His being, because penetrated by His life"
[CONYBEARE and HOWSON].
She is the continued revelation of His divine life in human form; *the
fullest representative of His plenitude.* Not the angelic
hierarchy, as false teachers taught ([Colossians 2:9](../../../kjv/colossians/2/9);
[Colossians 2:10](../../../kjv/colossians/2/10); [Colossians 2:18](../../../kjv/colossians/2/18)),
but Christ Himself is the "fulness of the Godhead," and she
represents Him. KOPPE
translates less probably, "the whole universal multitude."
**filleth all in all**—Christ
as the Creator, Preserver, and Governor of the world, constituted by
God ([Colossians 1:16-19](../../../kjv/colossians/1/16-19)),
*fills all* the universe of things *with all things.*
"Fills all creation with whatever it possesses" [ALFORD].
The *Greek* is, "filleth *for Himself.*"

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