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Studies in the Epistles of the Mystery.
Blessing according to Purpose (Eph. 1: 3-14).
pp. 109-113
In our last article we considered the structure of this epistle as a whole. Turning now
to the first chapter we find that the epistle proper commences at the third verse, and opens
with the words "Blessed be God." Not our blessings but our gratitude marks the
threshold of this dispensation. We have nothing to ask for, but everything to praise for,
as all things are ours in Christ:--
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Who hath blessed us with all
spiritual blessings in the heavenlies in Christ, according as He hath chosen us in Him
before the overthrow of the world" (Eph. 1: 3, 4).
Before we examine this treasure in detail it will help us if we notice the divine
arrangement of the subject matter. Verses 3 to 14 constitute a complete passage, which
has a twofold arrangement, (a) to emphasize that our blessings are according to purpose,
and (b) that all is the work of our triune God unto the praise of His glory.
Blessing according to Purpose (Eph. 1: 3-14).
A1 | 3. Blessing. Spiritual and in the heavenlies. Blessings of the mystery.
B1 | 4. Purpose. "According as He chose us."
A2 | 5. Blessing. Predestination unto sonship. Sonship.
B2 | 5-8. Purpose. "According to good pleasure of His will."
A3 | 9-. Blessing. "Making known the secret of His will" Revelation of the mystery.
B3 | -9,10. Purpose. "According to His good pleasure."
A4 | 11-. Blessing. Predestination unto inheritance. Inheritance.
B4 | Purpose. "According to the purposes. . . . own will."
As we contemplate this wonderful passage can we not sing with all our hearts:--
"How firm a foundation ye saints of the Lord,
is laid for your faith in His excellent Word."
Four lines of blessing interlinked with four statements of immutable grace, irreversible
will, unfaltering counsel, and unalterable purpose. Notice, also, how the emphasis upon
this purpose increases, rather than diminishes as we go on.
Verse 4.
"According as He chose us."
Verse 5.
"According to good pleasure of His will."
Verse 9.
"According to His good pleasure."
Verse 11.
"According to the purposes of Him Who worketh all things
according to the counsel of His own will."