Systematic Bible Study
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EPH 1:11, "In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will.”
“In him” means saved by faith in Christ
“we were also chosen” includes Paul with the Christians reading the epistle
“having been predestined” repeats the term used in v.5 to refer to “from creation” per v.4
“according to the plan of him” refers to God’s will and purpose in v.9-10
“who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will” means that God is in control
of history so that His plan will be achieved as He determines
“In him” means saved by faith in Christ
“we were also chosen” includes Paul with the Christians reading the epistle
“having been predestined” repeats the term used in v.5 to refer to “from creation” per v.4
“according to the plan of him” refers to God’s will and purpose in v.9-10
“who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will” means that God is in control
of history so that His plan will be achieved as He determines
I sense that our systematic study is proceeding too slowly for some, so I will speed up the pace by going ahead
and presenting verses 12-14 with a summary commentary regarding EPH 1:1-14.
In EPH 1:1-14, v.3-14 is one sentence in the Greek.
The main theme of the passage is indicated by the use of the phrase “in Christ” or equivalents (in bold) twelve times. The meaning is most clearly signified in v.7: through his blood (because of Christ’s death on the cross) we have redemption or the forgiveness of our sins.
A second theme is indicated by references to Christ’s atonement being God’s will from the beginning, including “before the creation”, “predestined”, and “purposed to be put into effect when the times will have reached their fulfillment.”
A problematic (diversely interpreted) part of the passage is “you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession”, which has been understood in two contradictory ways:
1. Saints being sealed by the HS means that they cannot commit apostasy (intentionally repent of having saving faith in Jesus as Lord).
2. Being sealed does not prevent saints from committing apostasy (intentionally failing to persevere/continue in having saving faith).
Take your pick. I choose the latter for reasons that have been explained on other threads but we can review them here if folks desire.
and presenting verses 12-14 with a summary commentary regarding EPH 1:1-14.
In EPH 1:1-14, v.3-14 is one sentence in the Greek.
The main theme of the passage is indicated by the use of the phrase “in Christ” or equivalents (in bold) twelve times. The meaning is most clearly signified in v.7: through his blood (because of Christ’s death on the cross) we have redemption or the forgiveness of our sins.
A second theme is indicated by references to Christ’s atonement being God’s will from the beginning, including “before the creation”, “predestined”, and “purposed to be put into effect when the times will have reached their fulfillment.”
A problematic (diversely interpreted) part of the passage is “you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession”, which has been understood in two contradictory ways:
1. Saints being sealed by the HS means that they cannot commit apostasy (intentionally repent of having saving faith in Jesus as Lord).
2. Being sealed does not prevent saints from committing apostasy (intentionally failing to persevere/continue in having saving faith).
Take your pick. I choose the latter for reasons that have been explained on other threads but we can review them here if folks desire.
9 After making known to us the revealed secret of his will, according to his sense of good which he purposed/purposes in himself:
10 To gather into one, into the economy (εἰς οἰκονομίαν) of the fulness (τοῦ πληρώματος) of the times (τῶν καιρῶν), to be headed up (ἀνακεφαλαιώσασθαι) all things (τὰ πάντα) in the Christ, (ἐν τῷ Χριστῷ) both which are within the heavens (τὰ τε ἐν τοῖς οὐρανοῖς), and which are from on the earth (καὶ τὰ ἐπὶ τῆς γῆς); in him ( ἐν αὐτῷ):
Some think the final "in Him should be at the beginning of the next verse, echoing the "in Christ " with all things etc being parenthetical -
10 [the revealed secret of His will, namely], into the economy of the fulness of the times, all things in the Christ to be headed up/ gathered together (both which are within the heavens, and which are from on the earth)
11 In Him (ἐν αὐτῷ) in whom (ἐν ᾧ) also we inherit (καὶ ἐκληρώθημεν), after being predestinated (προορισθέντες) according to the purpose of him (κατὰ πρόθεσιν τοῦ) who is working all things (τὰ πάντα ἐνεργοῦντος) according to the counsel (κατὰ τὴν βουλὴν) of his own will (τοῦ θελήματος αὐτοῦ).
I like that, otherwise the final "in Him" seems redundant.
v. 10 God's end goal is to sift all of creation and put all that has trusted Christ into one space; and all that has chosen not to trust Christ into another separate space where it cannot devalue that which is in Christ.
v. 11 The first cohort of believers knew they would inherit an inheritance in the former, after being predestined to the same when they became in Christ through faith in Him, and destined to that inheritance by someone who is working all things toward this exhaustive separation of the Christ-followers from the Christ-rejectors.
10 To gather into one, into the economy (εἰς οἰκονομίαν) of the fulness (τοῦ πληρώματος) of the times (τῶν καιρῶν), to be headed up (ἀνακεφαλαιώσασθαι) all things (τὰ πάντα) in the Christ, (ἐν τῷ Χριστῷ) both which are within the heavens (τὰ τε ἐν τοῖς οὐρανοῖς), and which are from on the earth (καὶ τὰ ἐπὶ τῆς γῆς); in him ( ἐν αὐτῷ):
Some think the final "in Him should be at the beginning of the next verse, echoing the "in Christ " with all things etc being parenthetical -
10 [the revealed secret of His will, namely], into the economy of the fulness of the times, all things in the Christ to be headed up/ gathered together (both which are within the heavens, and which are from on the earth)
11 In Him (ἐν αὐτῷ) in whom (ἐν ᾧ) also we inherit (καὶ ἐκληρώθημεν), after being predestinated (προορισθέντες) according to the purpose of him (κατὰ πρόθεσιν τοῦ) who is working all things (τὰ πάντα ἐνεργοῦντος) according to the counsel (κατὰ τὴν βουλὴν) of his own will (τοῦ θελήματος αὐτοῦ).
I like that, otherwise the final "in Him" seems redundant.
v. 10 God's end goal is to sift all of creation and put all that has trusted Christ into one space; and all that has chosen not to trust Christ into another separate space where it cannot devalue that which is in Christ.
v. 11 The first cohort of believers knew they would inherit an inheritance in the former, after being predestined to the same when they became in Christ through faith in Him, and destined to that inheritance by someone who is working all things toward this exhaustive separation of the Christ-followers from the Christ-rejectors.
Better late than never (but don't be late to the pearly gate :^)
V.10 seems to be the most convoluted yet, but sifting is consistent with the parables of Jesus about the separation of the saved from the unsaved at the Judgment.
Please comment on v.12-14 too, which somehow I did not post successfully before sharing the summary.
(Too early in the morning I guess :^)
V.10 seems to be the most convoluted yet, but sifting is consistent with the parables of Jesus about the separation of the saved from the unsaved at the Judgment.
Please comment on v.12-14 too, which somehow I did not post successfully before sharing the summary.
(Too early in the morning I guess :^)
I found myself here after skimming through the "never saved" thread with a thought that I wondered where I might manage to insert a toe and found this seemingly warm enough, as well as very useful in helping me crystalize the initial thought.
In the previously mentioned thread, the first and second Adam were briefly mentioned which initiated my thought and the conclusion of this referenced post finalized it for me. Thus providing me perfect opportunity of time and place to express it.
The first Adam(s) was given a choice with the influence of the serpent introduced and the Second Adam introduced the life-giving Spirit with (re-stored? or perhaps somewhat more "galvanized"?) influence on the choice, both powerful influences but, at least it should seem to me, that One is more so (although influence may yet be left to the chooser,
) than the other....
I lean toward taking the former pick, as I view apostasy as Adam(s) sin, and the sin of all unbelievers. It is my opinion that all unbelievers know there is a God but deny him in varying degrees. And those that believe in Him have faith in varying degrees but without ever falling (away) completely. I mean, a grain of mustard seed amount is given much account, right?
In the previously mentioned thread, the first and second Adam were briefly mentioned which initiated my thought and the conclusion of this referenced post finalized it for me. Thus providing me perfect opportunity of time and place to express it.
The first Adam(s) was given a choice with the influence of the serpent introduced and the Second Adam introduced the life-giving Spirit with (re-stored? or perhaps somewhat more "galvanized"?) influence on the choice, both powerful influences but, at least it should seem to me, that One is more so (although influence may yet be left to the chooser,
) than the other....I lean toward taking the former pick, as I view apostasy as Adam(s) sin, and the sin of all unbelievers. It is my opinion that all unbelievers know there is a God but deny him in varying degrees. And those that believe in Him have faith in varying degrees but without ever falling (away) completely. I mean, a grain of mustard seed amount is given much account, right?
I found myself here after skimming through the "never saved" thread with a thought that I wondered where I might manage to insert a toe and found this seemingly warm enough, as well as very useful in helping me crystalize the initial thought.
In the previously mentioned thread, the first and second Adam were briefly mentioned which initiated my thought and the conclusion of this referenced post finalized it for me. Thus providing me perfect opportunity of time and place to express it.
The first Adam(s) was given a choice with the influence of the serpent introduced and the Second Adam introduced the life-giving Spirit with (re-stored? or perhaps somewhat more "galvanized"?) influence on the choice, both powerful influences but, at least it should seem to me, that One is more so (although influence may yet be left to the chooser,) than the other....
I lean toward taking the former pick, as I view apostasy as Adam(s) sin, and the sin of all unbelievers. It is my opinion that all unbelievers know there is a God but deny him in varying degrees. And those that believe in Him have faith in varying degrees but without ever falling (away) completely. I mean, a grain of mustard seed amount is given much account, right?
In the previously mentioned thread, the first and second Adam were briefly mentioned which initiated my thought and the conclusion of this referenced post finalized it for me. Thus providing me perfect opportunity of time and place to express it.
The first Adam(s) was given a choice with the influence of the serpent introduced and the Second Adam introduced the life-giving Spirit with (re-stored? or perhaps somewhat more "galvanized"?) influence on the choice, both powerful influences but, at least it should seem to me, that One is more so (although influence may yet be left to the chooser,
) than the other....I lean toward taking the former pick, as I view apostasy as Adam(s) sin, and the sin of all unbelievers. It is my opinion that all unbelievers know there is a God but deny him in varying degrees. And those that believe in Him have faith in varying degrees but without ever falling (away) completely. I mean, a grain of mustard seed amount is given much account, right?
or introduced until by Jesus and Paul.
Apostasy is the sin of reverting to atheism after having had saving faith in God as revealed (HB 6:4-6),
so it might apply to A&E if they were created as believers, but not to atheists who have never repented/converted.
Relating what you posted to the study of EPH, we can say that Paul addresses the epistle to believers/saints,
who once were influenced by the spirit of Satan but repented/converted to faith in Christ and were then
indwelt and influenced by His Holy Spirit.
Without looking up the passage for want of the convenience, do I recall it correctly as speaking toward that which is commonly interpreted as "impossible to restore"? In any case, I'll look more into your claim of the definition of apostasy before I will, wholeheartedly, 'take your word for it.' Thank you.
Don't worry about my claim; read HB 6:4-6 and the foilowing:
MT 10:22, “All men will hate you because of me, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved.”
RM 11:22, “Consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God: sternness to those who fell, but kindness to you, provided that you continue in his kindness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off.”
1CR 15:2, “By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain.”
GL 5:4, “You who are trying to be justified by law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace.”
CL 1:22-23, “But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation—if you continue in your faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope held out in the gospel.”
2THS 1:4-5, “Therefore, among God’s churches we boast about your perseverance and faith in all the persecutions and trials you are enduring. All this is evidence that God’s judgment is right, and as a result you will be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you are suffering.”
2TM 2:12, “If we endure, we will also reign with him. If we disown him, he will also disown us;”
HB 3:6&14, “But Christ is faithful as a son over God’s house. And we are his house, if we hold on to our courage and the hope of which we boast… We have come to share in Christ if we hold firmly till the end the confidence we had at first.”
HB 6:4-6, “It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age, if they fall away, to be brought back to repentance, because to their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace.”
HB 10:26-36, “If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left, but only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will consume the enemies of God… So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.”
JM 1:12, “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.”
2PT 1:10-11, “Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election sure. For if you do these things, you will never fall, and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”
2PT 2:20, “If they have escaped the corruption of the world by knowing our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and are again entangled in it and overcome, they are worse off at the end than they were at the beginning.”
1JN 2:24-25, “See that what you have heard from the beginning remains in you. If it does, you also will remain in the Son and in the Father. And this is what he promised us—even eternal life.”
JUDE 21, “Keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.”
RV 2:10, “Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.”
MT 10:22, “All men will hate you because of me, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved.”
RM 11:22, “Consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God: sternness to those who fell, but kindness to you, provided that you continue in his kindness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off.”
1CR 15:2, “By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain.”
GL 5:4, “You who are trying to be justified by law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace.”
CL 1:22-23, “But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation—if you continue in your faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope held out in the gospel.”
2THS 1:4-5, “Therefore, among God’s churches we boast about your perseverance and faith in all the persecutions and trials you are enduring. All this is evidence that God’s judgment is right, and as a result you will be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you are suffering.”
2TM 2:12, “If we endure, we will also reign with him. If we disown him, he will also disown us;”
HB 3:6&14, “But Christ is faithful as a son over God’s house. And we are his house, if we hold on to our courage and the hope of which we boast… We have come to share in Christ if we hold firmly till the end the confidence we had at first.”
HB 6:4-6, “It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age, if they fall away, to be brought back to repentance, because to their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace.”
HB 10:26-36, “If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left, but only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will consume the enemies of God… So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.”
JM 1:12, “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.”
2PT 1:10-11, “Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election sure. For if you do these things, you will never fall, and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”
2PT 2:20, “If they have escaped the corruption of the world by knowing our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and are again entangled in it and overcome, they are worse off at the end than they were at the beginning.”
1JN 2:24-25, “See that what you have heard from the beginning remains in you. If it does, you also will remain in the Son and in the Father. And this is what he promised us—even eternal life.”
JUDE 21, “Keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.”
RV 2:10, “Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.”
Here is what I meant to submit regarding v.11:
EPH 1:11, In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will.”
“In him” means saved by faith in Christ and is the seventh instance of this phrase or equivalents
“we were also chosen” includes Paul with the Christians reading the epistle
I notice that you have "inherit" (present tense) instead of the NIV "were chosen", and inherit agrees with my
Apologetics Study Bible (ASB), so we will go with that.
“having been predestined” repeats the term used in v.5 to refer to “from creation” per v.4
“according to the plan of him” refers to God’s will and purpose in v.9-10
Again the ASB agrees with you, so I guess the NIV was wanting a little variety.
“who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will” means that God is in control of history so that His plan will be achieved as He determines
Your "is working" is present progressive, whereas the ASB and NIV have "works", so you are out-voted.
The ASB has "decision" for purpose or counsel, so we must decide which synonym to use along with "determines".
Thus, the conflated version is this:
EPH 1:11, In himself we also are heirs, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works out everything in conformity with the decision of his will.”
Here is my NIV v. 12:
EPH 1:12. “in order that we , who were the first to hope in Christ might be for the praise of his glory.”
“in order that we, who were the first to hope in Christ” refers to Paul and other apostles or disciples of Jesus
who received the Gospel before the Ephesians
“in Christ” is the eighth instance of this or equivalent phrases, which is the briefest way of indicating God’s plan of salvation
or being sanctified
“might be for the praise of his glory” means “would be a reason for praising deity”, probably because of the Christlike
behavior or loving deeds by those who are sanctified or being made holy, as we will see later in the epistle.
Over...
EPH 1:11, In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will.”
“In him” means saved by faith in Christ and is the seventh instance of this phrase or equivalents
“we were also chosen” includes Paul with the Christians reading the epistle
I notice that you have "inherit" (present tense) instead of the NIV "were chosen", and inherit agrees with my
Apologetics Study Bible (ASB), so we will go with that.
“having been predestined” repeats the term used in v.5 to refer to “from creation” per v.4
“according to the plan of him” refers to God’s will and purpose in v.9-10
Again the ASB agrees with you, so I guess the NIV was wanting a little variety.
“who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will” means that God is in control of history so that His plan will be achieved as He determines
Your "is working" is present progressive, whereas the ASB and NIV have "works", so you are out-voted.
The ASB has "decision" for purpose or counsel, so we must decide which synonym to use along with "determines".
Thus, the conflated version is this:
EPH 1:11, In himself we also are heirs, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works out everything in conformity with the decision of his will.”
Here is my NIV v. 12:
EPH 1:12. “in order that we , who were the first to hope in Christ might be for the praise of his glory.”
“in order that we, who were the first to hope in Christ” refers to Paul and other apostles or disciples of Jesus
who received the Gospel before the Ephesians
“in Christ” is the eighth instance of this or equivalent phrases, which is the briefest way of indicating God’s plan of salvation
or being sanctified
“might be for the praise of his glory” means “would be a reason for praising deity”, probably because of the Christlike
behavior or loving deeds by those who are sanctified or being made holy, as we will see later in the epistle.
Over...
The context is the fifth point of the Christian creed:
5. Then God’s Holy Spirit will establish a saving relationship with those who freely accept Him (RV 3:20) that will eventually achieve heaven when by means of persevering in learning Truth/God’s Word/sanctification everyone cooperates fully with His will (JN 14:6, 17&26, RM 8:6-17, GL 6:7-9, EPH 1:13-14, HB 10:36, 12:1, JM 1:2-4).
Although perfection is not achieved in this life, the necessity of learning the didache in order to strive for perfection indicates the need for perseverance or to keep on learning and growing spiritually until we die physically (PHP 3:12-14). Thus, although learning any specific part of the didache is not GRFS, a person who does not “hunger and thirst for righteousness” (MT 5:6) or want to learn “every word that comes from the mouth of God” (MT 4:4) fails the self-examination Paul commanded and Jesus implied (mentioned previously).
If we truly believe in Jesus as Christ, the One who represents God the Father, then we will also accept Him as Lord (LK 2:11) or God the Son (MT 16:16) or God in the human dimension (CL 2:9). When we truly accept Jesus as Lord, we will want to please Him by doing His will (MT 7:21, EPH 5:8-10). Learning the manifold teachings or doctrines describing God’s moral will takes a lifetime. Thus, the need for perseverance/loyalty/remaining faithful, which is as easy or simple as an act of will. Remain faithful until the end.
Paul taught the importance of continuing to learn God’s Word (LGW) in 2TM 3:14-17, saying “Continue in what you have learned and have been convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
5. Then God’s Holy Spirit will establish a saving relationship with those who freely accept Him (RV 3:20) that will eventually achieve heaven when by means of persevering in learning Truth/God’s Word/sanctification everyone cooperates fully with His will (JN 14:6, 17&26, RM 8:6-17, GL 6:7-9, EPH 1:13-14, HB 10:36, 12:1, JM 1:2-4).
Although perfection is not achieved in this life, the necessity of learning the didache in order to strive for perfection indicates the need for perseverance or to keep on learning and growing spiritually until we die physically (PHP 3:12-14). Thus, although learning any specific part of the didache is not GRFS, a person who does not “hunger and thirst for righteousness” (MT 5:6) or want to learn “every word that comes from the mouth of God” (MT 4:4) fails the self-examination Paul commanded and Jesus implied (mentioned previously).
If we truly believe in Jesus as Christ, the One who represents God the Father, then we will also accept Him as Lord (LK 2:11) or God the Son (MT 16:16) or God in the human dimension (CL 2:9). When we truly accept Jesus as Lord, we will want to please Him by doing His will (MT 7:21, EPH 5:8-10). Learning the manifold teachings or doctrines describing God’s moral will takes a lifetime. Thus, the need for perseverance/loyalty/remaining faithful, which is as easy or simple as an act of will. Remain faithful until the end.
Paul taught the importance of continuing to learn God’s Word (LGW) in 2TM 3:14-17, saying “Continue in what you have learned and have been convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
Eph 1:12
That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ.
Eph 1:13 In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
I would agree that "we" in v. 12 is Paul and other apostles or disciples of Jesus who received the Gospel before the Ephesians, since Paul refers to the Ephesians separately in v 13.
Paul gives the sequence of regeneration as hearing the word, then believing the word, then being sealed with the Holy Spirit promised to those who receive the Messiah.
That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ.
Eph 1:13 In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
I would agree that "we" in v. 12 is Paul and other apostles or disciples of Jesus who received the Gospel before the Ephesians, since Paul refers to the Ephesians separately in v 13.
Paul gives the sequence of regeneration as hearing the word, then believing the word, then being sealed with the Holy Spirit promised to those who receive the Messiah.
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My v.13-14:
EPH 1:13-14, “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.”
"you also were included in Christ" - what you said
"when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation" - when Paul speaks of truth, most of the time he means the Gospel
"Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit" - I agree with your sequence, and receiving the HS must refer to Jesus entering the believer's heart when he/she opens the door (RV 3:20). Some folks think a seal can never be broken, but Paul teaches that apostasy does so (HB 6:4-6 and all passages urging perseverance).
"who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession" - Again, assuming perseverance.
"to the praise of his glory" - All souls who have good sense will eventually recognize the infinite genius of God's POS.
Over...
EPH 1:13-14, “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.”
"you also were included in Christ" - what you said
"when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation" - when Paul speaks of truth, most of the time he means the Gospel
"Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit" - I agree with your sequence, and receiving the HS must refer to Jesus entering the believer's heart when he/she opens the door (RV 3:20). Some folks think a seal can never be broken, but Paul teaches that apostasy does so (HB 6:4-6 and all passages urging perseverance).
"who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession" - Again, assuming perseverance.
"to the praise of his glory" - All souls who have good sense will eventually recognize the infinite genius of God's POS.
Over...
In EPH 1:1-14, v.3-14 is one sentence in the Greek.
The main theme of the passage is indicated by the use of the phrase “in Christ” or equivalents (in bold) twelve times. The meaning is most clearly signified in v.7: through his blood (because of Christ’s death on the cross) we have redemption or the forgiveness of our sins.
A second theme is indicated by references to Christ’s atonement being God’s will from the beginning, including “before the creation”, “predestined”, and “purposed to be put into effect when the times will have reached their fulfillment.”
A problematic (diversely interpreted) part of the passage is “you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession”, which has been understood in two contradictory ways:
1. Saints being sealed by the HS means that they cannot commit apostasy (intentionally repent of having saving faith in Jesus as Lord).
2. Being sealed does not prevent saints from committing apostasy (intentionally failing to persevere/continue in having saving faith).
In agreement with #2, here is a paraphrase of EPH 1:1-14:
EPH 1:1a, From Paul, who was appointed to be an apostle of Christ Jesus (during a vision on the road to Damascus) by the will of God
EPH 1:1b, to the saints near Ephesus who believe in Christ Jesus,
EPH 1:2, You have grace and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
EPH 1:3, Praise the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who in Christ has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in heaven,
EPH 1:4, For he chose us who believe in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight, and
EPH 1:5, In love he planned in accordance with his pleasure and will for believers to be adopted as his sons through faith in Jesus Christ,
EPH 1:6, so praise his glorious grace, wherin he has made us accepted in the Beloved:
EPH 1:7, In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the abundance of God’s grace,
EPH 1:8, which he lavished on us with all wisdom and prudence,
EPH 1:9, after he revealed to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he arranged
EPH 1:10, to be put into effect when the time for its fulfillment arrived—to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one head, namely Christ.
EPH 1:11, In him we (the first ones to hope in Christ) were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will,
EPH 1:12. in order that we (who were the first to hope in Christ) might be for the praise of his glory.
EPH 1:13-14, And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance (in heaven) until the redemption (resurrection) of those who are God’s possession (children), so praise his glory!
The main theme of the passage is indicated by the use of the phrase “in Christ” or equivalents (in bold) twelve times. The meaning is most clearly signified in v.7: through his blood (because of Christ’s death on the cross) we have redemption or the forgiveness of our sins.
A second theme is indicated by references to Christ’s atonement being God’s will from the beginning, including “before the creation”, “predestined”, and “purposed to be put into effect when the times will have reached their fulfillment.”
A problematic (diversely interpreted) part of the passage is “you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession”, which has been understood in two contradictory ways:
1. Saints being sealed by the HS means that they cannot commit apostasy (intentionally repent of having saving faith in Jesus as Lord).
2. Being sealed does not prevent saints from committing apostasy (intentionally failing to persevere/continue in having saving faith).
In agreement with #2, here is a paraphrase of EPH 1:1-14:
EPH 1:1a, From Paul, who was appointed to be an apostle of Christ Jesus (during a vision on the road to Damascus) by the will of God
EPH 1:1b, to the saints near Ephesus who believe in Christ Jesus,
EPH 1:2, You have grace and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
EPH 1:3, Praise the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who in Christ has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in heaven,
EPH 1:4, For he chose us who believe in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight, and
EPH 1:5, In love he planned in accordance with his pleasure and will for believers to be adopted as his sons through faith in Jesus Christ,
EPH 1:6, so praise his glorious grace, wherin he has made us accepted in the Beloved:
EPH 1:7, In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the abundance of God’s grace,
EPH 1:8, which he lavished on us with all wisdom and prudence,
EPH 1:9, after he revealed to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he arranged
EPH 1:10, to be put into effect when the time for its fulfillment arrived—to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one head, namely Christ.
EPH 1:11, In him we (the first ones to hope in Christ) were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will,
EPH 1:12. in order that we (who were the first to hope in Christ) might be for the praise of his glory.
EPH 1:13-14, And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance (in heaven) until the redemption (resurrection) of those who are God’s possession (children), so praise his glory!
Eph 1:14 Which (ὅς) is (ἐστιν) the earnest (ἀρραβὼν) of the inheritance of us (τῆς κληρονομίας ἡμῶν) until the redemption (εἰς ἀπολύτρωσιν) of the purchased possession (τῆς περιποιήσεως), unto the praise (εἰς ἔπαινον) of his glory (τῆς δόξης αὐτοῦ).
"Arrabon" is a commercial term used by Greeks in business. It referred to a down-payment that affirmed one's sincere intention to take over full ownership of a property after doing due diligence, so that the present owner would reserve the property for the person who had put the down-payment down. If the property was in the condition it had been claimed to be in at the time of the downpayment, the buyer would complete the transfer of ownership by paying the outstanding amount.
An inheritance (κληρονομίας) is property promised to someone according to a presently valid will and testament which may contain conditions, or according to legal customs that are binding on a population. It is not yet possessed by the heir.
"Lutron" is the price required as a ransom to release someone or something from bondage. "Apo" means "away from".
Redemption (apolutron) is the complete releasing from bondage that the ransom effects (Luke 21:28, Rom. 3:24, 8:23; 1 Cor. 1:30; Eph 1:7; 4:30, Col. 1:14; Heb. 9:15, 11:35). Although in some cases its extent is limited to complete release from specific things, such as transgressions (Heb. 9:15; Col. 1:14; Eph. 1:7; Rom. 3:24), suffering (Heb. 11:35), mortality and corruptibility in the body (Rom. 8:23).
A purchased possession (peripoiEsis) is literally something that is made (poieO) surrounded (peri). It is used of the people of God because God's arms surround and embrace them (1 Pet. 2:9). It is used of us fully obtaining salvation (1 Thess. 5:9) and fully obtaining glory (2 Thess. 2:14); fully saving the soul (Heb. 10:39). In Eph. 14 it refers to "the fully owned thing" i.e. the fully owned body, soul and spirit of the believer.
So, Eph 1:14 [The Holy Spirit] is the down-payment of the promised estate until the complete loosing of the spirit, soul and body of the believer, which will lead to the praise of His glory.
"Arrabon" is a commercial term used by Greeks in business. It referred to a down-payment that affirmed one's sincere intention to take over full ownership of a property after doing due diligence, so that the present owner would reserve the property for the person who had put the down-payment down. If the property was in the condition it had been claimed to be in at the time of the downpayment, the buyer would complete the transfer of ownership by paying the outstanding amount.
An inheritance (κληρονομίας) is property promised to someone according to a presently valid will and testament which may contain conditions, or according to legal customs that are binding on a population. It is not yet possessed by the heir.
"Lutron" is the price required as a ransom to release someone or something from bondage. "Apo" means "away from".
Redemption (apolutron) is the complete releasing from bondage that the ransom effects (Luke 21:28, Rom. 3:24, 8:23; 1 Cor. 1:30; Eph 1:7; 4:30, Col. 1:14; Heb. 9:15, 11:35). Although in some cases its extent is limited to complete release from specific things, such as transgressions (Heb. 9:15; Col. 1:14; Eph. 1:7; Rom. 3:24), suffering (Heb. 11:35), mortality and corruptibility in the body (Rom. 8:23).
A purchased possession (peripoiEsis) is literally something that is made (poieO) surrounded (peri). It is used of the people of God because God's arms surround and embrace them (1 Pet. 2:9). It is used of us fully obtaining salvation (1 Thess. 5:9) and fully obtaining glory (2 Thess. 2:14); fully saving the soul (Heb. 10:39). In Eph. 14 it refers to "the fully owned thing" i.e. the fully owned body, soul and spirit of the believer.
So, Eph 1:14 [The Holy Spirit] is the down-payment of the promised estate until the complete loosing of the spirit, soul and body of the believer, which will lead to the praise of His glory.
Thanks PT. It is really helpful to have your comments on the Greek.
Now, because this is a systematic study, before moving on we need to open a can or two of worms or chase a couple of rabbits or address questions begged by this passage, including:
1. Who is included in the term "saints/believers in CJ"? (EPH 1:1)
a. OT believers?
b. All who sought salvation on the basis of GenRev?
c. Other. [This option is for all 12 Qs]
2. Does being predestined or chosen before the creation mean God determines/forces the elect to be saved against their will? (v.2-4)
a. Yes, souls have no MFW; TULIP is true.
b. No, what is predetermined is God's plan to save all who freely choose to seek Him and believe in Jesus as Christ.
3. Is belief/faith/grace/peace forced withheld from the nonelect? (v.4-7)
a. Yes, the nonelect be damned; God hates them.
b. No, God loves everyone and gives all morally accountable souls the opportunity to seek Him and be saved or not.
4. What are spiritual blessings and when are they bestowed? (v.3-8)
a. Christ's holiness, moral perfection, adoption as God's children, acceptance/redemption/forgiveness in Christ.
b. Other?
5. What is signified by "in love"? (v.5)
a. Fellowship with God.
b. The possibility of hate.
6. What is meant by "so praise"? (v.6&14)
a. God is worthy of praise because He did not have to love.
b. God's grace deserves/motivates sinners' gratitude.
7. What is the mystery? (v.9)
a. V.10.
b. TBE -to be explained later in EPH.
8. What is the fate of those to whom the mystery was not revealed? (v.9)
a. They were SOL.
b. They were judged as indicated by the Parable of the Talents.
9. How does God work out His will? (v.11)
a. By determining every detail.
b. By guiding the direction of history.
10. Why "hope" instead of "have"? (v.12-14)
a. Because this life is not yet heaven.
b. Because we walk by faith, not proof.
11. What is truth? (v.13-14)
a. The Gospel.
b. Him, the HS.
12. What is God's glory?
a. His Being/Transcendence.
b. His Light/Word.
Now, because this is a systematic study, before moving on we need to open a can or two of worms or chase a couple of rabbits or address questions begged by this passage, including:
1. Who is included in the term "saints/believers in CJ"? (EPH 1:1)
a. OT believers?
b. All who sought salvation on the basis of GenRev?
c. Other. [This option is for all 12 Qs]
2. Does being predestined or chosen before the creation mean God determines/forces the elect to be saved against their will? (v.2-4)
a. Yes, souls have no MFW; TULIP is true.
b. No, what is predetermined is God's plan to save all who freely choose to seek Him and believe in Jesus as Christ.
3. Is belief/faith/grace/peace forced withheld from the nonelect? (v.4-7)
a. Yes, the nonelect be damned; God hates them.
b. No, God loves everyone and gives all morally accountable souls the opportunity to seek Him and be saved or not.
4. What are spiritual blessings and when are they bestowed? (v.3-8)
a. Christ's holiness, moral perfection, adoption as God's children, acceptance/redemption/forgiveness in Christ.
b. Other?
5. What is signified by "in love"? (v.5)
a. Fellowship with God.
b. The possibility of hate.
6. What is meant by "so praise"? (v.6&14)
a. God is worthy of praise because He did not have to love.
b. God's grace deserves/motivates sinners' gratitude.
7. What is the mystery? (v.9)
a. V.10.
b. TBE -to be explained later in EPH.
8. What is the fate of those to whom the mystery was not revealed? (v.9)
a. They were SOL.
b. They were judged as indicated by the Parable of the Talents.
9. How does God work out His will? (v.11)
a. By determining every detail.
b. By guiding the direction of history.
10. Why "hope" instead of "have"? (v.12-14)
a. Because this life is not yet heaven.
b. Because we walk by faith, not proof.
11. What is truth? (v.13-14)
a. The Gospel.
b. Him, the HS.
12. What is God's glory?
a. His Being/Transcendence.
b. His Light/Word.
Literal translation -
Eph 1:15 Through-into this (Διὰ τοῦτο) I also (κἀγώ), after hearing (ἀκούσας, aorist active participle) the faith down onto you (τὴν καθ᾽ ὑμᾶς πίστιν) in the Lord Jesus, (ἐν τῷ κυρίῳ Ἰησοῦ) and the love (καὶ τὴν ἀγάπην), the unto-all-the-saints love (τὴν εἰς πάντας τοὺς ἁγίους),
Eph 1:16 I am not ceasing (οὐ παύομαι, present middle indicative) giving thanks (εὐχαριστῶν, present active participle) over-from-you (ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν), making mention of you (μνείαν ὑμῶν ποιούμενος ) upon-from my prayers (ἐπὶ τῶν προσευχῶν μου).
Sense paraphrase -
Through all this becoming now true for me, and after hearing of the faith in the Lord Jesus being added to you since you believed. and after hearing of the indiscriminate love you have for saints everywhere, I am incessantly giving thanks over you because of this, not only praying for you but also mentioning you to everyone.
;
Eph 1:15 Through-into this (Διὰ τοῦτο) I also (κἀγώ), after hearing (ἀκούσας, aorist active participle) the faith down onto you (τὴν καθ᾽ ὑμᾶς πίστιν) in the Lord Jesus, (ἐν τῷ κυρίῳ Ἰησοῦ) and the love (καὶ τὴν ἀγάπην), the unto-all-the-saints love (τὴν εἰς πάντας τοὺς ἁγίους),
Eph 1:16 I am not ceasing (οὐ παύομαι, present middle indicative) giving thanks (εὐχαριστῶν, present active participle) over-from-you (ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν), making mention of you (μνείαν ὑμῶν ποιούμενος ) upon-from my prayers (ἐπὶ τῶν προσευχῶν μου).
Sense paraphrase -
Through all this becoming now true for me, and after hearing of the faith in the Lord Jesus being added to you since you believed. and after hearing of the indiscriminate love you have for saints everywhere, I am incessantly giving thanks over you because of this, not only praying for you but also mentioning you to everyone.
;