In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;
What does Ephesians 1:7 mean?
Spiritual and heavenly blessings are the best blessings; with which we cannot be miserable, and without which we cannot but be so.
Key themes
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Keep this verse inside Ephesians 1:7-11 and alongside a few nearby related passages.
Commentary on Ephesians 1:7
In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; In whom we have redemption - On the meaning of the word here rendered "redemption" - (απολυτρωσις apolutrosis) - see the notes at Romans 3:24 . The word here, as there, denotes that deliverance from sin and from the evil consequences of sin, which has been procured by the atonement made by the Lord Jesus Christ. This verse is one of the passages which prove conclusively that the apostle here does not refer to "nations" and to "national privileges." Of what "nation" could it be said that it had "redemption through the blood of Jesus, even the forgiveness of sins?
Context in Ephesians 1
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Ephesians 1 belongs to the opening movement of the book, especially the section often described as blessing and new identity in Christ. Ephesians presents the church as Christ’s body and temple, chosen in grace, united across dividing walls, and called to mature holy life. Read this chapter with the wider themes of union with Christ, church, and grace in view so the individual verses keep their proper weight.
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