Ephesians 1:11

In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:

In {G1722} whom {G3739} also {G2532} we have obtained an inheritance {G2820}, being predestinated {G4309} according to {G2596} the purpose {G4286} of him who worketh {G1754} all things {G3956} after {G2596} the counsel {G1012} of his own {G846} will {G2307}:

Also in union with him we were given an inheritance, we who were picked in advance according to the purpose of the One who effects everything in keeping with the decision of his will,

In Him we were also chosen as God’s own, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything by the counsel of His will,

in whom also we were made a heritage, having been foreordained according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his will;

Commentary

Context of Ephesians 1:11

The Apostle Paul's letter to the Ephesians opens with a magnificent theological declaration of God's redemptive plan, "blessing us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ" (Ephesians 1:3). Verse 11 continues this profound exposition, following the themes of God's election before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4) and adoption as sons through Jesus Christ (Ephesians 1:5). This verse underscores the certainty of salvation and the believer's secure standing within God's eternal design, emphasizing that our spiritual blessings are not accidental but part of a deliberate divine scheme.

Key Themes in Ephesians 1:11

  • Divine Inheritance: Believers "have obtained an inheritance" in Christ. This speaks to the rich spiritual blessings and future glory promised to those who are united with Christ. It's not merely a future hope, but a present reality of belonging to God's family and receiving His favor and eternal portion. The concept of receiving an inheritance in the kingdom of God is a foundational New Testament assurance, signifying our secure portion in God's eternal plan.
  • God's Predestination and Purpose: The phrase "being predestinated according to the purpose of him" highlights God's sovereign, prior determination of events. `Predestination` here emphasizes God's gracious initiative, ensuring that His plan for salvation and for individuals comes to pass. It underscores that our place in God's family is not due to human merit but to God's eternal, loving purpose.
  • Sovereignty of God's Will: God "worketh all things after the counsel of his own will." This powerful statement emphasizes God's absolute control and deliberate action in His creation and especially in His redemptive plan. Everything that occurs is not random but proceeds from His perfect wisdom and sovereign counsel. This foundational truth provides comfort and assurance that God is fully in control, orchestrating all things for His glory and the good of His people.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "obtained an inheritance" translates the Greek word eklerothemen (ἐκληρώθημεν). While often understood as "we have received an inheritance," the verb can also be interpreted as "we were made an inheritance" or "we were chosen by lot." This nuance suggests that believers are not only recipients of God's blessings but are themselves God's chosen possession, His cherished inheritance.

The term "predestinated" comes from the Greek proorizo (προορίζω), meaning "to mark out beforehand," or "to determine in advance." It signifies God's prior determination and design for His people, emphasizing His initiative and foreknowledge in salvation.

Practical Application

Ephesians 1:11 offers immense comfort and stability to believers. Knowing that our salvation and future are not accidental but part of God's deliberate, sovereign plan provides deep security and peace. This truth encourages absolute trust in God's wisdom, even when circumstances are difficult, as we understand that He "worketh all things after the counsel of his own will." It fosters a perspective that God is orchestrating all things, both big and small, for His ultimate purpose and our good, a truth further echoed in Romans 8:28. Recognizing that we are part of God's grand design also gives our lives profound meaning and purpose, reminding us that we are chosen participants in His unfolding redemptive story.

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Cross-References

  • Romans 8:28 (49 votes)

    And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to [his] purpose.

  • 1 Peter 1:4 (20 votes)

    To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,

  • Isaiah 46:10 (16 votes)

    Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times [the things] that are not [yet] done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure:

  • Isaiah 46:11 (16 votes)

    Calling a ravenous bird from the east, the man that executeth my counsel from a far country: yea, I have spoken [it], I will also bring it to pass; I have purposed [it], I will also do it.

  • Ephesians 1:14 (12 votes)

    Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.

  • Ephesians 3:11 (11 votes)

    According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:

  • Ephesians 1:5 (11 votes)

    Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,