in whom [referring back to the source of inheritance we have been given]
we also have received an inheritance [the referent of the relative phrase which introduces this statement]
determined beforehand [referring to the inheritance just mentioned and the timing of its setting]
according to the purpose [a relative phrase of the cause relating to the purpose which is subsequently revealed]
of the One working all things [the source of that purpose, the One who instigates the purpose]
in accord with the purpose (agreement) [the reason or causation of that same purpose]
of His will [notice the number of times the theme word “will” has been mentioned in these words of Paul as they tumble out]
Ephesians 1:11
1. Who is eligible for this inheritance?
Those who have been adopted through Jesus; those who had previously trusted in Christ
2. What is the inheritance? What is at stake?
Some aspects of our inheritance from Ephesians 1:
- We are blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ. Eph 1:3
- Your spiritual needs, including victory over sin and fear and failure have already been met in Christ Jesus and much more.
- We are holy and without blame Eph 1:4
- God see us a being holy. He has made provision for us to live without blame and above sin.
- We are accepted in the beloved Eph 1:6 – We are totally accepted, loved and cherished by God. You are an important person to God. He thinks of you every day. You are a citizen of the heavenly Kingdom and have the right to represent it on earth.
- We have an inheritance in Christ Eph 1:11 – When you die you just come into the treasures you have stored up in heaven. Keep your eyes on eternal values.
- In Christ you heard the truth of the word and were sealed with the Holy Spirit Eph 1:13 – God’s word and the Holy Spirit were given to you for your personal correction, edification, and guidance. The Holy Spirit is evidence of your inheritance in Christ.
- By praying, we can increase the spirit of wisdom and revelation Christ has given us. Eph 1:16-17 Prayer opens the eyes of our understanding and causes us to see and receive more of our inheritance.
- In Christ, we are seated above all principalities and powers and might and domain, we are above every name that is named in this age and that which is to come Eph 1:21-23
- An understanding of the mystery of God’s will – Ephesians 1:9.
- Seated in heavenly places with Christ, partakers of His authority – Ephesians 2:6
Some other benefits of our inheritance from other parts of Scripture: (This is not an exhaustive list)
- Partakers of the divine nature of Christ – 2 Peter 1:4.
- Power and anointing in the Holy Spirit – Acts 1:8, 1 John 2:27.
- Forgiveness of sins and freedom from guilt – 1 John 1:9 & Rom 8:1.
- Divine health and healing – Matthew 8:17.
- Assurance that our needs will be met – Matthew 6:36
- The prosperity in all things including our soul – 3 John 1:2.
- Love, joy, peace and righteousness in the Holy Spirit – Romans 14:17.
- Victory and freedom from the bondage of sin – Romans 8:11.
- More than conquerors in all things – Romans 8:37.
- Happiness – Matthew 5, Beatitudes.
- Divine guidance – Romans 8:14.
- Immediate access into the Father’s presence – Heb 10:22
and so much more. . .
3. What is the time frame for the terms of inheritance to be applied? When do I get it?
- There are benefits which are available to you at the moment you become an adopted child
- Others are available at the moment of your passing into His presence (your physical death)
- Others await the consummation of the age and assuring in of the age to come; life as God always planned it to be.
4. Are there terms and conditions which apply (which might cause me to forfeit my inheritance)?
- Continuing “in Him”. Staying in a trusting believing relationship with Him.
Knowing Him intimately and telling Him all your burdens. Talking with Him daily and allowing the Holy Spirit to lead you and responding in obedience to all He tells you. While not doing this may not necessarily result in you losing your inheritance “in Him”, it may leave you with the smell of fire about you. (1 Cor 3:14-15)
“Who would dare of himself to approach me?” (Jeremiah 30:21). None. But in Jesus we are overwhelmingly welcome.
John Piper
Aim at heaven & you get earth thrown in. Aim at earth & you get neither.
C.S. Lewis
If we defend the sin that Christ died to conquer, how can we expect to enjoy the store he died to purchase?
Charnock
And one more thing – don’t forget your inheritance was determined before you were born. Wow get your mind around that one.
Ian Vail