God’s Blessings for the Church

Al Felder
May 14, 2025
3 min read

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ.”— Ephesians 1:3

Too often, we associate blessings with material wealth, comfort, or success. But in Ephesians 1:3–14, the apostle Paul draws our attention to something far greater: the spiritual blessings God lavishes upon the church—His chosen people—through Jesus Christ.

In Christ: Where All Blessings Are Found

Every spiritual blessing we have comes "in Christ." This phrase appears again and again throughout the passage, underscoring that outside of Christ, there is no redemption, no adoption, no inheritance. But in Him, we have everything we need for salvation and spiritual life.

“For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.” — Galatians 3:27

Chosen Before the Foundation of the World

God’s plan of salvation wasn’t a last-minute decision. Paul says God chose us “in Him before the foundation of the world” (Ephesians 1:4). This “election” isn’t about individual predestination as some teach—it’s about choosing Christ and choosing to save all who are in Him.

“He became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him.” — Hebrews 5:9

Adopted as Sons and Daughters

God predestined that those in Christ would become His children (Ephesians 1:5). Though we were once outsiders, slaves to sin, He brought us into His family by His will, not because we earned it, but because of His grace.

This adoption means we share in the inheritance of Christ and enjoy the intimacy of calling God our Father.

Redemption Through His Blood

We were in bondage to sin with no way to redeem ourselves. But through the blood of Christ, we are repurchased and forgiven (Ephesians 1:7). His sacrifice satisfies God’s justice and secures our freedom.

“You were bought with a price…” — 1 Corinthians 6:20“…with the precious blood of Christ.” — 1 Peter 1:18–19

The Mystery Made Known

God has not left us in the dark. Through the gospel, the mystery of His will has been revealed: to unite all things in Christ (Ephesians 1:9–10). In a world divided by sin, Christ brings unity, purpose, and peace.

An Eternal Inheritance

Paul says that we were “made a heritage”—not only do we inherit eternal life, we become God’s treasure (Ephesians 1:11). We are His portion, His people, and His joy.

Sealed with the Holy Spirit

Those who hear the gospel, believe, and obey are sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise (Ephesians 1:13). This seal is a divine guarantee—a down payment on our inheritance. It assures us that God will complete what He has begun.

“The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.” — Romans 8:16

All to the Praise of His Glorious Grace

Three times in this passage, Paul says it is “to the praise of His glory.” Every blessing, every gift, every act of mercy in the church exists to glorify God. We do not boast in our worthiness but in His overwhelming grace.

Final Thought

The church is not an afterthought—it is the centerpiece of God’s eternal plan. Through Christ, God has showered His people with blessings that transcend this world. These blessings should not only comfort us but also compel us to live holy, obedient, and grateful lives.