"In Him 11 also we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to His purpose who works all things after the counsel of His will," - Ephesians 1:11 (NASB)
“we have obtained an inheritance”, – this phrase is an Aorist Passive Indicative, and it literally means “we were chosen as an inheritance.” In the Old Testament, this originally applied only to the Levites. The tribe of Levi served as priests, temple servants, and local teachers of the Law, and they did not receive land in the Promised Land. However, they were given several special cities as described in Numbers 18:20, Deuteronomy 10:9, 12:12, 14:27, 29, and in the book of Joshua chapters 21-22. Paul initially speaks in general terms about the chosen ones before addressing specific groups. Here, he says “WE have obtained,” and he refers to himself and the Jews, or to all who first embraced Christianity. Later, he turns to the Ephesians, which greatly strengthens the faith of the Ephesian converts. It is as if he is saying, “The condition of all saved individuals is the same as yours; for we, the ones who were called by God first, owe our acceptance to His eternal choice.” This shows that everyone has been saved by God’s free grace. They have been unconditionally adopted based on eternal election.
Over time, this concept expanded to symbolize that God Himself is the inheritance of all believers, signifying their belonging to Him. Furthermore, it became a powerful image for God’s people, representing the relationship between God and His chosen ones.
In the New Testament, the promises of land were surpassed by the promise of becoming part of God’s family. Similarly, the earthly city of Jerusalem was transformed into the celestial New Jerusalem, representing the heavenly realm rather than a specific geographical location. This beautiful development highlights the inclusivity and universality of God’s promises for all believers.
The phrase “having been predestined according to His purpose” is an Aorist Passive Participle which communicates the incredible truth that our calling and election are determined by God’s divine plan, not by anything we have done. It echoes the deep message of Ephesians 2:8-9, which declares that our salvation is a beautiful gift from God, not something we can earn through our own merit. Similarly, in Romans 8:28-29, we are reminded that God’s ultimate purpose is for us to be changed into the likeness of Christ. The concept of predestination sparks intense debates among Christians, exploring topics like free will, God’s supreme power, and His endless grace. This passage serves as a poignant reminder that predestination stems solely from God’s grace and initiative, and not from our own works or merit, but from His sovereign and gracious design. This aligns perfectly with the main idea in the Bible that emphasizes salvation as a precious gift from God, not something we can earn on our own. Moreover, the mention of growing into Christ-likeness in Romans 8:28-29 reveals God’s ultimate desire for believers to reflect the character of Jesus. This truth is very important for Christians because it shows how God’s work can greatly change the lives of His followers as He helps them become more like Christ. Although different Christian denominations may interpret predestination differently, the central message of God’s grace and life-changing purpose remains unaltered
“Who works all things” – the verb ‘works’ is Present Participle Active which means that God in His sovereignty does everything according to His own will, without any contribution from humanity. Men cannot claim credit for anything, as God’s will is the only cause of their election. This perspective helps us counter the foolishness of those who protest against God’s intentions when they don’t understand His actions.
Oh, the boundless reasons for Christians to rejoice! We are not only accepted in the Beloved (vs 6) but also made partners in His inheritance. “If children, then heirs: heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ; for if we suffer with Him, we may be glorified together” (Rom 8:17). This inheritance awaits the saints in light (Col 1:12). “Heirs of God?” Praise the Lord! Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son and Heir of God, has magnanimously included the Church as His Bride. All who are saved by His grace and indwelt by His Spirit are truly one with Him. The redeemed Bride shall partake in the resplendent glory and honor of the Bridegroom on that glorious day when the “Marriage of the Lamb” is come. Hallelujah!
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