Ephesians 1:7

Ephesians 1:7 in the New King James Version (NKJV) reads: “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace” [5] [6] [9].

This verse is a profound statement about the work of Christ and its implications for believers. It speaks of redemption, forgiveness, and grace – three key concepts in Reformed Evangelical Christianity.

Redemption is a central theme in the Bible. It refers to the act of buying back something or someone. In the context of Ephesians 1:7, it refers to the act of Christ buying back believers from the bondage of sin through His sacrificial death [5]. This redemption is not just a theoretical concept but a reality for believers who are set free from the power of sin and are now able to live in the freedom of God’s grace.

Forgiveness of sins is another crucial aspect of this verse. It is through Christ’s blood, symbolising His sacrificial death on the cross, that believers receive forgiveness for their sins [5]. This forgiveness is complete and covers all sins – past, present, and future. It is a gift of God’s grace and not something that can be earned through human effort.

The phrase “according to the riches of His grace” underscores the abundant generosity of God’s grace. Grace, in Christian theology, refers to the unmerited favour of God. It is by God’s grace, not by human merit or works, that believers are redeemed and forgiven [5].

Matthew Henry, a renowned biblical commentator, provides further insights into this verse. He emphasises that there is no remission of sins without redemption, and this redemption and forgiveness come through Christ [3]. He also highlights that all spiritual blessings, including redemption and forgiveness, are made possible through Christ [1] [2].

In terms of its application to modern Christian living, Ephesians 1:7 serves as a reminder of the believer’s identity in Christ. As recipients of God’s grace, believers are called to live in the freedom of this grace, forgiving others as they have been forgiven and extending grace to others as they have received grace. This verse also encourages believers to live in gratitude for the redemption and forgiveness they have received through Christ.

In conclusion, Ephesians 1:7 is a powerful verse that encapsulates the gospel message of redemption and forgiveness through Christ’s sacrificial death. It underscores the richness of God’s grace and serves as a guide for how believers are to live in light of these truths. It is a verse that continues to resonate with believers today, offering hope and guidance in their Christian journey [5] [6] [9].

Source: Conversation with Copilot, 03/06/2024

1. Ephesians 1:7 Meaning and Commentary – Bible Study Tools
2. Bible Gateway passage: Ephesians 1 – New King James Version
3. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians%201&version=NKJV
4. Verses 3–14 – Matthew Henry’s Commentary – Bible Gateway
5. Ephesians 1 Commentary – Matthew Henry Commentary on the Whole Bible …
6. Ephesians 1 Bible Commentary – Matthew Henry (concise) – Christianity
7. Ephesians Commentary – Matthew Henry Commentary on the Whole Bible …
8. Ephesians 1:7 – King James Bible Online
9. Ephesians 1 NKJV;GNV – Greeting – Paul, an apostle of Jesus – Bible Gateway