In Ephesians Paul lists blessings believers already have (Eph 1:3). In the list that follows, there are two repeated concepts. First, the phrase "in Him" in some form appears 7 times, because we are blessed "in Christ" and in Him everything is.
The other is "to the praise of His glory" in some form. It appears in Eph 1:12 and Eph 1:14, emphasizing that His glory is paramount. But the first time it appears is in verse 6. "He predestined us for adoption to Himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of His will, to the praise of His glorious grace, with which He has blessed us in the Beloved" (Eph 1:5-6). I'm sure you see the slight difference. This "praise of His glory" in this case is specific -- "the praise of His glorious grace." The glory of His grace receives praise by our adoption as sons.
Generally speaking, repetition in Scripture is for emphasis. (We do it, too.) Apparently Paul wants us to know that our blessings are found in Christ, so don't look elsewhere. Don't expect them in the world, in your work, in your spouse, anywhere but in Him. And, apparently, God's glory is important. He blesses us to the praise of His glory. Which makes our blessings not about us. It's all about Him.
2 comments:
So what you're telling me is that what and who God chooses isn't random or capricious? You mean the elect were chosen, not because they would choose Him, but for His glory?
I can see clearly how the “two repeated concepts” in Ephesians that you highlight--we are blessed in Christ and God’s glory is paramount--are virtually intertwined within the big picture of God’s sovereign will--from the very moment of my election. Both truths are grounded in God’s glorious nature and reflect the fact that we humans have nothing in ourselves to offer to the Lord; we can only serve as receptacles for God’s grace and then offer all praise to the Bestower of all good gifts (James 1:17). I am ever mindful that all those vast blessings in Christ are granted to me to bring God glory; as you say, “it’s all about Him.”
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