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

In the opening of the Epistle to the Ephesians, the apostle Paul begins with a hymn of praise to God. Before speaking about the duties of the Christian life, Paul directs the church to the great blessings God has already given to His people. He writes, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ.”

This means offering praise and thanksgiving is our calling. The reason for such praise is that God Himself has already blessed His people. The Christian life begins not with what believers do for God, but with what God has done for them through Jesus Christ.

Paul explains that God has given “all spiritual blessings”. These blessings are not mainly earthly riches or temporary advantages. They are spiritual gifts that come through the work of Christ and the ministry of the Holy Spirit. In the verses that follow, Paul speaks about some of these blessings—being chosen by God, redeemed through Christ’s blood, forgiven of sins, adopted into God’s family, sealed by the Holy Spirit, and much more.

These blessings are found “in heavenly places in Christ”. “Heavenly places” indicate the spiritual realm where Christ reigns, and God’s saving purposes are accomplished. It emphasises that believers’ blessings come from heaven, are secured in Christ, and belong to God’s eternal kingdom. Every believer who is united to Christ shares in these riches.

Pastorally, this verse reminds Christians that their great treasure is already secure in Christ. Even when earthly circumstances are difficult, believers possess immeasurable spiritual riches. Such grace calls for thankful hearts, confident faith, and joyful praise to the God who has so richly blessed His people in Christ.