Paul was in prison when he wrote to the Christians in Ephesus. He founded the church in Ephesus during his second missionary journey.

We are familiar with the word “blessed.” To be blessed is “to be happy because of our relationship with God.” Happiness based on carnality is false happiness. However, the Greek word used in Ephesians 1:3 for “blessed” is a different Greek word which means “good words.” The power of the “good words” of God is emphasized here. Who are the ones who consider God’s Word to be good? Only those who are blessed.

1. The identity of the blessed ones

Only Christians ( “to the saints … and to the faithful in Christ Jesus,” Eph 1:1) can consider God’s Word to be good. To those who are born again (spiritually alive), the Word of God is like milk and meat. They desire and yearn for God’s Word as their spiritual food. Believers are transformed by the Word of God. The Bible is a special book filled with blessings (good words) for the believer. Examples of good words are “chosen us” (Eph 1:4, i.e. election by God), “predestinated us” (Eph 1:5),“accepted in the beloved” (Eph 1:6), “redemption … forgiveness” (Eph 1:7), etc. These words describe a Christian. Do we appreciate these good words? The world does not appreciate these words. They are meaningless to unbelievers. If you do not consider God's Word to be good, you have to examine your salvation.

2. The basis of the blessed ones

The basis of the blessed ones is God’s grace and peace through Jesus Christ (Eph 1:2). Believers have been delivered from death and hell. They must be very grateful as they do not deserve such deliverance. They must also be grateful that they have the Bible in English which they can read and understand. Only by God’s grace can we have fellowship with Him, and understand His power through His Word.

3. The source of these blessings

Ephesians 1:3 says that God “… hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ,” thus revealing that the source of blessings is God.

We must have a good relationship with God before we can have a good relationship with other believers. Our relationship with God will help us overcome problems when serve Him.