Ephesians 1:7-10

I. In Christ we are released from bondage.
-redemption = apolutrosis = purchasing with a price, setting free,
deliverance, release
-I Pet. 1:18-19; Rom. 6:18

-Two results of redemption
a. Forgiveness of trespasses
-forgiveness = aphesis = cancellation, release, forgiveness,
-trespasses = paraptoma = falling aside, false step. Greek Exegetical Key
"The word signifies the actual and numerous results and manifestations of
our sinful nature."
-Col. 2:14
b. Wisdom and insight
-insight = phronesis = wisdom, insight, way of thinking; emphasizes
understanding and comprehension of practical matters
-MacArthur "God not only forgives us...but also gives us all the necessary
equipment to understand Him and to walk through the world day by day in a
way that reflects His will and is pleasing to Him. He generously gives us the wherewithal both to understand His Word and to know how to obey it."

II. In Christ we are given knowledge of the mystery.
-Three categories of mysteries
1. Things God reveals to no one.
-Deut. 29:29
2. Things God reveals to His people.
-I Cor. 2:14
3. Things God revealed only in New Testament times.
-I Pet. 1:10-11, Daniel 12:8
-administration = oikonomia = household management
-summing up = anakephalaioo = to gather up under one head
-Phil. 2:10-11