The phrase, “In the know” means “in possession of information which is not generally known.” When it comes to the blessings we have in Jesus, the Lord wants us to know what we have. In other words, he wants us to understand what being “in Christ” means and the privileges that go along with it. The first fourteen verses of Ephesians chapter one speak of some of the things we now have in the Lord. We have been blessed (1:3); chosen (1:4); predestined to adoption (1:5); redeemed (1:7); given an inheritance (11) and sealed by the Holy Spirit (1:13-14). After describing these favors, Paul prays for the Ephesians (1:15-23). He desired for God to give to them a spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him (1:17). Being “in the know” would involve these things…
The Eyes Of Your Understanding Being Enlightened (1:18): Literally the “eyes of the heart,” Paul desired that, based on the truths given, the Ephesians would have a complete understanding of all that God had done and would continue to do for them, and, that such an understanding would have a profound effect upon their lives. How much better would most Christians live if they really understood these things?
The Hope of His Calling (1:18): The hope of the Christian is the resurrection from the dead (1 Pet. 1:3-4). We are saved in or by this hope (Rom. 8:24). It is this hope that gives our labor in the Lord meaning and validity (1 Cor. 15:50-58). The Lord wants us to “abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Rom. 15:13). The same power that raised Jesus from the dead (Rom. 1:4) will raise us as well (John 5:28-29; 2 Cor. 5:1-5). Biblical hope represents our ultimate victory in Christ (2 Cor. 2:14).
The Riches Of The Glory Of His Inheritance In The Saints (1:18): Six times in Ephesians Paul refers to God’s riches. At the resurrection, Christians will receive their inheritance from God, which Peter described as incorruptible, undefiled and reserved in heaven for the faithful (1 Pet 1:4). Blessings abound now, but even greater riches await us.
The Exceeding Greatness Of His Power Toward Us Who Believe, According To The Working Of His Mighty Power (1:19). The same power God used to raise Jesus from the dead is at work in the lives of believers. The gospel is powerful (Rom. 1:16). The same power that saved us can sanctify us and take us to heaven. If we will work out our own salvation God will work in us both to will and to do according to His good pleasure (Phi. 2:12-13).
The Lord wants us “in the know”. He wants us to understand the wealth we have as joint heirs with Christ (Rom. 8:14-17). The understanding of these things ought to move us to greater dedication and service. Knowledge is powerful. Let us use what we know to glorify God in all that we do.
