0466. 458. Inness of Things

458. Inness of Things

The Greek preposition “en,” generally translated “in,” occurs thirty-five times in Ephesians in relation to Christ and the believer.

1. “In Christ Jesus” occurs seven times (Eph_1:1; Eph_2:6-7 R.V., 10, 13; Eph_3:6, R.V., 21). “Christ Jesus” is the anointed and anointing Saviour.

2. “In Christ” is found five times (Eph_1:3, Eph_1:10, Eph_1:12, Eph_1:20; Eph_4:32, R.V.). United to the Anointing One.

3. “In the Lord” is stated seven times (Eph_1:21; Eph_4:1, R.V., 17; Eph_5:8; Eph_6:1, Eph_6:10, Eph_6:21). We are responsible to obey Him as Lord.

4. “In Whom” is declared seven times (Eph_1:7, Eph_1:11, Eph_1:13, Eph_1:13; Eph_2:21-22; Eph_3:12). When we know Him we do not need to name Him.

5. “In Him” is given four times (Eph_1:4, Eph_1:9, R.V., 10; Eph_4:21, R.V.). To be found “in Him” is to find everything worth finding.

6. “In Christ Jesus our Lord” is stated once (Eph_3:11). We are in the Sanctifier, Saviour, and Sovereign.

7. “In Himself” (Eph_2:15). When believers recognise they are “in Himself” they lose sight f each other.

8. “In Jesus” is given once (Eph_4:21). Truth is found “in Jesus.” He must be known to know it.

9. “In the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ” is found once (Eph_5:20). When His Name perfumes our praises, how praiseful they are.

10. “In the Beloved” is stated once (Eph_1:6). How loved we are when the Beloved loves us! This is tasteful, hence we are graceful.

By: DR. F. E. MARSH