The Apostle Paul’s letter to the Ephesians is a profound theological masterpiece, rich with insights about our identity in Christ and the spiritual blessings we inherit through Him. In particular, Ephesians 1:15–23 and 2:1–6 reveal the transformative truth that believers are not only saved by God’s grace but are also spiritually seated with Christ in heavenly places. This concept holds immense significance for understanding our position, authority, and purpose as Christians.
Ephesians 1:15-23 The New International Version
Thanksgiving and Prayer
15 For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all God’s people, 16 I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. 17 I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. 18 I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, 19 and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength 20 he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, 21 far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. 22 And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, 23 which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.
Ephesians 2:1-6 The New International Version
Made Alive in Christ
As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 3 All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. 4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus.
Understanding Our Position in Christ
Paul begins his prayer in Ephesians 1:15–23 by expressing gratitude for the faith of the Ephesian believers and their love for one another. He prays that God would grant them “the spirit of wisdom and revelation” to know Him more deeply. Specifically, Paul desires that their hearts be enlightened to grasp three key truths:
- The hope to which they are called
- The riches of their glorious inheritance in Christ
- The immeasurable greatness of God’s power toward those who believe
This power, Paul explains, is the same power that raised Christ from the dead and exalted Him to sit at God’s right hand “far above all rule and authority, power and dominion” (Ephesians 1:20–21). This exaltation signifies Christ’s supreme authority over all creation, both spiritual and physical.
In Ephesians 2:1–6, Paul shifts focus to the believers’ transformation. He reminds them that they were once “dead in trespasses and sins,” following the ways of this world and living under the influence of sinful desires. Yet, because of God’s rich mercy and great love, He made them alive with Christ, raised them up, and seated them with Christ in heavenly places. This spiritual elevation is not a future promise but a present reality for those who are united with Christ.
What Does It Mean to Be Seated with Christ?
Being “seated with Christ” in heavenly places carries profound theological implications:
Spiritual Authority
Just as Christ is seated at God’s right hand—a position of honour, authority, and victory—believers share in this position through their union with Him. This means that Christians have authority over spiritual forces of darkness (Ephesians 6:12) because they are spiritually aligned with the One who has triumphed over all powers (Colossians 2:15). It empowers us to pray boldly, knowing we are backed by divine authority.
Rest and Assurance
Sitting implies rest. Unlike the Old Testament priests who continually stood to offer sacrifices (Hebrews 10:11), Christ’s seated position signifies the completion of His redemptive work (John 19:30). For believers, being seated with Him means resting in His finished work on the cross. It is a reminder that salvation is by grace through faith, not by human effort (Ephesians 2:8–9). We can let go of striving for approval or perfection.
Identity and Belonging
To be seated with Christ is to belong to Him fully. It reflects a shared inheritance as co-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17). This identity shapes how believers view themselves—not as defeated or unworthy but as beloved children of God who are victorious through Jesus. Embracing this identity allows us to walk confidently in our daily lives.
Heavenly Perspective
Though physically present on earth, believers are spiritually positioned in heaven. This perspective encourages them to set their minds on things above (Colossians 3:1–2) and live out their earthly lives with eternal purpose. It transforms how we respond to life’s challenges, reminding us that our true home is not here but in the presence of God.
Living Out This Truth
Understanding our position in heavenly places should transform how we live daily:
Confidence in Spiritual Battles
Knowing we are seated above all principalities and powers gives us confidence to resist temptation and overcome fear. As Paul states elsewhere, “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31). This assurance emboldens us to face challenges head-on.
Resting in Grace
Our position in Christ eliminates striving for approval or salvation through works. Instead, we live from a place of gratitude for what God has already accomplished. This grace-filled mindset fosters peace and joy as we navigate life’s ups and downs.
Walking in Purpose
Recognizing our spiritual authority empowers us to fulfil our calling as ambassadors of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20). We are equipped to share His love and truth boldly, impacting those around us with His message of hope.
Unity with Other Believers
Being part of Christ’s body—the Church—means we share this exalted position together. This unity fosters humility, mutual support, and encouragement within the Christian community. We are stronger together as we lift one another up.
Conclusion
The message of Ephesians 1:15–23 and 2:1–6 is one of hope, identity, and empowerment. Through God’s grace, we are not only saved but also elevated to share in Christ’s victory and reign. As we embrace this truth, it transforms how we see ourselves, relate to others, and engage with the world around us.
Let us live each day mindful of our position in heavenly places—a place of rest, authority, and purpose—secured by the immeasurable love of God through Jesus Christ. By recognizing our identity as those seated with Him, we can approach life’s challenges with confidence, knowing that we are partakers of His divine nature (2 Peter 1:4) and co-laborers in His mission on earth.
In every moment—whether facing trials or celebrating victories—let this truth resonate within you: you are seated with Christ in heavenly places! Embrace this reality fully; let it shape your thoughts, actions, and relationships as you navigate your journey of faith.
