Ephesians 1:7

In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace.

In whom ... that is, "in Christ," carrying the great truth that the blessings enumerated in this epistle belong exclusively to those who have been "baptized into Christ," there being absolutely no other way mentioned in the New Testament through which any man may dare to fancy that he is "in Christ." If there is any other way to be in Christ, someone should cite the New Testament passage which tells sinful people what it is, because it is clear enough that many are spurning the manner of being united with God "in Christ" through faith, repentance and submission to God's ordinance of baptism (1 Corinthians 12:13; Romans 6:3-5; Galatians 3:27).

Redemption through his blood ... The New Testament presents the blood of Jesus Christ as the purchase price of the church, the grounds of redemption and the great atonement (Acts 20:28; 1 Corinthians 6:20; 1 Peter 1:18-20; Colossians 1:14). As Foulkes said, "Such redemption is found in Christ, not merely through him, but by men coming to live in him."[14] As pointed out earlier, this also means denying oneself and receiving identity with Christ as Christ. See under Ephesians 1:4.

There are two fundamental teachings in regard to the great sacrifice for human transgression paid by Jesus our Lord upon the cross, which appear in this passage: (1) the concept of a ransom paid in order to deliver, and (2) the idea of sins forgiven, remitted, taken completely away. Jesus Christ himself described his earthly mission in respect of both of these, "giving his life a ransom for many" (Matthew 20:28), and "shedding his blood for the forgiveness of sins" (Matthew 26:28). "The word Paul used here for "forgiveness" is [@afesis], used by him in only two other passages (Romans 4:7; Colossians 1:14). It means `letting go,' not 'exacting payment for'."[15]

According to the riches of his grace ... The supply of grace is one of surpassing richness, fullness and over sufficiency. "Abundant entrance" will be granted to the redeemed (2 Peter 1:11).

[14] Francis Foulkes, op. cit., p. 52.

[15] Willard H. Taylor, Beacon Bible Commentary, Vol. 9, (Kansas City: Beacon Hill Press, 1965), p. 154.