Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Ephesians 1:11

"in whom also we were made a heritage, having been foreordained according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his will;" — Ephesians 1:11 (ASV)

Paul now passes on to a further consideration—namely, that Christians have been “chosen [as heirs]” (GK 3103). Israel was regarded as the Lord’s inheritance and portion. The church, the new Israel, now enters into the same privilege (Romans 8:17; Galatians 3:29; Colossians 1:12). This apportionment stems from the divine foreordination (cf. vv.4–5). It is no accident that God has allotted to his new people in Christ the inheritance designed for those who recognize the Savior. But we must not think that Christians have somehow usurped Jewish privileges. Before time began, God marked out those in Christ to be co-heirs with his Son. Whatever he decides is put into effect, for he is the one who ensures that everything is worked out in line with his own will (cf. v.5).