The phrase “unsearchable riches of Christ” is found in Ephesians 3:8, which says “To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ.” This verse provides insight into the incredible blessings and benefits that come from knowing Jesus Christ.
The word “unsearchable” means that Christ’s riches are so vast that they cannot be fully explored or understood. His blessings and spiritual wealth have no limit and surpass human comprehension. Though we can experience and grasp some of it, we will never plumb the depths of everything Christ has to offer. There is always more to discover about Him.
So what are some of these unsearchable riches found in Christ? Here are a few key aspects:
1. Forgiveness of sins
One incredible treasure we have in Christ is the complete forgiveness of sins. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross paid the penalty for our sins once and for all. Ephesians 1:7 says “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace.” When we repent and put our faith in Christ, all our sins are fully wiped away. We are redeemed, made clean, and granted righteousness before God. This forgiveness is limitless – no sin is too great for God’s grace and mercy.
2. Eternal life
Another priceless blessing we have through faith in Christ is the promise of eternal life. John 3:16 says “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” Because of Jesus’ resurrection, we have victory over death and the hope of heaven. Our souls will live forever in God’s presence, enjoying perfect relationship with Him. This eternal spiritual life starts now and continues on past physical death into eternity. It is a treasure beyond compare.
3. Access to God
Christ provides us direct access to God the Father. Ephesians 2:18 says “For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father.” Through Christ’s sacrificial death, we are reconciled to God and can approach Him boldly and confidently. We do not need a human priest as mediator – we can come directly to the throne of grace to find mercy and help in time of need (Hebrews 4:16). What an astounding privilege to have personal access to the Creator of the universe!
4. The Holy Spirit
Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit to indwell all believers. John 14:16-17 says “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth.” The Holy Spirit empowers us, guides us into truth, produces spiritual fruit in our lives, and gifts us to serve the church. He is constantly working within us. This encouraging, enabling presence of the Spirit is a precious blessing that comes through faith in Christ.
5. Victory over Satan
Jesus’ death and resurrection also give us victory over Satan and his schemes. Colossians 2:15 says that Christ “disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him.” Believers have power through Christ to resist temptation, stand firm against the devil, and reject Satan’s lies and accusations. We do not need to be slaves to sin or fear. We have been liberated through spiritual freedom in Christ.
6. Meaning and purpose
Knowing Christ gives our lives meaning, purpose and significance. We are children of God, servants of Christ, and temples of the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 2:10 says “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Our identity is now rooted in Jesus and we have a mission to fulfill. Life takes on new perspective, hope and motivation when we follow Christ.
7. Strength and ability
Not only does Christ give us purpose, He also provides the strength and ability to live accordingly. Philippians 4:13 says “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” Christ empowers His people so we can reject temptation, endure suffering, love others, and serve Him. His divine power equips us with all we need for godly living (2 Peter 1:3). Relying on His strength liberates us from our own human weaknesses.
8. Sound wisdom
In Christ “are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Colossians 2:3). As the embodiment of truth, Jesus provides wisdom that surpasses human understanding. As we study God’s word, the Spirit guides us into truth and discernment. Psalm 119:130 says “The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple.” No matter how complex or confusing life gets, we can turn to Christ for clear direction and wise counsel.
9. New spiritual identity
At salvation, believers undergo a total identity change before God. We go from being sinners condemned under the law to being righteous children of promise (Galatians 4:28-29). We are now saints, sons and daughters of God, faithful believers, and citizens of heaven. This new position and spiritual identity are incredibly valuable, providing security in who we are in Christ.
10. Inheritance in heaven
As children of God, we are also heirs who will receive an eternal inheritance from the Father. 1 Peter 1:3-4 describes this as “an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven” for us. Our future glorification will far exceed any earthly possessions or accomplishments. The heavenly riches we will enjoy for eternity far outweigh anything this world has to offer.
11. God’s abiding presence
Christ promises His continual presence to believers through the Holy Spirit. He will never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). No matter what trials we face, we are not alone because God is at work within us. The peace and comfort of His presence strengthens, sustains and satisfies us. He is an ever-present help in times of need.
12. Answered prayer
In Christ, we gain greater confidence that God hears and answers our prayers. Jesus said “Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son” (John 14:13). We can boldly approach God with our needs and make requests of Him (Philippians 4:6). The privilege of direct access to God through prayer is a tremendous resource.
13. Membership in Christ’s body
At salvation, we become members of the universal church, Christ’s spiritual body. Ephesians 5:30 says “we are members of his body.” As members of His body, we are connected to other Christians in unity and love. We also have the immense privilege of participating in His agenda of building the church and advancing His kingdom on earth.
14. Fruit of the Spirit
All believers have the Holy Spirit living inside them, producing godly character traits called the fruit of the Spirit. Galatians 5:22-23 describes these as “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” The Spirit transforms us into Christ’s image as we yield to His work in our lives. This process of becoming like Christ leads to spiritual maturity.
15. Hope
Christ gives us an unshakable and confident hope for the future. We can look ahead with certainty because we know God is in control, Christ is coming again, and eternity awaits. This hope is “an anchor for the soul, firm and secure” amidst storms (Hebrews 6:19). It motivates endurance and fuels courage even in times of trial and hardship.
The riches discussed above just begin to scratch the surface of all the blessings we have in Christ. The benefits and treasures of knowing Him are truly unsearchable. There is always more to discover about Christ’s beauty, grandeur, and excellence. We can never plummet the depths of His wisdom, love, power, grace, and glory. Eternity itself will not be enough time to fully comprehend the unsearchable riches of our Savior and King, Jesus Christ.