Paul uses the phrase, “in the heavenlies,” four times in Ephesians. The phrase does not appear elsewhere in the New Testament. Translators generally feel the need to add a noun and use “heavenlies” as an adjectival modifier, e.g. heavenly places, heavenly realms. In the heavenlies Christians receive every spiritual blessing in Christ; in the heavenlies Christians are seated with Christ. More problematic is that in the heavenlies exist various powers, some of which oppose Christ. It is probably best to understand the heavenlies as a sphere and to avoid words that suggest geographic or place references. The heavenlies exist right now and in some way Christians participate in the heavenlies during the time we live in this world.
My purpose is to suggest some contemporary applications of the concept. What do these verses mean for Christians today?
What we do on this earth has eternal (heavenly) consequences. We are seated in the heavenlies right now and we wage war in the heavenlies in this present life. We are not merely participants in God’s plan and purpose on earth–we are participants in the heavenlies, with God and with Christ. “What on earth are you doing for heaven’s sake?” is not a selfish question. This is our personal spiritual development. This is motivation for sharing the good news. This is everything we do so that our lives can be an influence for good.