What does Ephesians 1:19 mean?

Explanation

Ephesians 1:19 speaks of the extraordinary magnitude of God's power toward believers, a power that is unmatched and beyond human comprehension.

This verse emphasizes the vastness of God's strength and ability, indicating that it is available to those who have faith in Him. The reference to God's "mighty power" is meant to reassure believers of the divine force that is at work on their behalf.

It is this same power that raised Christ from the dead, demonstrating that it is not simply a theoretical concept but one that has been tangibly demonstrated in the world.

Historical Context

The Apostle Paul is traditionally understood to be the author of the Letter to the Ephesians, which was likely written between A.D. 60-62 while Paul was imprisoned in Rome.

The letter is addressed to the church in Ephesus, a major city in ancient Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey).

Ephesus was a significant cultural and economic hub at the time, influenced by Greek and Roman cultures.

It is within this context that Paul writes to encourage the believers, strengthening their faith and understanding of their spiritual blessings in Christ.

Theological Insights

This verse touches on several theological themes, such as the sovereignty of God, the power of resurrection, and the accessibility of God's power to believers.

• Sovereignty of God: The "exceeding greatness of his power" highlights that God's power is supreme over all other forces.
• Resurrection Power: The phrase "according to the working of his mighty power" relates to the power God exhibited when He raised Jesus from the dead, demonstrating that no power is greater than that of God.
• Accessibility to Believers: The verse suggests that this immense power is not distant or reserved only for a select few but is available "to usward who believe," indicating a personal aspect to divine power for all who have faith.

Practical Applications

Believers can take comfort in the fact that the same power that raised Jesus from the dead is at work in their lives, helping them overcome challenges and hardships.

This assurance can encourage Christians to live boldly and confidently, trusting in God's ultimate sovereignty and support.

Cross-References

• Ephesians 2:4-6: "But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)"
• Philippians 3:10: "That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;"

Language Study

• "Exceeding greatness" (Greek: "hypérballon mégethos"): This compound phrase indicates something that is surpassing or far beyond measure.
• "His power" (Greek: "dynamis"): Often translated as power, strength, or might, this term implies inherent power or ability.
• "Usward who believe" (Greek: "hēmin tois pisteuousin"): The preposition "tois" indicates direction towards a group, in this case, those who have faith.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient cultures, there were varied myths of gods who wielded great power.

However, this biblical teaching is distinctive as it focuses not on power for power's sake but on power that has a benevolent purpose toward believers.

In comparison to the impersonal forces present in some religious interpretations, the Christian God is portrayed as both omnipotent and relationally generous.

Scientific Perspectives

This verse's assertion of a spiritual and supernatural power can't be measured or tested by scientific methods, as it is metaphysical in nature. It points towards a faith-based acceptance of divine power that transcends empirical or material understanding.

Commentaries

Many biblical scholars and commentators have reflected on this verse:

• Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary emphasizes the "incomparable power of God" displayed in the resurrection of Christ as a token and pledge of the power that He exercises towards believers.
• The Expositor's Bible Commentary notes that the power God exerts towards believers is according to the might of the strength that He used to raise Christ from the dead, placing a believer's trust in an omnipotent source.
• John Stott, in his book "The Message of Ephesians," comments on the paradox of extreme power being made perfect in weakness and asserts that Christians are to experience the power already at work in Christ.