What does Ephesians 3:20 mean?

Explanation

Ephesians 3:20 speaks to the immeasurable power of God and His ability to surpass human expectations and requests.

The apostle Paul, the author of Ephesians, is referring to the power of God that works within believers, which is not limited by what humans can comprehend or ask for.

There is a sense of awe in Paul's words as he acknowledges that God's capabilities extend far beyond our imagination.

This verse often serves to encourage believers to trust in God's infinite power and to be confident that He can intervene in situations in ways that are beyond human understanding.

Historical Context

This verse is part of a larger passage in the book of Ephesians, a letter from Paul to the Christians in Ephesus.

The letter was likely written while Paul was imprisoned in Rome, around AD 62.

Ephesus was a major city in the Roman province of Asia, known for its pagan worship centered around the temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Christianity was budding in this city, and Paul's writing addresses both Jewish and Gentile audiences, emphasizing the unity that should exist in the body of Christ. This letter aims to strengthen the Ephesian believers in their faith and understanding of God's love and power.

Theological Insights

Ephesians 3:20 has inspired a variety of theological reflections.

From a Calvinist perspective, it can be seen as a testament to God's sovereignty, with His power being the active force in the believer's sanctification.

Arminian theologians may highlight the synergistic relationship between God's power and human will.

Charismatic and Pentecostal traditions may focus on the "power that worketh in us" as a reference to the Holy Spirit's presence and miraculous interventions.

Furthermore, Christian mystics might see this verse as an invitation to deeper spiritual experiences that transcend reason and conventional prayer.

Practical Applications

In terms of practical applications, Ephesians 3:20 can be an encouraging and inspiring message for individuals facing challenges or seeking to align their lives with a larger divine purpose.

It can motivate believers to pray boldly and with great expectation, knowing that God is not limited by human constraints.

This verse can also remind Christians to trust in God during difficult times, understanding that He can bring solutions and opportunities that they cannot yet see or understand.

Cross-References

• Philippians 4:19: "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus."
• Romans 8:11: "But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you."
• Jude 1:24: "Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy,"
• 1 Corinthians 2:9: "But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him."

Language Study

The key Greek terms in Ephesians 3:20 provide depth to its understanding:

• "Able" (δυνατός, dynatos): implies having power, capable, strong.
• "Exceeding abundantly above" (ὑπερεκπερισσοῦ, huper ekkperissou): a compound word combining "above", "beyond", and "exceedingly", indicating an extreme measure.
• "Ask" (αἰτέω, aiteo): to ask, beg, call for, crave, desire.
• "Think" (νοέω, noeo): to perceive, think, understand.
• "Power" (δύναμις, dynamis): strength, power, or ability.

It is often associated with miraculous power in the New Testament.

• "Worketh" (ἐνεργέω, energeo): to be active, efficient, do work.

This language study reveals that Paul is emphasizing God's omnipotence, and that His divine action in the life of believers is greater than anything they could request or imagine.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In contrast to ancient myths where gods often have limited spheres of influence or capricious natures, the God of the Bible is depicted as all-powerful and faithful.

For example, in Greek mythology, the gods often had very human traits, including limitations and moral failings.

The biblical concept of God, as described in this verse, stands in stark contrast to these ideas: He is a personal, omnipotent God who intimately works in the lives of those who believe in Him.

Scientific Perspectives

While the verse does not directly relate to scientific concepts, it does touch upon philosophical notions of infinity and the limitations of human understanding.

Modern science, particularly in fields like quantum physics and cosmology, often grapples with phenomena that challenge our understanding of what is possible.

In a way, this verse parallels the sentiment that the universe, and potentially God's work in it, is far more expansive than humans can fully grasp with current knowledge and technology.

Commentaries

Commentaries often highlight the doxological nature of this verse, a statement of praise to God.

Matthew Henry's commentary, for example, underscores the comfort and encouragement Christians can take from the fact that God's power is working for their good.

The Expositor's Bible Commentary points to the apostle Paul's intention to inspire awe and wonder at God's capabilities, thus strengthening the faith of the Ephesian believers.

John MacArthur's writings on this verse stress the limitless scope of God's power in contrast to human weakness, and the living hope that this truth provides for everyday life.