What does Ephesians 6:19 mean?

Explanation

Ephesians 6:19 is a request from the apostle Paul for the Ephesians to pray for him so that whenever he speaks, words may be given to him to fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel.

The phrase "utterance may be given unto me" suggests Paul's dependence on divine assistance to effectively communicate the message he has been entrusted with. It reflects his belief in the inspiration and guidance of the Holy Spirit in evangelistic and apostolic efforts.

The word "boldly" expresses Paul's desire to speak with confidence and without fear, even in the face of potential opposition or persecution.

The "mystery of the gospel" refers to the previously hidden truth of God's plan for salvation through Jesus Christ, now revealed and to be proclaimed to both Jews and Gentiles.

Historical Context

Ephesians 6:19 was written by the apostle Paul around A.D. 60-62 while he was under house arrest in Rome.

Ephesians is part of the prison epistles, which also include Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.

At the time, Christianity was spreading but was also encountering resistance, and converts were coming from both Jewish and Gentile backgrounds.

The letter was intended for the church in Ephesus, a significant trade and cultural center in the Roman province of Asia.

The context of the surrounding verses is the Armor of God, which is Paul's metaphor for the spiritual defenses Christians must employ in the face of spiritual challenges.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse emphasizes the sovereignty of God in the proclamation of the gospel, in that it is He who enables and empowers the communication of His word.

Paul's appeal for prayer support suggests a communal aspect of the Christian faith, where believers are called to support one another, particularly those in ministry.

The notion of "mystery" in this context is rich in theological meaning, denoting a divine truth revealed in the New Testament that was not fully known in the Old Testament – namely, the universal offer of salvation through Christ.

Practical Applications

In a practical sense, Ephesians 6:19 encourages Christians to be prayerful and supportive of one another, especially those who are teaching, preaching, or spreading the Christian faith.

It also serves as a reminder for individuals in sharing their faith with others to seek divine aid for courage and the right words.

The quest for boldness and clarity in communication is applicable not only in evangelism but in all realms of life where truth needs to be spoken.

Cross-References

• Colossians 4:3 - "Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:"
• 2 Timothy 4:17 - "Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion."
• Acts 4:29 - "And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word,"
• Romans 15:30 - "Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ's sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that ye strive together with me in your prayers to God for me;"

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek text of this passage provide further insight:

• "Utterance" (logos) can mean a word, speech, or matter.

It denotes the message or the content of the communication.

• "Given unto me" (didomi) in this context strongly suggests the granting or bestowal by a higher authority, here implying God's role in granting the message.
• "Boldly" (parresia) implies freedom, openness, and confidence in speech, often in the face of risks.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the context of other ancient religions and myths, the concept of divine revelation or the communication of divine mysteries is a recurring theme.

Mystery religions in the Greco-Roman world, for example, had esoteric teachings revealed only to initiates.

The Christian revelation, however, was meant to be openly and boldly proclaimed to all peoples, contrasting with the secretive tendencies of some other religious practices.

Scientific Perspectives

From a modern scientific perspective, understanding the physiological and psychological aspects of speech can shed light on the significance of Paul requesting aid for bold utterance.

The act of bold speech requires not only the intellectual formulation of a message but also the courage and mental fortitude to deliver it effectively, a fusion of cognitive and emotional intelligence that may be enhanced by communal support and a sense of divine empowerment, as suggested in the text.

Commentaries

• John Calvin's commentary on this verse highlights the importance of prayer and the duty of Christians to intercede for their ministers.
• Matthew Henry's commentary notes that speaking with boldness is a result of the Holy Spirit's influence and that the gospel is a hidden mystery that has been revealed.
• The Expositor's Bible Commentary mentions that Paul is an ambassador in chains and that his request is not for release from prison but rather for fearlessness to proclaim the gospel effectively.

These commentaries collectively emphasize the importance that Christian leaders like Paul placed on the intercessory prayer of believers for the proclamation of the gospel with courage and clarity.