And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,

EPHESIANS 1:19KJV
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Ephesians 1:19 (KJV)

What does Ephesians 1:19 mean?

Ephesians 1:19 describes the incredible greatness of God's power that is directed toward those who believe in Him, emphasizing that this power is active and effective according to God's own mighty strength. The verse highlights that believers have access to the same powerful working of God that is beyond ordinary human ability.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Ephesus, explaining the spiritual blessings they have in Christ. In this part of his letter, Paul is praying that these believers would truly understand just how vast and extraordinary God's power is for them. The verse sits within a longer prayer where Paul wants his readers to grasp the hope, riches, and power that come from God.

The Greek behind Ephesians 1:19

  • δύναμις (dynamis): This word, transliterated as "dynamis," means "power" or "ability." Here, it refers to God's active power at work for believers, not just a potential but a real, effective force.
  • ὑπερβάλλου (hyperballō): Translated as "exceeding," this word carries the sense of surpassing or going far beyond. Paul is stressing that God's power is not just great, but far greater than anything else.
  • μέγεθος (megethos): This word means "greatness." By pairing it with "exceeding," Paul is stacking up words to show just how immense God's power truly is.
  • ἐνέργεια (energeia): Translated as "working," this word is about active, energetic power. It highlights that God's power is not passive; it is actively working in the lives of believers.

Why Ephesians 1:19 matters

  • Ephesians 1:19 clears up the idea that God's power is distant or theoretical; Paul insists it is real, present, and directed toward believers right now.
  • The verse emphasizes that the same mighty power that raised Jesus from the dead is available to Christians, connecting personal faith to God's cosmic strength.
  • This verse helps set the tone for the rest of Ephesians, where Paul will explain how this power changes lives and brings about unity and transformation in the church.

Where else these words appear

“exceeding” Greek G5235 · used in 5 verses

  • 2 Corinthians 3:10 For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth.
  • 2 Corinthians 9:14 And by their prayer for you, which long after you for the exceeding grace of God in you.
  • Ephesians 2:7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.

“working” Greek G1753 · used in 8 verses

  • Ephesians 3:7 Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.
  • Philippians 3:21 Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.
  • Colossians 2:12 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.

“mighty” Greek G2479 · used in 11 verses

  • Mark 12:30 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.
  • Ephesians 6:10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
  • 2 Peter 2:11 Whereas angels, which are greater in power and might, bring not railing accusation against them before the Lord.

“power” Greek G2904 · used in 12 verses

  • Luke 1:51 He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
  • Colossians 1:11 Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;
  • 1 Peter 5:11 To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.