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.