Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places,

EPHESIANS 1:20KJV
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Ephesians 1:20 (KJV)

What does Ephesians 1:20 mean?

Ephesians 1:20 says that God showed his power in Christ by raising him from the dead and giving him the highest place of honor, at God’s own right hand in the heavenly realms. This verse highlights the resurrection and exaltation of Jesus as the ultimate display of God’s strength and authority.

Paul is writing to believers in Ephesus, explaining how God’s mighty power—described just before this verse—was most clearly seen in what happened to Jesus. The verse is part of a longer sentence where Paul wants the readers to understand the greatness of God’s power, using Jesus’ resurrection and position in heaven as the main example.

The Greek behind Ephesians 1:20

  • "Wrought" (ἐνέργησεν, enērgēsen) means "worked" or "put into action." Paul is saying that God’s power was not just theoretical but actually accomplished something real in Christ.
  • "Set" (καθίσας, kathisas) means "seated" or "appointed." In the ancient world, sitting at the right hand was a sign of highest honor and authority, so this word emphasizes Jesus’ exalted status.
  • "Heavenly" (ἐπουρανίοις, epouraniois) refers to the spiritual or heavenly realms, not just the sky. This shows that Jesus’ position is above all earthly powers.

Why Ephesians 1:20 matters

  • Ephesians 1:20 clarifies that the same power available to believers is the power that raised and exalted Jesus, connecting Christian faith directly to God’s greatest act.
  • The verse emphasizes Jesus’ unique authority and position, which sets the stage for the rest of the letter’s teaching about Christ’s supremacy.
  • By focusing on God’s action rather than human effort, Paul encourages the readers to trust in what God has already accomplished through Christ.

Where else these words appear

“heavenly” Greek G2032 · used in 18 verses

  • Matthew 18:35 So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.
  • Ephesians 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:
  • Hebrews 3:1 Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;

“wrought” Greek G1754 · used in 19 verses

  • Matthew 14:2 And said unto his servants, This is John the Baptist; he is risen from the dead; and therefore mighty works do shew forth themselves in him.
  • 2 Corinthians 4:12 So then death worketh in us, but life in you.
  • Ephesians 3:20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,

“set” Greek G2523 · used in 46 verses

  • Matthew 5:1 And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him:
  • Mark 16:19 So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God.
  • Acts 12:21 And upon a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat upon his throne, and made an oration unto them.

“hand” Greek G1188 · used in 53 verses

  • Matthew 5:29 And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.
  • Mark 16:5 And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted.
  • Romans 8:34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.