Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:

EPHESIANS 1:21KJV
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Ephesians 1:21 (KJV)

What does Ephesians 1:21 mean?

Ephesians 1:21 says that Christ is placed far above every ruler, authority, power, dominion, and every name that can be named, not just in the present age but also in the age to come. This verse emphasizes that Jesus’ position and authority are greater than any other, both now and forever.

Paul is writing to the believers in Ephesus, explaining the greatness of Christ’s exaltation after his resurrection. The language points to every possible kind of spiritual or earthly power, showing that nothing compares to Christ’s supremacy. The verse also stretches beyond the present, making clear that Christ’s authority is not temporary but eternal.

The Greek behind Ephesians 1:21

  • ἀρχή (archē, “principality”): This word often refers to the highest-ranking rulers or spiritual beings. Paul uses it to show that Christ is above every possible authority, whether visible or invisible.
  • ἐξουσία (exousia, “power”): This term means authority or the right to rule. By including it, Paul stresses that no one else’s right to command comes close to Christ’s.
  • δύναμις (dynamis, “might”): This word points to strength or ability. Christ’s power surpasses all others, not just in title but in actual strength.
  • κυριότης (kyriotēs, “dominion”): This refers to lordship or ruling power. Paul’s list covers every possible form of rule to make sure nothing is left out.
  • αἰών (aiōn, “world”): Here, “world” means an age or era, not just the physical world. Paul is saying Christ’s authority lasts through every era, now and in the future.

Why Ephesians 1:21 matters

  • Ephesians 1:21 clears up any idea that Christ’s authority is limited to the church or to spiritual matters; Paul says Christ is above every kind of power or name, everywhere and always.
  • The verse connects to the wider passage by showing the result of Christ’s resurrection: not just life after death, but a position of unmatched authority.
  • Paul’s language reassures believers in Ephesus, who lived in a city known for its interest in spiritual powers, that no force—spiritual or earthly—can rival Christ.

Where else these words appear

“above” Greek G5231 · used in 3 verses

  • Ephesians 4:10 He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.)
  • Hebrews 9:5 And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercyseat; of which we cannot now speak particularly.

“dominion” Greek G2963 · used in 4 verses

  • Colossians 1:16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:
  • 2 Peter 2:10 But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous are they, selfwilled, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities.
  • Jude 1:8 Likewise also these filthy dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion, and speak evil of dignities.

“named” Greek G3687 · used in 10 verses

  • Luke 6:13 And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles;
  • Romans 15:20 Yea, so have I strived to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man's foundation:
  • Ephesians 3:15 Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named,

“principality” Greek G746 · used in 56 verses

  • Matthew 19:4 And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female,
  • John 16:4 But these things have I told you, that when the time shall come, ye may remember that I told you of them. And these things I said not unto you at the beginning, because I was with you.
  • Hebrews 3:14 For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;