Ephesians 6:19 (KJV)

What does Ephesians 6:19 mean?

Ephesians 6:19 records Paul’s request for prayer as he prepares to speak about the good news. He asks that he be given the words to make that message known openly and courageously.

After asking his readers to pray for others in verse 18, Paul includes himself in their prayers. “Open my mouth” pictures the moment when he begins to speak; his concern is what he will say and how he will say it.

The Greek behind Ephesians 6:19

• “utterance” — λόγος (logos): The word can mean speech or a message. Here it points to the words Paul asks to be given for speaking.
• “boldly” — παρρησία (parrēsia): The Greek carries the sense of openness or freedom in speaking. Paul asks to speak without holding back.
• “mystery” — μυστήριον (mystērion): The word can refer to something once hidden that is now made known. In Ephesians, Paul uses it for God’s previously hidden plan, now disclosed in the good news.

Why Ephesians 6:19 matters

• Paul’s request joins reliance on God with the act of speaking. He asks that utterance “may be given” to him, while he himself will make the message known.
• The “mystery” is something Paul wants people to hear, not a secret he intends to keep. He asks to “make known the mystery of the gospel.”
• Paul’s circumstances make his request especially pointed. In the next verse, he describes himself as an “ambassador in bonds,” a representative who is in chains.