What does Ephesians 1:19 mean?
This verse shifts to a discussion of God's power in the life of the believer. God's power is so great it cannot be measured or quantified. In this context, God's power is expressed specifically toward those "who believe." This power is also "according to the working of his great might." These words may seem redundant, reading only this verse. However, verses 20 and 21 will connect this phrase with Christ's resurrection. That event was a demonstration of power available only to God.God's power is a theme traced throughout Scripture, starting from the very first words: "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth" (Genesis 1:1). God's power has been revealed as far beyond anything else in creation. When God called Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, He used His power to show His greatness. Through a series of plagues, He proved to be superior to the gods of Egypt. He revealed His power to the Israelites by opening the Red Sea for them to walk across on dry land. Similar events took place throughout the Old Testament, culminating in the coming of Christ to reveal His ultimate power over death through His resurrection.
Ephesians 1:15–23 celebrates the value of our salvation in Christ. Paul's prayers for the believers of Ephesus not only include praise for their success, but an appeal for their growth. This passage heavily involves the supremacy of Christ. As believers, we are not only followers of Jesus, but also recipients of His blessings and power. Paul seeks to remind the Ephesian church that a complete understanding of Christ leads to a greater love and a stronger faith.
The first chapter of Ephesians contains two main passages. The first describes the blessings Christians have been given as a result of our salvation through Christ. Paul explains these through praises directed to God the Father. The second section both commends the Ephesians for their reputation, and prays that Christ would bring them into an even fuller and more aware faith.
