What does Ephesians 3:12 mean?

Paul offers two amazing benefits believers have in Christ. First is "boldness." This is the Greek word parrēsian, which implies confidence, openness, freedom, and clarity. Paul asks for prayers for this same boldness in Ephesians 6:19, so he can declare the gospel confidently, as he should (Ephesians 6:20). Paul sometimes even wrote letters "boldly" as part of his ministry (Romans 15:15). Acts mentions several occasions when the early church showed boldness (Acts 4:13; 13:46).

Second, Paul notes we have "access with confidence." We have a way to the Father through Jesus Christ. Because of Christ's perfection, we can confidently approach God (2 Corinthians 3:4). Hebrews 4:16 says, "Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 10:19 teaches, "We have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus" and that confidence has great reward (Hebrews 10:35). Again, Paul notes this confident access comes as a result of our faith. We can do nothing to deserve this access, but receive it as a free gift of grace.