Ephesians 1:19

Ephesians 1:19

This verse continues Paul’s prayer by asking believers to grasp the “exceeding greatness of his power toward us who believe.” The power is the same mighty strength God exercised in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at the right hand in the heavenly realms (verse 20). The phrase emphasizes that Christian confidence rests not on human ability but on God’s powerful work directed toward believers—oby the efficacy of the gospel, the transformation of individuals, and the creation of a new community. The context contrasts human power with divine power, highlighting the believer’s identity as recipients of divine intervention. In the ancient world, power was often localized to rulers or force; Paul reframes power as God’s redemptive, saving power made available through faith in Jesus. This passage also foreshadows the cosmic scope of Christ’s lordship, now applied to the believer’s experience through the Spirit.

The key theological themes are resurrection power, ascension, and believers’ participation in Christ’s victory. The power granted to believers is effective—able to transform lives, break spiritual bondage, and empower faith-led living. The resurrection demonstrates Christ’s supremacy over sin, death, and all cosmic forces; the believer receives share in that victory by faith. This power is not abstract but operative in daily life—changing desires, enabling obedience, and enabling endurance. The passage also underlines the continuity between Christ’s exaltation and the church’s mission: as Christ sits at the right hand of God, the church is called to live in alignment with that authority.

Lean into God’s power for personal change. When facing temptations, rely on the Holy Spirit’s enabling rather than willpower alone. When you feel weak, remember that God’s power is perfected in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9-10). Practical steps: identify a recurring struggle and invite God’s power into it through prayer, Scripture, and accountability with a trusted friend. Embrace acts of service and leadership in your community, trusting that Christ’s power supports your efforts. Celebrate resurrection-centered confidence in hardship—imagine Jesus’ triumph over your present struggles and choose actions that reflect that victory, such as forgiving someone who wounded you, choosing humility in conflict, or persevering in faith during unemployment or illness.

Cross-References: Colossians 1:11; 2:12-13; 1 Corinthians 6:14; Philippians 3:10-11; Romans 8:11