Verse of the Day Wednesday, July 9, 2025

 

Verse of the Day

Wednesday, July 9, 2025

Ephesians 3:20-21

Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

Introduction

Ephesians 3:20–21 is a doxology—a brief, exalted expression of praise to God—that marks the conclusion of Paul’s profound intercessory prayer for the Ephesian believers (3:14–19). This prayer culminates in a recognition of God’s boundless power and enduring glory. The doxology not only closes the theological first half of the letter but also bridges into the ethical and practical instructions of chapters 4–6. These two verses remind readers of God's limitless capacity to act and invite the church to participate in the ongoing glorification of God across all generations.

Commentary

Verse 20: “Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine,”

Paul exalts God's power as both transcendent and immanent. The phrase “able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine” expresses divine omnipotence in superlative terms. The Greek word *yperperissou emphasizes that God doesn’t merely exceed expectations—He surpasses even our most expansive hopes or dreams. The “power at work within us” refers to the Holy Spirit, active in believers (cf. Eph 1:13–14; 3:16), signifying that God’s incredible work is not distant but intimately present in the life of the church.

Verse 21: “to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.”

Here, Paul gives voice to the central goal of God’s work: glory. That glory is made manifest “in the church and in Christ Jesus”—a dual emphasis that highlights both the head (Christ) and the body (the church) as vessels of divine glory. The phrase “to all generations, forever and ever” underscores the eternal nature of this glorification, transcending time and space. This is not a temporary exaltation, but a permanent acknowledgment of God’s majesty through Christ and His people.

Understanding the Context

Paul’s doxology concludes his prayer for inner strength, rootedness in love, and the fullness of God’s presence (3:14–19). That prayer flows from his vision of the mystery now revealed—that Gentiles are full members of God’s family (3:6). These themes of unity, empowerment, and revelation prepare the reader for the pivot in chapter 4, where Paul urges believers to live out their calling in practical ways. The mention of God’s power here echoes earlier references, such as Ephesians 1:19–23, where the same power raised Christ and exalted Him above all. Thus, the doxology reinforces that God’s cosmic power is now at work within the community of faith and serves as the foundation for the church’s unity and mission.

Application for Today

Ephesians 3:20–21 speaks directly into a world often limited by human expectations, discouragement, and fear. For today’s believer, the reminder that God is “able to accomplish abundantly far more” invites a radical trust in divine providence—one that is not bound by our circumstances or imaginations. The verse challenges individuals and communities to pray boldly, serve generously, and dream faithfully, knowing that God’s power is already at work within them. Moreover, the call to bring glory to God in the church and in Christ Jesus is not limited to ancient believers; it compels today’s church to embody Christ’s presence visibly and continuously. In every generation, the church is to be a witness not only of doctrine but of awe—reflecting God’s glory through love, unity, and faithful action.

Reflection

Ephesians 3:20–21 challenges me to expand the boundaries of my faith and expectation. I often find myself approaching God with measured hope, cautious requests, and a limited view of what is possible. Yet Paul’s words break through that caution with a sweeping affirmation: God’s capacity exceeds the limits of human imagination. It forces me to reconsider how I approach ministry, prayer, and even personal growth. Am I relying on what I can do, or on what God can do through me? This passage also reshapes how I see the church—not merely as a community of believers, but as a vessel of God’s eternal glory. To live within that vision is to walk with reverence and purpose, trusting in a God who is both beyond us and within us. It reminds me that our calling is not simply to survive or succeed, but to glorify.

---

The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible, copyright © 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The Verse of the Day is a daily inspirational and encouraging Bible verse, extracted from BibleGateway.com. Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM.