Ephesians 1:19
And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,
Ephesians 1:19 (KJV)
Context
Paul’s prayer for the Ephesian believers reaches its climax in this verse. He has already asked that they receive a spirit of wisdom and revelation to know the hope of God’s calling and the riches of His inheritance (Ephesians 1:17-18). Now he asks that they may know the surpassing greatness of God’s power toward them. This power is not abstract; it is the same divine energy that raised Christ from the dead and seated Him at God’s right hand (Ephesians 1:20).
Meaning
The phrase “exceeding greatness” emphasizes that God’s power is beyond measure, surpassing every human limitation. Paul uses layered Greek terms—energeian (operative energy), kratos (dominion), and ischys (strength)—to describe a power that is not static but actively at work. This power is directed “to us-ward who believe,” meaning it is not available to all indiscriminately but is accessible to those who have faith in Jesus Christ. It is the divine power inherent in God, actively and effectively operating in the lives of believers.
The phrase “according to the working of his mighty power” shows that this power is not merely theoretical but practical and life-transforming. It is the same power that accomplished the resurrection and exaltation of Christ, and it is at work within believers today. This power is to be known, owned, and acknowledged to the glory of God’s grace.
Biblical connections
This verse is part of a larger prayer (Ephesians 1:15-23) where Paul asks that believers would know the hope of God’s calling, the riches of His inheritance, and the greatness of His power. The immediate context (Ephesians 1:20-23) explains that this power is the same power God worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him far above all rule and authority. This connection assures believers that the power available to them is not a lesser force but the very power that conquered death and exalted Christ.
Application
Ephesians 1:19 reminds believers of the immense power available to them through faith in Jesus Christ. It encourages them to trust in God’s power, to live in the awareness of His greatness, and to rely on Him for strength and guidance in every aspect of life. This power is not limited by human weakness; it is the same power that raised Jesus from the dead (Ephesians 1:20). Believers can approach challenges, difficulties, and opportunities with confidence, knowing that the power of God is at work within them.
Trust in God’s power, not your own strength.
Live in the awareness of His greatness daily.
Rely on Him for strength and guidance in every situation.
Reflection
Consider the magnitude of the power that is at work in you as a believer. It is the same power that raised Christ from the dead and seated Him at God’s right hand. This truth should transform how you face trials, how you serve, and how you pray. Let this verse lead you to a deeper dependence on God and a greater confidence in His ability to work through you.
