Ephesians 3:20 kjv

Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,

Ephesians 3:20 nkjv

Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us,

Ephesians 3:20 niv

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,

Ephesians 3:20 esv

Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us,

Ephesians 3:20 nlt

Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.

Ephesians 3 verses

Ephesians 3 20 Meaning

Ephesians 3:20 is a powerful doxology that magnifies the infinite capacity of God. It declares that the Almighty is able to accomplish far beyond human expectations, requests, or even imagination. This power does not operate externally but is effective and active within believers, enabling God's will to be fulfilled through them.

Ephesians 3 20 Context

Ephesians chapter 3 is a deep theological exploration of the "mystery of Christ" (v. 4), specifically the inclusion of Gentiles as co-heirs and fellow members of the body of Christ with believing Jews. Paul, as the "prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles" (v. 1), reveals this divine plan. Verses 14-19 present Paul's fervent prayer for the Ephesian believers, asking that they be strengthened by God's Spirit, that Christ may dwell in their hearts through faith, and that they would comprehend the boundless love of Christ. Verse 20 serves as a climactic doxology, concluding this prayer by exalting the infinite power of God to answer beyond all human limitations. Historically, the early Christian communities, like Ephesus, were grappling with the implications of Gentile inclusion and needed reassurance of God's all-encompassing plan and power amidst external pressures and internal adjustments.

Ephesians 3 20 Word analysis

• Now to Him: This phrase (Greek: Tō de dynamenō) signals a doxology, a formal expression of praise and glory to God. It pivots from the preceding prayer to an acknowledgment of God's infinite nature.
• who is able: (Greek: dynamenō) - From dynamai, meaning "to be able," "to have power." It emphasizes God's inherent, active capacity. It speaks to omnipotence, an essential attribute of the divine.
• to do: (Greek: poiēsai) - "To make," "to accomplish." This signifies God's executive power, His ability to bring things into being and complete His purposes.
• far more abundantly: (Greek: hyperekperissou) - A highly emphatic compound word combining hyper (beyond, over) and ek perissou (exceedingly, superabundantly). This term intensifies the meaning of "abundance" to an extraordinary degree, denoting a super-abundance or exceeding fullness that goes way beyond normal measure. It conveys the concept of overwhelming surplus.
• beyond all: (Greek: panta ē) - "All things" or "everything." It leaves no aspect untouched, signifying the comprehensiveness of God's capability.
• that we ask: (Greek: aitoumetha) - Refers to our prayers, requests, and petitions. It highlights the limited scope of human desires and specific petitions.
• or think: (Greek: nooumen) - Encompasses our thoughts, imagination, understanding, and deepest conceptions. This goes beyond specific requests, including even the unarticulated or unimaginable aspirations of the heart. It signifies that God's power exceeds even our grandest internal conceptions.
• according to the power: (Greek: kata tēn dynamin) - The "how" of God's action. His works are perfectly aligned with His limitless power. This is the divine standard.
• that works within us: (Greek: energoumenēn en hēmin) - From energeō, "to be operative," "to work effectually." This active participation of God's power is not external but intrinsic to the believer. It is the indwelling Spirit of God bringing transformation and spiritual vitality from within the individual. This is a divine energy, not human effort, being unleashed for divine purposes.

Ephesians 3 20 Bonus section

This verse often forms part of the Benediction in Christian worship and letters, a fitting culmination to praise God for His infinite might and active presence. The phrase "far more abundantly" (ὑπερεκπερισσοῦ) is one of the apostle Paul's unique super-compounds, highlighting his rich theological vocabulary designed to convey the magnitude of God's work. The power "working within us" refers directly to the Holy Spirit's transformative work, enabling believers to live out the truth of the Gospel and demonstrate Christ's love to the world. This is not about self-actualization but divine enablement for God's purposes. The verse highlights that even our highest spiritual aspirations and prayers fall short of God's grand design and power to fulfill it. It implicitly encourages bold, expansive prayer, rooted in trust in God's character rather than limitations of human comprehension or need.

Ephesians 3 20 Commentary

Ephesians 3:20 stands as a bedrock declaration of divine capability, often referred to as a doxology of God's power. It does not promise that God will grant every whimsical wish but rather declares that His ability far transcends what we can conceive or ask within the framework of His will and kingdom purposes. This is God's power in a redemptive sense, enabling spiritual growth, accomplishing His plan through His church, and working transformations in ways humans cannot predict or fully grasp. The key insight is that this limitless power is not distant but "works within us," implying the indwelling Holy Spirit's effectual operation in the lives of believers. It undergirds Paul's preceding prayer, assuring believers that God is entirely capable of fulfilling all spiritual blessings and establishing them firmly in Christ's love. It is a source of immense encouragement, assuring us that God's provision for spiritual maturity and impact always exceeds our human-centered perspectives, reflecting His limitless grace and glory.

Examples:

• Praying for a small community need, but God's power leads to a regional impact far beyond the original request.
• Hoping for personal spiritual growth, and experiencing profound spiritual transformation that influences many others, exceeding personal expectations.