Paul's Prison Epistles: Paul's ImprisonmentSample

Paul’s Theology—Christ’s Sovereignty: Ephesians 1:20-22

When we say that Christ is sovereign, we mean that he has the strength and power to accomplish his will, and that he has the legal authority and right to do so. In the ancient world, kings and emperors commanded the military forces of their countries, giving them the power to accomplish what they desired. The laws of their countries also acknowledged their right to rule and to govern, meaning that they also had the authority to accomplish what they desired. Many modern governments have similar power and authority.

According to Paul, when Jesus ascended into heaven, God the Father vested him with this type of sovereignty over all creation. Jesus is so powerful and so authoritative now that his sovereignty extends over all other kings and rulers as well, whether they are on earth or in the spiritual realm. 

In Ephesians 1:20-22 Paul described the sovereignty that the Father granted to Christ in this way:

[The Father] seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church (Ephesians 1:20-22).

Right now, Jesus Christ rules over the entire creation with absolute power. And his sovereignty is not simply limited to the heavenly realms; he rules over earth as well. As Jesus himself proclaimed in Matthew 28:18:

All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me (Matthew 28:18).

Jesus Christ, our lord and savior, rules over all creation, from the furthest galaxy to the tiniest spot of earth. He rules over earthly governments and nations, and over every angel and demon. Clearly, not everything in creation obeys him as it should. But even so, Jesus has the right to command its obedience, and the power to make it obey. And he has the power and right infinitely to bless those he approves and utterly to destroy his enemies.