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Paul is in prison and unable to visit the Christians in Ephesus (3:1; 4:1). However, he can pray for them (as he did in 1:15–23). Verses 14–21 are one of the most amazing prayers in the New Testament. Notice three preliminary points as we approach this prayer.
It is passionate (v. 14). People normally stood to pray, but kneeling to pray was a sign of deep emotion and passion (Luke 22:41; Acts 20:36). Paul is deeply moved as he thinks of the Ephesians and prays for them. Are we equally passionate when we come to God?
It is personal (v. 14). Paul approaches God with confidence, because he knows that he is speaking to his Father in Heaven. Perhaps the single most important truth to remember about prayer is that we come as children to a Father (1:5; 2:18; Matt. 6:9).
It is particular (v. 15). It is a prayer for the family of God’s people – prayer is a family exercise. Paul encourages us to pray for all people (1 Tim. 2:1–3), but there should be a special emphasis on those who belong to our spiritual family.
When we turn to the contents of the prayer, we find that it consists of three petitions. Paul prays that they may be strengthened (vv. 16–17), enlightened (vv. 17–19) and filled (v. 19).
In the first petition he prays that they may be strengthened. Notice that there are two parallel phrases here. He wants God to ‘strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being’ (v. 16); this is ‘so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith’ (v. 17). We are already sealed with the Spirit (1:13–14), but we should seek to be filled by the Spirit every day (5:18). Christ already indwells us (Col. 1:27), but Paul prays that He may have full control of our lives.
‘Dwelling’ has the idea of permanent residence and complete possession. The Holy Spirit helps us to live in such a way that Jesus controls every aspect of our lives. In Ephesians 4–6 Paul will work this out in practice as he covers living in the church, the world, the home and the workplace. When we turn to these chapters, remember that we need the Spirit’s help to live the kind of life that Paul describes.
Reflection
Does Christ have access to all the rooms in the house of your life? Are there any no-go areas that you have refused to surrender (see Rom. 12:1–2)?
Scripture
About this Plan
Experienced pastor and author, Paul Mallard takes us through Ephesians in 34 devotions. You’ll be guided through famous passages including those on the body of Christ and the armour of God as well as the less familiar parts. You’ll be invited to ponder afresh the width, length, height and depth of God’s love for us, and to consider how our new life in Christ should change how we live.
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