Ephesians: His Glorious RichesSample

Paul has prayed that the Ephesians may be strengthened (vv. 16–17) and enlightened (vv. 17–19). His third petition is that they ‘may be filled to the measure of all the fulness of God’ (v. 19). The prayer has worked up to this stunning climax. The God who is infinite and eternal comes to live within us – mere children of dust. 

But what does it mean? There are a variety of interpretations. It may mean that we are controlled by God – that a passion for His will revealed in Scripture is what drives us. Or it may mean that we long to be transformed by God – this will affect every part of our lives. However, I think that the heart of the petition is that we may be satisfied with God – that we would be overwhelmed by the love of God and long to know Him more deeply. This is the great purpose of human existence. 

Such a prayer might seem impossibly grand and overwhelming. That is why Paul ends by reminding them that God can do whatever they ask (vv. 20–21). This final doxology has a dual purpose. 

Firstly, it looks back on all the blessings that the triune God has poured into their lives. If you have been keeping a running list of these blessings, you will by now be amazed by their magnitude. They cover past, present and future. We have been justified, we are being sanctified and we will be glorified. We are seated with Christ in the heavenly realms, we are reconciled to God by grace alone and we are brought into the family of God. We are loved more than we can imagine. As Paul pronounces the blessing, it’s almost as if he is saying, ‘Yes, I know that it sounds too good to be true, but God can do it. You can trust Him!’ 

Secondly, though, Paul is looking forward and preparing the Ephesians for what comes next. If these things are true, you too must live lives that are different from the world around you. This is daunting and difficult, but God’s grace and power is sufficient to help you to do so. 

When these prayers are answered, God will be glorified. He will always be glorified in Christ, but He has committed Himself to revealing His glory in the church. In what ways can you see God’s glory in your church? 

Look back at the two prayers at the end of Ephesians 1 and 3. Then pray them for yourself and for people you love.

Reflection

Knowing God is the purpose of human existence. What do you also learn from Psalm 63, Philippians 3:10–11 and Colossians 1:9–12?