“…and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.” – Ephesians 1:19–21 (ESV)
⚡ Resurrection Power in You
Paul’s prayer reaches its climax here. After asking God to open the eyes of our hearts, he prays that we would deeply understand “the immeasurable greatness of His power toward us who believe.” But Paul doesn’t stop at one word—he piles up four different Greek terms for power to emphasize the vastness of what God has done in Christ, and what He is still doing in us.
📜 Word Study: Four Dimensions of Divine Power
Let’s break down the exact wording Paul uses and show how each Greek term translates into the English text:
- “…the immeasurable greatness of His power” – Greek: *dynamis* (δύναμις)💥 This is miraculous, explosive power—the same root from which we get the word “dynamite.” It speaks of God’s raw ability and might. Paul says this power is directed toward us who believe—not in theory, but in real-time experience.
- “…according to the working…” – Greek: *energeia* (ἐνέργεια)⚙️ From this we get the word “energy.” It refers to active power at work—not dormant potential, but power being applied. God’s power doesn’t merely exist; it’s engaged and operational in our lives.
- “…of His great might…” – Greek: *kratos* (κράτος)🛡️ This emphasizes dominion or ruling strength—power that conquers and governs. This is the visible manifestation of God’s sovereign authority in action.
- “…His might” (final phrase) – Greek: *ischus* (ἰσχύς)💪 This word describes inherent strength or capacity—God’s built-in omnipotence. He doesn’t gain power; He is power. Everything He does flows from this boundless inner force.
Together, these words form a cascade of divine strength. Paul is saying: the full spectrum of God’s power—His ability, activity, authority, and inner strength—is at work in every believer.
🪦 Power Over Death
This isn’t theoretical power—it’s proven. Paul says this is the same power God “worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead.” The resurrection is not just Christ’s victory—it’s the pattern of our own spiritual transformation. Death is the greatest enemy, and it has already been defeated.
If God has conquered death, He can conquer anything in your life—sin, fear, shame, addiction, regret. Resurrection power is not a metaphor. It’s a spiritual force made active in every believer.
👑 Power to Reign
Not only was Jesus raised, but He was “seated at the right hand of God in the heavenly places.” This is the highest place of authority. It means Christ is enthroned—not waiting to rule, but reigning now.
Paul declares that Jesus is “far above all rule and authority and power and dominion”—every name and force that could intimidate or threaten you. He’s not just slightly above—He is far above, and His rule extends beyond time: “not only in this age, but also in the one to come.”
🔗 And That Power Is Toward You
Paul’s goal is not merely to glorify Christ’s power (though He does that beautifully), but to remind us that this power is toward us who believe. God doesn’t hold His power at a distance. He directs it into the lives of His people—strengthening, transforming, and sustaining them.
📣 What This Means for Us Today
1. You Are Not Powerless
Whatever weakness you feel today, remember: God’s power is already working in you. You are not left to figure life out on your own. You have resurrection power pulsing through your spiritual veins.
2. Christ Is Already Reigning
This world is not out of control. Jesus is on the throne. He is above every leader, every spiritual force, every future fear. His name is higher, and His rule is sure.
3. Don’t Settle for Less Than Resurrection Living
Too many believers live defeated, unsure of what they have in Christ. Paul’s prayer—and ours—should be that we live with resurrected awareness. The power of God is available, active, and advancing in those who believe.
📣 Reflection and Application
- 💡 Which of the four “power words” do you most need to see at work in your life today?
- ⚙️ Are you relying on God’s energy—or your own strength—to face your current challenges?
- 🧠 How might this understanding of power change the way you pray?
🛐 Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for the power of Your resurrection and Your rule. Open my eyes to the immeasurable greatness of that power at work in me. Let me not live small, fearful, or defeated. Let me live with confidence in Your authority and strength. In Your mighty name I pray, amen.
📌 Coming Up Next
Ephesians 1:22–23 — What Does It Mean That Christ Is the Head of the Church?
As Paul closes this epic prayer, he gives us a glorious truth: the exalted Christ is the head of the church, His body, His fullness. What does it mean to be joined to the One who fills all in all?