King James Version

What Does Ephesians 3:20 Mean?

Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh... — study this verse from Ephesians chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

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 · King James Version


Context

18

May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height;

19

And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.

20

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,

21

Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.


Commentaries3 scholars

KJV Study CommentaryPublic Domain
[Verse 3:20 text would be quoted here] This verse in Ephesians chapter 3 addresses theological theme. Key Greek terms include to be determined.

The theological focus is doctrinal emphasis, demonstrating Paul's emphasis on the cosmic Christ and the church as His body/bride/temple. The phrase emphasizes union with Christ as the foundation of all spiritual blessings.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Written during Paul's Roman imprisonment (60-62 CE), this verse in chapter 3 reflects the circular letter's purpose to multiple Asian churches. Ephesus was a major center of pagan worship (Artemis cult) and early Christianity, making Paul's teachings on spiritual warfare and Christian unity particularly relevant.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the truth of Ephesians 3:20 about verse-specific transform your daily walk with Christ?
  2. What does this verse teach about theological theme that challenges modern Christian practice?
  3. How can you apply the theological principle of doctrinal emphasis in your relationships and witness?
KS
Written by KJV Study CommentaryBiblical Commentary

Compare 3 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.


Original Language Analysis

Greek · 20 words
Τῷ
1 of 20
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
δὲ
2 of 20

Now

G1161
but, and, etc
δυναμένῳ
3 of 20

unto him that is able

G1410
to be able or possible
ὑπὲρ
4 of 20

above

G5228
"over", i.e., (with the genitive case) of place, above, beyond, across, or causal, for the sake of, instead, regarding; with the accusative case super
πάντα
5 of 20

all

G3956
all, any, every, the whole
ποιῆσαι
6 of 20

to do

G4160
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
ὑπὲρ
7 of 20

above

G5228
"over", i.e., (with the genitive case) of place, above, beyond, across, or causal, for the sake of, instead, regarding; with the accusative case super
ἐκ
8 of 20

abundantly

G1537
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
περισσοῦ
9 of 20
G4053
superabundant (in quantity) or superior (in quality); by implication, excessive; adverbially (with g1537) violently; neuter (as noun) preeminence
ὧν
10 of 20

that

G3739
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
αἰτούμεθα
11 of 20

we ask

G154
to ask (in genitive case)
12 of 20

or

G2228
disjunctive, or; comparative, than
νοοῦμεν
13 of 20

think

G3539
to exercise the mind (observe), i.e., (figuratively) to comprehend, heed
κατὰ
14 of 20

according to

G2596
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
τὴν
15 of 20
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
δύναμιν
16 of 20

the power

G1411
force (literally or figuratively); specially, miraculous power (usually by implication, a miracle itself)
τὴν
17 of 20
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐνεργουμένην
18 of 20

that worketh

G1754
to be active, efficient
ἐν
19 of 20

in

G1722
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
ἡμῖν
20 of 20

us

G2254
to (or for, with, by) us

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Ephesians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Ephesians 3:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Ephesians 3:20 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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