King James Version

What Does Ephesians 6:10 Mean?

“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.”

Context

Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free.

And, ye masters, do the same things unto them, forbearing threatening: knowing that your Master also is in heaven; neither is there respect of persons with him. forbearing: or, moderating your: some read, both your and their Master

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. flesh: Gr. blood and flesh spiritual: or, wicked spirits high: or, heavenly

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(6. **Conclusion** (Ephesians 6:10-24). (1) FINAL EXHORTATION to put on the whole armour of God, in order to stand fast in the struggle, not against flesh and blood, but against unearthly powers of evil (Ephesians 6:10-17). (2) SPECIAL DESIRE OF THEIR PRAYERS, as for themselves and for all men, so especially for St. Paul himself (Ephesians 6:18-20). (3) COMMENDATION OF TYCHICUS (Ephesians 6:21-22). (4) CLOSING SALUTATION (Ephesians 6:23-24).] (10) **Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord.**—The address “my brethren” appears to be an interpolation (probably from Philippians 3:1). Frequent as it is from St. Paul, it is not found either in this or in the Colossian Epistle. **Be strong.**—Properly, *be strengthened in the inner man; go* on from strength to strength (as in Acts 9:22; 2Timothy 2:1). So in Philippians 4:13 we have the cognate expression, “Christ that strengtheneth me,” in whom “I can do all things.” The conception is nearly that of Ephesians 3:16; except that there the idea is rather of passive strength and firmness, here of active power to fight “in the power of God’s might,” working in us, because it works in our Master. (Comp. Ephesians 1:19-20.) It differs also from that which follows. “Christ in us” is here our life and indwelling strength; in the next verses the likeness of Christ, as manifested in various graces, is the armour “put on” for the battle.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

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 6:10 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.