3:14 3:14

Ephesians 3:15

3:16 3:16

Bible Versions

Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named,
Of {G1537} whom {G3739} the whole {G3956} family {G3965} in {G1722} heaven {G3772} and {G2532} earth {G1909}{G1093} is named {G3687},
from whom every family in heaven and on earth receives its character.
from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name.
from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named,

Ephesians 3:15 is part of Paul's profound prayer for the Ephesian believers, revealing the vastness of God's plan and the unity of His people. This verse emphasizes God's ultimate authority and the divine origin of all spiritual relationships.

Context

This verse immediately follows Paul's declaration of bending his knees to the Father. The entire third chapter of Ephesians is dedicated to Paul's revelation of the "mystery of Christ," particularly how Gentiles are made "fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel" (Ephesians 3:6). Verse 15 highlights that this inclusion of Gentiles, and indeed all believers, into one unified spiritual family, is rooted in God Himself.

Key Themes

  • Divine Fatherhood and Origin: The verse posits that God is the source and sustainer of every "family" or "fatherhood" – both in the earthly realm and in the heavenly. It underscores that all true identity and belonging for believers derive from Him.
  • Unity of God's People: The phrase "the whole family in heaven and earth" beautifully encapsulates the concept of a single, universal spiritual family. This family transcends earthly divisions, including the historical barrier between Jew and Gentile, and even the distinction between living believers and those who have passed into glory. It speaks to the unity of the body of Christ, encompassing all saints.
  • Divine Naming and Authority: To be "named" by God signifies ownership, authority, and identity. Just as a child takes the family name, all believers bear God's name, signifying their adoption into His household and their spiritual lineage directly from Him.

Linguistic Insights

The key phrase "family" in the King James Version comes from the Greek word patria (πατριά). This word is directly related to patēr (πατήρ), meaning "father." Therefore, a more literal translation might be "fatherhood" or "lineage." This linguistic connection reinforces the profound truth that God is the ultimate Father from whom every spiritual family, whether on earth or in heaven, derives its very existence and identity. It emphasizes that every legitimate "fatherhood" or lineage finds its true origin in God the Father.

Practical Application

For believers today, Ephesians 3:15 offers immense comfort and a call to unity:

  • Sense of Belonging: We are not orphans but part of a vast, eternal family with God as our Father. This provides a deep sense of security and identity, knowing we are adopted sons and daughters.
  • Call to Unity: Understanding that all believers, regardless of background or denomination, belong to this one "whole family" under God's name, should inspire us to pursue unity and love within the Church. Our shared identity in Christ outweighs any earthly differences.
  • Confidence in Prayer: Knowing that we are part of His family gives us boldness to approach God as our Father, just as Paul did in his prayer, confident in His love and provision.
Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.
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