Ephesians 1:21

Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:

Far above {G5231} all {G3956} principality {G746}, and {G2532} power {G1849}, and {G2532} might {G1411}, and {G2532} dominion {G2963}, and {G2532} every {G3956} name {G3686} that is named {G3687}, not {G3756} only {G3440} in {G1722} this {G5129} world {G165}, but {G235} also {G2532} in {G1722} that which is to come {G3195}:

far above every ruler, authority, power, dominion or any other name that can be named either in the ‘olam hazeh or in the ‘olam haba.

far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.

far above all rule, and authority, and power, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:

Ephesians 1:21 is a powerful declaration of the absolute supremacy of Jesus Christ, building upon the preceding verses that describe God's immense power demonstrated in Christ's resurrection and exaltation. This verse emphasizes Christ's unparalleled authority over all creation, both seen and unseen.

Context

This verse is part of Paul's profound prayer for the Ephesian believers, where he asks that they might understand the "hope of his calling" and the "exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe" (Ephesians 1:19). He then points to the ultimate demonstration of this power: God raising Christ from the dead and seating Him at His own right hand in the heavenly places (Ephesians 1:20). Verse 21 clarifies the extent of this exaltation, positioning Christ above all other forms of authority and influence.

Key Themes

  • Christ's Supreme Authority: The core message is the unparalleled authority of Jesus Christ. The terms "principality, and power, and might, and dominion" represent various ranks of spiritual beings, often understood as angelic or demonic hierarchies, or even human governmental powers. Paul asserts that Christ is elevated "far above" them all, indicating a transcendence that is complete and unchallenged.
  • Universal Dominion: The phrase "and every name that is named" broadens the scope of Christ's sovereignty beyond specific categories of power. It signifies His ultimate authority over every title, rank, reputation, or form of significance, whether human, angelic, or demonic. There is no authority, present or future, that can compare to or supersede His.
  • Eternal and Future Reign: The inclusion of "not only in this world, but also in that which is to come" underscores the eternal nature of Christ's dominion. His reign is not limited to the present age or earthly affairs but extends into eternity, encompassing all future realities and ages. This provides immense hope and security for believers, knowing that their Lord holds ultimate sway over all things, for all time.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek terms translated as "principality" (archē), "power" (exousia), "might" (dynamis), and "dominion" (kyriotēs) are frequently used by Paul to describe various levels of spiritual or governmental authority. While their precise distinctions can be debated, their collective use here powerfully emphasizes that Christ's exaltation is absolute and comprehensive. He is superior to every conceivable form of rule, force, or lordship, both visible and invisible, reinforcing His unique position as the Head of the church and of all creation.

Practical Application

For believers, understanding Christ's supremacy as described in Ephesians 1:21 brings profound comfort and confidence. It means that no spiritual force, no earthly government, no personal struggle, and no future unknown can stand against the ultimate authority of Jesus Christ. This truth empowers us to live without fear of unseen powers or oppressive systems, knowing that our Savior is "far above" them all. It reminds us that our hope is anchored in a Lord who has already triumphed over every rival, a victory that extends into "that which is to come." This assurance should inspire worship and bold living, trusting in the Lord who reigns over all principalities and powers.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Philippians 2:9

    Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:

  • Philippians 2:11

    And [that] every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ [is] Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

  • Colossians 2:10

    And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:

  • Colossians 1:15

    Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:

  • Colossians 1:16

    For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether [they be] thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:

  • 1 Peter 3:22

    Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.

  • Hebrews 1:4

    ¶ Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.

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