Ephesians 1:22

And hath put all [things] under his feet, and gave him [to be] the head over all [things] to the church,

And {G2532} hath put {G5293} all {G3956} things under {G5259} his {G846} feet {G4228}, and {G2532} gave {G1325} him {G846} to be the head {G2776} over {G5228} all {G3956} things to the church {G1577},

Also, he has put all things under his feet and made him head over everything for the Messianic Community,

And God put everything under His feet and made Him head over everything for the church,

and he put all things in subjection under his feet, and gave him to be head over all things to the church,

Context

Ephesians 1:22 is a pivotal verse in Paul's letter, concluding a profound section on God's divine plan of salvation and the exalted position of Jesus Christ. Following a powerful prayer for the Ephesian believers to understand the "hope of his calling" and the "exceeding greatness of his power" (Ephesians 1:18), Paul highlights the ultimate demonstration of this power: God's work in Christ. Specifically, verses 20-21 describe how God "raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion." Verse 22 then builds directly upon this, delineating the extent and purpose of Christ's unparalleled authority.

Key Themes

  • Christ's Universal Dominion: The phrase "And hath put all [things] under his feet" is a powerful biblical metaphor signifying complete subjugation and absolute victory. It draws from Old Testament prophecies such as Psalm 8:6 and Psalm 110:1, affirming Christ's supreme authority over all creation, spiritual powers, and earthly rulers. This speaks to His ultimate triumph over sin, death, and evil, making Him the sovereign Lord of all.
  • Christ's Headship Over the Church: While Christ's dominion extends over "all things," His role as "head over all [things] to the church" highlights a unique and intimate relationship. The term "head" (Greek: kephalē) in this context implies not only authority and leadership but also the source of life, direction, and unity for the body. The church, therefore, is depicted as organically connected to Christ, drawing its purpose, power, and identity from Him. This concept is further developed in Ephesians 4:15 and Colossians 1:18, emphasizing the church as Christ's body, of which He is the rightful and living Head.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "put all things under his feet" uses the Greek verb hypotassō, which means to subject, to place in order under, or to arrange under. This emphasizes an active, deliberate act by God the Father to establish Christ's supreme rule. The word for "head," kephalē, is crucial here. Beyond mere authority, it conveys the idea of a life-giving source and guiding principle, much like the head directs the human body. This nuance reinforces the organic unity between Christ and His church.

Practical Application

For believers today, Ephesians 1:22 offers profound comfort and confidence. Knowing that Christ is the supreme Head over all things, including every challenge, every authority, and every spiritual force, provides immense security. The church, as His body, is therefore under the care and direction of the most powerful being in the universe. This truth should inspire:

  • Assurance: No earthly or spiritual power can ultimately overcome the church, because its Head is victorious and sovereign.
  • Direction: Believers are called to look to Christ as their ultimate source of guidance and truth, allowing Him to direct their lives and the mission of the church.
  • Unity: Our connection to Christ as the Head unifies us as members of His body, promoting harmony and shared purpose within the church.
  • Worship: This verse is a powerful call to worship and acknowledge the unparalleled authority and majesty of Jesus Christ, who reigns supreme over all.
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.

  • Colossians 1:18

    And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all [things] he might have the preeminence.

  • Colossians 2:10

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

  • 1 Corinthians 15:25

    For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet.

  • 1 Corinthians 15:27

    For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith all things are put under [him, it is] manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him.

  • Psalms 8:6

    Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all [things] under his feet:

  • Psalms 8:8

    The fowl of the air, and the fish of the sea, [and whatsoever] passeth through the paths of the seas.

  • Hebrews 2:8

    Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing [that is] not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him.
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