Ephesians 2:7

KJV

That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in [his] kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.

KJV (with Strong's)

That {G2443} in {G1722} the ages {G165} to come {G1904} he might shew {G1731} the exceeding {G5235} riches {G4149} of his {G846} grace {G5485} in {G1722} his kindness {G5544} toward {G1909} us {G2248} through {G1722} Christ {G5547} Jesus {G2424}.

Complete Jewish Bible

in order to exhibit in the ages to come how infinitely rich is his grace, how great is his kindness toward us who are united with the Messiah Yeshua.

Berean Standard Bible

in order that in the coming ages He might display the surpassing riches of His grace, demonstrated by His kindness to us in Christ Jesus.

American Standard Version

that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ephesians 2:7 articulates the magnificent purpose behind God's gracious salvation of humanity: to perpetually display the immeasurable abundance of His unmerited favor throughout all future ages. This demonstration of divine generosity and benevolence, extended to us, is made possible exclusively through the person and work of Christ Jesus, serving as an eternal testament to God's character and redemptive power.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ephesians 2:7 serves as the climactic statement of purpose following Paul's profound exposition of salvation by grace. The preceding verses vividly portray humanity's dire spiritual condition, being "dead in trespasses and sins" and "children of wrath" by nature, alienated from God ([Ephesians 2:1-3](/ephesians/2-1-3 "Ephesians 2:1-3 - Humanity's Spiritual Death")). However, this bleak reality is dramatically contrasted by God's rich mercy and great love, which moved Him to make believers "alive together with Christ," raising them and seating them with Him in the heavenly realms ([Ephesians 2:4-6](/ephesians/2-4-6 "Ephesians 2:4-6 - God's Mercy and Grace")). Verse 7 then reveals *why* God performed such an astonishing act of redemption: not merely for our benefit, but for His eternal glory, as a public, ongoing display of His boundless grace.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul wrote his letter to the Ephesians, a church in a prominent Roman city known for its diverse religious practices, including the worship of Artemis and various mystery cults. The audience was a mix of Jewish and Gentile believers, and a significant theme throughout Ephesians is the breaking down of the "dividing wall" between them, uniting them in Christ ([Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Breaks Down the Dividing Wall")). The concept of "ages" (Greek: *aiōnes*) would have resonated with both Jewish apocalyptic thought, which often spoke of distinct ages or aeons (e.g., "this age" vs. "the age to come"), and Hellenistic philosophical ideas of cosmic periods. Paul's emphasis on God's "riches" and "kindness" would have countered the prevalent pagan notions of capricious deities or gods who demanded appeasement, instead presenting a God whose character is defined by overflowing generosity and benevolence, particularly to those who had no claim on it.
* **Key Themes:** This verse encapsulates several major theological themes prevalent in Ephesians and Pauline theology. Foremost is the theme of **God's Sovereign Grace**, which is not merely sufficient but "exceeding riches" of grace, highlighting its immeasurable quality and unmerited nature. This grace is inextricably linked to **God's Benevolent Character**, expressed through His "kindness" (chrēstotēs), demonstrating His inherent goodness and active disposition toward humanity. The verse also underscores the **Centrality of Christ Jesus** in all of God's redemptive work; salvation, grace, and kindness are channeled and actualized "through Christ Jesus," emphasizing His indispensable mediatorial role ([Ephesians 1:7](/ephesians/1-7 "Ephesians 1:7 - Redemption Through His Blood")). Finally, the phrase "in the ages to come" introduces the theme of **Eschatological Display and Eternal Purpose**, signifying that God's redemptive acts in the present are not merely for the current generation but are part of an eternal plan, perpetually showcasing His glory and grace to all future generations and cosmic beings ([Ephesians 3:10](/ephesians/3-10 "Ephesians 3:10 - God's Wisdom Made Known Through the Church")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **ages (Greek, _aiṓn'_):** From the same root as `aei` (always), this term properly refers to an age or a period of time. By extension, it can mean perpetuity or eternity. In a Jewish context, it often refers to a Messianic period, either present or future. Here, "ages to come" (with `epérchomai` G1904, meaning "to come upon" or "supervene") signifies the ongoing, unfolding future, implying a demonstration that transcends any single temporal period and continues into eternity, serving as a perpetual testament.
* **shew (Greek, _endeíknymi'_)::** Derived from `en` (in) and `deiknýō` (to show), this verb means "to indicate by word or act," "to display," or "to demonstrate." It implies a purposeful, public, and clear presentation. God is not merely *having* grace; He is actively *showing* it, making it evident and visible for all to observe and marvel at. This is a deliberate act of revelation.
* **exceeding (Greek, _hyperbállō'_):** Formed from `hyper` (over, beyond) and `ballō` (to throw), this word literally means "to throw beyond the usual mark." Figuratively, it means "to surpass," "to excel," or "to be supereminent." When combined with "riches," it conveys an immeasurable, incomparable, and overwhelming abundance. It is not just great grace, but grace that goes beyond all conceivable limits or expectations.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"That in the ages to come":** This clause establishes the timeframe and purpose of God's action. "Ages to come" (Greek: *tous aiōnas tous eperchomenous*) points to the future, specifically the unfolding periods of eternity. God's display of grace is not a one-time event or limited to the present era; it is an ongoing, perpetual demonstration that will continue to unfold and be observed through all future generations and into eternity. This highlights the enduring and timeless nature of God's redemptive plan.
* **"he might shew":** This indicates God's deliberate and intentional purpose. The verb "shew" (Greek: *endeíknymi*) implies a public and clear demonstration. God's act of salvation is not hidden but is meant to be openly displayed, revealing His character and power to all creation, including angelic beings and future humanity. It is a divine exhibition.
* **"the exceeding riches of his grace":** This phrase describes *what* God intends to show. "Riches" (Greek: *ploûtos*) denotes abundance or wealth, while "exceeding" (Greek: *hyperbállō*) intensifies this, meaning "super-abundant" or "immeasurable." "Grace" (Greek: *cháris*) is God's unmerited favor, His benevolent disposition and action towards undeserving humanity. Together, "exceeding riches of his grace" portrays an overflowing, limitless, and incomprehensible abundance of divine favor that transcends all human understanding and expectation.
* **"in his kindness toward us":** This clause specifies the manner or medium through which God's grace is manifested. "Kindness" (Greek: *chrēstótēs*) signifies moral excellence, goodness, and benignity. It is the practical, active expression of God's gracious character. God's grace is not an abstract concept but is tangibly demonstrated through His benevolent and gentle disposition specifically directed "toward us" (Greek: *pros hēmas*), emphasizing the personal and relational aspect of His redemptive work.
* **"through Christ Jesus":** This final phrase is crucial, identifying the exclusive means by which this entire divine purpose is accomplished and actualized. All of God's "exceeding riches of his grace" and His "kindness toward us" are mediated and made effective solely "through Christ Jesus." He is the divine agent, the channel, and the very embodiment of God's redemptive love, without whom such salvation and subsequent display of grace would be impossible.

#### Literary Devices
Ephesians 2:7 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its profound theological message. The phrase "exceeding riches" is a striking example of **Hyperbole**, an exaggeration used for emphasis. It is not merely "riches" but "exceeding riches," conveying an immeasurable, almost unbelievable abundance of God's grace, far beyond human comprehension or expectation. This hyperbole underscores the boundless nature of divine favor. The concept of God "showing" or "displaying" His grace and kindness can be seen as a form of **Personification**, where abstract qualities (grace, kindness) are presented as something that can be publicly exhibited, much like a tangible object or a performance. This vivid imagery helps the reader grasp the active and demonstrable nature of God's character. Furthermore, the entire verse functions as a **Teleological Statement**, clearly articulating the ultimate purpose or end goal of God's redemptive work in believers. The structure moves from the *who* (God), to the *what* (exceeding riches of grace and kindness), to the *how* (through Christ Jesus), and finally to the *why* (that He might show it in the ages to come), creating a comprehensive and purposeful declaration.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ephesians 2:7 powerfully encapsulates the triune God's eternal purpose in salvation, emphasizing that human redemption is not merely for the benefit of humanity but primarily for the glory and display of God's own character. It reveals that the astonishing work of making us alive, raising us, and seating us with Christ is a perpetual, cosmic exhibition of His unmerited favor and active benevolence. This divine display is designed to be observed and marveled at throughout all future ages, signifying that the cross is not just a historical event but an eternal testament to God's love, justice, and power, continually unveiling new depths of His glory.

* [Romans 5:20](/romans/5-20 "Romans 5:20 - Where Sin Increased, Grace Abounded")
* [Titus 3:4-7](/titus/3-4-7 "Titus 3:4-7 - God's Kindness and Mercy in Salvation")
* [1 Peter 1:12](/1_peter/1-12 "1 Peter 1:12 - Angels Long to Look into These Things")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ephesians 2:7 offers profound comfort and an eternal perspective for believers. It assures us that our salvation is not a temporary reprieve but an eternal reality, rooted in God's unchanging character and His boundless grace. This verse invites us to live with a deep sense of gratitude, knowing that we are not merely recipients of salvation but living testimonies to God's "exceeding riches of his grace." Our lives, transformed by Christ, become part of this eternal display, showcasing His kindness to a watching world and to future generations. This understanding should motivate us to walk in a manner worthy of such a high calling, reflecting His kindness to others and living as ambassadors of His grace. It reminds us that our present sufferings are temporary, and our future is secure, eternally enveloped in His kindness through Christ Jesus, inspiring us to persevere with hope and joy.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the concept of God "showing" His grace "in the ages to come" impact your understanding of your own salvation and its eternal significance?**
* **In what ways can your life today serve as a demonstration of God's "exceeding riches of his grace" and "kindness" to those around you?**
* **How does knowing that all of God's blessings come "through Christ Jesus" deepen your appreciation for His unique role in your life?**

### FAQ

**What does "ages to come" signify in this verse?**

Answer: "Ages to come" (Greek: *tous aiōnas tous eperchomenous*) refers to the unending future, encompassing all subsequent periods of time, extending into eternity. It signifies that God's display of His grace is not limited to the present age or to the initial act of salvation. Instead, it is an ongoing, perpetual revelation that will continue to unfold and be observed by all creation—humanity, angels, and perhaps other cosmic beings—throughout eternity. It emphasizes the enduring and timeless nature of God's redemptive plan and His character, ensuring that His grace will be a source of wonder and praise forever.

**What is the difference between "grace" and "kindness" as used here?**

Answer: While closely related and often used in conjunction, "grace" (Greek: *cháris*) primarily refers to God's unmerited favor and benevolent disposition towards undeserving humanity. It is the source and foundation of our salvation, God giving us what we do not deserve. "Kindness" (Greek: *chrēstótēs*), on the other hand, describes the practical, active, and gentle expression of that grace. It speaks to God's moral excellence, goodness, and benignity as demonstrated in His dealings with us. So, God's grace is His disposition, and His kindness is the tangible way that disposition is put into action, particularly in saving us "through Christ Jesus."

**Why is it so important that God's grace is shown "through Christ Jesus"?**

Answer: The phrase "through Christ Jesus" is absolutely central to Christian theology and this verse. It underscores that Jesus Christ is the sole mediator and means by which God's "exceeding riches of his grace" and "kindness" are extended to humanity. Without Christ's atoning sacrifice and resurrection, there would be no basis for God's grace to be poured out upon sinners. He is the embodiment of God's love and the channel through whom reconciliation with God is made possible ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Own Love")). Therefore, all the blessings of salvation, including the display of God's grace, flow exclusively through Him, making Him indispensable to God's eternal plan and our salvation ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ephesians 2:7 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus, who is the very embodiment and means of God's "exceeding riches of his grace." The "kindness toward us" that God displays is perfectly demonstrated in the incarnation, life, death, and resurrection of Christ. Jesus, as the Son of God, willingly entered human history, lived a sinless life, and offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin, thereby becoming the unique channel through whom God's unmerited favor could be poured out upon humanity ([Romans 3:24-25](/romans/3-24-25 "Romans 3:24-25 - Justified by His Grace Through Redemption")). His resurrection and ascension to the right hand of the Father signify God's full acceptance of His work, and it is "in Christ Jesus" that believers are made alive, raised, and seated in heavenly places, becoming living testimonies to this divine grace ([Ephesians 2:6](/ephesians/2-6 "Ephesians 2:6 - Raised and Seated with Christ")). Thus, the "ages to come" will forever witness the glory of God's grace, not merely as an abstract concept, but as it is eternally manifest in and through the glorified Christ, the Lamb who was slain, whose redemptive work continues to elicit praise and wonder from all creation ([Revelation 5:9-10](/revelation/5-9-10 "Revelation 5:9-10 - The Song of the Redeemed")).

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.

Cross-References

Titus 3:4

But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,

1 Timothy 1:16

Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.

1 Timothy 1:17

Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, [be] honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.

2 Thessalonians 1:12

That the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and ye in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Ephesians 2:4

¶ But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,

Revelation 5:9

And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;

Revelation 5:14

And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four [and] twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever.