3:13 3:13

Ephesians 3:14

3:15 3:15

Bible Versions

¶ For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
For this {G5127} cause {G5484} I bow {G2578} my {G3450} knees {G1119} unto {G4314} the Father {G3962} of our {G2257} Lord {G2962} Jesus {G2424} Christ {G5547},
For this reason, I fall on my knees before the Father,
... for this reason I bow my knees before the Father,
For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father,

Ephesians 3:14 marks a significant pivot in Paul's letter to the Ephesians. After dedicating the first part of chapter 3 to explaining the profound "mystery" of the gospel—how Gentiles are included as co-heirs with Israel in God's plan—Paul transitions into a fervent prayer for the believers in Ephesus. This verse introduces that powerful intercession, revealing Paul's deep humility and earnest desire for their spiritual growth.

Context

The phrase "For this cause" directly links back to the preceding verses (Ephesians 3:1-13), where Paul elaborates on his unique commission as an apostle to the Gentiles. He explains the "mystery of Christ," which had been hidden for ages but is now revealed: that Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of God's promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel. This astonishing truth—God's boundless grace extending to all nations—moves Paul to a posture of deep prayer and worship. His prayer is a direct response to the glorious revelation he has just expounded.

Key Themes

  • Profound Prayer and Humility: Paul's act of "bowing his knees" signifies deep reverence, submission, and earnestness in prayer. It's a physical expression of a spiritual posture, reflecting humility before the Almighty God. This wasn't merely a casual thought but a dedicated act of intercession.
  • Direct Access to the Father: Paul addresses his prayer "unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." This highlights the Christian privilege of direct and intimate access to God, not through intermediaries but through the person and work of Jesus Christ (as also noted in Ephesians 2:18).
  • Intercession for Believers: This verse introduces Paul's heartfelt intercession for the spiritual strengthening of the Ephesian church, a common theme in his epistles where he frequently prayed for the maturity and understanding of believers (e.g., Philippians 1:9-11).

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "I bow my knees" translates the Greek kamptō ta gonata (κάμπτω τὰ γόνατα). This is more than just a figure of speech; it denotes a physical act of prostration or kneeling, common in ancient Near Eastern cultures as a sign of deep respect, worship, and humble petition. It emphasizes the solemnity and earnestness of Paul's prayer. This posture is also associated with universal submission to Christ's authority, as seen in Philippians 2:10, where "every knee shall bow" to Jesus.

Practical Application

Ephesians 3:14 offers several powerful lessons for believers today:

  • Motivation for Prayer: Like Paul, we should be moved to prayer by the profound truths of God's grace and His unfolding plan, especially the reality of our inclusion in Christ.
  • Posture of Humility: While physical posture isn't strictly mandated, the spirit of humility and reverence that Paul exemplifies in "bowing his knees" is essential for effective prayer. We approach God not on our terms, but acknowledging His sovereignty.
  • Intercession for Others: Paul's example reminds us of the vital role of intercessory prayer for fellow believers, that they might be strengthened and grow in their understanding of God's love and power.
  • Confidence in Access: We can approach the Father with confidence, knowing that our access is guaranteed through Jesus Christ, our Lord.

This verse sets the stage for one of the most magnificent prayers in the New Testament, highlighting the depth of Paul's spiritual life and his commitment to the churches he served.

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.

  • Ephesians 1:16

    Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers;

  • Ephesians 1:19

    And what [is] the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,

  • Psalms 95:6

    O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker.

  • Philippians 2:10

    That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of [things] in heaven, and [things] in earth, and [things] under the earth;

  • Acts 21:5

    And when we had accomplished those days, we departed and went our way; and they all brought us on our way, with wives and children, till [we were] out of the city: and we kneeled down on the shore, and prayed.

  • Ephesians 1:3

    ¶ Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly [places] in Christ:

  • Daniel 6:10

    Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime.
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