5:19 5:19

Ephesians 5:20

5:21 5:21

Bible Versions

Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;
Giving thanks {G2168} always {G3842} for {G5228} all things {G3956} unto God {G2316} and {G2532} the Father {G3962} in {G1722} the name {G3686} of our {G2257} Lord {G2962} Jesus {G2424} Christ {G5547};
always give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Yeshua the Messiah.
always giving thanks to God the Father for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
giving thanks always for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father;

Ephesians 5:20 encourages believers to live a life characterized by continuous gratitude, directed to God the Father through the mediation of Jesus Christ. This verse is a powerful call to cultivate a thankful heart in all circumstances, recognizing God's sovereignty and goodness.

Context

This verse is part of Paul's practical exhortations in Ephesians 5, immediately following his instruction to be "filled with the Spirit" (Ephesians 5:18) rather than with wine. Spirit-filled living, Paul implies, naturally overflows into expressions of worship, singing, and profound thankfulness (Ephesians 5:19). It sets the stage for mutual submission within the Christian community and household codes that follow (Ephesians 5:21ff).

Key Themes and Messages

  • Unceasing Gratitude: The command to give thanks "always for all things" highlights a disposition of heart that acknowledges God's sovereignty and goodness in every situation, good or bad. It implies a posture of faith that trusts in God's ultimate plan.
  • God-Centered Worship: Thanksgiving is ultimately directed "unto God and the Father," recognizing Him as the ultimate source of all blessings and the worthy recipient of our praise.
  • Christ's Mediation: Giving thanks "in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ" emphasizes that our access to the Father and our prayers are acceptable only through Christ's perfect work and ongoing intercession. He is the bridge and the means by which we approach God.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "giving thanks" comes from the Greek word eucharistountes (εὐχαριστοῦντες), an active participle indicating a continuous action of thankfulness. It is related to eucharistia, which means gratitude or thankfulness.

The phrase "always for all things" (Greek: pantote hyper pantōn - πάντοτε ὑπὲρ πάντων) stresses the comprehensive and unconditional nature of this gratitude – it is not dependent on favorable circumstances but is an enduring posture of faith.

To give thanks "in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ" means more than just appending His name to a prayer; it signifies acting by His authority, through His person, and on the basis of His saving work. It underscores that Jesus is the exclusive way to the Father.

Related Scriptures

  • This theme of universal thankfulness is powerfully echoed in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, which states, "In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."
  • Similarly, Colossians 3:17 advises, "And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him."

Practical Application

Ephesians 5:20 challenges believers to cultivate a mindset of gratitude, even when facing difficulties or adversity. It encourages us to see God's hand in all aspects of life, recognizing that even trials can be used for our good and His glory. Practicing regular thanksgiving, both privately in prayer and communally in worship, reinforces our dependence on God and strengthens our faith. This constant thankfulness is a vital aspect of a Spirit-filled life, transforming our perspective and fostering deeper communion with God.

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.

  • Colossians 3:17

    And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, [do] all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:18

    In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

  • Hebrews 13:15

    By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of [our] lips giving thanks to his name.

  • Philippians 4:6

    Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

  • Ephesians 5:4

    Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.

  • 2 Thessalonians 1:3

    We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth;

  • Psalms 34:1

    ¶ [A Psalm] of David, when he changed his behaviour before Abimelech; who drove him away, and he departed. I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise [shall] continually [be] in my mouth.
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