6:9 6:9

Ephesians 6:10

6:11 6:11

Bible Versions

¶ Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
Finally {G3063}, my {G3450} brethren {G80}, be strong {G1743} in {G1722} the Lord {G2962}, and {G2532} in {G1722} the power {G2904} of his {G846} might {G2479}.
Finally, grow powerful in union with the Lord, in union with his mighty strength!
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.
Finally, be strong in the Lord, and in the strength of his might.

Commentary on Ephesians 6:10 (KJV)

Ephesians 6:10 (KJV): "¶ Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might."

Context

This verse serves as a pivotal transition point in Paul's letter to the Ephesians. Having spent chapters 1-3 discussing the rich theological truths of God's grace and the believer's identity in Christ, and chapters 4-5 on practical instructions for living out that new identity in the church and home, Paul now moves to the reality of spiritual conflict. Chapter 6 begins the discussion of spiritual warfare and the armor of God, making this opening verse an essential call to prepare for battle by drawing strength from the right source.

Key Themes

  • Source of Strength: The primary message is that a believer's strength for life and spiritual battle does not come from within themselves, but "in the Lord" and "in the power of his might." This emphasizes dependence on God's divine power rather than human effort or ability.
  • Preparation for Conflict: This command sets the stage for the subsequent description of the spiritual armor (Ephesians 6:11-18), indicating that being strong in the Lord is the necessary foundation for standing firm against spiritual opposition.
  • Unity ("my brethren"): Paul addresses the Ephesian believers collectively, reminding them that this call to strength is for the entire community, underscoring the corporate nature of their walk and warfare.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek text uses two distinct words often translated as "power" or "might":

  • "Strength" (ἰσχύετε - ischuete, related to ἰσχύς - ischus): Refers to inherent strength or ability. The command is to "be strengthened" or "empowered."
  • "Power" (δυνάμει - dynamei, related to δύναμις - dynamis): Denotes dynamic power, ability, or might, often associated with miraculous or effective power.
  • "Might" (ἰσχύος - ischuos): Used again here, referring to God's inherent strength.

The phrase "in the power of his might" (ἐν τῷ κράτει τῆς ἰσχύος αὐτοῦ - en tō kratei tēs ischuos autou) uses yet another word, κράτος (kratos), which signifies dominion, power, or strength, often in the sense of manifest power or might in action. The combination emphasizes the overwhelming, inherent, and active power that belongs to God alone, which is the source of the believer's strength.

Cross Reference

Compare this verse's theme of strength in God with Philippians 4:13, which states, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."

Practical Application

For believers today, this verse is a foundational principle. It reminds us that facing the challenges of life, resisting temptation, and living a godly life are not achievable through willpower or self-help alone. True spiritual resilience comes from actively relying on God's strength, which is made available to us through our relationship with Christ and the indwelling Holy Spirit. It calls us to humility, acknowledging our weakness, and to faith, trusting in God's inexhaustible power.

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.

  • Philippians 4:13

    I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

  • Isaiah 40:31

    But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew [their] strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; [and] they shall walk, and not faint.

  • Joshua 1:9

    Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God [is] with thee whithersoever thou goest.

  • 1 Corinthians 16:13

    ¶ Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.

  • 1 Peter 5:10

    ¶ But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle [you].

  • Colossians 1:11

    Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;

  • 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,
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