Ephesians 6:19

Translation
King James Version
¶ And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,
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KJV (with Strong's)
And G2532 for G5228 me G1700, that G2443 utterance G3056 may be given G1325 unto me G3427, that I may open G1722 G457 my G3450 mouth G4750 boldly G1722 G3954, to make known G1107 the mystery G3466 of the gospel G2098,
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Complete Jewish Bible
And pray for me, too, that whenever I open my mouth, the words will be given to me to be bold in making known the secret of the Good News,
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Berean Standard Bible
Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will boldly make known the mystery of the gospel,
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American Standard Version
and on my behalf, that utterance may be given unto me in opening my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel,
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World English Bible Messianic
on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in opening my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the Good News,
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Geneva Bible (1599)
And for me, that vtterance may be giuen vnto me, that I may open my mouth boldly to publish the secret of the Gospel,
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Young's Literal Translation
and in behalf of me, that to me may be given a word in the opening of my mouth, in freedom, to make known the secret of the good news,
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See also
Colossians 4:3Acts 4:292 Thessalonians 3:11 Thessalonians 5:25Hebrews 13:18Acts 4:311 Thessalonians 2:2
In the KJVVerse 29,357 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

In Ephesians 6:19, the Apostle Paul, writing from imprisonment, makes a specific and humble request for prayer from the Ephesian believers. This personal plea follows his comprehensive exhortation to don the full armor of God and to engage in constant, intercessory prayer for all saints. Paul's request highlights his deep reliance on divine enablement and the spiritual support of the church, seeking the ability to speak God's revealed truth with courage and clarity, thereby making known the profound mystery of the gospel.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: This verse is strategically placed at the conclusion of Paul's letter to the Ephesians, specifically within the final chapter's practical exhortations. Having spent chapters 1-3 outlining the glorious theological truths of God's redemptive plan in Christ, and chapters 4-6 detailing the practical implications for Christian living, Paul culminates his letter with a powerful call to spiritual warfare. Immediately preceding this verse, Paul issues the famous command to "put on the whole armor of God" Ephesians 6:11 and to "pray always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints" Ephesians 6:18. His personal request for prayer in Ephesians 6:19 serves as a poignant example of the very intercession he has just commanded, demonstrating that even an apostle relies on the prayers of the church for effective ministry. It transitions from general instruction to a specific, vulnerable appeal.

  • Historical & Cultural Context: Paul wrote the Epistle to the Ephesians likely from Roman imprisonment, around A.D. 60-62. This historical reality underscores his request for boldness; he was not writing from a position of comfort or safety, but from chains, facing potential persecution and opposition for his proclamation of the gospel. In the Roman world, public speech, especially that which challenged prevailing religious or political norms, could be dangerous. The "mystery of the gospel" that Paul wished to proclaim was particularly offensive to both Jewish exclusivism and pagan polytheism, as it declared salvation through a crucified Messiah and the radical inclusion of Gentiles into God's covenant people without requiring adherence to Mosaic Law. This context amplifies the need for divine utterance and boldness, as Paul's ministry was often met with hostility, as seen in various accounts in the book of Acts.

  • Key Themes: Ephesians is rich with theological themes that converge in this verse. One primary theme is the unity of the church—the "mystery" that Jews and Gentiles are made "fellow heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel" Ephesians 3:6. Paul's desire to make this mystery known underscores the universal scope of God's redemptive work. Another crucial theme is spiritual warfare, as detailed in Ephesians 6:10-18. Paul's request for boldness is directly linked to this battle, recognizing that proclaiming the gospel is a direct assault on the kingdom of darkness. Finally, the theme of divine enablement for ministry is prominent; Paul, despite his apostolic authority and spiritual gifts, recognizes his absolute dependence on God's grace and the Spirit's power, channeled through the prayers of the saints, to fulfill his calling.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • Utterance (Greek, lógos', G3056): This term, while broadly meaning "word" or "speech," carries a deeper connotation here. It refers not merely to the act of speaking, but to the right words, the divinely inspired message, and the ability to articulate it effectively. In this context, Paul is praying for an anointing to speak with clarity, precision, and spiritual power, ensuring that his message is not just human rhetoric but a vehicle for God's truth. It implies a supernatural gift of communication.
  • Boldly (Greek, parrhēsía', G3954): This powerful word signifies freedom of speech, confidence, fearlessness, and outspokenness. It describes a state of mind and manner of speaking characterized by courage and unreservedness, especially in the face of potential opposition or danger. For Paul, imprisoned and facing hostile audiences, this boldness was not a natural personality trait but a spiritual empowerment to proclaim the gospel without intimidation or compromise, regardless of the consequences.
  • Mystery (Greek, mystḗrion', G3466): In Pauline theology, a "mystery" is not something incomprehensible or unknowable, but rather a divine truth that was previously hidden in God's eternal plan and has now been revealed, primarily through Christ and the apostles. Here, it specifically refers to the profound truth that God's salvation through Jesus Christ is for all people—both Jews and Gentiles—who are now united as one body in Christ, sharing equally in His promises. This was a radical revelation that challenged deeply ingrained social and religious divisions.

Verse Breakdown

  • "And for me, that utterance may be given unto me": Paul shifts from a general call to prayer for all saints to a specific, personal request. He desires that God would grant him the supernatural ability, the right words, and the clarity of expression necessary for proclaiming the gospel effectively. This highlights his dependence on divine enablement rather than his own rhetorical skill.
  • "that I may open my mouth boldly": The purpose of the granted utterance is to enable Paul to speak with courage and freedom. "Opening the mouth" is an idiom for beginning to speak, often with significance or authority. The addition of "boldly" emphasizes the need for spiritual courage, especially given the challenging and often dangerous circumstances of his ministry, ensuring he would not shrink back from declaring the full truth.
  • "to make known the mystery of the gospel": This clause reveals the ultimate objective of Paul's prayer request. His desire for utterance and boldness is not for personal gain or recognition, but for the effective proclamation of the "mystery of the gospel." This "mystery" is the profound truth of God's redemptive plan, previously concealed but now revealed in Christ, particularly the inclusion of Gentiles alongside Jews into God's one new people, the church. His aim is to clearly articulate this central truth of salvation.

Literary Devices

The verse employs several significant literary devices. Synecdoche is present in the phrase "open my mouth," where the part (mouth) stands for the whole action of speaking. This emphasizes the physical act of proclamation, but also the spiritual enablement behind it. The phrase "utterance may be given unto me" uses passive voice to highlight the divine source of this ability, underscoring Paul's dependence on God rather than his own inherent skill. Furthermore, the concept of "mystery" functions as a theological metaphor, representing a divine truth previously veiled but now unveiled through revelation. This device draws attention to the profound, revelatory nature of the gospel message itself, which was hidden in God's eternal plan but now made manifest through Christ and the apostolic witness.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Ephesians 6:19 encapsulates a profound theological truth: the necessity of divine empowerment for gospel proclamation, coupled with the vital role of intercessory prayer. Paul, despite his unique apostolic calling and profound theological insight, recognized his absolute dependence on God to effectively communicate the "mystery of the gospel." This mystery, the inclusion of both Jews and Gentiles into one body through Christ, is the central theme of Ephesians and the very heart of God's redemptive plan. The verse thus connects the personal spiritual discipline of prayer to the universal mission of the church, demonstrating that effective evangelism is not merely a human endeavor but a divinely enabled work, sustained by the prayers of the saints. It underscores that boldness in witness is a spiritual gift, not a natural temperament, and it is given for the specific purpose of making God's revealed truth known to a lost world.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Paul's humble request for prayer in Ephesians 6:19 serves as a powerful reminder for all believers about the profound importance of intercession, not just for those in obvious need, but especially for those who faithfully proclaim the gospel. It challenges us to move beyond superficial prayers and engage in fervent, specific intercession for our pastors, missionaries, evangelists, and all who bear witness to Christ. We are called to pray that they would receive "utterance"—the right words, clarity, and divine anointing—and "boldness"—the courage and fearlessness to speak truth in a world often hostile to it. Furthermore, this verse calls us to examine our own lives: are we praying for boldness for ourselves to share the "mystery of the gospel" in our spheres of influence? Do we truly grasp the radical inclusivity of the gospel, which unites all peoples in Christ, and does that understanding fuel our passion for witness? Our prayers for others, and our own pursuit of Spirit-given boldness, are integral to God's ongoing work of making His glorious salvation known to every corner of the earth.

Questions for Reflection

  • For whom in your life or church are you regularly praying for "utterance" and "boldness" in sharing the gospel?
  • In what specific situations do you find yourself needing boldness to speak about your faith, and how can you pray for that enablement?
  • How does understanding the "mystery of the gospel"—that salvation is for all people, uniting them in Christ—impact your desire and approach to evangelism?

FAQ

What is the "mystery of the gospel" that Paul refers to in Ephesians 6:19?

Answer: In Pauline theology, a "mystery" (Greek, mystḗrion) is not something incomprehensible but a divine truth previously hidden in God's eternal plan and now revealed. In Ephesians, the specific "mystery of the gospel" refers to God's radical plan to unite both Jews and Gentiles into one body, the church, through faith in Jesus Christ, making them "fellow heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel" Ephesians 3:6. This was a profound revelation, as for centuries, God's covenant people had been exclusively Israel. The gospel reveals that through Christ, the dividing wall has been broken down, creating a new humanity where all are equal in Christ Ephesians 2:14-16.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Ephesians 6:19, while a personal prayer request from Paul, finds its ultimate fulfillment and meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "mystery of the gospel" that Paul longs to make known is precisely the good news of Christ's finished work on the cross, His resurrection, and His ascension, through which salvation is offered to all humanity. Jesus Himself is the embodiment of this mystery, the one in whom "all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" are hidden Colossians 2:3. The "utterance" and "boldness" Paul seeks are Spirit-empowered gifts, echoing Christ's own confident and authoritative teaching, which often amazed His listeners Mark 1:22. Furthermore, Jesus commissioned His disciples to go into all the world and proclaim this very gospel, promising His presence and power Matthew 28:19-20. The Holy Spirit, sent by Christ, is the one who grants the "boldness" to speak of Him, as seen in the early church's experience after praying for courage Acts 4:31. Thus, Paul's prayer is a Christ-centered plea for the Spirit's enablement to effectively proclaim Christ's saving work and His unifying reign, fulfilling the very mission He inaugurated.

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Commentary on Ephesians 6 verses 19–24

Here, I. He desires their prayers for him, Eph 6:19. Having mentioned supplication for all saints, he puts himself into the number. We must pray for all saints, and particularly for God's faithful ministers. Brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may run and be glorified. Observe what it is he would have them pray for in his behalf: "That utterance may be given unto me; that I may be enlarged from my present restraints, and so have liberty to propagate the faith of Christ; that I may have ability to express myself in a suitable and becoming manner; and that I may open my mouth boldly, that is, that I may deliver the whole counsel of God, without any base fear, shame, or partiality." To make known the mystery of the gospel; some understand it of that part of the gospel which concerns the calling of the Gentiles, which had hitherto, as a mystery, been concealed. But the whole gospel was a mystery, till made known by divine revelation; and it is the work of Christ's ministers to publish it. Observe, Paul had a great command of language; they called him Mercury, because he was the chief speaker (Act 14:12), and yet he would have his friends ask of God the gift of utterance for him. He was a man of great courage, and often signalized himself for it; yet he would have them pray that God would give him boldness. He knew as well what to say as any man; yet he desires them to pray for him, that he may speak as he ought to speak. The argument with which he enforces his request is that for the sake of the gospel he was an ambassador in bonds, Eph 6:20. He was persecuted and imprisoned for preaching the gospel; though, notwithstanding, he continued in the embassy committed to him by Christ, and persisted in preaching it. Observe, 1. It is no new thing for Christ's ministers to be in bonds. 2. It is a hard thing for them to speak boldly when that is their case. 3. The best and most eminent ministers have need of, and may receive advantage by, the prayers of good Christians; and therefore should earnestly desire them. Having thus desired their prayers,

II. He recommends Tychicus unto them, Eph 6:21, Eph 6:22. He sent him with this epistle, that he might acquaint them with what other churches were informed of, namely, how he did, and what he did; how he was used by the Romans in his bonds, and how he behaved himself in his present circumstances. It is desirable to good ministers both that their Christian friends should know their state and that they should be acquainted with the condition of their friends; for by this means they may the better help each other in their prayers. - And that he might comfort their hearts, by giving such an account of his sufferings, of the cause of them, and of the temper of his mind and his behaviour under them, as might prevent their fainting at his tribulations and even minister matter of joy and thanksgiving unto them. He tells them that Tychicus was a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord. He was a sincere Christian, and so a brother in Christ: he was a faithful minister in the work of Christ, and he was very dear to Paul, which makes Paul's love to these Christian Ephesians the more observable, in that he should now part with so good and dear a friend for their sakes, when his company and conversation must have been peculiarly delightful and serviceable to himself. But the faithful servants of Jesus Christ are wont to prefer the public good to their own private or personal interests.

III. He concludes with his good wishes and prayers for them, and not for them only, but for all the brethren, Eph 6:23, Eph 6:24. His usual benediction was, Grace and peace; here it is, Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith. By peace we are to understand all manner of peace - peace with God, peace with conscience, peace among themselves: and all outward prosperity is included in the word; as if he had said, "I wish the continuance and increase of all happiness to you." And love with faith. This in part explains what he means in the following verse by grace; not only grace in the fountain, or the love and favour of God, but grace in the streams, the grace of the Spirit flowing from that divine principle, faith and love including all the rest. It is the continuance and increase of these that he desires for them, in whom they were already begun. It follows, from God the Father, etc. All Grace and blessings are derived to the saints from God, through the merit and intercession of Jesus Christ our Lord. The closing benediction is more extensive than the former; for in this he prays for all true believers at Ephesus, and every where else. It is the undoubted character of all the saints that they love our Lord Jesus Christ. Our love to Christ is not acceptable, unless it be in sincerity: indeed there is no such thing as love to Christ, whatever men may pretend, where there is not sincerity. The words may be read, Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ in incorruption, who continue constant in their love to him, so as not to be corrupted out of it by any baits or seductions whatsoever, and whose love to him is uncorrupted by any opposite lust, or the love of any thing displeasing to him. Grace, that is, the favour of God, and all good (spiritual and temporal), that is, the product of it, are and shall be with all those who thus love our Lord Jesus Christ. And it is, or ought to be, the desire and prayer of every lover of Christ that it may be so with all his fellow-christians. Amen, so be it.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 19–24. Public domain.
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TertullianAD 220
Against Marcion Book V
But how happened it that (the apostle) resorted to ambiguous descriptions, and I know not what obscure enigmas, for the purpose of disparaging the Creator, when he displayed to the Church such constancy and plainness of speech in "making known the mystery of the gospel for which he was an ambassador in bonds," owing to his liberty in preaching-and actually requested (the Ephesians) to pray to God that this "open-mouthed utterance" might be continued to him?
Origen of AlexandriaAD 253
EPISTLE TO THE EPHESIANS
Boldness of speech is a possibility only and always for those who have a heart that does not condemn them … and therefore the one who boldly makes known the mysteries is rare, because those who have boldness before God are rare.
Gaius Marius VictorinusAD 370
EPISTLE TO THE EPHESIANS 2.6.18-19
Isn’t this wonderful? From those whom he himself has just now admonished, those whom he has instructed, to whom he has preached the gospel, he now asks for help. He is asking them for their prayers. He goes on to explain what he is asking them to pray for: “that utterance may be given to me.” His prayer is definite and specific, that a particular profit may accrue.
AmbrosiasterAD 384
EPISTLE TO THE EPHESIANS 6.20.2
He exhorts them to pray for him in two ways: first that his thoughts may be filled by the Spirit for the full declaration of the mystery, and second that he may be given a faculty of bold utterance in proclaiming it.
John ChrysostomAD 407
Homily on Ephesians 24
As the word of God has power to do all things, so also has he who has the spiritual gift. "For the word of God," saith he, "is living, and active and sharper than any two-edged sword." (Heb. iv. 12.) Now mark the wisdom of this blessed Apostle. He hath armed them with all security. What then is necessary after that? To call upon the King, that He may stretch forth His hand. "With all prayer, and supplication, praying at all seasons in the Spirit"; for it is possible "to pray" not "in the Spirit," when one "uses vain repetitions" (Matt. vi. 7); "and watching thereunto," he adds, that is, keeping sober; for such ought the armed warrior, he that stands at the King's side, to be; wakeful and temperate:-"in all perseverance and supplication for all the saints; and on my behalf that utterance may be given unto me in opening my mouth." What sayest thou, blessed Paul? Hast thou, then, need of thy disciples? And well does he say, "in opening my mouth." He did not then study what he used to say, but according to what Christ said, "When they deliver you up, be not anxious how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that hour what ye shall speak" (Matt. x. 19): so truly did he do everything by faith, everything by grace. "With boldness," he proceeds, "to make known the mystery of the Gospel"; that is, that I may answer for myself in its defense, as I ought. And art thou bound in thy chain, and still needest the aid of others? Yea, saith he, for so was Peter also bound in his chain, and yet nevertheless "was prayer made earnestly for him." (Acts xii. 5.)
JeromeAD 420
Commentary on Ephesians 6:20
This is to be understood as if he said, “Let the treasuries be opened. Let the promises hidden from ages be revealed. Let the Spirit enter to bring forth those things that have been concealed.” That this is indeed the meaning of this passage … is clarified by what follows: “in confidence,” he says, “to make known the mystery of the gospel.”
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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