Ephesians 6:20

KJV

For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G5228} which {G3739} I am an ambassador {G4243} in {G1722} bonds {G254}: that {G2443} therein {G1722}{G846} I may speak boldly {G3955}, as {G5613} I {G3165} ought {G1163} to speak {G2980}.

Complete Jewish Bible

for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may speak boldly, the way I should.

Berean Standard Bible

for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it fearlessly, as I should.

American Standard Version

for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ephesians 6:20 reveals the Apostle Paul's profound commitment to his divine calling as an emissary of the gospel, even while enduring physical imprisonment. Despite being "in bonds," he views his circumstances not as a hindrance but as a unique platform from which to fulfill his primary mission: to proclaim the mystery of Christ with unreserved boldness, precisely as his sacred duty demands. This verse encapsulates Paul's unwavering focus on his ambassadorial role and his dependence on God for the courage to speak truth, regardless of personal cost or constraint.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ephesians 6:20 concludes Paul's powerful exhortation to the Ephesians regarding spiritual warfare and the "whole armor of God" ([Ephesians 6:10-18](/ephesians/6-10-18 "Ephesians 6:10-18 - The Whole Armor of God")). Immediately preceding this verse, Paul shifts from general prayer for all saints to a specific request for himself in [Ephesians 6:19](/ephesians/6-19 "Ephesians 6:19 - Paul's Prayer Request for Boldness"). He asks for "utterance" (or "speech") to be given to him, "that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel." Verse 20 then elaborates on *why* he needs this boldness and *what* his specific role entails, emphasizing his status as an ambassador for this very gospel, even in chains. This personal appeal underscores the practical reality of living out the spiritual truths previously taught, demonstrating that even an apostle relies on divine enablement for his mission.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** At the time of writing Ephesians, Paul was likely under house arrest in Rome, around A.D. 60-62. His "bonds" (Gk. *hálysis*) refer to the literal chains that bound him to a Roman guard, a common practice for prisoners awaiting trial. Despite this physical confinement, Roman law often allowed prisoners awaiting trial a degree of freedom, including receiving visitors and teaching. This context is crucial, as it explains how Paul, though a prisoner, could still function as an "ambassador" (Gk. *presbeúō*), receiving people and proclaiming the gospel. The concept of an ambassador was well-understood in the Roman world; an envoy represented a sovereign power and carried their message with authority and diplomatic immunity. Paul appropriates this secular term to describe his spiritual office, highlighting the divine authority and sacred trust inherent in his mission to represent Christ.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several key themes within Ephesians and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, it reinforces the theme of **God's sovereign plan and purpose**, showing how Paul's imprisonment, far from being a defeat, was integrated into God's design for the gospel's advancement, a theme also evident in [Philippians 1:12-14](/philippians/1-12-14 "Philippians 1:12-14 - Paul's Imprisonment for the Gospel's Progress"). Secondly, it highlights the **high calling and responsibility of ministry**, particularly the apostolic office, as an ambassadorship for Christ. Thirdly, it underscores the vital importance of **boldness (Gk. *parrhēsiázomai*) in gospel proclamation**, a quality Paul consistently prayed for and exemplified, recognizing that human courage alone is insufficient for such a task. Finally, it subtly touches upon the theme of **suffering for Christ**, presenting Paul's "bonds" not as a cause for despair but as a testament to his unwavering commitment to the "mystery of the gospel" ([Ephesians 6:19](/ephesians/6-19 "Ephesians 6:19 - The Mystery of the Gospel")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Ambassador (Greek, _presbeúō'_):** From the base of *presbúteros* (elder), this term signifies one who is a senior or, by implication, acts as a representative. In diplomatic terms, an ambassador is an envoy of a sovereign, entrusted with a message and the authority of the one who sent them. Paul's use of this word elevates his ministry to a divinely appointed, authoritative representation of Christ, emphasizing the dignity and gravity of his mission to proclaim the gospel.
* **Bonds (Greek, _hálysis'_):** This word refers to a literal fetter or manacle, indicating physical chains or imprisonment. Its inclusion highlights the paradoxical nature of Paul's situation: an ambassador, representing the ultimate freedom of the gospel, yet physically constrained. This stark reality serves to magnify God's power, as the message is not bound by the messenger's physical limitations.
* **Speak boldly (Greek, _parrhēsiázomai'_):** Derived from *parrhesia* (frankness, confidence), this verb in the middle voice means "to be frank in utterance, or confident in spirit and demeanor." It denotes a courageous, unreserved, and fearless proclamation, especially of truth in the face of opposition or danger. For Paul, this boldness was not human arrogance but a divinely enabled confidence essential for effectively declaring the gospel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For which I am an ambassador in bonds:"** This clause immediately follows Paul's request for boldness to make known "the mystery of the gospel" ([Ephesians 6:19](/ephesians/6-19 "Ephesians 6:19 - Paul's Prayer Request for Boldness")). The "which" (Gk. *hós*) refers directly to this gospel. Paul identifies his core identity and mission: he is an "ambassador" for this glorious gospel. The phrase "in bonds" (Gk. *en hálysis*) starkly contrasts his high office with his physical reality, emphasizing that his imprisonment does not nullify his divine commission but, in fact, provides a unique context for its fulfillment. His chains are not a sign of failure but a testament to his commitment to the gospel.
* **"that therein I may speak boldly,"** This is a purpose clause (Gk. *hína*), indicating the reason for Paul's ambassadorship and, remarkably, the purpose of his imprisonment. "Therein" (Gk. *en autós*) points back to his state of being an ambassador and being in bonds. His desire is not for release or comfort, but for the courage to "speak boldly" (Gk. *parrhēsiázomai*). This boldness is a Spirit-empowered frankness and confidence in proclaiming the gospel, unhindered by fear of reprisal or the shame of his chains. It is the essential quality for an effective ambassador of Christ.
* **"as I ought to speak."** This final phrase (Gk. *hōs deî laléō*) expresses Paul's deep conviction about the necessity and propriety of his proclamation. "Ought" (Gk. *deî*) implies a divine imperative, a moral obligation, and a fittingness to his sacred office. He is not seeking to speak boldly merely for personal glory or stubbornness, but because it is the right, necessary, and expected manner for an ambassador of God to communicate the divine message. It underscores his unwavering commitment to faithfully discharge his duties, regardless of external circumstances.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful literary devices. **Metaphor** is central, as Paul describes himself as an "ambassador," drawing on a well-understood secular role to convey the spiritual authority and representative nature of his ministry. This metaphor highlights the sovereign power he represents (Christ) and the vital message he carries (the gospel). There is also a striking **Paradox** in the phrase "ambassador in bonds." The dignity and freedom associated with an ambassador are juxtaposed with the physical confinement of "bonds," creating tension that underscores the supernatural power of the gospel, which cannot be chained. Finally, the verse contains a **Purpose Clause** ("that therein I may speak boldly"), which clearly articulates the divine intention behind Paul's circumstances and his unwavering focus on his mission despite adversity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ephesians 6:20 profoundly impacts our understanding of Christian calling and resilience. It teaches that true spiritual authority and effectiveness are not negated by physical limitations or suffering; rather, they can be highlighted and even amplified through them. Paul's identity as an "ambassador" underscores the representative nature of all believers who bear the name of Christ, called to convey His truth and character to a watching world. His prayer for boldness, even from prison, reminds us that the proclamation of the gospel is a divine imperative that requires supernatural courage, especially when faced with opposition or discomfort. This verse challenges believers to view their circumstances, however difficult, as potential platforms for God's purposes, always prioritizing the faithful and fearless declaration of His message.

* [2 Corinthians 5:20](/2_corinthians/5-20 "2 Corinthians 5:20 - We are therefore Christ's ambassadors")
* [Acts 4:29-31](/acts/4-29-31 "Acts 4:29-31 - Prayer for Boldness and the Spirit's Filling")
* [Philippians 1:12-14](/philippians/1-12-14 "Philippians 1:12-14 - Paul's Imprisonment for the Gospel")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's declaration in Ephesians 6:20 offers a timeless model for every believer. We are all, in our respective spheres, ambassadors for Christ, entrusted with the message of reconciliation and called to represent Him faithfully. This means that our identity in Christ transcends our external circumstances, whether we find ourselves in positions of influence or experiencing personal limitations. Like Paul, we are to prioritize the proclamation of the gospel, recognizing that our ultimate allegiance is to the King of kings. This verse challenges us to examine our own willingness to speak boldly for Christ, even when it is inconvenient, unpopular, or potentially costly. It reminds us that true courage comes not from human strength but from divine enablement, and it compels us to pray for such boldness—for ourselves and for fellow believers—that we might always speak "as we ought to speak," faithfully representing the One who sent us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways do I currently act as an "ambassador" for Christ in my daily life and interactions?**
* **What "bonds" or limitations (physical, emotional, social, professional) might I be allowing to hinder my boldness in speaking for Christ?**
* **What specific areas of my life or relationships require me to "speak boldly" about the gospel, even when it feels uncomfortable?**
* **How can I more consistently pray for boldness—for myself and for others—to proclaim God's truth "as I ought to speak"?**

### FAQ
**What does Paul mean by "ambassador in bonds"?**

Answer: By "ambassador," Paul uses the Greek word *presbeúō*, which refers to an envoy or representative of a sovereign power, carrying an official message. This highlights his divinely appointed role as a representative of Christ, entrusted with the gospel message. The phrase "in bonds" (Greek: *hálysis*) refers to his literal physical chains or imprisonment, likely under house arrest in Rome. The combination creates a powerful paradox: a dignified representative of the ultimate King is physically constrained, yet his mission remains unhindered. It underscores that the message of Christ cannot be bound, even if its messenger is. Paul's imprisonment, far from being a defeat, became a unique platform for him to fulfill his ambassadorial duties, as seen in passages like [Philippians 1:12-14](/philippians/1-12-14 "Paul's Imprisonment for the Gospel's Progress").

**Why is boldness so important for an ambassador of the gospel?**

Answer: Boldness (Greek: *parrhēsiázomai*) is crucial for an ambassador of the gospel because the message of Christ often challenges prevailing cultural norms, personal comfort zones, and even hostile opposition. An ambassador represents a higher authority and must speak with the conviction and clarity befitting that authority, regardless of personal risk. For Paul, this boldness was not human arrogance but a divinely enabled confidence to declare the "mystery of the gospel" ([Ephesians 6:19](/ephesians/6-19 "The Mystery of the Gospel")) without fear or compromise. It signifies speaking with frankness, freedom, and an unwavering commitment to the truth, which is essential for effective evangelism and discipleship in a world often resistant to God's truth. The early church also prayed for such boldness in [Acts 4:29-31](/acts/4-29-31 "Prayer for Boldness and the Spirit's Filling").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ephesians 6:20, while speaking of Paul's specific apostolic calling, finds its ultimate fulfillment and paradigm in Jesus Christ. Jesus is the supreme "Ambassador" of God, the perfect revelation of the Father, who came "in bonds" of human flesh to dwell among us, taking on the limitations of humanity to perfectly fulfill His mission. As [Hebrews 1:1-3](/hebrews/1-1-3 "Hebrews 1:1-3 - Christ, the Radiance of God's Glory") declares, Christ is the "radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being," the ultimate Word of God made flesh. He spoke with unparalleled boldness and authority, challenging religious hypocrisy and proclaiming the kingdom of God without fear, even when it led Him to the cross. His life, death, and resurrection constitute the very "mystery of the gospel" that Paul was commissioned to proclaim. Through Christ's work, all believers are now made "ambassadors for Christ" ([2_corinthians/5-20](/2_corinthians/5-20 "2 Corinthians 5:20 - We are therefore Christ's ambassadors")), empowered by the Holy Spirit to continue His mission of making disciples of all nations ([Matthew 28:18-20](/matthew/28-18-20 "Matthew 28:18-20 - The Great Commission")). Thus, Paul's prayer for boldness is a plea to embody the very character and mission of Christ, who perfectly demonstrated what it means to speak "as I ought to speak" for the glory of 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.

Cross-References

2 Corinthians 5:20

Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech [you] by us: we pray [you] in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.

Colossians 4:4

That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.

Philippians 1:7

¶ Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace.

2 Timothy 2:9

Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, [even] unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound.

Acts 26:29

And Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.

1 John 3:16

Hereby perceive we the love [of God], because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down [our] lives for the brethren.

Ephesians 4:1

¶ I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,