### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun μέγεθος (mégethos, `{{G3174}}`) is derived from the adjective μέγας (megas, `{{G3173}}`), meaning "great," "large," or "mighty." While μέγας can refer to physical size, μέγεθος specifically denotes "magnitude," "greatness," or "extent." The base definition provided emphasizes its figurative use, suggesting that it refers not merely to physical dimension but to an eminent quality, power, or importance. It conveys the idea of something being vast, immense, or superlative in its nature.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term μέγεθος (mégethos, `{{G3174}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the Apostle Paul's letter to the Ephesians:
* **[[Ephesians 1:19]]**: "...and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his mighty strength."
In this singular occurrence, μέγεθος is used to describe the **power** (δύναμις, dynamis, `{{G1411}}`) of God. The phrase "immeasurable greatness" (τὸ ὑπερβάλλον μέγεθος, to hyperballon megethos) underscores the superlative and boundless nature of this divine power. The preceding adjective ὑπερβάλλω (hyperballō, `{{G5235}}`) means "to throw beyond," "to exceed," or "to surpass," further emphasizing that God's power is beyond all measure, comprehension, or comparison.
The context of [[Ephesians 1:19]] is crucial. Paul is praying for the believers in Ephesus, asking that they might know the hope of their calling and the riches of God's glorious inheritance. Central to this knowledge is understanding the "immeasurable greatness" of God's power directed *toward us who believe*. This power is not abstract but is explicitly linked to the "working of his mighty strength" (ἐνέργεια τοῦ κράτους τῆς ἰσχύος αὐτοῦ, energeia tou kratous tēs ischyos autou), which is then elaborated upon in the subsequent verses as the power that raised Christ from the dead and seated Him at God's right hand ([[Ephesians 1:20-23]]). Thus, μέγεθος here describes the incomprehensible scale and efficacy of God's omnipotent activity on behalf of His people.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **μέγας (megas, `{{G3173}}`):** The root adjective, frequently used in the New Testament to describe "great" things, whether in size, importance, or intensity (e.g., "great voice," "great city," "great tribulation").
* **δύναμις (dynamis, `{{G1411}}`):** "Power," "ability," "might." This is the primary word for power that μέγεθος modifies in [[Ephesians 1:19]].
* **κράτος (kratos, `{{G2904}}`):** "Dominion," "power," often implying manifested power or strength in action, particularly divine power. Used alongside μέγεθος in [[Ephesians 1:19]].
* **ἰσχύς (ischys, `{{G2479}}`):** "Strength," "might," often referring to inherent physical or moral strength. Also used in conjunction with μέγεθος in [[Ephesians 1:19]].
* **ἐνέργεια (energeia, `{{G1753}}`):** "Working," "activity," "operation." Describes the active manifestation of power, as seen in [[Ephesians 1:19]].
* **ὑπερβάλλω (hyperballō, `{{G5235}}`):** "To excel," "to surpass," "to exceed." This verb directly qualifies μέγεθος in [[Ephesians 1:19]], emphasizing its immeasurable quality.
These related terms collectively paint a picture of God's immense, active, and unparalleled power, with μέγεθος serving to underscore its sheer scale and eminence.
### Theological Significance
The single use of μέγεθος (mégethos, `{{G3174}}`) in [[Ephesians 1:19]] carries profound theological weight. It speaks directly to the boundless nature of God's omnipotence, particularly as it is directed toward believers.
1. **Divine Omnipotence:** The term highlights that God's power is not merely great, but "immeasurably great"—beyond human comprehension or limitation. This attribute is foundational to understanding God's sovereignty and His ability to accomplish His purposes.
2. **Assurance for Believers:** For those who believe, this "mégethos" of power is a source of immense hope and assurance. The same power that raised Christ from the dead is at work in them, enabling them to live victoriously and fulfilling God's promises. It assures believers that no challenge, spiritual battle, or personal weakness is beyond the scope of God's transformative strength.
3. **Basis for Worship and Awe:** Contemplating the "immeasurable greatness" of God's power naturally evokes awe, reverence, and worship. It reminds believers of the majesty and might of the One who calls them, fostering a deeper trust and dependence on Him.
4. **Resurrection Power:** By connecting this "mégethos" of power to Christ's resurrection ([[Ephesians 1:20]]), Paul emphasizes that the power available to believers is not a diminished or lesser power, but the very power that conquered death and established Christ's cosmic supremacy.
### Summary
The Greek word μέγεθος (mégethos, `{{G3174}}`) signifies "magnitude" or "greatness," particularly in a figurative sense, denoting immense quality or extent rather than physical size. Its singular but highly significant occurrence in [[Ephesians 1:19]] describes the "immeasurable greatness" of God's power directed toward believers. This term, amplified by the surrounding vocabulary of divine strength (δύναμις, κράτος, ἰσχύς) and the concept of surpassing measure (ὑπερβάλλω), powerfully conveys the boundless, incomprehensible, and effective nature of God's omnipotence. Theologically, μέγεθος serves as a profound declaration of God's limitless ability to act on behalf of His people, providing a steadfast foundation for their hope, a source of unwavering assurance, and an impetus for deep worship and awe in the face of His glorious power, which is nothing less than the resurrection power of Christ.
TRV