Easter · The Ascension of Our Lord · Year C
Ephesians 1:15-23
Thanksgiving and Prayer
May 25, 2028
Overview & Insights
“God… seated him at his right hand… far above all rule and authority.” (Ephesians 1:20–21)
From the context of 1:15–2:10 it appears that these verses form the next major section of Ephesians. The apostle has just finished recalling the spiritual blessings that God, through Christ, has bestowed upon all believers. From this universal truth, he turns to something more specific: His thoughts move from doxology to prayer; he reminds his readers that he thanks God for them (vv. 15, 16) and that he prays specifically that they will have the necessary wisdom to understand these blessings in Christ (vv. 17–19).
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Commentary
Commentary on Ephesians 1:15-23 Working Preacher
Luther Seminary reading of Paul's prayer that believers know the power that raised and enthroned Christ.
Ephesians 1:15-23 Commentary Center for Excellence in Preaching
Reformed preaching commentary on the superlative Greek describing God's incomparable power for believers.
Ephesians 1 Commentary: Spiritual Blessings in Christ Enduring Word · David Guzik
Evangelical verse by verse study of Paul's thanksgiving and prayer for wisdom and revelation.
Ephesians 1:15-17 Commentary Precept Austin
Detailed word study and cross references on the prayer for a spirit of wisdom and enlightened hearts.
Ephesians 1:15 Commentaries BibleHub
Classic commentators assembled on Paul's prayer and the exaltation of Christ over all powers.
Background & Word Study
Ephesians 1:15 Interlinear BibleHub
Greek text with parsing for the dense clauses on power, dominion, and Christ as head over all.
Ephesians 1:15-23: A Prayer for Discernment Enter the Bible
Luther Seminary passage notes on this exact prayer for wisdom and understanding (background only).
Book of Ephesians Overview BibleProject
Animated overview video placing this passage within its book's structure.
The Church Fathers
Questions preachers ask
What does Ephesians say about Christ’s reign?
Paul prays the church would know the hope of their calling and the power that raised Christ and enthroned him above every rule and authority, head over all things for the church (Ephesians 1:15–23), the enthroned King of the feast.
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