Now all glory to God, Who is able, through His mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. – Ephesians 3:20 NLT
What Is the Context of Ephesians 3?
What does it mean that God can accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think? As with many verses that talk about God’s ability and desire to fulfill our requests, we have to view it in context or else lose its profound meaning (and potentially twist its intended meaning).
The Apostle Paul begins Ephesians 3 by sharing about God’s mysterious plan, revealed to Paul and other apostles and prophets through the Holy Spirit. Paul explains that God’s plan of redemption included both Jews and Gentiles (non-Jews).
For centuries, the Jews had been considered God’s chosen people––set apart for a greater purpose. But under the new covenant established by Jesus, salvation is made available to anyone who puts their faith in Jesus and declares Him to be the Lord, King, and Savior (Romans 10).
What Does Ephesians 3:20 Mean?
Paul then goes on to express his undeservedness to spread the Good News. Prior to his conversion, Paul persecuted the early Church. He was not just ambivalent toward the movement of Jesus followers––he was one of their worst oppressors.
But after his conversion, Paul experienced a profound revelation––God’s grace and mercy are sufficient for anyone who repents. It is because of this immense forgiveness and love that Paul is convinced there’s nothing God is unable to do in the heart of those who trust in Him and submit to the transforming work of His Spirit.
Ephesians 3:20 is not about God granting our every wish above and beyond what we demand. It is about knowing that God not only listens to our pleas to be healed from sin, He goes far beyond fulfilling that request by making us into the image of His beloved Son.
All of this is done to the glory of God by the power of His Spirit. Every believer has both the call and responsibility to seek God daily, walk with Him on the path of righteousness, and live with full confidence that He will do an unbelievable work in us and through us.
