Introduction
Yesterday we talked about the path laid out in Proverbs 22:4 that begins with humility and holy reverence, then unfolds into rewards beyond measure—wealth for the humble, honor for the faithful, and unimaginably abundant life beyond mortal reckoning. Ephesians 3:20 in the Amplified Bible emphasizes God’s unmatched ability to work beyond human expectations. This scripture encourages us believers to fully trust in God’s power and faithfulness. It serves as a reminder that God is capable of far more than what we can ask or imagine. In a world that often focuses on limitations, Ephesians 3:20 strives to shift the believer’s perspective toward God’s infinite capabilities. This narrative will explore the depth of this scripture, its significance for today’s Christians, and the practical ways it can strengthen faith and inspire hope.
Now Let’s Eat Some Meat!
Ephesians 3:20 (AMP): “Now to Him who is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly more than all that we dare ask or think [infinitely beyond our greatest prayers, hopes, or dreams], according to His power that is at work within us.”
Context of Ephesians 3:20
Ephesians is a letter written by the Apostle Paul while imprisoned. It is rich in teachings about the nature of the church and the believer’s identity in Christ. Chapter 3 concludes with a powerful prayer for the spiritual strength of believers, highlighting God’s immense power and love. Paul’s declaration in verse 20 follows his prayer for the Ephesians, and by extension us to grasp the full magnitude and Power of Christ’s love for and in us. This scripture points to God’s capacity to exceed human understanding and expectation through His divine power at work within believers.
Exploration of Ephesians 3:20
God’s Ability Beyond Imagination Key Phrase: “Now to Him who is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly more”
The scripture begins by focusing on God’s unmatched ability to fulfill His purposes. The Amplified Bible emphasizes that God can do “superabundantly” more than we dare to ask or imagine. This indicates that His power is not only sufficient but is overflowing, surpassing human limitations. Isaiah 55:8-9 (AMP) reinforces this truth; “‘For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,’ declares the Lord. ‘For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways And My thoughts higher than your thoughts.’”
These verses remind believers that God’s methods and capabilities transcend human logic and comprehension. His ability to fulfill His purposes goes beyond the boundaries of human possibility.
Relevance to Today’s Believers:
In an era marked by uncertainty and challenges, it is easy for believers to feel confined by circumstances. Ephesians 3:20 is an assurance that God’s power is not limited by human constraints. Believers are encouraged to raise their prayers and expectations, knowing that God is able to do more than they can envision. And by raise, I’m not solely talking about raising them up to God’s ears, I’m talking about recognizing the omnipotence of our God and His unimaginable love for us. Let me unpack this further, when we’re children we limit what we ask of our parents because we recognize their human limitations, income, resources, influence, power, etc. God on the other hand HAS ABSOLUTELY NONE of those limitations. Picture this: You're in a room with God about to ask Him something, as He casually adjusts the cosmos, tilting the earth back toward the sun on December 21st, then He turns to you with divine attention asking, "My Child, what was it you were seeking?" This isn't imagination—this is your spiritual reality. You truly are in that throne room of grace where the One who orchestrates the seasons waits to hear your heart. READ THAT LAST PARAGRAPH AGAIN! SELAH.
Mark 11:24 takes on new meaning from this heavenly vantage point: "For this reason I am telling you, whatever things you ask for in prayer [in accordance with God’s will], believe [with confident trust] that you have received them, and they will be given to you." When you truly grasp that you're seated in heavenly places with Christ, watching Him govern galaxies, how could you doubt His ability to answer your prayers? This isn't about straining to believe—it's about awakening to where you already are: in the very presence of the Almighty, where every prayer is heard and answered according to His perfect will. We will get into that more tomorrow!
This understanding builds faith and shifts the focus from human effort to divine capability, promoting trust in God’s intervention and timing. So raise those prayers and confidently expect God’s response.
The Measure of God’s Work
Key Phrase: “According to His power that is at work within us”
Paul explains that God’s power works through and in believers. This divine power is not just external; it is active within those who trust in Him. This highlights the intimate relationship between God and His children, where His Spirit works within them to bring about His purposes. Romans 8:11 (AMP) supports this: “And if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead lives in you, He who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit, who lives in you.”
This verse demonstrates the extent of God’s power, showing that the same Spirit that raised Christ is at work in believers. It speaks of an active, transformative power that is present and operative in those who follow Him.
Relevance to Today’s Believers:
Understanding that God’s power works within us can inspire believers to live confidently. It shifts reliance from self-sufficiency to God’s provision and strength. For those facing challenges, this is a source of hope. It means that God’s power equips them to overcome trials, make wise decisions, and fulfill His calling. This assurance helps believers move forward with boldness, knowing they are not limited by their own abilities but are empowered by God’s limitless strength and His willingness to do for us based on His also limitless Love for us.
The Scope of God’s Capability Key Phrase: “Infinitely beyond our greatest prayers, hopes, or dreams”
Paul’s words here indicate that no human dream or prayer can outsize God’s capacity. The Amplified Bible’s choice of “infinitely beyond” highlights that God’s potential to act exceeds the grandest expectations one might have. 1 Corinthians 2:9 (AMP) captures this: “But just as it is written [in Scripture], ‘Things which the eye has not seen and the ear has not heard, And which have not entered the heart of man, All that God has prepared for those who love Him.’”
This verse echoes the reality that God’s plans and gifts are beyond what humans can naturally perceive. His vision for believers far exceeds what they can imagine or hope for.
Relevance to Today’s Believers:
For believers facing moments of doubt or uncertainty, Ephesians 3:20 reassures them that God’s answers to their prayers can and will be more extraordinary than they expect. We just need to trust and expect that extraordinary response from God. Ephesians 3:20 invites us to trust that God’s solutions are bigger and better, even if they don’t align with our immediate desires or plans. This scripture inspires believers to maintain faith, especially when outcomes seem uncertain or delayed. Trusting in God’s capacity to work “infinitely beyond” helps cultivate patience and a perspective rooted in divine timing.
Summary Ephesians 3:20 is a powerful reminder of God’s boundless love, capability and active presence in believers’ lives. It underscores that God is able to accomplish far more than what we can ask or even imagine. This power is already at work within those of us who follow Him. The scripture encourages believers to approach God boldly with faith, trusting that He is able to fulfill His purposes in unimaginable ways.
The call to recognize His power working within us believers invites us to move forward with courage. It shifts our focus from our human limitations to His divine unlimited possibilities, fostering a deeper sense of trust and reliance on God. Knowing that God’s power is unlimited inspires believers to pray confidently, hope expansively, and dream courageously, knowing that He is more than able to meet our deepest needs and expectations.
In conclusion, Ephesians 3:20 is not merely a declaration of God’s power but an invitation to live with the assurance that God can do more than the human mind can comprehend. This scripture serves as an anchor, encouraging us believers to trust in His power and look beyond our own capabilities. It reinforces that as we submit our plans to God, we can rest in the knowledge that His purposes are infinitely greater and that His power is constantly at work within us.
If You Have Ears To Hear, Then Hear It!
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