Ephesians 3:20-21

Text (Ephesians 3:20-21)

20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, 21 unto him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus unto all generations forever and ever. Amen.

Thought Questions (Ephesians 3:20-21)

173.

Who is it that is able to exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think?

174.

How much can you think of for God to do? Can God do that much? Can He do more than that?

175.

Is God's power available to us now, or will it only be available to us in the future life?

176.

What is ascribed to God?

177.

In what two areas is God glorified? How is He glorified in each?

178.

How long shall glory be ascribed to God?

Paraphrase

To paraphrase this sublime doxology is almost like trying to beautify a pearl by painting it. Memorize it, Meditate on it, Make it your own.

Notes (Ephesians 3:20-21)

1.

This sublime doxology comes at the close of an exalted prayer. The doxology informs us in moving words that our glorious God is able to grant the marvelous requests stated in the prayer of Ephesians 3:16-19.

2.

The word doxology means a word of glory, or an ascription of glory. This definition certainly described these verses.

3.

God not only can do great things, but He can do exceeding abundantly (or beyond all measure) above all things which we can ask or think. We can think of great things for God to do. God can do much more than we ask or think that it is beyond all measure.

4.

This unimaginable ability of God is according to the power that doth energize itself within us (Rotherham). God's power is working within us now. We do not have to wait until the future life to avail ourselves of it.

5.

God is glorified in the church and in Christ Jesus. In the church, God is glorified as His saints praise Him and His saving grace. Also, God is glorified in the church because the very fact of its existence causes heavenly beings to glorify God for redeeming such a body unto Himself (Revelation 5:8-10).

God is glorified in Christ Jesus because Christ did always do His Father's will, and glorify His Father's name (John 17:4). And the pleasure of the Lord prospers in His (Christ'S) hand (Isaiah 53:10).

6.

This glory unto God is to continue unto all the generations of the age of the ages (Revised Version, margin). Here, as elsewhere in the Scriptures, eternity is viewed not as one incomprehensibly endless period, but as a succession of ages, one after another, stretching as far as can be perceived, and then on beyond.

Fact Questions

175.

How does this doxology fittingly close the prayer of Ephesians 3:16-19?

176.

Quote from memory the doxology and give its Scripture limitations.