What is the meaning of Ephesians 3:21? to Him be the glory • The verse begins by fixing our eyes on God Himself—“to Him.” All recognition, honor, and credit belong to the Lord (Psalm 115:1; Romans 11:36). • “Glory” speaks of God’s revealed splendor. We do not add to His glory; we acknowledge it (1 Chronicles 29:11). • Paul’s doxology in Romans 16:27 echoes the same heart: God alone is worthy. The church’s songs, testimonies, and everyday obedience are to spotlight Him (1 Corinthians 10:31). in the church • God’s glory is displayed “in the church,” the redeemed community Jesus purchased with His blood (Acts 20:28). • Practical avenues: – Worship gatherings where believers lift one voice (Hebrews 10:25). – Loving unity that amazes the watching world (John 13:35). – Lives transformed from darkness to light (1 Peter 2:9). • The church is Christ’s body, “the fullness of Him who fills all in all” (Ephesians 1:22-23), so His grandeur is meant to be visible right here among ordinary believers. and in Christ Jesus • Glory also shines “in Christ Jesus.” He is the exact representation of God’s nature (Hebrews 1:3) and the centerpiece of redemption (Colossians 1:15-20). • Every miracle, teaching, and act of compassion in the Gospels reveals the Father (John 14:9-10). • At the cross and empty tomb God’s justice and love converge, making Christ the supreme display of divine glory (John 17:1-5; Philippians 2:9-11). throughout all generations • The praise is not short-lived. God designs His fame to echo “throughout all generations.” • Scripture repeatedly emphasizes His faithfulness to every age (Psalm 100:5; 145:13). • Parents pass the testimony to children (Deuteronomy 6:6-7), local churches disciple new believers, and missionaries carry the story where Christ is not yet named (Romans 10:14-15). forever and ever • Earthly generations flow into eternity. God’s kingdom is everlasting (Daniel 7:14). • Heavenly scenes show unending praise: “To Him who sits on the throne… be blessing and honor and glory and power forever and ever” (Revelation 5:13; 7:12). • Our forever future is worship—rejoicing in Him without the hindrance of sin or decay (Jude 25). Amen • “Amen” means “so be it.” In Scripture it seals certainty (2 Corinthians 1:20; Revelation 22:20). • Paul ends his prayer confident that God will accomplish everything just affirmed. summary Ephesians 3:21 crowns Paul’s prayer by directing all exaltation to God. His glory is to be recognized right now in the gathered church and perfectly revealed in Christ, spreading from one generation to the next and resounding into endless ages. Our fitting response is wholehearted agreement—Amen! |