It Starts Small

²⁰ He exercised this power in Christ by raising him from the dead and seating him at his right hand in the heavens— ²¹ far above every ruler and authority, power and dominion, and every title given, not only in this age but also in the one to come. ²² And he subjected everything under his feet and appointed him as head over everything for the church, ²³ which is his body, the fullness of the one who fills all things in every way.

Ephesians 1:20-23

The power Paul exuberantly declares in verse 19, “worked in Christ,” pulsates with life and dynamism! It encompasses two magnificent aspects. First, Paul shines a brilliant light on the staggering resurrection of Jesus from the grave. God triumphantly restored His Son from the clutches of death. This act unveiled an unimaginable force. It was an overwhelming expression of divine power! Christianity stands firmly rooted, ultimately, upon that awe-inspiring, singular event.

Second, Jesus now reigns gloriously at the “right hand” of God! This powerful theme resonates throughout the New Testament, a promise foretold by Jesus himself in Luke 22:69. This message burst forth from the lips of Peter in Acts 2:33 and Acts 5:31. Stephen fervently witnessed it in Acts 7:55–56. The Apostle Paul passionately proclaimed the significance of Jesus at the right hand of God. He spoke about it on multiple occasions (check the cross references). This profound concept echoes in the books of Hebrews and 1 Peter, illustrating a rich tapestry of faith. In ancient thought, the “right hand” symbolized not only closeness but immense power. By placing Jesus in this exalted position, it powerfully asserts Christ’s supremacy, unparalleled authority, and divine ability!

Jesus is magnificently portrayed at the right hand of God in verse 20. His divine status in heaven elevates Him “far above all rule and authority.” He surpasses every power and dominion. This is a striking declaration that Paul uniquely employs in Scripture. In Colossians 2:10, he passionately declares Jesus as the sovereign “who is the head of all rule and authority.” These words encapsulate every conceivable attribute of power. They fully reveal the majestic supremacy of Jesus.

In addition to the incomparable power of Christ, His name resounds with grandeur. It proclaims that “repentance and forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations” (Luke 24:47). The magnificence of His name transcends all time and ages, echoing through history with unyielding strength. Paul leaves no doubt that Christ’s power and authority are utterly unrivaled—no one can ever overshadow Him. Every figure, prophet, and leader emerging after Jesus stands in His immense shadow. Christ reigns now, and His dominion will endure forever! Revelation chapters 21 and 22 unveil the breathtaking details of this eternal reign of our glorious Savior, Jesus.

In verse 21, Paul passionately declares that, by the will of God the Father, Jesus reigns supreme over all creation! The Father and the Son share this glorious reign over everything, as emphasized in Paul’s powerful words. Among all created things, the church shines as the radiant bride of Christ. This is a magnificent theme that Paul will explore in profound detail in chapter 5. Paul describes the church as “the church of the living God.” It is “a pillar and buttress of the truth” (1 Timothy 3:15). The church is the cherished possession of Jesus. It serves as the unyielding foundation of God’s truth. This foundation is crucial to a world in desperate need.

Many Christians passionately believe they can flourish spiritually without the church, yet this passage—and countless others—vehemently refutes that notion. Engaging with the church—the vibrant, living tapestry of fellow believers—is absolutely vital for a believer’s spiritual vitality. Though we are imperfect, it is our family of believers, united in purpose, who embody God’s bride here on Earth. This beautiful journey demands cooperation and unwavering unity. The church is summoned to pursue God’s divine aspirations for our lives, both as a collective and as individuals. Those who strive for spiritual growth in isolation risk missing a crucial facet of their faith. Being an integral part of a church is not just an option. It is woven into God’s magnificent design. It serves as the bedrock for genuine spiritual maturity.

Paul passionately concludes this chapter by illuminating the profound truth that the church is Christ’s body. This powerful metaphor resonates deeply and invites us to embody its meaning. We are the vibrant “hands and feet” of Jesus in this world. We are called to make a transformative impact on those around us. Our mission is to care for others and tirelessly strive for goodness in every action. Each of us is unique as Christians. We are endowed with diverse talents, skills, and roles. All are destined to serve God’s purpose on this earth, as beautifully articulated in 1 Corinthians 12.

The second part of this verse, however, ignites a profound complexity: “the fullness of him who fills all in all.” The most compelling interpretation reveals that Christ pours His abundance into the church, bestowing it with every possible blessing. This beautifully resonates with Ephesians 4:10–11, which passionately declares Christ “filling all things.” Christ doesn’t require the church to achieve His completeness. However, the Divine plan intricately weaves together all that the Father desires (Ephesians 1:10). Thus, the church becomes a magnificent vessel, made whole by Christ’s generous outpouring of blessings.

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Cross References

Reflective Questions:

• Paul seems to shift topics in the middle of verse 19. Why does he shift and what does he shift to?
• Which of Christ’s attributes does he describe?
• What does being seated at God’s right hand signify?
• What does verse 23 mean?
• What does this passage teach us about Christ?
• Have you put your life under Christ’s authority?
• What is one area of your life you struggle to surrender to His complete authority?
• What do you need to do to submit to Him in that area?

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