Daily Devotions
Ephesians
"Far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come."
Text: Ephesians 1:21
AN IMPORTANT DETAIL
It is not without significance that Paul mentioned this detail described in the following phrase.
“Principality and power and might and dominion…”
EPHESIANS 1:21
What did Paul have in mind as he wrote these words?
“Principality” (“arche”)
This word may be used to describe people with tremendous authority and power. It may have reference to human rulers. However it is also possible to use this word to describe angels or demons with great authority.
“Power” (“exousia”)
This word actually describes a person with great “authority.” It may be applied to either human, angelic or demonic personages.
“Might” (“dunamis”)
This is the word that is sometimes translated as “power”. Again, the “might” or “power” may be reference to that human, angelic or demonic may possess.
“Dominion” (“kuriotes”)
This word may be translated “lordship”. The idea behind this word is “powerful influence”. Human beings, angels and demons may indeed be described as having “dominion” or “lordship”.
“FAR ABOVE ALL…”
It is very likely that Paul had in mind all three aspects- human, angelic and demonic! This best explains the meaning and the significance of Christ seating at the right hand of God the Father. In that exalted position, He is above all angels, above all demons, and certainly above mere mortals.
“NOT ONLY IN THIS AGE BUT ALSO IN THAT WHICH IS TO COME”
We are introduced to Paul’s understanding of the concept of “ages”. Essentially, Paul distinguished two:-
1. “This age”
This would cover the present time.
2. “That which is to come”
We need to recall what Paul wrote earlier concerning God’s master plan for the future.
“In the dispensation of the fullness of the times
He might gather together in one all things in Christ…”
EPHESIANS 1:10
Christ Jesus will always be seated at the right hand of God for all eternity!