Ephesians 6:10-11
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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The phrase "be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might" isn't just a more intense way of saying "be strong." It highlights that our strength comes from two interconnected sources: our union with Christ (being strong in Him) and the dynamic, active force of God's power that works through Him to empower us.
After a lengthy discussion on Christian living within various relationships, Paul shifts to address the spiritual warfare believers face. He has just urged them to put on the whole armor of God, so this verse serves as the foundational call to action, emphasizing that this battle requires supernatural strength, not their own. This is the prelude to describing the specific spiritual enemies they will encounter and the divine equipment needed to stand firm against them.
Ever feel like you're trying to push a boulder uphill in your own strength? This verse tells us where real power comes from.
The exhortation to 'be strong in the Lord' is crucial. It's not about summoning your inner willpower or self-confidence. Instead, it's about drawing power from a divine source.
Relying on God's Power
The verse uses not one, but two powerful words for strength. What's the difference, and why does it matter?
Paul doesn't just say 'be strong in the Lord'; he adds 'and in the power of his might.' This isn't just repetition; it emphasizes the magnitude and source of God's enabling power.
Understanding the Emphasis
Understand the original words
endynamoō · Greek Verb
To be empowered or invigorated; in the Christian life, it denotes a passive reception of supernatural power that originates from God.
kratos · Greek Noun
Inherent power, ability, or authority; when referring to God, it signifies His supreme and irresistible capability to act and uphold His creation.
panoplia · Greek Noun
The complete set of spiritual equipment provided by God to believers to withstand spiritual opposition. It reflects the character and attributes of God Himself, which the believer is called to 'clothe' themselves with.
methodeia · Greek Noun
A crafty, deceitful plan or stratagem designed to trap, mislead, or defeat. In Scripture, it highlights the strategic, intellectual, and deceptive nature of demonic opposition.
This verse echoes Ephesians 6:10 by emphasizing that our ability to do all things comes through Christ who strengthens us, highlighting the source of our power.
Colossians 1:11It speaks of being strengthened with all power according to God's glorious might, mirroring the concept of drawing strength from God's power for endurance and perseverance.
1 Samuel 16:18This passage introduces David as 'skillful in playing, a mighty man of valor, a man of war, prudent in speech, and a comely person,' showcasing a human example of strength and capability that ultimately finds its true source in God's empowerment.
Zechariah 4:6This verse clarifies that victory and strength do not come by might or power, but by God's Spirit, directly supporting the idea in Ephesians that our strength must come from the Lord.
barnesEphesians 6:10: "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might."
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord - Paul had now stated to the Ephesians the duties which they were to perform. He had considered the various relations of life which they sustained, and the obligations resulting from them. He was not unaware that in the discharge of their duties they would need strength from above. He knew that they had great and mighty foes, and that to meet them, they neede…
gillEphesians 6:10: "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might."
Finally, my brethren,.... This is the conclusion of the apostle's exhortations, in which he addresses the saints as his brethren; which appellation he uses, not merely as a familiar way of speaking among the Jews, but in regard to them as regenerate persons, and of the same family and household of God with himself; and he calls them so, to show his humility, and as a proof of his affection to them, and…
The phrase "be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might" isn't just a more intense way of saying "be strong." It highlights that our strength comes from two interconnected sources: our union with Christ (being strong in Him) and the dynamic, active force of God's power that works through Him to empower us.
After a lengthy discussion on Christian living within various relationships, Paul shifts to address the spiritual warfare believers face. He has just urged them to put on the whole armor of God, so this verse serves as the foundational call to action, emphasizing that this battle requires supernatural strength, not their own. This is the prelude to describing the specific spiritual enemies they will encounter and the divine equipment needed to stand firm against them.
After a lengthy discussion on Christian living within various relationships, Paul shifts to address the spiritual warfare believers face. He has just urged them to put on the whole armor of God, so this verse serves as the foundational call to action, emphasizing that this battle requires supernatural strength, not their own. This is the prelude to describing the specific spiritual enemies they will encounter and the divine equipment needed to stand firm against them.
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diabolos · Greek Noun
The personal adversary of God and His people, the 'slanderer' who is the originator of evil and the leader of demonic forces.
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil." — The phrase "be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might" isn't just a more intense way of saying "be strong." It highlights that our strength comes from two interconnected sources: our unio…
