Devine Scripture

Ephesians 3:13

What does Ephesians 3:13 mean?

A plain-English look at Ephesians 3:13 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Ephesians 3:13 means

Paul asks the Ephesians not to be discouraged by his tribulations for their sake, for those sufferings are their glory. His hardships, including imprisonment, are tied to the advance of the gospel among the Gentiles. Rather than a sign of failure, they mark the honor of participating in Christ’s mission. Their “glory” points to the noble outcome—Gentiles share in Christ’s promises, and the church is built up. If Paul’s chains came through preaching this grace to them, they should see his suffering as purposeful, not pitiable. He reframes adversity as part of God’s plan, encouraging steadfastness in light of the benefits they now enjoy.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

Wherefore I ask that ye may not faint at my tribulations for you, which are your glory.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

Wherefore I ask that ye may not faint at my tribulations for you, which are your glory.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

For this reason it is my prayer that you may not become feeble because of my troubles for you, which are your glory.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

wherefore, I ask <FI>you<Fi> not to faint in my tribulations for you, which is your glory.

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

Wherefore I pray you not to faint at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

Wherefore I beseech [you] not to faint through my tribulations for you, which is your glory.

Context

This verse closes Paul’s digression (verses 2–13) that began in verse 1. He has explained his calling, the revealed mystery, and God’s purpose, and now urges the readers not to lose heart over his sufferings. With that pastoral word, he returns to the prayer he intended to begin, signaled again by “For this cause” in verse 14. Understanding verse 13 as a conclusion to the parenthesis helps the reader transition from explanation to intercession.

v.12in whom we have boldness and access in confidence through our faith in him.

v.13This passage

v.14For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father,

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Philippians 1:12

    Now I would have you know, brethren, that the thingswhich happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the progress of the gospel;

  • 1 Thessalonians 3:2

    and sent Timothy, our brother and God’s minister in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith;

  • Galatians 6:9

    And let us not be weary in well-doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

  • Ephesians 3:1

    For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus in behalf of you Gentiles,—

  • Deuteronomy 20:3

    and shall say unto them, Hear, O Israel, ye draw nigh this day unto battle against your enemies: let not your heart faint; fear not, nor tremble, neither be ye affrighted at them;

  • Isaiah 40:30

    Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall:

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