Devine Scripture

Ephesians 3:21

What does Ephesians 3:21 mean?

A plain-English look at Ephesians 3:21 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Ephesians 3:21 means

Paul ascribes glory to God in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever. God is glorified in the redeemed community and in the Son through whom redemption comes. The pairing shows that Christ and His body are the chosen theater of God’s praise in history and eternity. The time horizon is limitless—“for ever and ever”—and the scope is universal—“to all generations.” The fitting end to doctrine and prayer is worship. Having traced God’s purpose and sought His power, Paul ends by returning all honor to Him, sealing the prayer with “Amen,” a word of hearty agreement and trust.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

unto him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus unto all generations for ever and ever. Amen.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

unto him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus unto all generations for ever and ever. Amen.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

To him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations for ever and ever. So be it.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

to Him <FI>is<Fi> the glory in the assembly in Christ Jesus, to all the generations of the age of the ages. Amen.

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

To him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus, unto all generations, world without end. Amen.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

to him be glory in the assembly in Christ Jesus unto all generations of the age of ages. Amen).

Context

This final verse completes the doxology begun in verse 20 and closes the chapter. It gathers the chapter’s themes—church, Christ Jesus, divine power, and eternal purpose—into one sustained note of praise. With the prayer concluded, the letter will turn in the next chapter to practical exhortations grounded in these truths. Seeing verse 21 as the capstone helps the reader hold together theology, prayer, and worship as inseparable parts of Christian life.

v.20Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,

v.21This passage

Cross references

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

  • Psalms 72:19

    And blessed be his glorious name for ever; And let the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen, and Amen.

  • 2 Timothy 4:18

    The Lord will deliver me from every evil work, and will save me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be the glory for ever and ever. Amen.

  • 2 Peter 3:18

    But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and for ever. Amen.

  • Revelation 5:9

    And they sing a new song, saying, Worthy art thou to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and didst purchase unto God with thy blood men of every tribe, and tongue, and people, and nation,

  • Isaiah 42:12

    Let them give glory unto Jehovah, and declare his praise in the islands.

  • Psalms 29:1

    Ascribe unto Jehovah, O ye sons of the mighty, Ascribe unto Jehovah glory and strength.

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