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Text -- Ephesians 6:17-24 (NET)

Strongs On/Off
Context
6:17 And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 6:18 With every prayer and petition, pray at all times in the Spirit, and to this end be alert, with all perseverance and requests for all the saints. 6:19 Pray for me also, that I may be given the message when I begin to speak– that I may confidently make known the mystery of the gospel, 6:20 for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may be able to speak boldly as I ought to speak.
Farewell Comments
6:21 Tychicus, my dear brother and faithful servant in the Lord, will make everything known to you, so that you too may know about my circumstances, how I am doing. 6:22 I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know our circumstances and that he may encourage your hearts. 6:23 Peace to the brothers and sisters, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 6:24 Grace be with all of those who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love.
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Names, People and Places, Dictionary Themes and Topics

Names, People and Places:
 · Tychicus a man who was a fellow worker with Paul


Dictionary Themes and Topics: Zeal | TRINITY, 1 | Sword | ROME | Minister | MYSTERY | Luke, Gospel according to | Intercession | HOLY SPIRIT, 2 | Gospel | Ephesians, Epistle to | EPHESIANS, EPISTLE TO THE | Chain | CHAIN; CHAINS | Bless | BIBLE, THE, I-III INTRODUCTION | Armour | ARMOR; ARMS | AMBASSADOR | ALLEGORY | more
Table of Contents

Word/Phrase Notes
Robertson , Vincent , Wesley , JFB , Clarke , Calvin , Defender , TSK

Word/Phrase Notes
Barnes , Poole , PBC , Haydock , Gill

Verse Notes / Footnotes
NET Notes , Geneva Bible

Verse Range Notes
TSK Synopsis , Combined Bible , Maclaren , MHCC , Matthew Henry , Barclay , Constable , College

Other
Evidence

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Commentary -- Word/Phrase Notes (per phrase)

Robertson: Eph 6:17 - -- The helmet of salvation ( tēn perikephalaian tou sōtēriou ). Late word (peri , kephalē , head, around the head), in Polybius, lxx, 1Th 5:8; ...

The helmet of salvation ( tēn perikephalaian tou sōtēriou ).

Late word (peri , kephalē , head, around the head), in Polybius, lxx, 1Th 5:8; Eph 6:17 alone in N.T.

Robertson: Eph 6:17 - -- Which is the word of God ( ho estin to rēma tou theou ). Explanatory relative (ho ) referring to the sword (machairan ). The sword given by the S...

Which is the word of God ( ho estin to rēma tou theou ).

Explanatory relative (ho ) referring to the sword (machairan ). The sword given by the Spirit to be wielded as offensive weapon (the others defensive) by the Christian is the word of God. See note on Heb 4:12 where the word of God is called "sharper than any two-edged sword."

Robertson: Eph 6:18 - -- At all seasons ( en panti kairōi ). "On every occasion."Prayer is needed in this fight. The panoply of God is necessary, but so is prayer.

At all seasons ( en panti kairōi ).

"On every occasion."Prayer is needed in this fight. The panoply of God is necessary, but so is prayer.

Robertson: Eph 6:18 - -- @@"Satan trembles when he sees, The weakest saint upon his knees."

@@"Satan trembles when he sees, The weakest saint upon his knees."

Robertson: Eph 6:19 - -- That utterance may be given unto me ( hina moi dothēi logos ). Final clause with hina and first aorist passive subjunctive of didōmi , to give....

That utterance may be given unto me ( hina moi dothēi logos ).

Final clause with hina and first aorist passive subjunctive of didōmi , to give. See a like request in Col 4:3. Paul wishes their prayer for courage for himself.

Robertson: Eph 6:20 - -- For which I am an ambassador in chains ( huper hou presbeuō en halusei ). "For which mystery"of the gospel (Eph 6:19). Presbeuō is an old word ...

For which I am an ambassador in chains ( huper hou presbeuō en halusei ).

"For which mystery"of the gospel (Eph 6:19). Presbeuō is an old word for ambassador (from presbus , an old man) in N.T. only here and 2Co 5:20. Paul is now an old man (presbutēs , Phm 1:9) and feels the dignity of his position as Christ’ s ambassador though "in a chain"(en halusei , old word halusis , from a privative and luō , to loosen). Paul will wear a chain at the close of his life in Rome (2Ti 1:16).

Robertson: Eph 6:20 - -- In it ( en autōi ). In the mystery of the gospel. This is probably a second purpose (hina ), the first for utterance (hina dothēi ), this for b...

In it ( en autōi ).

In the mystery of the gospel. This is probably a second purpose (hina ), the first for utterance (hina dothēi ), this for boldness (hina parrēsiasōmai , first aorist middle subjunctive, old word to speak out boldly). See note on 1Th 2:2. See note on Col 4:4 for "as I ought."

Robertson: Eph 6:21 - -- That ye also may know ( hina eidēte kai humeis ). Final clause with hina and second perfect subjunctive active of oida . For Tychicus, see note o...

That ye also may know ( hina eidēte kai humeis ).

Final clause with hina and second perfect subjunctive active of oida . For Tychicus, see note on Col 4:7.

Robertson: Eph 6:22 - -- That ye may know ( hina gnōte ). Second aorist active subjunctive of ginōskō . Just as in Col 4:8 he had not written hina eidēte in Eph 6:2...

That ye may know ( hina gnōte ).

Second aorist active subjunctive of ginōskō . Just as in Col 4:8 he had not written hina eidēte in Eph 6:21.

Robertson: Eph 6:22 - -- Our state ( ta peri hēmōn ). "The things concerning us,"practically the same as ta kat' eme of Eph 6:21. See both phrases in Col 4:7, Col 4:8.

Our state ( ta peri hēmōn ).

"The things concerning us,"practically the same as ta kat' eme of Eph 6:21. See both phrases in Col 4:7, Col 4:8.

Robertson: Eph 6:23 - -- Love and faith ( agapē meta pisteōs ). Love of the brotherhood accompanied by faith in Christ and as an expression of it.

Love and faith ( agapē meta pisteōs ).

Love of the brotherhood accompanied by faith in Christ and as an expression of it.

Robertson: Eph 6:24 - -- In uncorruptness ( en aphtharsiāi ). A never diminishing love. See note on 1Co 15:42 for aphtharsia .||

In uncorruptness ( en aphtharsiāi ).

A never diminishing love. See note on 1Co 15:42 for aphtharsia .||

Vincent: Eph 6:17 - -- Take the helmet of salvation ( τὴν περικεφαλαίαν τοῦ σωτηρίου δέξασθε ) Compare Isa 59:17; 1Th 5:8. ...

Take the helmet of salvation ( τὴν περικεφαλαίαν τοῦ σωτηρίου δέξασθε )

Compare Isa 59:17; 1Th 5:8. Take is a different word from that used in Eph 6:13, Eph 6:16. It is receive as from God. The meaning is the helmet which is salvation . The protection for the head . The helmet was originally of skin, strengthened with bronze or other metal, and surmounted with a figure adorned with a horsehair crest. It was furnished with a visor to protect the face.

Vincent: Eph 6:17 - -- Sword of the Spirit ( μάχαιραν τοῦ πνεύματος ) See on Rev 6:4. The word of God serves both for attack and to parry the ...

Sword of the Spirit ( μάχαιραν τοῦ πνεύματος )

See on Rev 6:4. The word of God serves both for attack and to parry the thrusts of the enemy. Thus Christ used it in His temptation. It is the sword of the Spirit , because the Spirit of God gives it and inspires it. The Spirit's aid is needed for its interpretation. Compare Joh 14:10; Heb 4:12, in which latter passage the image is sacrificial.

Vincent: Eph 6:17 - -- Word of God ( ῥῆμα θεοῦ ) See on Luk 1:37. See Luk 3:2; Luk 4:4; Rom 10:17; Heb 6:5; Heb 11:3.

Word of God ( ῥῆμα θεοῦ )

See on Luk 1:37. See Luk 3:2; Luk 4:4; Rom 10:17; Heb 6:5; Heb 11:3.

Vincent: Eph 6:18 - -- Always ( ἐν παντὶ καιρῷ ) Incorrect. It means on every occasion . Rev., at all seasons . Compare Luk 21:36.

Always ( ἐν παντὶ καιρῷ )

Incorrect. It means on every occasion . Rev., at all seasons . Compare Luk 21:36.

Vincent: Eph 6:18 - -- With all prayer and supplication ( διὰ πάσης προσευχῆς καὶ δεήσεως ) Prayer is general, supplication spe...

With all prayer and supplication ( διὰ πάσης προσευχῆς καὶ δεήσεως )

Prayer is general, supplication special. Διά with is literally through ; that is, through the medium of . All , lit., every . Prayer is of various kinds, formal, silent, vocal, secret, public, petitionary, ejaculatory - shot upward like a dart ( jaculum ) on a sudden emergency. Compare Psa 5:1, Psa 5:2.

Vincent: Eph 6:18 - -- Watching thereunto ( εἰς αὐτὸ ἀγρυπνοῦντες ) Compare Col 4:2. For watching , see on Mar 13:33, Mar 13:35. Thereunt...

Watching thereunto ( εἰς αὐτὸ ἀγρυπνοῦντες )

Compare Col 4:2. For watching , see on Mar 13:33, Mar 13:35. Thereunto , unto prayer, for occasions of prayer, and to maintain the spirit of prayer. One must watch before prayer, in prayer, after prayer.

Vincent: Eph 6:18 - -- Perseverance ( προσκαρτερήσει ) Only here. The kindred verb προσκαρτερέω to continue , occurs often. See on Act ...

Perseverance ( προσκαρτερήσει )

Only here. The kindred verb προσκαρτερέω to continue , occurs often. See on Act 1:14.

Vincent: Eph 6:19 - -- Boldly Connect with to make known , as Rev.; not with open my mouth , as A.V.

Boldly

Connect with to make known , as Rev.; not with open my mouth , as A.V.

Vincent: Eph 6:19 - -- Mystery See on Rom 11:25; see on Col 1:26.

Mystery

See on Rom 11:25; see on Col 1:26.

Vincent: Eph 6:20 - -- I am an ambassador in bonds ( πρεσβεύω ἐν ἁλύσει ) The verb to be an ambassador occurs only here and 2Co 5:20. Se...

I am an ambassador in bonds ( πρεσβεύω ἐν ἁλύσει )

The verb to be an ambassador occurs only here and 2Co 5:20. See on Phm 1:9. In bonds , lit., in a chain : the particular word for the coupling-chain by which he was bound to the hand of his guard.

Vincent: Eph 6:21 - -- That ye also may know, etc. Compare Cicero to Atticus: " Send us some letter-carrier, that both you may know how it goes with us, and that we may...

That ye also may know, etc.

Compare Cicero to Atticus: " Send us some letter-carrier, that both you may know how it goes with us, and that we may know how you fare and what you are going to do" (v., 18).

Vincent: Eph 6:21 - -- Tychicus See on Col 4:7.

Tychicus

See on Col 4:7.

Vincent: Eph 6:21 - -- A beloved brother Rev., correctly, the beloved brother. Tychicus is referred to as well known.

A beloved brother

Rev., correctly, the beloved brother. Tychicus is referred to as well known.

Vincent: Eph 6:24 - -- In sincerity ( ἐν ἀφθαρσίᾳ ) Rev., correctly, in incorruptness : who love Christ with an imperishable and incorruptible love...

In sincerity ( ἐν ἀφθαρσίᾳ )

Rev., correctly, in incorruptness : who love Christ with an imperishable and incorruptible love.

Wesley: Eph 6:17 - -- 1Th 5:8. The head is that part which is most carefully to be defended. One stroke here may prove fatal. The armour for this is the hope of salvation. ...

1Th 5:8. The head is that part which is most carefully to be defended. One stroke here may prove fatal. The armour for this is the hope of salvation. The lowest degree of this hope is a confidence that God will work the whole work of faith in us; the highest is a full assurance of future glory, added to the experimental knowledge of pardoning love. Armed with this helmet, the hope of the joy set before him, Christ "endured the cross, and despised the shame," Heb 12:2. And the sword of the Spirit, the word of God - This Satan cannot withstand, when it is edged and wielded by faith. Till now our armour has been only defensive. But we are to attack Satan, as well as secure ourselves; the shield in one hand, and the sword in the other. Whoever fights with the powers of hell will need both. He that is covered with armour from head to foot, and neglects this, will be foiled after all. This whole description shows us how great a thing it is to be a Christian. The want of any one thing makes him incomplete. Though he has his loins girt with truth, righteousness for a breastplate, his feet shod with the preparation of the gospel, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit; yet one thing he wants after all. What is that? It follows,

Wesley: Eph 6:18 - -- At all times, and on every occasion, in midst of all employments, inwardly praying without ceasing.

At all times, and on every occasion, in midst of all employments, inwardly praying without ceasing.

Wesley: Eph 6:18 - -- Through the influence of the Holy Spirit.

Through the influence of the Holy Spirit.

Wesley: Eph 6:18 - -- With all sort of prayer, public, private, mental, vocal. Some are careful in respect of one kind of prayer, and negligent in others. If we would have ...

With all sort of prayer, public, private, mental, vocal. Some are careful in respect of one kind of prayer, and negligent in others. If we would have the petitions we ask, let us use all. Some there are who use only mental prayer or ejaculations, and think they are in a state of grace, and use a way of worship, far superior to any other: but such only fancy themselves to be above what is really above them; it requiring far more grace to be enabled to pour out a fervent and continued prayer, than to offer up mental aspirations.

Wesley: Eph 6:18 - -- Repeating and urging our prayer, as Christ did in the garden.

Repeating and urging our prayer, as Christ did in the garden.

Wesley: Eph 6:18 - -- Inwardly attending on God, to know his will, to gain power to do it, and to attain to the blessings we desire.

Inwardly attending on God, to know his will, to gain power to do it, and to attain to the blessings we desire.

Wesley: Eph 6:18 - -- Continuing to the end in this holy exercise.

Continuing to the end in this holy exercise.

Wesley: Eph 6:18 - -- Wrestling in fervent, continued intercession for others, especially for the faithful, that they may do all the will of God, and be steadfast to the en...

Wrestling in fervent, continued intercession for others, especially for the faithful, that they may do all the will of God, and be steadfast to the end. Perhaps we receive few answers to prayer, because we do not intercede enough for others.

Wesley: Eph 6:19 - -- Removing every inward and every outward hinderance.

Removing every inward and every outward hinderance.

Wesley: Eph 6:20 - -- The ambassadors of men usually appear in great pomp. How differently does the ambassador of Christ appear!

The ambassadors of men usually appear in great pomp. How differently does the ambassador of Christ appear!

Wesley: Eph 6:21 - -- As well as others.

As well as others.

Wesley: Eph 6:22 - -- By relating the supports I find from God, and the success of the gospel.

By relating the supports I find from God, and the success of the gospel.

Wesley: Eph 6:23 - -- This verse recapitulates the whole epistle.

This verse recapitulates the whole epistle.

Wesley: Eph 6:24 - -- Or in incorruption; without corrupting his genuine gospel, without any mixture of corrupt affections. And that with continuance, till grace issue in g...

Or in incorruption; without corrupting his genuine gospel, without any mixture of corrupt affections. And that with continuance, till grace issue in glory.

JFB: Eph 6:17 - -- A different Greek word from that in Eph 6:13, Eph 6:16; translate, therefore, "receive," "accept," namely, the helmet offered by the Lord, namely, "sa...

A different Greek word from that in Eph 6:13, Eph 6:16; translate, therefore, "receive," "accept," namely, the helmet offered by the Lord, namely, "salvation" appropriated, as 1Th 5:8, "Helmet, the hope of salvation"; not an uncertain hope, but one that brings with it no shame of disappointment (Rom 5:5). It is subjoined to the shield of faith, as being its inseparable accompaniment (compare Rom 5:1, Rom 5:5). The head of the soldier was among the principal parts to be defended, as on it the deadliest strokes might fall, and it is the head that commands the whole body. The head is the seat of the mind, which, when it has laid hold of the sure Gospel "hope" of eternal life, will not receive false doctrine, or give way to Satan's temptations to despair. God, by this hope, "lifts up the head" (Psa 3:3; Luk 21:28).

JFB: Eph 6:17 - -- That is, furnished by the Spirit, who inspired the writers of the word of God (2Pe 1:21). Again the Trinity is implied: the Spirit here; and Christ in...

That is, furnished by the Spirit, who inspired the writers of the word of God (2Pe 1:21). Again the Trinity is implied: the Spirit here; and Christ in "salvation" and God the Father, Eph 6:13 (compare Heb 4:12; Rev 1:16; Rev 2:12). The two-edged sword, cutting both ways (Psa 45:3, Psa 45:5), striking some with conviction and conversion, and others with condemnation (Isa 11:4; Rev 19:15), is in the mouth of Christ (Isa 49:2), in the hand of His saints (Psa 149:6). Christ's use of this sword in the temptation is our pattern as to how we are to wield it against Satan (Mat 4:4, Mat 4:7, Mat 4:10). There is no armor specified for the back, but only for the front of the body; implying that we must never turn our back to the foe (Luk 9:62); our only safety is in resisting ceaselessly (Mat 4:11; Jam 4:7).

JFB: Eph 6:18 - -- Greek, "in every season"; implying opportunity and exigency (Col 4:2). Paul uses the very words of Jesus in Luk 21:36 (a Gospel which he quotes elsewh...

Greek, "in every season"; implying opportunity and exigency (Col 4:2). Paul uses the very words of Jesus in Luk 21:36 (a Gospel which he quotes elsewhere, in undesigned consonance with the fact of Luke being his associate in travel, 1Co 11:23, &c.; 1Ti 5:18). Compare Luk 18:1; Rom 12:12; 1Th 5:17.

JFB: Eph 6:18 - -- That is, every kind of.

That is, every kind of.

JFB: Eph 6:18 - -- A sacred term for prayer in general.

A sacred term for prayer in general.

JFB: Eph 6:18 - -- A common term for a special kind of prayer [HARLESS], an imploring request. "Prayer" for obtaining blessings, "supplication" for averting evils which ...

A common term for a special kind of prayer [HARLESS], an imploring request. "Prayer" for obtaining blessings, "supplication" for averting evils which we fear [GROTIUS].

JFB: Eph 6:18 - -- To be joined with "praying." It is he in us, as the Spirit of adoption, who prays, and enables us to pray (Rom 8:15, Rom 8:26; Gal 4:6; Jud 1:20).

To be joined with "praying." It is he in us, as the Spirit of adoption, who prays, and enables us to pray (Rom 8:15, Rom 8:26; Gal 4:6; Jud 1:20).

JFB: Eph 6:18 - -- Not sleeping (Eph 5:14; Psa 88:13; Mat 26:41). So in the temple a perpetual watch was maintained (compare Anna, Luk 2:37).

Not sleeping (Eph 5:14; Psa 88:13; Mat 26:41). So in the temple a perpetual watch was maintained (compare Anna, Luk 2:37).

JFB: Eph 6:18 - -- "watching unto" (with a view to) prayer and supplication.

"watching unto" (with a view to) prayer and supplication.

JFB: Eph 6:18 - -- Greek, "in." Persevering constancy ("perseverance") and (that is, exhibited in) supplication are to be the element in which our watchfulness is to be ...

Greek, "in." Persevering constancy ("perseverance") and (that is, exhibited in) supplication are to be the element in which our watchfulness is to be exercised.

JFB: Eph 6:18 - -- As none is so perfect as not to need the intercessions of his fellow Christians.

As none is so perfect as not to need the intercessions of his fellow Christians.

JFB: Eph 6:19 - -- A different Greek preposition from that in Eph 6:18; translate, therefore, "on my behalf."

A different Greek preposition from that in Eph 6:18; translate, therefore, "on my behalf."

JFB: Eph 6:19 - -- Rather, "that there may be given to me 'utterance,' or 'speech' in the opening of my mouth (when I undertake to speak; a formula used in set and solem...

Rather, "that there may be given to me 'utterance,' or 'speech' in the opening of my mouth (when I undertake to speak; a formula used in set and solemn speech, Job 3:1; Dan 10:16), so as with boldness to make known," &c. Bold plainness of speech was the more needed, as the Gospel is a "mystery" undiscoverable by mere reason, and only known by revelation. Paul looked for utterance to be given him; he did not depend on his natural or acquired power. The shortest road to any heart is by way of heaven; pray to God to open the door and to open your mouth, so as to avail yourself of every opening (Jer 1:7-8; Eze 3:8-9, Eze 3:11; 2Co 4:13).

JFB: Eph 6:20 - -- Greek, as in Eph 6:19, "On behalf of which."

Greek, as in Eph 6:19, "On behalf of which."

JFB: Eph 6:20 - -- A paradox. Ambassadors were held inviolable by the law of nations, and could not, without outrage to every sacred right, be put in chains. Yet Christ'...

A paradox. Ambassadors were held inviolable by the law of nations, and could not, without outrage to every sacred right, be put in chains. Yet Christ's "ambassador is in a chain!" The Greek is singular. The Romans used to bind a prisoner to a soldier by a single chain, in a kind of free custody. So Act 28:16, Act 28:20, "I am bound with this chain." The term, "bonds" (plural), on the other hand, is used when the prisoner's hands or feet were bound together (Act 26:29); compare Act 12:6, where the plural marks the distinction. The singular is only used of the particular kind of custody described above; an undesigned coincidence [PALEY].

JFB: Eph 6:21 - -- As I have been discussing things relating to you, so that ye also may know about me (compare Col 4:7-8). NEANDER takes it, "Ye also," as well as the C...

As I have been discussing things relating to you, so that ye also may know about me (compare Col 4:7-8). NEANDER takes it, "Ye also," as well as the Colossians (Col 4:6).

JFB: Eph 6:21 - -- Greek, "the things concerning me."

Greek, "the things concerning me."

JFB: Eph 6:21 - -- How I fare.

How I fare.

JFB: Eph 6:21 - -- An Asiatic, and so a fit messenger bearing the respective Epistles to Ephesus and Colosse (Act 20:4; 2Ti 4:12).

An Asiatic, and so a fit messenger bearing the respective Epistles to Ephesus and Colosse (Act 20:4; 2Ti 4:12).

JFB: Eph 6:21 - -- Greek, "the beloved brother"; the same epithet as in Col 4:7.

Greek, "the beloved brother"; the same epithet as in Col 4:7.

JFB: Eph 6:21 - -- That is, servant.

That is, servant.

JFB: Eph 6:21 - -- In the Lord's work.

In the Lord's work.

JFB: Eph 6:22 - -- Greek, "for this very purpose." Col 4:8 is almost word for word the same as this verse.

Greek, "for this very purpose." Col 4:8 is almost word for word the same as this verse.

JFB: Eph 6:22 - -- Greek, "the things concerning us," namely, concerning myself. "Aristarchus, my fellow prisoner, and Marcus, sister's son to Barnabas" (Col 4:10).

Greek, "the things concerning us," namely, concerning myself. "Aristarchus, my fellow prisoner, and Marcus, sister's son to Barnabas" (Col 4:10).

JFB: Eph 6:23 - -- Faith is presupposed as theirs; he prays that love may accompany it (Gal 5:6).

Faith is presupposed as theirs; he prays that love may accompany it (Gal 5:6).

JFB: Eph 6:24 - -- Contrast the malediction on all who love Him not (1Co 16:22).

Contrast the malediction on all who love Him not (1Co 16:22).

JFB: Eph 6:24 - -- Greek, "in incorruption," that is, not as English Version, but "with an immortal (constant) love" [WAHL]. Compare "that which is not corruptible" (1Pe...

Greek, "in incorruption," that is, not as English Version, but "with an immortal (constant) love" [WAHL]. Compare "that which is not corruptible" (1Pe 3:4). Not a fleeting, earthly love, but a spiritual and eternal one [ALFORD]. Contrast Col 2:22, worldly things "which perish with the using." Compare 1Co 9:25, "corruptible . . . incorruptible crown." "Purely," "holily" [ESTIUS], without the corruption of sin (See on 1Co 3:17; 2Pe 1:4; Jud 1:10). Where the Lord Jesus has a true believer, there I have a brother [BISHOP M'IKWAINE]. He who is good enough for Christ, is good enough for me [R. HALL]. The differences of opinion among real Christians are comparatively small, and show that they are not following one another like silly sheep, each trusting the one before him. Their agreement in the main, while showing their independence as witnesses by differing in non-essentials, can only be accounted for by their being all in the right direction (Act 15:8-9; 1Co 1:2; 1Co 12:3).

Clarke: Eph 6:17 - -- Take the helmet of salvation - Or, as it is expressed, 1Th 5:8, And for a helmet, the hope of salvation. It has already been observed, in the descri...

Take the helmet of salvation - Or, as it is expressed, 1Th 5:8, And for a helmet, the hope of salvation. It has already been observed, in the description of the Grecian armor, that on the crest and other parts of the helmet were a great variety of emblematical figures, and that it is very likely the apostle refers to helmets which had on them an emblematical representation of hope; viz. that the person should be safe who wore it, that he should be prosperous in all his engagements, and ever escape safe from battle. So the hope of conquering every adversary and surmounting every difficulty, through the blood of the Lamb, is as a helmet that protects the head; an impenetrable one, that the blow of the battle-axe cannot cleave. The hope of continual safety and protection, built on the promises of God, to which the upright follower of Christ feels he has a Divine right, protects the understanding from being darkened, and the judgment from being confused by any temptations of Satan, or subtle arguments of the sophistical ungodly. He who carries Christ in his heart cannot be cheated out of the hope of his heaven

Clarke: Eph 6:17 - -- The sword of the Spirit - See what is said before on ξιφος and μαχαιρα, in the account of the Greek armor (Eph 6:13 (note)). The swor...

The sword of the Spirit - See what is said before on ξιφος and μαχαιρα, in the account of the Greek armor (Eph 6:13 (note)). The sword of which St. Paul speaks is, as he explains it, the word of God; that is, the revelation which God has given of himself, or what we call the Holy Scriptures. This is called the sword of the Spirit, because it comes from the Holy Spirit, and receives its fulfillment in the soul through the operation of the Holy Spirit. An ability to quote this on proper occasions, and especially in times of temptation and trial, has a wonderful tendency to cut in pieces the snares of the adversary. In God’ s word a genuine Christian may have unlimited confidence, and to every purpose to which it is applicable it may be brought with the greatest effect. The shield, faith, and the sword - the word of God, or faith in God’ s unchangeable word, are the principal armor of the soul. He in whom the word of God dwells richly, and who has that faith by which he knows that he has redemption, even the forgiveness of sins, need not fear the power of any adversary. He stands fast in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made him free. Some suppose that του Πνευματος, of the Spirit, should be understood of our own spirit or soul; the word of God being the proper sword of the soul, or that offensive weapon the only one which the soul uses. But though it is true that every Christian soul has this for its sword, yet the first meaning is the most likely.

Clarke: Eph 6:18 - -- Praying always - The apostle does not put praying among the armor; had he done so he would have referred it, as he has done all the rest, to some of...

Praying always - The apostle does not put praying among the armor; had he done so he would have referred it, as he has done all the rest, to some of the Grecian armor; but as he does not do this, therefore we conclude that his account of the armor is ended, and that now, having equipped his spiritual soldier, he shows him the necessity of praying, that he may successfully resist those principalities, powers, the rulers of the darkness of this world, and the spiritual wickednesses in heavenly places, with whom he has to contend. The panoply, or whole armor of God, consists in

1.    the girdle

2.    the breast-plate

3.    the greaves

4.    the shield

5.    the helmet; an

6.    the sword. He who had these was completely armed

And as it was the custom of the Grecian armies, before they engaged, to offer prayers to the gods for their success, the apostle shows that these spiritual warriors must depend on the Captain of their salvation, and pray with all prayer, i.e. incessantly, being always in the spirit of prayer, so that they should be ever ready for public, private, mental, or ejaculatory prayer, always depending on Him who can alone save, and who alone can destroy

When the apostle exhorts Christians to pray with all prayer, we may at once see that he neither means spiritual nor formal prayer, in exclusion of the other. Praying, προσευχομενοι, refers to the state of the spirit as well as to the act

Clarke: Eph 6:18 - -- With all prayer - Refers to the different kinds of prayer that is performed in public, in the family, in the closet, in business, on the way, in the...

With all prayer - Refers to the different kinds of prayer that is performed in public, in the family, in the closet, in business, on the way, in the heart without a voice, and with the voice from the heart. All those are necessary to the genuine Christian; and he whose heart is right with God will be frequent in the whole. "Some there are,"says a very pious and learned writer, who use only mental prayer or ejaculations, and think they are in a state of grace, and use a way of worship far superior to any other; but such only fancy themselves to be above what is really above them; it requiring far more grace to be enabled to pour out a fervent and continued prayer, than to offer up mental aspirations."Rev. J. Wesley

Clarke: Eph 6:18 - -- And supplication - There is a difference between προσευχη, prayer, and δεησις, supplication. Some think the former means prayer for ...

And supplication - There is a difference between προσευχη, prayer, and δεησις, supplication. Some think the former means prayer for the attainment of good; the latter, prayer for averting evil. Supplication however seems to mean prayer continued in, strong and incessant pleadings, till the evil is averted, or the good communicated. There are two things that must be attended to in prayer

1.    That it be εν παντι καιρῳ, in every time, season, or opportunity

2.    That it should be εν Πνευματι, in or through the Spirit - that the heart should be engaged in it, and that its infirmities should be helped by the Holy Ghost

Clarke: Eph 6:18 - -- Watching thereunto - Being always on your guard lest your enemies should surprise you. Watch, not only against evil, but also for opportunities to d...

Watching thereunto - Being always on your guard lest your enemies should surprise you. Watch, not only against evil, but also for opportunities to do good, and for opportunities to receive good. Without watchfulness, prayer and all the spiritual armor will be ineffectual

Clarke: Eph 6:18 - -- With all perseverance - Being always intent on your object, and never losing sight of your danger, or of your interest. The word implies stretching ...

With all perseverance - Being always intent on your object, and never losing sight of your danger, or of your interest. The word implies stretching out the neck, and looking about, in order to discern an enemy at a distance

Clarke: Eph 6:18 - -- For all saints - For all Christians; for this was the character by which they were generally distinguished.

For all saints - For all Christians; for this was the character by which they were generally distinguished.

Clarke: Eph 6:19 - -- And for me, that utterance may be given unto me - Ἱνα μοι δοθειη λογος . Kypke has proved by many examples that λογον δι...

And for me, that utterance may be given unto me - Ἱνα μοι δοθειη λογος . Kypke has proved by many examples that λογον διδοναι signifies permission and power to defend one’ s self in a court of justice; and this sense of the phrase is perfectly applicable to the case of St. Paul, who was an ambassador in bonds, (Eph 6:20), and expected to be called to a public hearing, in which he was not only to defend himself, but to prove the truth and excellency of the Christian religion. And we learn, from Phi 1:12-14, that he had his desire in this respect; for the things which happened to him fell out to the furtherance of the Gospel, so that his bonds in Christ were manifest in all the palace, and in all other places. Thus God had enabled him to make a most noble defense, by which the Gospel acquired great credit

Clarke: Eph 6:19 - -- The mystery of the Gospel - The whole doctrine of Christ, not fully revealed previously to that time.

The mystery of the Gospel - The whole doctrine of Christ, not fully revealed previously to that time.

Clarke: Eph 6:20 - -- An ambassador in bonds - An ambassador being the representative of his king, his person was in all civilized countries held sacred. Contrary to the ...

An ambassador in bonds - An ambassador being the representative of his king, his person was in all civilized countries held sacred. Contrary to the rights of nations, this ambassador of the King of heaven was put in chains! He had however the opportunity of defending himself, and of vindicating the honor of his Master. See above

Clarke: Eph 6:20 - -- As I ought to speak - As becomes the dignity and the importance of the subject.

As I ought to speak - As becomes the dignity and the importance of the subject.

Clarke: Eph 6:21 - -- That ye also - As well as other Churches to whom I have communicated the dealings both of God and man to me

That ye also - As well as other Churches to whom I have communicated the dealings both of God and man to me

Clarke: Eph 6:21 - -- May know my affairs - May be acquainted with my situation and circumstances

May know my affairs - May be acquainted with my situation and circumstances

Clarke: Eph 6:21 - -- And how I do - How I employ my time, and what fruit there is of my apostolical labors

And how I do - How I employ my time, and what fruit there is of my apostolical labors

Clarke: Eph 6:21 - -- Tychicus, a beloved brother - We learn, from Act 20:4, that Tychicus was of Asia, and that he was a useful companion of St. Paul. See the note on Ac...

Tychicus, a beloved brother - We learn, from Act 20:4, that Tychicus was of Asia, and that he was a useful companion of St. Paul. See the note on Act 20:4

This same person, and with the same character and commendation, is mentioned in the Epistle to the Colossians, Col 4:7. He is mentioned also in Tit 3:12, and in 2Ti 4:12; from all these places it is evident that he was a person in whom the apostle had the highest confidence, and that he was a very eminent minister of Christ.

Clarke: Eph 6:22 - -- Whom I have sent - for the same purpose - Namely, that the Ephesians might know his affairs, and those of the Church at Rome: messengers of this kin...

Whom I have sent - for the same purpose - Namely, that the Ephesians might know his affairs, and those of the Church at Rome: messengers of this kind frequently passed between the Churches in those ancient times

Clarke: Eph 6:22 - -- Comfort your hearts - By showing you how powerfully he was upheld in all his tribulations, and how God turned his bonds to the furtherance of the Go...

Comfort your hearts - By showing you how powerfully he was upheld in all his tribulations, and how God turned his bonds to the furtherance of the Gospel. This must have been great consolation to all the followers of God; and particularly to those in Ephesus or Laodicea, or to whomsoever the epistle was directed. The question, To whom was it sent? is divided between the Ephesians and the Laodiceans. Dr. Lardner has argued strongly in favor of the former; Dr. Paley not less so in favor of the latter.

Clarke: Eph 6:23 - -- Peace be to the brethren - If the epistle were really sent to the Ephesians, a people with whom the apostle was so intimately acquainted, it is stra...

Peace be to the brethren - If the epistle were really sent to the Ephesians, a people with whom the apostle was so intimately acquainted, it is strange that he mentions no person by name. This objection, on which Dr. Paley lays great stress, (see the preface to this epistle), has not been successfully answered

Clarke: Eph 6:23 - -- Peace - All prosperity, and continual union with God and among yourselves; and love to God and man, the principle of all obedience and union; with f...

Peace - All prosperity, and continual union with God and among yourselves; and love to God and man, the principle of all obedience and union; with faith, continually increasing, and growing stronger and stronger, from God the Father, as the fountain of all our mercies, and the Lord Jesus Christ, through whose sacrifice and mediation they all come.

Clarke: Eph 6:24 - -- Grace be with all them - May the Divine favor, and all the benedictions flowing from it, be with all them who love our Lord Jesus Christ, who has so...

Grace be with all them - May the Divine favor, and all the benedictions flowing from it, be with all them who love our Lord Jesus Christ, who has so loved us as to give his life to redeem ours, and to save us unto life eternal

Clarke: Eph 6:24 - -- In sincerity - Εν αφθαρσια· In incorruptibility. Those who show the genuineness of their love, by walking before him in holiness of lif...

In sincerity - Εν αφθαρσια· In incorruptibility. Those who show the genuineness of their love, by walking before him in holiness of life. Many profess to love our Lord Jesus who are corrupt in all their ways; on these the grace or favor of God cannot rest; they profess to know him, but in works deny him. Such can neither expect favor here, nor hereafter

Clarke: Eph 6:24 - -- Amen - This is wanting in ABFG, and some others. It is, however, more likely to be a genuine subscription here than most others of its kind. The apo...

Amen - This is wanting in ABFG, and some others. It is, however, more likely to be a genuine subscription here than most others of its kind. The apostle might have sealed his most earnest wish by this word, which means not so much, so be it! or may it be so! but rather implies the faithfulness of him who had given the promises, and whose prerogative it was to give effect to the prayers which his own Spirit had inspired

The principal subscriptions to this epistle are the following: To the Ephesians. The Epistle to the Ephesians is finished. To the Ephesians, written from Rome. To the Ephesians, written from Rome by Tychicus. (This is the subscription which we have followed; and it is that of the larger number of modern MSS. and editions.) The Epistle to the Ephesians, written from Rome, and sent by Tychicus - Syriac. To the Ephesians. - aethiopic. Vulgate, no subscription. The end of this epistle, which was written from Rome by Tychicus. Praise be to God for ever. Amen. - Arabic. Written at Rome, and sent by Tychicus. - Coptic. The Sahidic is defective. The Epistle to the Ephesians is ended, which was written at Rome by Tychicus. - Philoxenian Syriac

We have had already occasion to observe that the subscriptions to the sacred books were not written by the authors themselves, but were added in a much later age, and generally by unskillful hands. They are consequently not much to be depended on, and never should be quoted as a part of the Divine oracles

1.    It may be supposed that on the principal subject of this concluding chapter, the armor of God, I should have been much more diffuse. I answer, my constant aim is just to say enough, and no more, on any point. Whether I attain this, in general, or not, I can still say it is what I have desired. As to the Christian armor, it does not appear to me that the apostle has couched such a profusion of mystical meaning in it as to require a huge volume to explain. I believe the Ephesians did not understand it so; nor did the primitive Church of God. Men of rich imaginations may write large volumes on such subjects; but when they come to be fairly examined, they will be found not to be explanations of the text, on which they professedly treat, but immense bodies of divinity, in which the peculiar creed of the writer, both with respect to doctrine and discipline, is amply set forth. Mr. Gurnal’ s Christian Armor contains a great many excellences; but surely it does not require such a volume to explain the five verses of this chapter, in which the apostle speaks of the spiritual armor. The grand design of the apostle was to show that truth, righteousness, obedience to the Gospel, faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, a well grounded hope of salvation, a thorough knowledge of the word of God, and a continual dependence on and application to him by prayer, were essentially necessary to every soul who desired to walk uprightly in this life, and finally to attain everlasting blessedness. This is the obvious meaning of the apostle; in this sense it was understood by the Ephesians, and by the primitive Church; we may amplify it as we please

2.    In two or three places, in the preceding notes, I have referred to a piece on a very remarkable rule relative to the Greek article, to be introduced at the end. From the labors of several learned men this subject has acquired considerable importance, and has excited no small interest among Biblical critics. The late benevolent, learned, and excellent Mr. Granville Sharp was, I believe, the first who brought this subject fairly before the public; he was followed by the Rev. Dr. Wordsworth, a learned and intelligent clergyman of the Established Church

The Rev. Dr. Middleton, late bishop of Calcutta, has presented the subject in all its force and excellence, fortified by innumerable proofs, and a great variety of critical disquisition. The principal design of these writers was to exhibit a new and substantial mode of proving the Divinity of our Lord and Savior. Their works are before the public, and within the reach of all who are capable of judging of this mode of proof

The piece which I now subjoin is the result of the researches of one of my literary friends, H. S. Boyd, Esq., author of Translations from Chrysostom, etc., who has read the Greek writers, both sacred and profane, with peculiar attention; and has collected a vast number of additional examples, both from prose and poetic writers, for the confirmation and illustration of the rule in question, and in support of the great doctrine of the Godhead of Christ

The critical reader, who has entered into this subject, will be glad to see such a number of pointed examples brought within his reach, which at once serve the purpose both of philology and divinity. The learned author has transmitted them to me for the purpose of insertion in this place; but want of room has obliged me to omit several of his quotations.

I would not wish the reader to suppose that these are the only proofs of the grand doctrine of the Godhead of Christ; they are not: the Holy Scripture, in its plain, obvious meaning, independently of such criticism, affords the most luminous and convincing proofs of the doctrine in question; but this is no sufficient reason that we should reject any additional light which may come to us in the way of Divine Providence

Finished the correction for a new edition, Dec. 15th, 1831

Calvin: Eph 6:17 - -- 17.And take the helmet of salvation In a passage already quoted, (1Th 5:8,) “the hope of salvation” is said to be a helmet, which I consider ...

17.And take the helmet of salvation In a passage already quoted, (1Th 5:8,) “the hope of salvation” is said to be a helmet, which I consider to be in the same sense as this passage. The head is protected by the best helmet, when, elevated by hope, we look up towards heaven to that salvation which is promised. It is only therefore by becoming the object of hope that salvation is a helmet.

Calvin: Eph 6:18 - -- 18.Praying always with all prayer Having instructed the Ephesians to put on their armor, he now enjoins them to fight by prayer. This is the true met...

18.Praying always with all prayer Having instructed the Ephesians to put on their armor, he now enjoins them to fight by prayer. This is the true method. To call upon God is the chief exercise of faith and hope; and it is in this way that we obtain from God every blessing. Prayer and supplication are not greatly different from each other, except that supplication is only one branch of prayer

With all perseverance We are exhorted to persevere in prayer. Every tendency to weariness must be counteracted by a cheerful performance of the duty. With unabated ardor we must continue our prayers, though we do not immediately obtain what we desire. If, instead of with all perseverance, some would render it, with all Earnestness, I would have no objection to the change.

But what is the meaning of always? Having already spoken of continued application, does he twice repeat the same thing? I think not. When everything flows on prosperously, — when we are easy and cheerful, we seldom feel any strong excitement to prayer, — or rather, we never flee to God, but when we are driven by some kind of distress. Paul therefore desires us to allow no opportunity to pass, — on no occasion to neglect prayer; so that praying always is the same thing with praying both in prosperity and in adversity.

For all saints There is not a moment of our life at which the duty of prayer may not be urged by our own wants. But unremitting prayer may likewise be enforced by the consideration, that the necessities of our brethren ought to move our sympathy. And when is it that some members of the church are not suffering distress, and needing our assistance? If, at any time, we are colder or more indifferent about prayer than we ought to be, because we do not feel the pressure of immediate necessity, — let us instantly reflect how many of our brethren are worn out by varied and heavy afflictions, — are weighed down by sore perplexity, or are reduced to the lowest distress. If reflections like these do not rouse us from our lethargy, we must have hearts of stone. But are we to pray for believers only? Though the apostle states the claims of the godly, he does not exclude others. And yet in prayer, as in all other kind offices, our first care unquestionably is due to the saints.

Calvin: Eph 6:19 - -- 19.And for me For himself, in a particular manner, he enjoins the Ephesians to pray. Hence we infer that there is no man so richly endowed with gifts...

19.And for me For himself, in a particular manner, he enjoins the Ephesians to pray. Hence we infer that there is no man so richly endowed with gifts as not to need this kind of assistance from his brethren, so long as he remains in this world. Who will ever be better entitled to plead exemption from this necessity than Paul? Yet he entreats the prayers of his brethren, and not hypocritically, but from an earnest desire of their aid. And what does he wish that they should ask for him? That utterance may be given to me. What then? Was he habitually dumb, or did fear restrain him from making an open profession of the gospel? By no means; but there was reason to fear lest his splendid commencement should not be sustained by his future progress. Besides, his zeal for proclaiming the gospel was so ardent that he was never satisfied with his exertions. And indeed, if we consider the weight and importance of the subject, we shall all acknowledge that we are very far from being able to handle it in a proper manner. Accordingly he adds,

Calvin: Eph 6:20 - -- 20.As I ought to speak; meaning, that to proclaim the truth of the gospel as it ought to be proclaimed, is a high and rare attainment. Every word her...

20.As I ought to speak; meaning, that to proclaim the truth of the gospel as it ought to be proclaimed, is a high and rare attainment. Every word here deserves to be carefully weighed. Twice he uses the expression boldly, — “that I may open my mouth boldly, ” “that therein I may speak boldly. ” Fear hinders us from preaching Christ openly and fearlessly, while the absence of all restraint and disguise in confessing Christ is demanded from his ministers. Paul does not ask for himself the powers of an acute debater, or, I should rather say, of a dexterous sophist, that he might shield himself from his enemies by false pretences. It is, that I may open my mouth, to make a clear and strong confession; for when the mouth is half shut, the sounds which it utters are doubtful and confused. To open the mouth, therefore, is to speak with perfect freedom, without the smallest dread.

But does not Paul discover unbelief, when he entertains doubts as to his own stedfastness, and implores the intercession of others? No. He does not, like unbelievers, seek a remedy which is contrary to the will of God, or inconsistent with his word. The only aids on which he relies are those which he knows to be sanctioned by the Divine promise and approbation. It is the command of God, that believers shall pray for one another. How consoling then must it be to each of them to learn that the care of his salvation is enjoined on all the rest, and to be informed by God himself that the prayers of others on his behalf are not poured out in vain! Would it be lawful to refuse what the Lord himself has offered? Each believer, no doubt, ought to have been satisfied with the Divine assurance, that as often as he prayed he would be heard. But if, in addition to all the other manifestations of his kindness, God were pleased to declare that he will listen to the prayers of others in our behalf, would it be proper that this bounty should be slighted, or rather, ought we not to embrace it with open arms?

Let us therefore remember that Paul, when he resorted to the intercessions of his brethren, was influenced by no distrust or hesitation. His eagerness to obtain them arose from his resolution that no privilege which the Lord had given him should be overlooked. How absurdly then do Papists conclude from Paul’s example, that we ought to pray to the dead! Paul was writing to the Ephesians, to whom he had it in his power to communicate his sentintents. But what intercourse have we with the dead? As well might they argue that we ought to invite angels to our feasts and entertainments, because among men friendship is promoted by such kind offices.

Calvin: Eph 6:21 - -- 21.But that, ye also may know Uncertain or false reports frequently produce uneasiness, chiefly, no doubt, in weak minds, but sometimes also in thoug...

21.But that, ye also may know Uncertain or false reports frequently produce uneasiness, chiefly, no doubt, in weak minds, but sometimes also in thoughtful and steady persons. To prevent this danger, Paul sends Tychicus, from whom the Ephesians would receive full information. The holy solicitude which Paul felt about the interests of religion, or, to use his own language, “the care of all the churches,” (2Co 11:28,) was thus strikingly evinced. When death stood constantly before his eyes, neither the dread of death, nor anxiety about himself, prevented him from making provision for the most distant churches. Another man would have said, “My own affairs require all the attention I can give. It would be more reasonable that all should run to my assistance, than that they should expect from me the smallest relief.” But Paul acts a different part, and sends in every direction to strengthen the churches which he had founded.

Tychicus is commended, that his statements may be more fully believed. A faithful minister in the Lord. It is not easy to say, whether this refers to the public ministry of the church, or to the private attentions which Paul had received from Tychicus. This uncertainty arises from these two expressions being connected, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord. The former refers to Paul, to whom the second may be supposed also to apply. I am more inclined, however, to understand it as denoting the public ministry; for I do not think it probable that Paul would have sent any man who did not hold such a rank in the church, as would secure the respectful attention of the Ephesians.

Calvin: Eph 6:23 - -- 23.Peace be to the brethren I consider the word peace, as in the salutations of the Epistles, to mean prosperity. Yet if the reader shall prefer ...

23.Peace be to the brethren I consider the word peace, as in the salutations of the Epistles, to mean prosperity. Yet if the reader shall prefer to view it as signifying harmony, because, immediately afterwards, Paul mentions love, I do not object to that interpretation, or rather, it agrees better with the context. He wishes the Ephesians to be peaceable and quiet among themselves; and this, he presently adds, may be obtained by brotherly love and by agreement in faith From this prayer we learn that faith and love, as well as peace itself, are gifts of God bestowed upon us through Christ, — that they come equally from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Calvin: Eph 6:24 - -- 24.Grace be with all The meaning is, “May God continue to bestow his favor on all who love Jesus Christ with a pure conscience!” The Greek word, ...

24.Grace be with all The meaning is, “May God continue to bestow his favor on all who love Jesus Christ with a pure conscience!” The Greek word, which I follow Erasmus in translating sincerity, (ἐν ἀφθαρσίᾳ,) signifies literally uncorruptedness, which deserves attention on account of the beauty of the metaphor. Paul intended to state indirectly, that, when the heart of man is free from all hypocrisy, it will be free from all corruption. This prayer conveys to us the instruction, that the only way of enjoying the light of the Divine countenance is to love sincerely God’s own Son, in whom his love toward us has been declared and confirmed. But let there be no hypocrisy; for most men, while they are not unwilling to make some professions of religion, entertain exceedingly low notions of Christ, and worship him with pretended homage. I wish there were not so many instances in the present day to prove that Paul’s admonition, to love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity is as necessary as ever.

END OF THE COMMENTARIES ON THE EPISTLE TO THE EPHESIANS.

Defender: Eph 6:17 - -- This helmet is called "the hope of salvation" in 1Th 5:8, and such a hope is, indeed, a hope involving "full assurance ... unto the end" (Heb 6:11). S...

This helmet is called "the hope of salvation" in 1Th 5:8, and such a hope is, indeed, a hope involving "full assurance ... unto the end" (Heb 6:11). Salvation involves an eternal future salvation as well as a past acceptance and present assurance thereof. It is that certain hope that protects the believer's mind as he would, in this spiritual warfare, seek continually to be "casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ" (2Co 10:5).

Defender: Eph 6:17 - -- The "sword of the Spirit" is not the logos (the Word as a whole) but the rhema (the individual text, or "saying," of the Word) that is applicable in e...

The "sword of the Spirit" is not the logos (the Word as a whole) but the rhema (the individual text, or "saying," of the Word) that is applicable in each particular situation and Satanic attack (Heb 4:12). Thus Jesus defeated Satan merely by citing the appropriate Scripture (Mat 4:4, Mat 4:7, Mat 4:10)."

Defender: Eph 6:18 - -- Persevering prayer, not just for personal deliverance, but also in supplication for others, is the invisible, but powerful, weapon that assures that G...

Persevering prayer, not just for personal deliverance, but also in supplication for others, is the invisible, but powerful, weapon that assures that God Himself, with His angels, is also fighting for us."

Defender: Eph 6:19 - -- Once again (Eph 1:9; Eph 3:3, Eph 3:4, Eph 3:9; Eph 5:32), as he closes the epistle, Paul speaks of that past mystery hidden in God since creation, wh...

Once again (Eph 1:9; Eph 3:3, Eph 3:4, Eph 3:9; Eph 5:32), as he closes the epistle, Paul speaks of that past mystery hidden in God since creation, which he now wants boldly to make fully known."

TSK: Eph 6:17 - -- the helmet : 1Sa 17:5, 1Sa 17:58; Isa 59:17; 1Th 5:8 the sword : Isa 49:2; Heb 4:12; Rev 1:16, Rev 2:16, Rev 19:15 which : Mat 4:4, Mat 4:7, Mat 4:10,...

TSK: Eph 6:18 - -- Praying : Eph 1:16; Job 27:10; Psa 4:1, Psa 6:9; Isa 26:16; Dan 6:10; Luk 3:26, Luk 3:37, Luk 18:1-7; Luk 21:36; Act 1:14, Act 6:4, Act 10:2, Act 12:5...

TSK: Eph 6:19 - -- for : Rom 15:30; 2Co 1:11; Phi 1:19; Col 4:3; 1Th 5:25; 2Th 3:1; Phm 1:22; Heb 13:18 utterance : Act 2:4; 1Co 1:5; 2Co 8:7 that I : Act 4:13, Act 4:29...

TSK: Eph 6:20 - -- I am : Pro 13:17; Isa 33:7; 2Co 5:20 bonds : or, a chain, Eph 3:1, Eph 4:1; 2Sa 10:2-6; Act 26:29, Act 28:20; Phi 1:7, Phi 1:13, Phi 1:14; 2Ti 1:16, 2...

TSK: Eph 6:21 - -- that : Phi 1:12; Col 4:7 Tychicus : Act 20:4; 2Ti 4:12; Tit 3:12 beloved : Col 4:9; Phm 1:16; 2Pe 3:15 faithful : 1Co 4:17; Col 1:7; 1Ti 4:6; 1Pe 5:12

TSK: Eph 6:22 - -- Phi 2:19, Phi 2:25; Col 4:7, Col 4:8; 1Th 3:2; 2Th 2:17

TSK: Eph 6:23 - -- Peace : Rom 1:7; 1Co 1:3; Gen 43:23; 1Sa 25:6; Psa 122:6-9; Joh 14:27; Gal 6:16; 1Pe 5:14; Rev 1:4 and love : Gal 5:6; 1Ti 1:3, 1Ti 5:8; 2Th 1:3; 1Ti ...

TSK: Eph 6:24 - -- Grace : 1Co 16:23; 2Co 13:14; Col 4:18; 2Ti 4:22; Tit 3:15; Heb 13:25 love : Joh 21:15-17; 1Co 16:22 in sincerity : or, with incorruption, Mat 22:37; ...

Grace : 1Co 16:23; 2Co 13:14; Col 4:18; 2Ti 4:22; Tit 3:15; Heb 13:25

love : Joh 21:15-17; 1Co 16:22

in sincerity : or, with incorruption, Mat 22:37; 2Co 8:8, 2Co 8:12; Tit 2:7

Amen : Mat 6:13, Mat 28:20

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Commentary -- Word/Phrase Notes (per Verse)

Barnes: Eph 6:17 - -- And take the helmet - The helmet was a cap made of thick leather, or brass, fitted to the head, and was usually crowned with a plume, or crest,...

And take the helmet - The helmet was a cap made of thick leather, or brass, fitted to the head, and was usually crowned with a plume, or crest, as an ornament. Its use was to guard the head from a blow by a sword, or war-club, or battle-axe. The cuts will show its usual form.

Of salvation - That is, "of the hope of salvation;"for so it is expressed in the parallel place in 1Th 5:8. The idea is, that a well-founded hope of salvation will preserve us in the day of spiritual conflict, and will guard us from the blows which an enemy would strike. The helmet defended the head, a vital part; and so the hope of salvation will defend the soul, and keep it from the blows of the enemy. A soldier would not fight well without a hope of victory. A Christian could not contend with his foes, without the hope of final salvation; but, sustained by this, what has he to dread?

And the sword - The sword was an essential part of the armor of an ancient soldier. His other weapons were the bow, the spear, or the battle-axe. But, without a sword, no soldier would have regarded himself as well armed. The ancient sword was short, and usually two-edged, and resembled very much a dagger.

Of the Spirit - Which the Holy Spirit furnishes; the truth which he has revealed.

Which is the word of God - What God has spoken - his truth and promises; see the notes on Heb 4:12. It was with this weapon that the Saviour met the tempter in the wilderness; Matt. 4. It is only by this that Satan can now be met. Error and falsehood will not put back temptation; nor can we hope for victory, unless we are armed with truth. Learn, hence:

(1)    That we should study the Bible, that we may understand what the truth is.

(2)\caps1     w\caps0 e should have texts of Scripture at command, as the Saviour did, to meet the various forms of temptation.

(3)\caps1     w\caps0 e should not depend on our own reason, or rely on our own wisdom.

A single text of Scripture is better to meet a temptation, than all the philosophy which the world contains. The tempter can reason, and reason plausibly too. But he cannot resist a direct and positive command of the Almighty. Had Eve adhered simply to the Word of God, and urged his command, without attempting to "reason"about it, sire would have been safe. The Saviour Mat 4:4, Mat 4:7,Mat 4:10, met the tempter with the Word of God, and he was foiled. So we shah be safe if we adhere to the simple declarations of the Bible, and oppose a temptation by a positive command of God. But, the moment we leave that, and begin to parley with sin, that moment we are gone. It is as if a man should throw away his sword, and use his naked hands only in meeting an adversary. Hence,

\caps1 (4) w\caps0 e may seethe importance of training up the young in the accurate study of the Bible. There is nothing which will furnish a better security to them in future life, when temptation comes upon them, than to have a pertinent text of Scripture at command. Temptation often assails us so suddenly that it checks all "reasoning;"but a text of Scripture will suffice to drive the tempter from us.

Barnes: Eph 6:18 - -- Praying always - It would be well for the soldier who goes forth to battle to pray - to pray for victory; or to pray that he may be prepared fo...

Praying always - It would be well for the soldier who goes forth to battle to pray - to pray for victory; or to pray that he may be prepared for death, should he fall. But soldiers do not often feel the necessity of this. To the Christian soldier, however, it is indispensable. Prayer crowns all lawful efforts with success and gives a victory when nothing else would. No matter how complete the armor; no matter how skilled we may be in the science of war; no matter how courageous we may be, we may be certain that without prayer we shall be defeated. God alone can give the victory; and when the Christian soldier goes forth armed completely for the spiritual conflict, if he looks to God by prayer, he may be sure of a triumph. This prayer is not to be intermitted. It is to be always. In every temptation and spiritual conflict we are to pray; see notes on Luk 18:1.

With all prayer and supplication - With all kinds of prayer; prayer in the closet, the family, the social meeting, the great assembly; prayer at the usual hours, prayer when we are specially tempted, and when we feel just like praying (see the notes, Mat 6:6) prayer in the form of supplication for ourselves, and in the form of intercession for others. This is, after all, the great weapon of our spiritual armor, and by this we may hope to prevail.

"Restraining prayer, we cease to fight;

Prayer makes the Christian armor bright,

And Satan trembles when he sees.

The meanest saint upon his knees."

In the Spirit - By the aid of the Holy Spirit; or perhaps it may mean that it is not to be prayer of form merely, but when the spirit and the heart accompany it. The former idea seems, however, to be the correct one.

And watching thereunto - Watching for opportunities to pray; watching for the spirit of prayer; watching against all those things which would hinder prayer; see the Mat 26:38, note, 41, note; compare 1Pe 4:7.

With all perseverance - Never becoming discouraged and disheartened; compare notes, Luk 18:1.

And supplication for all saints - For all Christians. We should do this:

\caps1 (1) b\caps0 ecause they are our brethren - though they may have a different skin, language, or name.

\caps1 (2) b\caps0 ecause, like us, they have hearts prone to evil, and need, with us, the grace of God.

\caps1 (3) b\caps0 ecause nothing tends so much to make us love others and to forget their faults, as to pray for them.

\caps1 (4) b\caps0 ecause the condition of the church is always such that it greatly needs the grace of God. Many Christians have backslidden; many are cold or lukewarm; many are in error; many are conformed to the world; and we should pray that they may become more holy and may devote themselves more to God.

\caps1 (5) b\caps0 ecause each day many a Christian is subjected to some special temptation or trial, and though he may be unknown to us, yet our prayers may benefit him.

\caps1 (6) b\caps0 ecause each day and each night many Christians die. We may reflect each night as we lie down to rest, that while we sleep, some Christians are kept awake by the prospect of death, and are now passing through the dark valley; and each morning we may reflect that "today"some Christian will die, and we should remember them before God.

\caps1 (7) b\caps0 ecause we shall soon die, and it will be a comfort to us if we can remember then that we have often prayed for dying saints, and if we may feel that they are praying for us.

Barnes: Eph 6:19 - -- And for me - Paul was then a prisoner at Rome. He specially needed the prayers of Christians: \caps1 (1) t\caps0 hat he might be sustained in h...

And for me - Paul was then a prisoner at Rome. He specially needed the prayers of Christians:

\caps1 (1) t\caps0 hat he might be sustained in his afflictions; and,

\caps1 (2) t\caps0 hat he might be able to manifest the spirit which he ought, and to do good as he had opportunity. Learn hence that we should pray for the prisoner, the captive, the man in chains, the slave. There are in this land (the United States) about ten thousand prisoners - husbands, fathers, sons, brothers; or wives, mothers, daughters. True, they are the children of "crime,"but they are also the children of sorrow; and in either case or both they need our prayers. There are in this land not far from three million of slaves - and they need our prayers. They are children of misfortune and of many wrongs; they are sunk in ignorance and want and we; they are subjected to trials, and exposed to temptations to the lowest vices. But many of them, we trust, love the Redeemer; and whether they do or do not, they need an interest in the prayers of Christians.

That utterance may be given unto me - Paul, though a prisoner, was permitted to preach the gospel; see the notes, Act 28:30-31.

That I may open my mouth boldly - He was in Rome. He was almost alone. He was surrounded by multitudes of the wicked. He was exposed to death. Yet he desired to speak boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and to invite sinners to repentance. A Christians in chains, and surrounded by the wicked, may speak boldly, and "may"have hope of success - for Paul was not an unsuccessful preacher even when a captive at Rome; see the notes on Phi 4:22.

The mystery of the gospel - notes, Eph 1:9.

Barnes: Eph 6:20 - -- For which I am an ambassador in bonds - In chains (see the margin); or in confinement. There is something especially touching in this. He was "...

For which I am an ambassador in bonds - In chains (see the margin); or in confinement. There is something especially touching in this. He was "an ambassador"- sent to proclaim peace to a lost world. But he was now in chains. An ambassador is a sacred character. No greater affront can be given to a nation than to put its ambassadors to death, or even to throw them into prison. But Paul says here that the unusual spectacle was witnessed of an ambassador seized, bound, confined, imprisoned; an ambassador who ought to have the privileges conceded to all such people, and to be permitted to go everywhere publishing the terms of mercy and salvation. See the word "ambassador"explained in the notes on 2Co 5:20.

That therein - Margin, or "thereof."Greek, ἐν αὐτῷ en autō - "in it;"that is, says Rosenmuller, in the gospel. It means that in speaking the gospel he might be bold.

I may speak boldly - Openly, plainly, without fear; see the notes on Act 4:13; Act 9:27, note; Act 13:46, note; Act 14:3, note; Act 18:26, note; Act 19:8, note; Act 26:26, note.

As I ought to speak - Whether in bonds or at large. Paul felt that the gospel ought always to be Spoken with plainness, and without the fear of man. It is remarkable that he did not ask them to pray that he might be released. "Why"he did not we do not know; but perhaps the desire of release did not lie so near his heart as the duty of speaking the gospel with boldness It may be of much more importance that we perform our duty aright when we are afflicted, or are in trouble, than that we should be released.

Barnes: Eph 6:21 - -- But that ye also may know my affairs - May understand my condition, my feelings, and in what I am engaged. To them it could not but be a subjec...

But that ye also may know my affairs - May understand my condition, my feelings, and in what I am engaged. To them it could not but be a subject of deep interest.

And how I do - Greek, "What I do; that is how I am employed.

Tychicus - Tychicus was of the province of Asia, in Asia Minor, of which Ephesus was the capital; see Act 20:4. It is not improbable that he was of Ephesus, and that he was well known to the church there. He also carried the letter to the Colossians Col 4:7, and probably the Second Epistle to Timothy; 2Ti 4:12. Paul also proposed to send him to Crete to succeed Titus; Tit 3:12. He was high in the confidence of: Paul, but it is not known when he was converted, or why he was now at Rome. The Greeks speak of him as one of the seventy disciples, and make him bishop of Colophon, in the province of Asia.

Barnes: Eph 6:22 - -- Whom I have sent unto you - The churches where Paul had preached, would feel a great interest in his welfare. He was a prisoner at Rome, and it...

Whom I have sent unto you - The churches where Paul had preached, would feel a great interest in his welfare. He was a prisoner at Rome, and it was doubtful what the result would be. In this situation, he felt it proper to despatch a special messenger to give information about his condition; to state what was doing in Rome; to ask the prayers of the churches; and to administer consolation to them in their various trials. The same sentiment in regard to the embassy of Tychicus, is expressed in the Epistle to the Colossians, Col 4:7-8. No small part of the consolation which he would impart to them would be found in these invaluable letters which he bore to them from the apostle.

Barnes: Eph 6:23 - -- Peace be to the brethren - The Epistle is closed with the usual salutations. The expression "peace to you,"was the common form of salutation in...

Peace be to the brethren - The Epistle is closed with the usual salutations. The expression "peace to you,"was the common form of salutation in the East (see the Mat 10:13 note; Luk 24:36 note; Rom 15:33 note; compare Gal 6:16; 1Pe 5:14; 3Jo 1:14), and is still the "salam"which is used - the word "salam"meaning "peace."

And love with faith - Love united with faith; not only desiring that they might have faith, but the faith which worked by love.

From God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ - The Father and the Son are regarded as equally the author of peace and love; compare notes on 2Co 13:14.

Barnes: Eph 6:24 - -- Grace be, ... - note, Rom 16:20. That love our Lord Jesus Christ - see the notes on 1Co 16:22. In sincerity - Margin, "with incorru...

Grace be, ... - note, Rom 16:20.

That love our Lord Jesus Christ - see the notes on 1Co 16:22.

In sincerity - Margin, "with incorruption."With a pure heart; without dissembling; without hypocrisy. There could not be a more appropriate close of the Epistle than such a wish; there will be nothing more needful for us when we come to the close of life than the consciousness that we love the Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. To writer and reader may this be equally the inestimable consolation then! Better, far better then will be the evidence of such sincere love, than all the wealth which toil can gain, all the honors which the world can bestow - than the most splendid mansion, or the widest fame. The subscription to this Epistle, like those affixed to the other epistles, is of no authority, but in this instance there is every reason to believe that it is correct. Compare notes at the end of the Epistle to the Romans and 1 Corinthians.

Poole: Eph 6:17 - -- Take the helmet of salvation : salvation, for the hope of salvation, 1Th 5:8 . This follows faith, and is of kin to it. Soldiers dare not fight wi...

Take the helmet of salvation : salvation, for the hope of salvation, 1Th 5:8 . This follows faith, and is of kin to it. Soldiers dare not fight without their helmet: despair, to which the devil tempts us, makes us quit our combat; whereas hope of salvation makes us lift up our heads in the midst of temptations and afflictions. This likewise alludes to Isa 59:17 .

The sword of the Spirit either the spiritual sword, the war being spiritual, and the enemy spiritual, or rather the sword which the Spirit of God furnisheth us with, and makes effectual in our hands.

Which is the word of God the doctrine of God in the Scripture, called a two-edged sword, Rev 1:16 2:12 ; which enters into the soul, and divides between the most inward affections, Heb 4:12 , and cuts the sinews of the strongest temptations, Mat 4:4,7,10 ; and conquers the devil, while it rescues sinners from under his power. This relates to Isa 49:2 .

Poole: Eph 6:18 - -- Praying always i.e. in every opportunity, so often as our own or others’ necessities call us to it, 1Th 5:17 . With all prayer and supplicatio...

Praying always i.e. in every opportunity, so often as our own or others’ necessities call us to it, 1Th 5:17 .

With all prayer and supplication prayer, when opposed to supplication, seems to signify petitioning for good things, and supplication the deprecating of evil, 1Ti 2:1 .

In the Spirit either our own spirit, with which we pray, so as not to draw nigh to God with our mouth only, as Isa 29:13 ; or rather, the Holy Spirit of God, by whose assistance we pray, Rom 8:26,27 Jude 1:20 .

Watching thereunto to prayer, in opposition to sloth and security: see Mat 26:41 Col 4:2 1Pe 4:7 .

With all perseverance constancy and continuance in prayer in every condition, adverse as well as prosperous, though prayer be not presently answered, Luk 18:1 .

And supplication for all saints not only for ourselves, but for our brethren in the world, none being in so good a condition but they may need our prayers.

Poole: Eph 6:19 - -- Utterance or speech, viz. both the things I am to speak, and the faculty of speaking as becomes the matter I deliver. That I may open my mouth or, ...

Utterance or speech, viz. both the things I am to speak, and the faculty of speaking as becomes the matter I deliver.

That I may open my mouth or, in or unto the opening of my mouth, i.e. full and free profession of the truth, without shame or fear.

Boldly either, freely and confidently, the same as before in other words; or, openly and plainly, in opposition to speaking closely and in secret, Mar 8:32 Joh 11:14 ; and so it may have respect to the removing of his bonds, which were the present impediment of his so speaking.

Poole: Eph 6:20 - -- For which I am an ambassador in bonds for which gospel I still continue, though a prisoner, in the embassy committed to me by Christ. That therein I...

For which I am an ambassador in bonds for which gospel I still continue, though a prisoner, in the embassy committed to me by Christ.

That therein I may speak boldly this may imply not only free speaking, but free acting in all things whereby the gospel may be propagated.

Poole: Eph 6:21 - -- But that ye also as well as other churches, may know my affairs how I am used by the Romans in my bonds. How I do or rather, what I do, i.e. how ...

But that ye also as well as other churches,

may know my affairs how I am used by the Romans in my bonds.

How I do or rather, what I do, i.e. how I behave myself: see Act 28:30,31 .

Faithful minister : minister is here taken in a large sense, for any that labour in the gospel, such as were not only ordinary pastors, but evangelists and apostles themselves.

Poole: Eph 6:22 - -- That ye might not faint at my tribulations, Eph 3:13 . It might be a comfort to them to hear that Paul was well used, (setting aside his bonds), an...

That ye might not faint at my tribulations, Eph 3:13 . It might be a comfort to them to hear that Paul was well used, (setting aside his bonds), and had liberty to preach to those that came to him.

Poole: Eph 6:23 - -- He prays for their continuance and increase in these graces, which already were begun in them.

He prays for their continuance and increase in these graces, which already were begun in them.

Poole: Eph 6:24 - -- This is more extensive than the former, he prays here for all true believers every where. In sincerity or, with incorruption, i.e. so as that noth...

This is more extensive than the former, he prays here for all true believers every where.

In sincerity or, with incorruption, i.e. so as that nothing can draw them off from the love of Christ, and so it implies constancy as well as sincerity.

Written from Rome unto the Ephesians by Tychicus

PBC: Eph 6:19 - -- Brethren, I want you to think about my needs, that they'll all be met.  I want you to think about my situation so that the path will be a little smo...

Brethren, I want you to think about my needs, that they'll all be met.  I want you to think about my situation so that the path will be a little smoother, that the Lord will make things a little easier for me?  No! 

Look what he's asking them to pray for regarding his own effort.  Pray for me that utterance may be given unto me, that the Lord may bless me in my speaking, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel for which I am an ambassador in bonds that therein I may speak boldly as I ought to speak.  I want to have utterance.  I want to have the blessing and anointing of the Spirit of God that I may be able to speak.

Haydock: Eph 6:24 - -- Who love our Lord Jesus Christ. Literally, "in incorruption;" with purity of heart and mind. (Witham) ====================

Who love our Lord Jesus Christ. Literally, "in incorruption;" with purity of heart and mind. (Witham)

====================

Gill: Eph 6:17 - -- And take the helmet of salvation,.... Meaning either Christ himself, the Saviour; and so the Arabic version renders it, "the helmet of the Saviour": o...

And take the helmet of salvation,.... Meaning either Christ himself, the Saviour; and so the Arabic version renders it, "the helmet of the Saviour": or the salvation itself, which he is the author of, and a well grounded hope of it; see 1Th 5:8; the allusion is to Isa 59:17; and such an hope of salvation by Christ is a defence of the head against false doctrines; for the helmet is a piece of armour for the head; and it is an erecter of the head in times of difficulty, affliction, and distress; and it covers the head in the day of battle, when engaged with Satan, the enemy of souls:

and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; the word of God is compared to a "sword", for its two edges, the law and Gospel; the one convicts of sin, and cuts to the heart for it, and the other cuts down all the goodliness of man; and the Scriptures in general are a sharp sword, in convincing of sin, reproving for it, and threatening with wrath and ruin, in refuting error and heresy, and repelling Satan's temptations, and will be used in the destruction of antichrist: and this word may be called "the sword of the Spirit", because it is not carnal, but of a spiritual nature; and is used by the spiritual man; and because the Holy Spirit, as the Ethiopic version here expresses it, is the author of it; and which he furnishes the saints with, and teaches them how to make use of, and makes it powerful and effectual. So the Jews say t, the words of the law are like to a sword, and speak of חרב תורה "the sword of the law" u.

Gill: Eph 6:18 - -- Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the spirit,.... The last weapon is prayer, and takes in all sorts of prayer, mental and vocal, publ...

Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the spirit,.... The last weapon is prayer, and takes in all sorts of prayer, mental and vocal, public and private; and every branch of it, as deprecation of evils, petitions for good things, and thanksgiving for mercies: and which should be used always: this stands opposed to such who pray not at all, or who have prayed, but have left it off; or who pray only in distress, and it suggests, that a man should pray as often as he has an opportunity; and particularly, that he should make use of it in times of darkness, desertion, and temptation: and this, when performed aright, is performed "in the Spirit"; with the heart, soul, and spirit engaged in it; it is put up with a true heart, and a right spirit, and without hypocrisy; in a spiritual way, and with fervency, and under the influence, and by the assistance of the Spirit of God.

And watching thereunto; either to the word, as a direction for prayer, or to prayer itself; for opportunities to pray for the assistance of the Spirit in prayer, for an answer of it, and to return thanks for blessings when bestowed; and against all dependence on it, and against Satan's temptations, and our own corruptions with respect to it:

with all perseverance; in it, notwithstanding what Satan and an unbelieving heart may suggest to the contrary:

and supplication for all saints; of every nation, age, sex, and condition, in all places, and of every denomination. So Christ taught his disciples to pray, saying, our Father, suggesting, that they were not only to pray for themselves, but for all the children of God.

Gill: Eph 6:19 - -- And for me,.... This shows the great humility of the apostle, and the sense he had of the greatness of the work of the ministry; and that it is the du...

And for me,.... This shows the great humility of the apostle, and the sense he had of the greatness of the work of the ministry; and that it is the duty of people to pray for their ministers; and that no man is perfect in this life; and that the more superior members need the assistance of the inferior ones; for this request is made by the apostle not in dissimulation, or as feigning humility and modesty; but in the sincerity of his heart, and from a real sense of his need of fresh supplies of gifts and grace, to fit him for the work and service of Christ:

that utterance may be given unto me, or "that the word"; meaning not the subject matter of the ministry, the word of the Gospel, the word of faith, truth, and reconciliation, for that was committed to him; unless he should mean an increase of light and knowledge in it; but rather a faculty of speaking it freely and aptly, and what is commonly called elocution; not speaking with the enticing words of man's wisdom, but with the words of the Holy Ghost: or else an opportunity of preaching the word, and liberty to do it, as follows;

that I may open my mouth boldly; or "in the opening of my mouth"; the phrase is Rabbinical. The Jews w say, that when Moses came to write that passage, "let us make man in our image", &c. Gen 1:26, he said before the Lord of the world, why dost thou give פתחון פה, "opening of the mouth", to heretics? i.e. an occasion to them of speaking, objecting to us, and of reproving and convincing us with respect to a plurality of persons in the Deity: and a little after they say,

"wherever you פתחון פה, "an opening of the mouth to heretics", you will find an answer by its side, or along with it.''

Now the apostle desired he might have something to say, to object to, and to reprove and convince the unbelieving Jews; that he might do this with boldness, with all faithfulness with Courage, and intrepidity, and with freedom of speech; or "openly" and "publicly", as the Syriac version renders it:

to make known, the mystery of the Gospel; or the mysterious doctrines of it, such as the doctrines of a trinity of persons, of the union of the two natures in Christ, justification by his righteousness, regeneration by his Spirit and grace, the saints' union to Christ, and communion with him, the resurrection of the dead, &c. which are called mysteries, because they were hid until revealed; and though revealed, the "modus" and "ratio" of them are not to be accounted for. Now the apostle's work was to make known these mysteries, to prove the truth of them from the word of God, and to defend them against the opposers of them; and that he might be able to do this he entreats the prayers of the saints.

Gill: Eph 6:20 - -- For which I am an ambassador in bonds,.... The character the apostle bore was that of an ambassador; and he was an ambassador from and for Christ, in ...

For which I am an ambassador in bonds,.... The character the apostle bore was that of an ambassador; and he was an ambassador from and for Christ, in his room and stead; he represented him, he was sent by him, and entrusted by him with the Gospel; he gave him it, and a commission to preach it, and furnished him with qualifications for it; such as knowledge and faithfulness wisdom and prudence, courage and greatness of mind; and made his embassy successful: and he was chiefly an ambassador to the Gentiles, which showed great condescension in Christ to send him to them, and base ingratitude in the despisers and rejecters of the Gospel, for which he was an ambassador; for the embassy Christ's ministers are sent on, is the embassy of the Gospel of peace: their business is to declare that men by nature are enemies to God; that peace is made by the blood of Christ for such; by which means they are made useful to conciliate the minds of men to God's way of salvation and to bring them to submit to his government and laws: and when he adds, "in bonds", or "in a chain", he means, that he was in such circumstances, not for any crime, but for the Gospel, for which he was an ambassador; and therefore was not ashamed of his bonds, or chain, but rather gloried in them; and he makes mention of them to engage persons to a regard to him as an ambassador, and to his embassy; for an ambassador, especially an ambassador of Christ, that comes with his Gospel, and more especially that is suffering for it, ought to be received, heard, and honoured.

That therein I may speak boldly as I ought to speak; that is, the apostle beseeches the saints to pray for him, that since he was an ambassador for the Gospel, and in bonds, that he might speak in it, or rather of it boldly and freely; that he might have both liberty from his bonds, and liberty in his soul, and freedom of speech; and that he might use boldness in delivering his message, as became an ambassador of Jesus Christ.

Gill: Eph 6:21 - -- But that ye also may know my affairs, and how I do,.... Both his temporal and spiritual affairs; as that he was in bonds, and how he was supported un...

But that ye also may know my affairs, and how I do,.... Both his temporal and spiritual affairs; as that he was in bonds, and how he was supported under them, and of what use they were to others; how that he preached in his own hired house, and with what success; and what ministering brethren he had with him to assist him; and in what condition was the church at Rome where he now was: the apostle's life and actions would bear the light, and what he did was worthy of imitation, and must be both delightful and useful to know; and the account he sends, by a messenger hereafter named, of whom he gives the following character, that credit might be the more readily given to his relation:

Tychicus, a beloved brother, and faithful minister in the Lord,

shall make known to you all things. This Tychicus was of Asia, who accompanied the apostle in his travels, and went with him to Rome, from whence he sent him to several places to relate his case, and to know the state of the churches, Col 4:7. He calls him "a beloved brother": he was a "brother", because he was a partaker of the same grace, was of the same family and household of God, and was of the same function, being a minister of the Gospel, and was a "beloved" one: he was beloved of God and Christ, and of all the saints that knew him, and especially a brother beloved of the Apostle Paul; and where there is brotherhood, there should be love: he also styles him a "faithful minister in the Lord"; he was a "minister" in the work and service of the Lord, in things pertaining to him; he was one of his appointing, qualifying, and sending; and he preached Christ, and him crucified; and was a "faithful" one, to his Lord or master, in whose name he ministered, to the Gospel which he ministered, and to the souls of men to whom he ministered; and a greater character he could not well have; and therefore it need not be doubted but that he would faithfully relate all things concerning the apostle, and what he said might be depended on as truth.

Gill: Eph 6:22 - -- Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose,.... Which shows the great concern the apostle had for the churches, being willing to inform them of ev...

Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose,.... Which shows the great concern the apostle had for the churches, being willing to inform them of everything that might be for their use and service:

that ye might know our affairs; temporal and spiritual, and not only the apostle's affairs, but the affairs of those that were with him, who were concerned in the same common cause:

and that he might comfort your hearts; both by such a relation, and by the ministry of the Gospel to them: believers in Christ are sometimes disconsolate, by reason of indwelling sin, Satan's temptations, the hidings of God's face, afflictions and persecutions, their own sufferings, and those of others; and it is the business of the ministers of Christ to comfort them; their commission is to speak comfortably to them; and they are qualified for it, by inward comforts in their own souls; the Gospel they preach, and the message they bring, is of a comfortable nature; the Spirit of God acts by them, and with them as a comforter; and sad indeed is the state of Zion, or the church of Christ, when it has no comforters.

Gill: Eph 6:23 - -- Peace be to the brethren,.... The members of the church at Ephesus, who stood in a spiritual relation to each other; meaning all prosperity outward a...

Peace be to the brethren,.... The members of the church at Ephesus, who stood in a spiritual relation to each other; meaning all prosperity outward and inward, temporal, spiritual, and eternal; especially peace of conscience under the sprinklings of the blood of Christ, and a view of peace made with God by that blood:

and love with faith from God the Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ; that is, an increase of these graces, and of the exercise of them, is wished for; for otherwise these brethren had both these graces, faith and love; see Eph 1:15; which go together; faith works by love, and love discovers faith, and both are imperfect; faith has something lacking in it, and love is apt to grow cold, and need reviving and increasing; and these, and the increase of them, are from God the Father, who is the God of all grace, and from Jesus Christ, in whom all fulness of grace is; and these things are equally desired from the one as from the other, and shows a plurality of persons in the Godhead, and the equality of Christ with the Father; and such a wish expresses the apostle's great love and affection for the brethren, and points out the things they stand in need of; and which, being asked for such, might be expected to be enjoyed.

Gill: Eph 6:24 - -- Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ,.... Christ is the object of love, and a lovely object he is: he is to be loved because of the...

Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ,.... Christ is the object of love, and a lovely object he is: he is to be loved because of the loveliness of his person, and the transcendent excellencies that are in him; because of his suitableness and fulness as a Saviour; and because of his great love shown to his church and people; and because of the relations he stands in to them, and the communion they have with him: love to Christ is a grace of the Spirit, and is in all believers; and though it is imperfect, and sometimes cold, it will abide for ever; it ought to be universal and superlative; all of Christ is to be loved, and he is to be loved above all: and it shows itself in a value for his Gospel, and the truths of it; in an esteem of his ordinances, and a regard to his commands; in parting with all for Christ, when called for; and in bearing all for his sake; in a well pleasedness in his company and presence, and in a concern for his absence, and in an uneasiness until he is enjoyed again: it should be fervent, and constant, and cordial, and, as here said,

in sincerity; from the heart, and with all the heart, and without hypocrisy; not in word only, but in deed and in truth; which appears when he is loved, as before observed: and the apostle wishes "grace" to all such sincere and hearty lovers of him; by which may be meant a fresh discovery of the free grace, love, and favour of God in Christ to them; and a fresh supply of grace from the fulness of it in Christ; and a larger measure of the grace of the Spirit to carry on the good work begun in them; as well as a continuation of the Gospel of the grace of God with them, and an increase of spiritual gifts. Grace may be connected with the word translated "sincerity", and be rendered "grace with incorruption": or incorruptible grace, as true grace is an incorruptible seed; or "grace with immortality": and so the apostle wishes not only for grace here, but for eternal happiness and glory hereafter; and then closes the epistle with an Amen, as a confirmation and asseveration of the truth of the doctrines contained in it, and as expressive of his earnest desire that the several petitions in it might be granted, and of his faith and confidence that they would be fulfilled.

The subscription,

written from Rome to the Ephesians by Tychicus, seems to be right; for that this epistle is written to the Ephesians, the inscription shows; and that it was written when the apostle was at Rome, appears from Eph 3:1; and that it was sent by Tychicus, seems very likely from Eph 6:21.

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Commentary -- Verse Notes / Footnotes

NET Notes: Eph 6:17 The Greek term translated sword (μάχαιρα, macaira) refers to the Roman gladius, a short sword about 2 ft (60 cm) lo...

NET Notes: Eph 6:18 Grk “and toward it.”

NET Notes: Eph 6:19 The infinitive γνωρίσαι (gnwrisai, “to make known”) is functioning epexegetically to further expla...

NET Notes: Eph 6:21 Grk “the things according to me.”

NET Notes: Eph 6:22 Grk “the things concerning us.”

NET Notes: Eph 6:23 Grk “brothers,” but the Greek word may be used for “brothers and sisters” or “fellow Christians” as here (cf. BDAG...

NET Notes: Eph 6:24 Grk “without corruption.” The term “love” is not found at the end of the sentence, but is supplied to clarify the sense in Eng...

Geneva Bible: Eph 6:18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the ( l ) Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; ( ...

Geneva Bible: Eph 6:21 ( 15 ) But that ye also may know my affairs, [and] how I do, Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, shall make known to you al...

Geneva Bible: Eph 6:24 Grace [be] with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ ( m ) in sincerity. Amen. "[To [the] Ephesians written from Rome, by Tychicus.]" ( m ) Or to...

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Commentary -- Verse Range Notes

TSK Synopsis: Eph 6:1-24 - --1 The duty of children towards their parents;5 of servants towards their masters.10 Our life is a warfare, not only against flesh and blood, but also ...

Combined Bible: Eph 6:18 - --Following the context of the previous verse, prayer "in the Spirit" is prayer within the sphere of the Word of God. It is not possible to read into t...

Combined Bible: Eph 6:19 - --Look at the examples given by Paul of what the believers in Ephesus should be praying for regarding his needs... "that words may be given". This is f...

Combined Bible: Eph 6:21 - --Paul is sending them a report in order that they might know how he is and what his work consists of. He is not partitioning for assistance or support...

Combined Bible: Eph 6:23 - --Note that "faith" is from "God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ." This is an important statement. "Peace and love" are declared to be their due ...

Maclaren: Eph 6:17 - --The Helmet Of Salvation' Take the helmet of salvation.'--Eph. 6:17. WE may, perhaps, trace a certain progress in the enumeration of the various piece...

Maclaren: Eph 6:23 - --Peace, Love, And Faith Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith.'--Eph. 6:23. THE numerous personal greetings usually found at the close of Paul...

MHCC: Eph 6:10-18 - --Spiritual strength and courage are needed for our spiritual warfare and suffering. Those who would prove themselves to have true grace, must aim at al...

MHCC: Eph 6:19-24 - --The gospel was a mystery till made known by Divine revelation; and it is the work of Christ's ministers to declare it. The best and most eminent minis...

Matthew Henry: Eph 6:10-18 - -- Here is a general exhortation to constancy in our Christian course, and to encourage in our Christian warfare. Is not our life a warfare? It is so; ...

Matthew Henry: Eph 6:19-24 - -- Here, I. He desires their prayers for him, Eph 6:19. Having mentioned supplication for all saints, he puts himself into the number. We must pray f...

Barclay: Eph 6:10-20 - --As Paul takes leave of his people he thinks of the greatness of the struggle which lies before them. Undoubtedly life was much more terrifying for th...

Barclay: Eph 6:21-24 - --As we have seen, the letter to the Ephesians was an encyclical letter and the bearer from church to church was Tychicus. Unlike most of his letters,...

Constable: Eph 4:1--6:21 - --III. THE CHRISTIAN'S CONDUCT 4:1--6:20 Practical application (chs. 4-6) now follows doctrinal instruction (chs. ...

Constable: Eph 6:10-20 - --B. Spiritual warfare 6:10-20 That this section is distinct from the five that precede it is evident from two facts. Paul introduced it differently, an...

Constable: Eph 6:21-24 - --IV. CONCLUSION 6:21-24 Paul's anticipation of his defense before Nero brought him back to the present in his thinking. His exposition of the mystery o...

College: Eph 6:1-24 - --EPHESIANS 6 2. Children and Parents (6:1-4) 1 Children obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 2"Honor your father and mother" - which is ...

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Commentary -- Other

Evidence: Eph 6:17 " We must thrust the sword of the Spirit into the hearts of men." Charles Spurgeon

Evidence: Eph 6:18 " Let’s move from theology to kneeology! Power for victory in spiritual warfare is found in prayer." Robert R. Lawrence

Evidence: Eph 6:19 Beware of the subtlety of passive prayer . We have been commanded to preach the gospel. Make sure you don’t pacify a guilty conscience by simply pra...

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Introduction / Outline

Robertson: Ephesians (Book Introduction) The Epistle to the Ephesians From Rome a.d. 63 By Way of Introduction There are some problems of a special nature that confront us about the so-...

JFB: Ephesians (Book Introduction) THE headings (Eph 1:1, and Eph 3:1, show that this Epistle claims to be that of Paul. This claim is confirmed by the testimonies of IRENÆUS, [Against...

JFB: Ephesians (Outline) INSCRIPTION: ORIGIN OF THE CHURCH IN THE FATHER'S ETERNAL COUNSEL, AND THE SON'S BLOODSHEDDING: THE SEALING OF IT BY THE SPIRIT. THANKSGIVING AND PRA...

TSK: Ephesians 6 (Chapter Introduction) Overview Eph 6:1, The duty of children towards their parents; Eph 6:5, of servants towards their masters; Eph 6:10, Our life is a warfare, not onl...

Poole: Ephesians 6 (Chapter Introduction) CHAPTER 6

MHCC: Ephesians (Book Introduction) This epistle was written when St. Paul was a prisoner at Rome. The design appears to be to strengthen the Ephesians in the faith of Christ, and to giv...

MHCC: Ephesians 6 (Chapter Introduction) (Eph 6:1-4) The duties of children and parents. (Eph 6:5-9) Of servants and masters. (Eph 6:10-18) All Christians are to put on spiritual armour aga...

Matthew Henry: Ephesians (Book Introduction) An Exposition, with Practical Observations, of The Epistle of St. Paul to the Ephesians Some think that this epistle to the Ephesians was a circular l...

Matthew Henry: Ephesians 6 (Chapter Introduction) In this chapter, I. The apostle proceeds in the exhortation to relative duties which he began in the former, particularly he insists on the duties...

Barclay: Ephesians (Book Introduction) A GENERAL INTRODUCTION TO THE LETTERS OF PAUL The Letters Of Paul There is no more interesting body of documents in the New Testament than the letter...

Barclay: Ephesians 6 (Chapter Introduction) Children And Parents (Eph_6:1-4) Children And Parents Eph_6:1-4 (Continued) Masters And Slaves (Eph_6:5-9) Masters And Slaves Eph_6:5-9 (Continue...

Constable: Ephesians (Book Introduction) Introduction Historical background Almost all Christians believed in the Pauline autho...

Constable: Ephesians (Outline) Outline I. Salutation 1:1-2 II. The Christian's calling 1:3-3:21 A. Indi...

Constable: Ephesians Ephesians Bibliography Abbot, T. K. A Critical and Exegetical Commentary on the Epistles to the Ephesians and t...

Haydock: Ephesians (Book Introduction) THE EPISTLE OF ST. PAUL, THE APOSTLE, TO THE EPHESIANS. INTRODUCTION. Ephesus was a famous city, the metropolis of Asia Minor, upon the Ægean...

Gill: Ephesians (Book Introduction) INTRODUCTION TO EPHESIANS The city of Ephesus is, by Pliny a, called the other light of Asia; Miletus was one, and Ephesus the other: it was the me...

Gill: Ephesians 6 (Chapter Introduction) INTRODUCTION TO EPHESIANS 6 In this chapter the apostle goes on with his exhortations to relative and domestic duties, and considers those of child...

College: Ephesians (Book Introduction) INTRODUCTION We are saved by grace through faith! We do not earn our salvation - it is the gift of God. This is the shocking good news of Ephesians. ...

College: Ephesians (Outline) OUTLINE I. DOCTRINE: God's Plan for Salvation - Eph 1:1-3:21 A. God's Blessings - 1:1-23 1. Salutation - 1:1-2 2. Present Blessings in Ch...

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