New Testament
Ephesians 3:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus through every generation, forever and ever. Amen.
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Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.
What Ephesians 3:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse emphasizes the importance of giving glory to God, not just in our personal lives but also within the community of believers, known as the church. It highlights that this glory is connected to Jesus Christ, who serves as the bridge between humanity and God. The phrase 'through every generation' reminds us that this act of glorifying God is timeless and spans across all ages. It encourages us to recognize that our worship and praise are part of a larger story that connects us with believers from the past, present, and future. The use of 'forever and ever' signifies that this glory is not temporary; it is eternal. By acknowledging God's glory, we participate in a divine legacy that transcends our individual lives. This verse invites us to reflect on how we can contribute to this ongoing expression of worship within our communities and lives. Ultimately, it calls us to be active participants in glorifying God through our actions and relationships, ensuring that His greatness is recognized and celebrated.
How to apply Ephesians 3:21 to your life
Consider how you can glorify God in your daily life and within your community. Engage with others in meaningful ways that reflect His love and greatness. Remember that your actions contribute to a legacy of faith that impacts future generations. Make worship a priority in your life and community activities. Celebrate God's presence together with others regularly, fostering a spirit of unity and praise.
Curated for this public verse page. Ephesians Summary
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Illustrated scene from Mary, Jesus' mother's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Ephesians 3:21
Related Bible verses
Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Ephesians
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- The church in Ephesus
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ephesians 3:21 mean?
Ephesians 3:21 emphasizes giving glory to God through the church and Jesus Christ, highlighting that this act of worship is timeless and spans all generations. It reminds believers that their praise is part of a larger, eternal legacy.
What is the meaning of 'glory in the church' in Ephesians 3:21?
The phrase 'glory in the church' refers to the recognition and celebration of God's greatness within the community of believers. It signifies that the church is a place where God's glory is acknowledged and shared among its members.
How does Ephesians 3:21 relate to worship?
Ephesians 3:21 connects worship to the community of believers, indicating that glorifying God is not just an individual act but a collective one within the church. It encourages ongoing worship that spans generations.
What does 'forever and ever' mean in Ephesians 3:21?
The phrase 'forever and ever' signifies the eternal nature of God's glory, indicating that the act of glorifying Him is not temporary but lasts throughout all ages and into eternity.
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