Ephesians 3:12

In Him and through faith in Him we may enter God's presence with boldness and confidence.

Study Bible

In Him
The phrase "In Him" refers to our union with Christ, a central theme in Pauline theology. The Greek preposition "ἐν" (en) signifies a fixed position in place, time, or state, indicating that our relationship with Christ is foundational and secure. This union is not merely positional but relational, emphasizing that all spiritual blessings and privileges, including access to God, are found in Christ alone. Historically, this reflects the early Christian understanding that Jesus is the mediator between God and humanity, fulfilling the Old Testament prophecies of a coming Messiah who would restore the broken relationship between God and His people.

through faith in Him
The Greek word for "faith" is "πίστις" (pistis), which implies trust, belief, and reliance. This faith is not a mere intellectual assent but a deep-seated trust in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The phrase underscores that it is not by our works or merits that we approach God, but solely through faith in Jesus. This aligns with the Reformation principle of "sola fide" (faith alone), which emphasizes that justification and access to God are granted through faith, not by human effort. Historically, this was a radical departure from the Jewish law-based approach to righteousness, highlighting the transformative power of the Gospel.

we may enter God’s presence
The concept of entering "God’s presence" is rooted in the Old Testament, where access to God was restricted to the high priest once a year in the Holy of Holies. The Greek word "προσαγωγή" (prosagōgē) means access or approach, signifying a privilege once reserved for a select few. Through Christ, this access is now available to all believers, symbolizing the tearing of the temple veil at Christ's crucifixion, which opened the way for direct communion with God. This reflects the new covenant reality where believers are invited into an intimate relationship with God, a profound shift from the distant and mediated relationship under the old covenant.

with boldness
The term "boldness" is translated from the Greek "παρρησία" (parrēsia), which conveys the idea of freedom in speaking, openness, and confidence. This boldness is not arrogance but a confident assurance rooted in the finished work of Christ. It reflects the believer's newfound status as a child of God, who can approach the Father without fear of rejection or condemnation. Historically, this boldness contrasts with the fear and trepidation associated with approaching a holy God under the old covenant, highlighting the transformative impact of Christ's atoning sacrifice.

and confidence
The word "confidence" comes from the Greek "πεποίθησις" (pepoithēsis), meaning trust or reliance. This confidence is a result of the believer's faith in Christ and the assurance of His promises. It speaks to the security and certainty that believers have in their relationship with God, knowing that they are accepted and loved. This confidence is not self-derived but is a gift of grace, reflecting the believer's trust in God's faithfulness and the sufficiency of Christ's work. In a historical context, this confidence would have been a source of great encouragement to the early Christians facing persecution, reminding them of their secure standing before God despite external circumstances.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of the letter to the Ephesians, Paul is writing to the church in Ephesus to encourage and instruct them in their faith.

2. Ephesus
A major city in Asia Minor, known for its diverse culture and the Temple of Artemis. The Ephesian church was a significant early Christian community.

3. Jesus Christ
The "Him" referred to in the verse, through whom believers have access to God.

4. God's Presence
The ultimate place of communion and fellowship with God, which believers can approach with boldness.

5. Faith
The means by which believers access God's presence, emphasizing trust and reliance on Jesus Christ.

Teaching Points

Boldness in Prayer
Believers are encouraged to approach God with confidence, knowing that Jesus has made a way for us to enter His presence.

Faith as the Key
Our access to God is not based on our works or merit but through faith in Jesus Christ.

Understanding Our Position
Recognizing our position in Christ helps us to live with assurance and peace, knowing we are accepted by God.

Living with Confidence
This boldness should translate into our daily lives, influencing how we live out our faith in the world.

Encouragement in Community
As a church, we should encourage one another to approach God confidently, supporting each other in faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding our access to God through Jesus change the way we pray and worship?

2. In what ways can we cultivate a deeper faith that allows us to approach God with boldness and confidence?

3. How does the assurance of being able to enter God's presence impact our daily lives and decisions?

4. What are some practical ways we can encourage others in our church community to live with the confidence that comes from faith in Christ?

5. How do the connections to other scriptures, like Hebrews 4:16 and Romans 5:1-2, deepen our understanding of Ephesians 3:12?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 4:16
This verse also speaks about approaching God's throne with confidence, reinforcing the idea of bold access to God through Jesus.

Romans 5:1-2
Discusses justification by faith and access to God's grace, paralleling the themes of faith and access in Ephesians 3:12.

John 14:6
Jesus declares Himself as the way to the Father, underscoring the exclusive access through Him.