Ephesians Part 13
But notice to whom this wisdom is being revealed: “to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places.” Paul is not referring here to human governments or institutions, but to the spiritual realm, angelic and demonic beings who witness the unfolding of God’s eternal purpose.
“To the intent that now the manifold wisdom of God might be made known by the church…” (Ephesians 3:10).
Here Paul moves from purpose to effect. The Church itself (the ekklesia, the called-out assembly) is the instrument through which God’s manifold (or much-varied) wisdom is being revealed. The Greek word polupoikilos means “multifaceted” or “many-colored,” suggesting a tapestry of divine wisdom woven through many experiences, dispensations and revelations.
Barnes describes this phrase as meaning “greatly diversified wisdom,” like a variegated landscape displaying God’s beauty and creativity. Every aspect of redemption—the calling of the Gentiles, the reconciliation of sinners, the transformation of hearts—demonstrates another facet of His wisdom.
But notice to whom this wisdom is being revealed: “to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places.” Paul is not referring here to human governments or institutions, but to the spiritual realm, angelic and demonic beings who witness the unfolding of God’s eternal purpose. The Church serves as a living demonstration to the heavenly realm of God’s wisdom, power and grace.
This connects with Ephesians 6:12, where Paul reminds us that “we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age.” The Church’s existence and perseverance proclaim to both holy and fallen angels that God’s plan cannot fail and that His purpose in Christ is being fulfilled.
Throughout history, the true Church of God has rarely been popular or visible. Its doctrines, such as the observance of the Sabbath, the understanding of God as a family rather than a closed Trinity, the destiny of humanity to be born into that divine family—have often been marginalized or misunderstood. Yet through it all, God’s manifold wisdom continues to be revealed, not to win the world’s favor, but to fulfill His purpose before the heavenly hosts.
“According to the eternal purpose which He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord, in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through faith in Him” (Ephesians 3:11-12).
Everything Paul has been describing flows from God’s eternal purpose. This was not an improvisation, but a design formed “before the foundation of the world” (1:4). It is a purpose that God “accomplished in Christ Jesus,” the One through whom creation, redemption and restoration are all brought to completion.
Through Christ, we now have access to the Father, to grace, to the indwelling Spirit, and to the hope of salvation. We can come before God with boldness and confidence because of our faith in Christ. As Hebrews 4:16 exhorts us:
“Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”
Our access is not based on human merit, but on a divine relationship. Christ is both our High Priest and our Mediator. Hebrews 3:6 reminds us that “Christ [is] a Son over His own house, whose house we are if we hold fast the confidence and rejoicing of the hope firm to the end.” That confidence comes through faith—a faith refined by trials, as Peter writes, “more precious than gold that perishes” (1 Peter 1:7–9).
Jesus Himself is “the author and finisher of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2). Because of Him, we can live with assurance, hope and courage even in suffering.
Paul closes this section with a personal plea. “
Therefore I ask that you do not lose heart at my tribulations for you, which is your glory” (Ephesians 3:13).
He doesn’t want the Ephesians to be discouraged by his imprisonment. He sees his suffering as part of God’s plan—his tribulations were for their benefit and ultimately for God’s glory. Just as Joseph told his brothers, “You meant evil against me; but God meant it for good” (Genesis 50:20), Paul understood that his chains served a greater purpose.
Discouragement is one of Satan’s most effective “fiery darts,” but faith is the shield that quenches it. Faith looks beyond the circumstances to the sovereign hand of God. 1 Timothy 1:18–19 urges believers to “wage the good warfare, having faith and a good conscience,” lest their faith be shipwrecked. Faith cannot be passive; it must be active, anchored in the promises of God.
Paul modeled endurance and perspective:
“I endure all things for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory” (2 Timothy 2:10).
Even in chains, Paul knew the Word of God was not chained. He looked beyond suffering to the eternal purpose it served, just as we should do!
“If we endure, we shall also reign with Him … If we are faithless, He remains faithful; He cannot deny Himself” (2 Timothy 2:12–13).
Let us, then, rise to the challenge and endure, “laying aside every weight and the sin which so easily ensnares us,” and “run with endurance the race that is set before us” (Hebrews 12:1). Paul’s words remind us that no trial, no imprisonment and no opposition can frustrate the purpose of God. His plan, hidden from ages past, is being fulfilled in us and will culminate in glory when Christ returns to complete what He began.
UYA Team | uya@ucg.org
United Young Adults (UYA) primarily serves the 18–32-year age group for the United Church of God. There are three main areas of contribution to the lives of the young adults: Promoting Spiritual Growth, Developing Meaningful Relationships and Making the Most of Your Talents. The Know Your Sword series is a daily expository message introducing God’s Word from a trusted perspective.
