Ephesians 3:12
Verse
Context
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
In whom we have boldness - By whom we, Gentiles, have την παρῥησιαν, this liberty of speech; so that we may say any thing by prayer and supplication, and την προσαγωγην, this introduction, into the Divine presence by faith in Christ. It is only in his name we can pray to God, and it is only by him that we can come to God; none can give us an introduction but Christ Jesus, and it is only for his sake that God will either hear or save us. It is on the ground of such scriptures as these that we conclude all our prayers in the name, and for the sake, of Jesus Christ our Lord.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Translate, "our boldness and our access (Eph 2:18) in confidence through our faith in Him." ALFORD quotes as an instance, Rom 8:38, &c. "THE access" (Greek) implies the formal introduction into the presence of a monarch.
John Gill Bible Commentary
In whom we have boldness and access,.... Into the holy of holies, to the throne of grace there, and to God the Father, as seated on it: Christ is the way of access; union to him gives right of access; through his mediation his people have audience of God, and acceptance with him, both of person and service: and this access is with boldness; which denotes liberty of coming, granted by God, and a liberty in their own souls to speak out their minds plainly and freely; and an holy courage and intrepidity of soul, being free from servile fear, or a spirit of bondage; which is owing to the heart being sprinkled from an evil conscience, to an act of faith, on the person, blood, and righteousness of Christ, and to a view of God, as a God of peace, grace and mercy: and this access may be had with confidence by the faith of him; with confidence of interest in the everlasting love of God; of relation to him, as a covenant God and Father; of his power, faithfulness, and willingness to fulfil his promises; of his hearing and answering prayer; of the fulness of Christ, the prevalence of his mediation, and of the acceptance of persons and performances through him; and of the work of grace being carried on till the day of Christ; and of entrance at last into the heavenly glory: and this access is not local but spiritual; it is by faith, and so is peculiar to believers; and the confidence with which it may be had, arises from its being by the faith of Christ; not that faith which Christ himself had, and exercised as man, but that of which he is both the object and author; or that by which souls believe in him for acceptance, for righteousness, for pardon, for every supply of grace, and for eternal life and happiness.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:12 We can come boldly and confidently into God’s presence, not because of good deeds that we have done, but because of Christ’s all-sufficient sacrifice for our sins (see 2:18; Heb 4:14-16; 10:19-23; 1 Pet 3:18; 1 Jn 4:14).
Ephesians 3:12
The Mystery of the Gospel
11according to the eternal purpose that He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. 12In Him and through faith in Him we may enter God’s presence with boldness and confidence.13So I ask you not to be discouraged because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Mysteries of the Faith
By Art Katz2.9K1:27:56MysteryMAT 6:33EPH 3:3EPH 3:12EPH 6:12HEB 10:34HEB 11:26HEB 13:3In this sermon, the speaker discusses the influence of spiritual forces in various aspects of society, such as institutions, culture, business, and entertainment. The speaker shares a personal experience of baptizing Lutherans who desired immersion instead of infant sprinkling. While walking to the locker room after the baptisms, the speaker slips and reflects on the importance of living in freedom and not being bound by fear or material possessions. The sermon emphasizes the eternal purpose of God in Christ Jesus, which is to demonstrate His wisdom through the church to the powers of the air. The speaker also highlights the example of a girl who endured confinement without complaining, attributing her suffering to the sovereignty of God rather than human responsibility.
Confidence
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.9K20:42ConfidencePSA 91:7ISA 37:14LUK 24:25JHN 14:1ROM 4:251CO 10:13EPH 3:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power and authority of God as the great pilot who can bring things into existence and command the hosts of heaven. The preacher encourages the listeners to have confidence in God and to draw near to Him. He mentions that although there may be challenges and trials, God will defend His people and they can find refuge in Him. The preacher shares a personal testimony of how God transformed his circumstances and provided for him when he was sick, highlighting the faithfulness and friendship of God.
Filled With All Fulness
By Peter Masters1.3K48:21EPH 3:12EPH 3:16This sermon delves into the progression in the life of a believer, focusing on the development and advance in the divine life. It emphasizes the blessings of prayer, the access believers have to God through Christ, the importance of boldness and confidence in approaching God, and the continuous strengthening with might by the Spirit in the inner man. The sermon highlights the deep love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, the breadth, length, depth, and height of His love, and the ultimate goal of being filled with all the fullness of God.
Faith
By Bill McLeod1.2K14:10FaithGAL 2:20GAL 3:11GAL 3:22EPH 2:8EPH 3:122TI 3:15HEB 10:22HEB 11:3HEB 11:7JAS 1:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of faith in pleasing God. He references Psalm 37:5 and Proverbs 3:5-6, which encourage believers to commit their ways to the Lord and trust in Him. The speaker highlights that faith allows Christians to have access to God, receive Christ, and be saved. He also mentions the power of faith and how it can bring about positive outcomes in our lives. The sermon concludes with a reminder to believe in God's promises and not lose faith, even when faced with challenges.
The Sacred Place
By Jim Cymbala87829:57SacredMAT 7:7JHN 3:16EPH 3:12HEB 4:14HEB 10:19JAS 4:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of all scripture being inspired and significant. He mentions that while there are verses about the role of a deacon, they are not as important as the verse about God's love for the world and the sacrifice of his son. The preacher then reads from Hebrews 4, highlighting the significance of having a great high priest in Jesus and encourages believers to hold firmly to their faith. He concludes by discussing the concept of the throne of grace, where believers can boldly approach to receive what they need through God's love and forgiveness.
In the Shadow of the Cross - Jesus Prays for His Disciples (1)
By J. Glyn Owen7141:11:13DisciplesMAT 6:33JHN 13:1JHN 17:1JHN 17:24ROM 8:34EPH 3:12HEB 7:25In this sermon, the speaker focuses on Jesus' testimonial to the Father on behalf of his disciples. He emphasizes that the disciples have received and kept Christ's words as the word of God. Jesus affirms that they have believed in him as the one sent by the Father and have come to know certain truths about him. Despite their imperfections, Jesus testifies to his disciples and their future growth. The speaker also highlights the importance of staying committed to the teachings of Scripture and not adding personal ideas.
Confidence ("Cast Not Away Your Confidence" - "Confidence by the Faith of Him")
By Hans R. Waldvogel1Confidence In GodFaithPSA 37:5PRO 28:26ISA 40:31ROM 4:202CO 1:9EPH 3:12PHP 4:132TI 1:12HEB 10:351JN 5:14Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the importance of maintaining confidence in God rather than in ourselves or worldly things, which are ultimately unreliable. He warns against the folly of trusting in our own hearts and encourages believers to draw near to God with boldness and confidence through faith in Jesus Christ. Waldvogel reminds us that true confidence comes from recognizing our weakness and relying on the Living God who raises the dead. He urges the congregation to cast away any confidence that is not rooted in Christ, as it is only through Him that we can find strength and assurance. The sermon concludes with a call to hope and trust in God's faithfulness, reinforcing that our confidence in Him will lead to great rewards.
Knowledge
By W.H. Griffith Thomas0JHN 14:20ROM 6:7ROM 8:12CO 9:8EPH 3:12EPH 3:17COL 1:27JAS 4:71PE 3:151JN 1:9W.H. Griffith Thomas preaches about the importance of understanding the fundamental principles of Christianity and being able to explain and defend our faith. He highlights the different aspects of truth throughout Christian history, focusing on Christ as the Divine Redeemer, Perfect Justifier, and Complete Deliverer. The sermon emphasizes the believer's life in the divine grace and blessings of Christ, with a strong emphasis on the believer's relationship with God, assurance of salvation, and the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit.
An Invitation to Come Boldly Before God
By David Wilkerson0Boldness in PrayerGod's PromisesMAT 7:7EPH 3:12PHP 4:6HEB 4:16JAS 5:16David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of approaching God's throne with boldness and confidence, as encouraged in Hebrews 4:16 and Ephesians 3:12. He explains that effective prayer is rooted in a steadfast mindset and fervency, which is based on God's promises rather than mere emotions. Wilkerson urges believers to come prepared with God's Word, reminding Him of His promises, and to make specific requests, as God invites us to do so. He challenges the notion that seeking God's gifts is unholy, asserting that God desires us to approach Him boldly in times of need. Ultimately, he highlights that in critical moments, we must confidently seek God's help, knowing He is faithful to His Word.
Christ's Friendship: Its Intimacy
By Andrew Murray0Friendship with GodIntimacy with ChristPSA 25:14PRO 3:32JHN 14:21JHN 15:15JHN 16:131CO 2:9GAL 5:22EPH 3:12PHP 3:10JAS 2:23Andrew Murray emphasizes the profound intimacy of Christ's friendship, highlighting that Jesus no longer calls His followers servants but friends, sharing with them the secrets of the Father. This friendship is characterized by a deep spiritual understanding and the privilege of being included in God's plans, which is made possible through the Holy Spirit. Murray explains that true friendship with Christ involves loving obedience, which purifies the soul and opens the door to closer fellowship with Him. The sermon invites believers to recognize the honor of being called friends by Christ and to seek a deeper relationship with Him through obedience and trust.
1 John 3:21
By John Gill0Brotherly LoveConfidence in PrayerMAT 5:23ROM 8:1EPH 3:12HEB 4:16HEB 10:22JAS 4:81PE 3:151JN 3:211JN 4:201JN 5:14John Gill emphasizes the importance of a clear conscience in the life of believers, explaining that a heart that does not condemn us allows for confidence before God. He clarifies that this does not imply a state of sinless perfection but rather a heart cleansed by the blood of Christ, which fosters boldness in approaching God. Gill highlights that true brotherly love is essential, as those who harbor hatred cannot stand confidently before God. The assurance of our relationship with God is rooted in our love for one another, which confirms our regeneration and adoption as His children. Ultimately, this love enables believers to approach God with freedom and confidence, knowing He hears and answers their prayers.
Before the Father's Throne
By David Wilkerson0PrayerFaith in God's PromisesPSA 119:50ACT 10:19ROM 8:262CO 1:20EPH 3:12PHP 4:61TI 2:5HEB 4:16HEB 7:251JN 2:1David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of approaching God's throne with confidence, reminding us that we should bring God's promises into our prayers. He illustrates this through Peter's vision, highlighting that we must believe in God's declarations without letting our doubts or feelings of unworthiness hinder us. The sermon reassures us that Jesus serves as our intercessor, and through His sacrifice, we have direct access to the Father. Additionally, the Holy Spirit aids us in remembering God's promises, encouraging us to boldly claim them in prayer. Ultimately, God delights in our faith and our willingness to stand on His Word.
Boldy
By David Wilkerson0Trusting God's PromisesBoldness in PrayerACT 10:20EPH 3:12HEB 4:16JAS 5:16David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of approaching God's throne with boldness and confidence, as instructed in Hebrews 4:16 and Ephesians 3:12. He explains that this boldness comes from a deep understanding of God's Word and the promises contained within it, which we should bring to God in prayer. Wilkerson highlights that true prayer is rooted in a steadfast mindset and fervency, not merely emotional appeal. He encourages believers to trust in God's declarations and to rely on the Holy Spirit as our advisor and Christ as our intercessor when approaching God. Ultimately, we are reminded that God desires us to come boldly to Him with our needs, assured of His grace and mercy.
Bold Belief
By Miles J. Stanford0EPH 3:12COL 3:3HEB 10:191JN 3:1Miles J. Stanford preaches about the believer's boldness to enter into the Holiest by the Blood of Jesus, emphasizing that through Christ's sacrifice, we have immediate access to the Father's presence. This access is not based on our own merit but on our position in Christ, allowing us to approach God with confidence and without doubt. Stanford highlights the unchanging nature of our identity in Christ and the privilege we have as His children to abide in His presence with full assurance.
The Same Glory
By David Wilkerson0Access to GodPrayerJHN 5:19JHN 14:21JHN 17:21EPH 2:18EPH 3:12HEB 4:16David Wilkerson emphasizes the profound truth that believers have been granted the same glory that Jesus received from the Father, which is the unimpeded access to God. This access allows us to approach the Father boldly and confidently, unlike Esther who had to wait for the king's approval. Through Christ's sacrifice, we are invited into the throne room of grace, where we can communicate with God at any time. Wilkerson encourages believers to recognize their privilege of direct access to the Father and to seek Him fervently, empowered by the Holy Spirit who reveals God's will to us.
Access to God
By David Wilkerson0Access to GodThe Holy SpiritJHN 14:17ACT 1:8ROM 8:311CO 6:192CO 6:16GAL 4:7EPH 3:12PHP 4:19HEB 4:161PE 2:9David Wilkerson emphasizes the profound access believers have to God, contrasting it with the limited access of the Old Testament temple where only the high priest could enter God's presence once a year. He highlights that through Christ, we can approach God with boldness and confidence, as He has chosen to dwell within us despite our imperfections. Wilkerson reassures that the Holy Spirit sanctifies us, preparing our hearts to be God's dwelling place, and encourages us to boldly ask for the strength and grace we need. He reminds us that our holiness comes from the continual presence of the Holy Spirit, not from our own efforts. Ultimately, he calls Christians to rejoice in the fact that God is always with us, empowering us in our daily lives.
Self-Effort
By J.C. Ryle0SalvationPersonal ResponsibilityPRO 1:24MAT 11:12LUK 13:24JHN 10:9JHN 14:6EPH 3:12HEB 9:8JAS 5:202PE 3:91JN 3:4J.C. Ryle emphasizes the critical importance of personal responsibility in seeking salvation through the 'narrow door' as taught by Jesus in Luke 13:24. He warns that many will attempt to enter but will ultimately be unable to, highlighting the urgency of making every effort to pursue a relationship with Christ. Ryle describes the narrow door as the only way to salvation, which requires diligence, sacrifice, and a sincere desire to turn away from sin. He encourages believers to actively share the message of salvation with others, reminding them of the fleeting nature of time and the certainty of Christ's return. The sermon serves as a call to action for all to enter through the narrow door without delay.
Dead, Yet Living
By Thomas Bradbury0PSA 25:14JHN 6:45JHN 14:6JHN 17:2ROM 7:4EPH 3:12COL 3:31PE 1:5Thomas Bradbury preaches about the profound truth that believers are dead to self and alive in Christ, hidden and secure in God. He emphasizes the importance of being taught by God and led by the Holy Spirit to fully understand and experience the depths of God's love and salvation. Bradbury highlights the necessity of being dead to the world and alive to God through Jesus Christ, finding true life and purpose in Him alone.
Self-Exertion
By J.C. Ryle0SalvationPersonal ResponsibilityPRO 1:24MAT 11:12LUK 13:24JHN 10:9JHN 14:6EPH 3:12HEB 9:8JAS 5:202PE 3:91JN 3:4J.C. Ryle emphasizes the critical importance of personal responsibility in seeking salvation through the 'narrow door' as taught by Jesus. He warns that many will attempt to enter but will not succeed, urging listeners to make every effort to pursue their spiritual well-being without delay. Ryle describes the narrow door as the only path to forgiveness and eternal life, highlighting the necessity of diligence, faith, and urgency in the Christian journey. He calls for a serious reflection on one's spiritual state and encourages believers to actively share the message of salvation with others. The preacher's message serves as a reminder of the urgency of faith and the consequences of spiritual neglect.
A Reply to Thy Animadversions
By Isaac Penington02CO 1:152CO 3:42CO 8:222CO 10:2EPH 3:12PHP 3:4The preacher delves into the concept of 'Confident' (pepoithesis), which means full persuasion and trust in someone or something, whether it be in others, in God, or in oneself. This settled conviction is rooted in a past process of being completely persuaded, resulting in a confirmed and settled state of utter confidence. The nuance of meaning varies depending on the context, from confidence in God to self-confidence, with examples from 2 Corinthians, Ephesians, and Philippians.
The Lord's Prayer ("Not Like Moses;" Take Him as Your father.)
By Hans R. Waldvogel0Fatherhood Of GodPrayerMAT 6:6LUK 11:2JHN 4:24ROM 8:14EPH 3:12Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the transformative relationship believers have with God as their Father, contrasting it with the distant relationship Moses had with God. He highlights the importance of prayer, not just as a religious duty but as a command from God, inviting believers to approach Him with confidence and intimacy. Waldvogel encourages the church to recognize their identity as children of God, which will lead to a revival and a deeper unity among believers. He stresses that prayer should be a personal and secret communion with the Father, who knows our needs and desires to bless us abundantly.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
In whom we have boldness - By whom we, Gentiles, have την παρῥησιαν, this liberty of speech; so that we may say any thing by prayer and supplication, and την προσαγωγην, this introduction, into the Divine presence by faith in Christ. It is only in his name we can pray to God, and it is only by him that we can come to God; none can give us an introduction but Christ Jesus, and it is only for his sake that God will either hear or save us. It is on the ground of such scriptures as these that we conclude all our prayers in the name, and for the sake, of Jesus Christ our Lord.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Translate, "our boldness and our access (Eph 2:18) in confidence through our faith in Him." ALFORD quotes as an instance, Rom 8:38, &c. "THE access" (Greek) implies the formal introduction into the presence of a monarch.
John Gill Bible Commentary
In whom we have boldness and access,.... Into the holy of holies, to the throne of grace there, and to God the Father, as seated on it: Christ is the way of access; union to him gives right of access; through his mediation his people have audience of God, and acceptance with him, both of person and service: and this access is with boldness; which denotes liberty of coming, granted by God, and a liberty in their own souls to speak out their minds plainly and freely; and an holy courage and intrepidity of soul, being free from servile fear, or a spirit of bondage; which is owing to the heart being sprinkled from an evil conscience, to an act of faith, on the person, blood, and righteousness of Christ, and to a view of God, as a God of peace, grace and mercy: and this access may be had with confidence by the faith of him; with confidence of interest in the everlasting love of God; of relation to him, as a covenant God and Father; of his power, faithfulness, and willingness to fulfil his promises; of his hearing and answering prayer; of the fulness of Christ, the prevalence of his mediation, and of the acceptance of persons and performances through him; and of the work of grace being carried on till the day of Christ; and of entrance at last into the heavenly glory: and this access is not local but spiritual; it is by faith, and so is peculiar to believers; and the confidence with which it may be had, arises from its being by the faith of Christ; not that faith which Christ himself had, and exercised as man, but that of which he is both the object and author; or that by which souls believe in him for acceptance, for righteousness, for pardon, for every supply of grace, and for eternal life and happiness.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:12 We can come boldly and confidently into God’s presence, not because of good deeds that we have done, but because of Christ’s all-sufficient sacrifice for our sins (see 2:18; Heb 4:14-16; 10:19-23; 1 Pet 3:18; 1 Jn 4:14).