Ephesians 1:20-21 20that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, 21far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.
Paul cannot talk about these things without praise (a common pattern in his letters), which we see in vv. 20-21. Verse 20 describes God’s power and might revealed in Jesus Christ mentioned in v. 19. God works his power in Christ. The use of this phrase here could have several nuances. It simply could mean God’s power is on display through Christ’s resurrection. The power that spoke the universe into existence and called life to begin is the same power that called new life in the dead Messiah. It could also mean God’s power comes “through” Christ as the agency and means by which we experience the power of God. It could also have the nuance of intimate relationship of our new existence as the children of God which comes only for those who are in the realm of Christ’s lordship. It is likely all of the above in different nuances. This is a profound claim about Christ and what happened to him.
God the Father is the actor in this resurrection and exaltation. Connecting Christ’s resurrection to God’s power removes it from speculation about this only being a recitation from a coma. Resurrection requires the power of the almighty God of the universe. This was a true and unique miracle. This same power is at work within us to bring us new life (Romans 6:4).
God also exalted Christ to the highest place of honor. The right hand represents the place of supreme honor. This is a special place reserved only for Jesus the Messiah. What Paul says here is similar to Philippians 2:5-11 and almost has a hymnic quality to it. Verse 21 bursts forth in praise by continuing the idea of Christ’s exaltation in heaven. This place of honor is above four entities: rule (Jesus is King of kings), authority (he is Lord of lords), power (He is the Savior), and dominion (he is the Son of God). He name, Jesus Christ, Savior who is the Messiah, is above every name. “At the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth” (Philippians 2:10). There is no greater name ever uttered. These verses set the foundation for everything that follows in the letter. This is the very basis for our faith.
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