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Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.comVincent Word Studies - Ephesians 3:18 - 3:18
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This Chapter Verse Commentaries:
Rooted and grounded (ἐῤῥιζωμένοι καὶ τεθεμελιωμένοι)
Compare Col 2:7, and see note. Grounded or founded, from θεμέλιον foundation. The dwelling in Eph 3:17 would naturally suggest the foundation. Rooting and grounding are consequences of the strengthening of the Spirit and of Christ's indwelling.
In love
Standing first in the sentence and emphatic, as the fundamental principle of christian life and knowledge.
May be able (ἐξισχύσητε)
Rev., may be strong. This compound verb occurs only here. The preposition ἐξ has the force of fully or eminently. Ἱσχύς is strength embodied; inhering in organized power. Hence it is an advance on δυνάμει might in Eph 3:16 (see note). Paul prays that the inward might or virtue may issue in ability to grasp. Compare Luk 14:30 (note); Luk 16:3 (note); Act 27:16 (note); Jam 5:16 (note).
Comprehend (καταλαβέσθαι)
To English readers this conveys the meaning understand. Rev., better, apprehend: grasp. See on Joh 1:5, and compare Phi 3:12, Phi 3:13.
Breadth, etc.
No special interpretations are to be given to these words. The general idea of vastness is expressed in these ordinary terms for dimension. Notice that the article is attached only to the first, breadth, all the rest being included under the one article; the intention being to exhibit the love of Christ in its entire dimension, and not to fix the mind on its constituent parts.