Paul's Prayer for The Church

That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: in...: or, for the acknowledgement The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, his mighty power: Gr. the might of his power - Ephesians 1:17-19

    Verse 17; “That God may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him.” These people already knew the Lord, as was indicated by their faith in him; but this is a prayer for the increase of that knowledge. This knowledge of Christ and its increase can only come by and through the Holy Spirit, who is the Spirit of wisdom and revelation.

    Verse18; “That the eyes of your understanding may be flooded with light and understanding” that you might see (1) the sinfulness of sin, (2) the insufficiency of your own righteousness, and (3) the beauty, glory and suitableness of Christ as Redeemer and Lord. The natural man, being in darkness, neither sees nor understands these mysteries. We need a better view of them.

    Verse 18; “That you may know what is the hope of his calling.” By which is meant either (1) the hope of external happiness, (2) Christ, who is our hope, (3) the grace of hope, which is an exercise of faith, or (4) all three! For the hope of eternal glory is founded on Christ, and the grace of hope lives only in the heart where Christ dwells! As we know more of Christ, we know more of the hope of his calling.

    Verse 18; “That ye may know the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints.” The elect are the Lord's portion and inheritance, in whom he is glorified and will be glorified. This seems to be speaking of the heavenly inheritance which the Lord is preparing for us. Paul said there are no words to describe it.

    Verse 19; “That you may know the exceeding greatness of his power to us who believe.” This is the power of God in our conversion and faith, the power that regenerated us, begat us, raised us from the dead, and formed Christ in us.