Albert Barnes on Ephesians 1:22
Notes on the New Testament. Browse this work.
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Ephesians1:22
And hath put all things under his feet. 1Cor 15:27.
And gave him to be the head over all things. Appointed him to be the supreme Ruler.
To the Church. With reference to the church, or for its benefit and welfare. Jn 17:2. The universe is under his control and direction for the welfare of his people.
(1.) All the elements--the physical works of God--the winds and waves-- the seas and rivers---all are under him, and all are to be made tributary to the welfare of the church.
(2.) Earthly kings and rulers; kingdoms and nations are under his control. Thus far Christ has controlled all the wicked rulers of the earth, and they have not been able to destroy that church which he redeemed with his own blood.
(3.) Angels in heaven, with all their ranks and orders, are under his control with reference to the church. Heb 1:14. Comp. Mt 26:53.
(4.) Fallen angels are under his control, and shall not be able to injure or destroy the church. Mt 16:18. The church, therefore, is safe. All the great powers of heaven, earth, and hell, are made subject to its Head and King; and no weapon that is formed against it shall prosper.
(c) "all things" Ps 8:6, Mt 28:16 (*) "gave him" "appointed"
Albert Barnes, Notes on the New Testament, Ephesians 1:22. Public domain.
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