Ephesians 1:21-22

1:21

far above – As if to emphasize the supremacy of Christ; already portrayed at the right hand of God; emphasizes nothing and no one else even comes close to the exaltation of Christ

rule … given – scholars can discuss nuanced differences of these terms. For me, Paul simply is trying to encompass every possibility of authority figure whether in this earthly realm or in the heavenly realm

present age … one to come – expansion on previous to include time factors as well as the physical-spiritual continuum.

1:22

God placed – God the Father takes the initiative

all things – all creation: people and things

under his feet – under Christ’s feet; this takes His exaltation to the next logical step: dominion and submission. Jesus Christ, God the Son, not only lives to be the most honored (exalted), but also reigns and rules and exercises authority. Corresponding to this comes submission of everyone and everything to His authority. This is what I picture in the phrase “under his feet.” Old Testament kings sometimes are shown placing their feet on the heads of their defeated foes. Perhaps Paul has in mind the rebellious enemies of Christ who will be forced to submit.

That thought takes me back to the verb tense, “placed.” The past tense verb says that God has already done this. So all things are already under the authority and rulership of Christ. Have already been placed under…

and – 4 things God did for His Son: Raised Him, Seated Him [exalted], placed all under Him [authority], and now appointed

appointed – named

head – decision maker, center of thought, initiative

over everything – no exceptions; even in areas of my life where I struggle to yield, He is head in spite of my not yielding

for – on behalf of; NLT = for the benefit of

the church – Is this a shocking statement? The resurrection, exaltation, authority and dominion of God the Son, Jesus Christ was all done by God the Father for the benefit of the church! I’m not sure how this squares with other places where everything seems to be done for the glory of God the Father or the glory of God or Christ. But maybe the two are not mutually exclusive. For if the church is truly the Church, truly the Body of Christ, then whatever benefits the church does in fact bring glory to Christ who is God and gives glory to the Father. Still it seems somewhat of a surprise to see that all this is done for the benefit of the church.