Eph. 1:21

Please note, the most recent one is on the top. They then appear in reverse order.

21 Far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.

In spiritual terms, power, or the amount of power, so to speak, is determined by a person’s place in the order of powers. Since Jesus is above all, his power surpasses all. Paul asserts, Jesus is above all titles, not only in the present age, but in the ages to come.

To emphasize and enlarge on this point, Paul said:

22 And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, 23 which is his body.

Jesus has all authority in heaven and on earth, as he told his disciples when he sent them into all the world to spread the Good News. No power can possibly “overpower” him, ever. His reign is eternal.

The question arises, “Why does Jesus not use his power to destroy Satan now!” The answer to that persistent question is to be found in God’s love for and plan for his Church, the body of Christ on the earth, us! The church is the apple of God’s eye.

That church will be his eternal bride. That church is the context in which God will exhibit all his virtues and benefits. That church is the instrument Jesus uses to spread the Good News to all peoples in all places. If I can comprehend God’s love for the church I can begin to understand what is happening.

In my missionary career, when I saw how the church was being persecuted and hemmed in I was tempted to ask God why he does not simply show his strong arm and destroy the power of Satan right there and then. In my more sober moments I ask a deeper question, “Who am I to think that I know what is best for Jesus’ body on the earth. Should I not let that up to him? He cares for his body a thousand times more that I.” My thoughts are earthly thoughts. Jesus’ plan for his body is eternal.

We read in Hebrews 2: 7 – 9: You…crowned him with glory and honor and put everything under his feet. In putting everything under him, God left nothing that is not subject to him. Yet at present we do not see everything subject to him. But we see Jesus.

We stand before a deep mystery here. How Jesus wields his phenomenal power is not for us to fully understand, but we have the assurance that he is focused, entirely, on the welfare of his body, the church, those who believe. That is where he pours out his fulness.