Ephesians 3:17 (NKJV)
that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith;
Bible Commentary
Ephesians 3:17 is a Bible verse where the Apostle Paul is relaying to the church his heartfelt prayer and desire that they know Christ intimately through their faith. This statement is just one of many that Paul prayed over the church at Ephesus in Chapter 3. There is a lot wrapped up in these few words in the first part of verse 17, so let’s focus on that for now.
As believers, we understand that when we asked Christ to forgive our sins and submitted to Him as our Lord and Savior, the Holy Spirit came into our hearts to live with us.
That moment could have been beautifully dramatic, or quietly subtle. He works differently in each one of us, according to our temperament and circumstances. No matter how it happened, Christ came to dwell with you. But let’s take a deeper look at what Paul is praying here.
The word “dwell” in the Greek means: to house permanently, reside, occupy, cohabit.
If we take some time to let this fact really sink in, our faith and excitement would dramatically increase. Christ resides within us. He occupies our hearts; He is our permanent roommate. We cohabit a physical body with Him.
That in itself is amazing, but let’s go on.
So what does it really mean to us personally that Christ lives within us?
Unlocking the Truth – Through Faith
Ephesians 3:17 gives us the answer to that question when it says that Christ dwells in our hearts. The word “hearts” in the Greek means: the heart, that is, the thoughts or feelings (mind).
If Christ dwells in our thoughts and feelings (in our minds), then our thoughts and feelings are His, and His thoughts and feelings are ours. We are one.
Take a moment and read that again. Do you believe it? Romans 11:36 says,
“For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things.”
He is in everything and everywhere, but He seeks those who worship Him in Spirit and in truth (John 4:23). And we need faith to do that. He reveals Himself (His mind and emotions) to those who believe Him, to those who seek Him and worship Him.
Faith acts like a magnet that pulls the heartstrings of the Father closer to us. Our faith is the beauty that attracts Him (Hebrews 11:6). Remember, Jesus Christ is our Groom and we are His bride. This is the most dramatic romance in history, and we are part of it!
He wants to trust us with His most intimate thoughts and emotions. Some are soft and subtle and some are enormous. We already experience them, but maybe we haven’t been aware that it is Him. Pray for revelation of Christ in your heart. He will gladly show you. Only believe.
Ephesians 3:17 “that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith;”
What an amazing God we serve! Hallelujah! Amen. Study the Bible verse of Ephesians 3:17, and recognize the heart of the Father within you.
