1. Read a verse
Let's start with Ephesians 1:19–23 (NIV):
19 and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength 20 he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, 21 far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. 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, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.
You've read the words. But do you think of Jesus as distant — or as reigning and actively present in your life right now? That's exactly the kind of question a Study Bible answers in seconds.
2. Select a resource
With Bible Gateway Plus, you can choose from 30+ trusted Study Bibles connected directly to the passage. For this verse, we'll open the NIV Application Bible.
3. Get the insight
The NIV Application Bible, available with Bible Gateway Plus, puts it this way:
"The power Christians have comes from God, defined by the resurrection of Jesus and his exaltation as Lord over every other power. Because no other power can rival him and because fullness of God lives in him, Christians do not have to look elsewhere to find what they need for life; what they need is in Christ. This power, however, is not power in the abstract; it is relational power—power that is known and experienced because of being bound to the one in whom power resides."
That single note reframes the whole passage. Whatever you're carrying right now — whatever feels uncertain or outside your control — Christ is above it. And that power isn't distant. It's available to you, personally, as you read.
That's the kind of moment Bible Gateway Plus is built for.
