Visual Theology – Ephesians ?

This chart shows the structure. What follows explains each part.

Ephesians 1:17-19
That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power.

Paul’s Prayer in Ephesians 1:17-19

Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 1:17-19 reveals God’s heart for the church. He asks the Father to give believers “the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him,” that “the eyes of your understanding being enlightened” would know three great realities: “the hope of his calling,” “the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,” and “the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe” (Ephesians 1:17-19). These form the believer’s spiritual vision and assurance.

The Hope of His Calling

First, Paul prays we would know “the hope of his calling.” This is God’s calling, centered on Christ and rooted in His eternal purpose (Ephesians 1:4-5). It is a heavenly calling (Hebrews 3:1) to be conformed to Christ’s image (Romans 8:29-30). Christ in us is “the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27)—a sure, steadfast anchor (Hebrews 6:19) and a living hope that cannot disappoint (Romans 5:5). God’s calling is irrevocable (Romans 11:29), and all things work for our good because we are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).

The Riches of His Inheritance in the Saints

Second, Paul desires we would know “the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints” (Ephesians 1:18). This is not our inheritance in God, but God’s inheritance in us. The Father’s treasure is His glory revealed in the saints. We are vessels of mercy chosen to display His glory (Romans 9:23). Like a merchant buying a field for its treasure (Matthew 13:44), God secures His inheritance in Christ and the church. The church is His masterpiece (Ephesians 2:10), through which the riches of Christ’s glory are displayed.

The Exceeding Greatness of His Power

Third, Paul prays we would know “the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe,” demonstrated when God raised Christ and seated Him at His right hand (Ephesians 1:19-20). This power is already working toward us. It has made Christ head over all things for the church, which is His body and fullness (Ephesians 1:22-23). Nothing can frustrate God’s purpose or separate us from His love (Romans 8:35-39). This power ensures all things work for our good and that God’s purpose to unite all things in Christ will be fulfilled (Ephesians 1:10-11).

The Vision of God’s Heart

Paul’s prayer gives a vision of God’s heart: to know the hope of His calling, the riches of His inheritance in the saints, and the exceeding greatness of His power toward us. This vision brings peace, security, and rest. We are the subject of His rejoicing, and nothing—not failure, circumstances, or opposition—can overturn His purpose. The knowledge of Him, revealed by the spirit of wisdom and revelation, is our source of assurance and joy in God’s eternal purpose in Christ.