Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Ephesians 1:21

"far above all rule, and authority, and power, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:" — Ephesians 1:21 (ASV)

“Far above” (cf. 4:10; Hebrews 9:5) is not a dimensional expression but simply indicates the superiority of Christ. “Rule” (GK 794), “authority” (GK 2026), “power” (see v.19), and “dominion” (GK 3262) no doubt reflect various degrees of angels in the Jewish hierarchy. They are not to be classified in a graded series, nor should we ask whether the ranks are arranged in ascending or descending order. Angels were thought to control human destiny, but Paul sees Christ as controlling them with absolute authority because he is infinitely superior.

Paul then proceeds to use a comprehensive phrase (“every title that can be given”) to include not only those names known now by people living on earth but also those that will be used in “the [age] to come.” The familiar contrast between the present era and the coming messianic age was adopted by writers in the early church who nevertheless recognized that for those in Christ the last days had already begun.