Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Ephesians 3:14

"For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father," — Ephesians 3:14 (ASV)

“For this reason” is repeated from v.1 as Paul proceeds along the line he had digressed from in vv.2–13. Because the Gentile Christians are now incorporated into the body of Christ, he prays that they may appropriate their spiritual privileges to the full. Paul says he “kneels.” Standing was the more normal posture among the Jews but kneeling was not unknown (cf. Daniel 6:10). It symbolizes submissiveness, solemnity, and adoration. Paul turns in prayer “before the Father.” The word for “before” indicates an intimate relationship; he addresses God as Father because through the redemptive act of Christ access is now made possible to him through the Spirit (2:18).