Ephesians 1:17

The God. That God the Father is described as the God of Jesus Christ in no way implies subordination of the Son (see on John 14:28). In praying to God we identify ourselves with our Elder Brother, even though we but partially comprehend the significance of the relationship.

Father of glory. Compare on Acts 7:2. The expression may mean the Father to whom the glory belongs as a characteristic quality. For a definition of “glory” see on Rom. 3:23. Compare the use of the word “glory” in Eph. 1:18, where it is suggested that the believer who has the Father of glory for his own has also the inheritance of glory. As the Father glorified the Son with the glory that He had with Him before the foundation of the world (John 17:24), so He will glorify those who come to Him through Christ (2 Cor. 3:18).

The spirit. Or, “a spirit.” The expression may refer to an illuminated human spirit, though it is true that wisdom and revelation come from the Holy Spirit (see Luke 12:12; John 14:26; 1 Cor. 2:9, 10).

Wisdom. Gr. sophia (see on Luke 2:52), corresponding to the Heb. chokmah, for a definition of which see on Prov. 1:2.

Revelation. Probably Paul is here referring, not to direct communications from God, but to the ability to understand what God has revealed. It is necessary to exercise more than reason to come to a true knowledge of God. There must be a divine enlightenment, a spiritual vision, given directly by God to the believing soul.

Knowledge. Gr. epignosis, “full knowledge,” or “precise knowledge.” This is not merely an acknowledgement of God but a distinct knowledge of Him. This knowledge comes to those willing to accept God’s revelation of Himself. It is not speculative knowledge alone or simply intellectual assent; it is rather an experimental knowledge that comes to those whose spiritual faculties are quickened and who have become sensitive to spiritual truth. Such knowledge is progressive. Day by day God reveals new aspects of His character to thrill the soul and to inspire it to holier living.

Of him. That is, of God, as shown in vs. 18-20.