What does Paul mean in Ephesians 3:14 by "for this cause I bow my knees"?
Paul means he is praying. In Ephesians 3:14, the phrase “I bow my knees” introduces Paul’s prayer for Gentile believers. The context asks, “What’s he doing?” and answers, “He’s praying,” showing the expression describes his act of prayer, which remains valid for us.
Les teaches from Ephesians 3:14 that Paul is not merely using a figure of speech; he is actively praying. The text says, “for this cause I bow my knees,” and then the context asks, “What’s he doing?” The answer is, “He’s praying.” Paul prays for these Gentile believers, and Les notes that this prayer is still valid for us. So bowing the knees signifies Paul’s posture in prayer as he intercedes for these believers.
For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,