Ephesians 6:20
For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.
Study Note
Study Note
Paul identifies himself as 'an ambassador in bonds' — a deliberately paradoxical phrase, since ambassadors in antiquity enjoyed diplomatic immunity and personal security. His imprisonment is reframed not as defeat but as the very context in which his ambassadorial role for the gospel is most visibly enacted, stripping away any suggestion that gospel ministry depends on social prestige or freedom. Philippians 1:12-14 develops the same theology of chains-as-opportunity, noting that his imprisonment has actually advanced the gospel through the Praetorian Guard. The prayer request to 'speak boldly' echoes Acts 4:29-31, where the early church prayed for the same boldness under similar pressure.
Other Translations
for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.
for which I am an ambassador in a chain, that in it I may speak freely--as it behoveth me to speak.
For which I am a representative in chains, and that I may say without fear the things which it is right for me to say.
Cross References
A wicked messenger falleth into mischief: but a faithful ambassador is health.
Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgression, and the house …
Behold, their valiant ones shall cry without: the ambassadors of peace shall weep bitterly.
Thou therefore gird up thy loins, and arise, and speak unto them all that I command thee: be not dismayed …
Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the Lord.
But the Lord said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I …
And thou shalt speak my words unto them, whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear: for they are …
For they are impudent children and stiffhearted. I do send thee unto them; and thou shalt say unto them, Thus …
Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man …
For this cause therefore have I called for you, to see you, and to speak with you: because that for …