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
Then said David, I will shew kindness unto Hanun the son of Nahash, as his father shewed kindness unto me. …
And when the children of Ammon saw that they stank before David, the children of Ammon sent and hired the …
A wicked messenger falleth into mischief: but a faithful ambassador is health.
Behold, their valiant ones shall cry without: the ambassadors of peace shall weep bitterly.
Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgression, and the house …
But the Lord said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I …
Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the Lord.
Thou therefore gird up thy loins, and arise, and speak unto them all that I command thee: be not dismayed …
For they are impudent children and stiffhearted. I do send thee unto them; and thou shalt say unto them, Thus …
And thou shalt speak my words unto them, whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear: for they are …