1 Corinthians 16:9
For a great door and effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries.
Original Language Analysis
θύρα
door
G2374
θύρα
door
Strong's:
G2374
Word #:
1 of 10
a portal or entrance (the opening or the closure, literally or figuratively)
γάρ
For
G1063
γάρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 10
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
ἀνέῳγεν
is opened
G455
ἀνέῳγεν
is opened
Strong's:
G455
Word #:
4 of 10
to open up (literally or figuratively, in various applications)
μεγάλη
a great
G3173
μεγάλη
a great
Strong's:
G3173
Word #:
5 of 10
big (literally or figuratively, in a very wide application)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
6 of 10
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
8 of 10
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Cross References
Acts 14:27And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.2 Corinthians 2:12Furthermore, when I came to Troas to preach Christ's gospel, and a door was opened unto me of the Lord,Colossians 4:3Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:1 Corinthians 15:32If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die.Philippians 3:18(For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ:
Historical Context
Ephesus opposition came from multiple sources: the Artemis cult (Acts 19:23-41), Jewish exorcists (Acts 19:13-16), and practitioners of magic arts (Acts 19:18-19). Acts 19:11-12 records extraordinary miracles through Paul. The combination of remarkable power and severe opposition characterizes apostolic ministry, setting a pattern for missions in hostile territories.
Questions for Reflection
- Why does effective ministry often attract fierce opposition rather than smooth progress?
- How do you discern whether opposition indicates you're in the right place (like Paul) or the wrong place?
- What does Paul's willingness to stay amid adversaries teach about Christian courage versus presumption?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
For a great door and effectual is opened unto me—Thyra megale kai energēs (θύρα μεγάλη καὶ ἐνεργής, "great and effective door") employs Paul's common metaphor of an open door for gospel opportunity (1 Corinthians 16:9, 2 Corinthians 2:12, Colossians 4:3). Energēs (ἐνεργής, "effective, working, powerful") suggests not merely opportunity but fruitful results—souls saved, churches planted, disciples made.
And there are many adversaries—Antikeimai (ἀντίκειμαι, "adversaries, opponents") describes active opposition, not mere indifference. Paul's missionary theology embraced the paradox that effective ministry attracts fierce resistance. Satan contests every advance of God's kingdom. The presence of adversaries actually confirmed, rather than contradicted, the strategic importance of Paul's Ephesian ministry. Spiritual warfare intensifies at points of gospel breakthrough.