Ephesians 2:20
And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;
Original Language Analysis
ἐποικοδομηθέντες
And are built
G2026
ἐποικοδομηθέντες
And are built
Strong's:
G2026
Word #:
1 of 13
to build upon, i.e., (figuratively) to rear up
ἐπὶ
upon
G1909
ἐπὶ
upon
Strong's:
G1909
Word #:
2 of 13
properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
τῷ
G3588
τῷ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
θεμελίῳ
the foundation
G2310
θεμελίῳ
the foundation
Strong's:
G2310
Word #:
4 of 13
something put down, i.e., a substruction (of a building, etc.), (literally or figuratively)
τῶν
G3588
τῶν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἀποστόλων
of the apostles
G652
ἀποστόλων
of the apostles
Strong's:
G652
Word #:
6 of 13
a delegate; specially, an ambassador of the gospel; officially a commissioner of christ ("apostle") (with miraculous powers)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
7 of 13
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
προφητῶν
prophets
G4396
προφητῶν
prophets
Strong's:
G4396
Word #:
8 of 13
a foreteller ("prophet"); by analogy, an inspired speaker; by extension, a poet
αὐτοῦ
himself
G846
αὐτοῦ
himself
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
11 of 13
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
Cross References
Isaiah 28:16Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.Matthew 16:18And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.Psalms 118:22The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner.Revelation 21:14And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.1 Corinthians 12:28And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.Matthew 21:42Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes?
Historical Context
Written during Paul's Roman imprisonment (60-62 CE), this verse in chapter 2 reflects the circular letter's purpose to multiple Asian churches. Ephesus was a major center of pagan worship (Artemis cult) and early Christianity, making Paul's teachings on spiritual warfare and Christian unity particularly relevant.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the truth of Ephesians 2:20 about verse-specific transform your daily walk with Christ?
- What does this verse teach about theological theme that challenges modern Christian practice?
- How can you apply the theological principle of doctrinal emphasis in your relationships and witness?
Analysis & Commentary
[Verse 2:20 text would be quoted here] This verse in Ephesians chapter 2 addresses theological theme. Key Greek terms include to be determined.
The theological focus is doctrinal emphasis, demonstrating Paul's emphasis on the cosmic Christ and the church as His body/bride/temple. The phrase emphasizes union with Christ as the foundation of all spiritual blessings.