Ephesians 3:18

Authorized King James Version

May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height;

Word-by-Word Analysis

ἵνα

G2443

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

ἐξισχύσητε

G1840

May be able

to have full strength, i.e., be entirely competent

καταλαβέσθαι

G2638

to comprehend

to take eagerly, i.e., seize, possess, etc. (literally or figuratively)

σὺν

G4862

with

with or together (but much closer than g3326 or g3844), i.e., by association, companionship, process, resemblance, possession, instrumentality, additi

πᾶσιν

G3956

all

all, any, every, the whole

τοῖς

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἁγίοις

G40

saints

sacred (physically, pure, morally blameless or religious, ceremonially, consecrated)

τί

G5101

what

an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)

τὸ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#10

πλάτος

G4114

is the breadth

width

#11

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#12

μῆκος

G3372

length

length (literally or figuratively) length

#13

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#14

βάθος

G899

depth

profundity, i.e., (by implication) extent; (figuratively) mystery

#15

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#16

ὕψος

G5311

height

elevation, i.e., (abstractly) altitude, (specially), the sky, or (figuratively) dignity

Analysis

Within the broader context of Ephesians, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Ephesians.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does this verse's literary context within Ephesians chapter 3 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics

Salvation