Ephesians 3:6

Authorized King James Version

That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:

Word-by-Word Analysis

εἶναι

G1511

should be

to exist

τὰ

G3588

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

ἔθνη

G1484

That the Gentiles

a race (as of the same habit), i.e., a tribe; specially, a foreign (non-jewish) one (usually, by implication, pagan)

συγκληρονόμα

G4789

fellowheirs

a co-heir, i.e., (by analogy) participant in common

καὶ

G2532

and

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

σύσσωμα

G4954

of the same body

of a joint body, i.e., (figuratively) a fellow-member of the christian community

καὶ

G2532

and

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

συμμέτοχα

G4830

partakers

a co-participant

τῆς

G3588

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

#10

ἐπαγγελίας

G1860

promise

an announcement (for information, assent or pledge; especially a divine assurance of good)

#11

αὐτοῦ

G846

of his

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

#12

ἐν

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

#13

τῷ

G3588

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

#14

Χριστῷ

G5547

Christ

anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus

#15

διὰ

G1223

through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)

#16

τοῦ

G3588

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

#17

εὐαγγελίου

G2098

the gospel

a good message, i.e., the gospel

Analysis

This verse develops the covenant theme central to Ephesians. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of covenant within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of covenant within the theological tradition of Ephesians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
How does this verse's literary context within Ephesians chapter 3 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

Related Resources

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

Topics

Salvation