Ephesians 4:11
And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 17
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
αὐτὸς
G846
αὐτὸς
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
2 of 17
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
ἔδωκεν
he gave
G1325
ἔδωκεν
he gave
Strong's:
G1325
Word #:
3 of 17
to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)
τοὺς
G3588
τοὺς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
μὲν
some
G3303
μὲν
some
Strong's:
G3303
Word #:
5 of 17
properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)
ἀποστόλους
apostles
G652
ἀποστόλους
apostles
Strong's:
G652
Word #:
6 of 17
a delegate; specially, an ambassador of the gospel; officially a commissioner of christ ("apostle") (with miraculous powers)
τοὺς
G3588
τοὺς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
προφήτας
some prophets
G4396
προφήτας
some prophets
Strong's:
G4396
Word #:
9 of 17
a foreteller ("prophet"); by analogy, an inspired speaker; by extension, a poet
τοὺς
G3588
τοὺς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τοὺς
G3588
τοὺς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
13 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Jeremiah 3:15And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding.Ephesians 2:20And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;2 Timothy 4:5But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.Matthew 28:20Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.Acts 20:28Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.Ephesians 4:8Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.Ephesians 3:5Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;Romans 12:7Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;2 Chronicles 15:3Now for a long season Israel hath been without the true God, and without a teaching priest, and without law.Hebrews 5:12For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.
Historical Context
Written during Paul's Roman imprisonment (60-62 CE), this verse in chapter 4 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 4:11 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?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
[Verse 4:11 text would be quoted here] This verse in Ephesians chapter 4 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.