Ephesians 4:11

Authorized King James Version

And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

Word-by-Word Analysis

καὶ

G2532

And

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

αὐτὸς

G846

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

G1325

he gave

to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)

τοὺς

G3588

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

μὲν

G3303

some

properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)

ἀποστόλους

G652

apostles

a delegate; specially, an ambassador of the gospel; officially a commissioner of christ ("apostle") (with miraculous powers)

τοὺς

G3588

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

δὲ

G1161

and

but, and, etc

προφήτας

G4396

some prophets

a foreteller ("prophet"); by analogy, an inspired speaker; by extension, a poet

#10

τοὺς

G3588

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

#11

δὲ

G1161

and

but, and, etc

#12

εὐαγγελιστάς

G2099

some evangelists

a preacher of the gospel

#13

τοὺς

G3588

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

#14

δὲ

G1161

and

but, and, etc

#15

ποιμένας

G4166

some pastors

a shepherd (literally or figuratively)

#16

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#17

διδασκάλους

G1320

teachers

an instructor (genitive case or specially)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Ephesians. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation 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 salvation 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 verse's literary context within Ephesians chapter 4 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?

Related Resources

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

Topics

Salvation