Ephesians 4:12
For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
Original Language Analysis
πρὸς
For
G4314
πρὸς
For
Strong's:
G4314
Word #:
1 of 14
a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,
τὸν
G3588
τὸν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
2 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τῶν
G3588
τῶν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἁγίων
of the saints
G40
ἁγίων
of the saints
Strong's:
G40
Word #:
5 of 14
sacred (physically, pure, morally blameless or religious, ceremonially, consecrated)
εἰς
for
G1519
εἰς
for
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
6 of 14
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
ἔργον
the work
G2041
ἔργον
the work
Strong's:
G2041
Word #:
7 of 14
toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act
διακονίας
of the ministry
G1248
διακονίας
of the ministry
Strong's:
G1248
Word #:
8 of 14
attendance (as a servant, etc.); figuratively (eleemosynary) aid, (official) service (especially of the christian teacher, or technically of the diaco
εἰς
for
G1519
εἰς
for
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
9 of 14
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
οἰκοδομὴν
the edifying
G3619
οἰκοδομὴν
the edifying
Strong's:
G3619
Word #:
10 of 14
architecture, i.e., (concretely) a structure; figuratively, confirmation
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
11 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
σώματος
of the body
G4983
σώματος
of the body
Strong's:
G4983
Word #:
12 of 14
the body (as a sound whole), used in a very wide application, literally or figuratively
Cross References
Ephesians 4:16From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.1 Corinthians 12:27Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.Romans 15:14And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.Romans 14:19Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.1 Corinthians 14:12Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church.1 Corinthians 14:26How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.Hebrews 6:1Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,Hebrews 13:17Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.1 Timothy 1:12And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry;2 Corinthians 5:18And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;
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 4:12 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 4:12 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.