Ephesians 4:12

For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:

Word-by-Word Analysis

πρὸς

G4314

For

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

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

καταρτισμὸν

G2677

the perfecting

complete furnishing (objectively)

τῶν

G3588

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

ἁγίων

G40

of the saints

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

εἰς

G1519

for

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

ἔργον

G2041

the work

toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act

διακονίας

G1248

of the ministry

attendance (as a servant, etc.); figuratively (eleemosynary) aid, (official) service (especially of the christian teacher, or technically of the diaco

εἰς

G1519

for

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

#10

οἰκοδομὴν

G3619

the edifying

architecture, i.e., (concretely) a structure; figuratively, confirmation

#11

τοῦ

G3588

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

#12

σώματος

G4983

of the body

the body (as a sound whole), used in a very wide application, literally or figuratively

#13

τοῦ

G3588

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

#14

Χριστοῦ

G5547

of Christ

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

Analysis

Within the broader context of Ephesians, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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

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

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?

Related Resources

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

Topics

Salvation