Ephesians 4:16

Authorized King James Version

From 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.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ἐξ

G1537

From

a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct

οὗ

G3739

whom

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

πάσης

G3956

that which every

all, any, every, the whole

τὸ

G3588

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

σώματος

G4983

body

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

συναρμολογούμενον

G4883

fitly joined together

to render close-jointed together, i.e., organize compactly

καὶ

G2532

and

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

συμβιβαζόμενον

G4822

compacted

causative (by reduplication) of the base of g0939); to drive together, i.e., unite (in association or affection), (mentally) to infer, show, teach

διὰ

G1223

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

#10

πάσης

G3956

that which every

all, any, every, the whole

#11

ἁφῆς

G860

joint

probably a ligament (as fastening)

#12

τῆς

G3588

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

#13

ἐπιχορηγίας

G2024

supplieth

contribution

#14

κατ'

G2596

according

(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)

#15

ἐνέργειαν

G1753

to the effectual working

efficiency ("energy")

#16

ἐν

G1722

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

#17

μέτρῳ

G3358

the measure

a measure ("metre"), literally or figuratively; by implication, a limited portion (degree)

#18

ἑνὸς

G1520

part

one

#19

ἑκάστου

G1538

of every

each or every

#20

μέρους

G3313

a division or share (literally or figuratively, in a wide application)

#21

τὴν

G3588

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

#22

αὔξησιν

G838

increase

growth

#23

τοῦ

G3588

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

#24

σώματος

G4983

body

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

#25

ποιεῖται

G4160

maketh

to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)

#26

εἰς

G1519

unto

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

#27

οἰκοδομὴν

G3619

the edifying

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

#28

ἑαυτοῦ

G1438

of itself

(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc

#29

ἐν

G1722

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

#30

ἀγάπῃ

G26

love

love, i.e., affection or benevolence; specially (plural) a love-feast

Analysis

Within the broader context of Ephesians, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of love connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about love, 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 love in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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?
How might the original audience's understanding of love 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