Ephesians 4:17

Authorized King James Version

This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind,

Word-by-Word Analysis

Τοῦτο

G5124

This

that thing

οὖν

G3767

therefore

(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly

λέγω

G3004

I say

properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an

καὶ

G2532

and

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

μαρτύρομαι

G3143

testify

to be adduced as a witness, i.e., (figuratively) to obtest (in affirmation or exhortation)

ἐν

G1722

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

κυρίῳ

G2962

the Lord

supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)

μηκέτι

G3371

henceforth

no further

ὑμᾶς

G5209

that ye

you (as the objective of a verb or preposition)

#10

περιπατεῖ

G4043

walk

to tread all around, i.e., walk at large (especially as proof of ability); figuratively, to live, deport oneself, follow (as a companion or votary)

#11

καθὼς

G2531

just (or inasmuch) as, that

#12

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#13

τὰ

G3588

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

#14

λοιπὰ

G3062

other

remaining ones

#15

ἔθνη

G1484

Gentiles

a race (as of the same habit), i.e., a tribe; specially, a foreign (non-jewish) one (usually, by implication, pagan)

#16

περιπατεῖ

G4043

walk

to tread all around, i.e., walk at large (especially as proof of ability); figuratively, to live, deport oneself, follow (as a companion or votary)

#17

ἐν

G1722

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

#18

ματαιότητι

G3153

the vanity

inutility; figuratively, transientness; morally, depravity

#19

τοῦ

G3588

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

#20

νοὸς

G3563

mind

the intellect, i.e., mind (divine or human; in thought, feeling, or will); by implication, meaning

#21

αὐτῶν

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

Analysis

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

Questions for Reflection

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 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?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?

Related Resources

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

Topics

Salvation