Ephesians Chapter 4 · Verse 28
Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.
Original Language Analysis
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
1 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
κοπιάτω
let him labour
G2872
κοπιάτω
let him labour
Strong's:
G2872
Word #:
7 of 18
to feel fatigue; by implication, to work hard
ἐργαζόμενος
working
G2038
ἐργαζόμενος
working
Strong's:
G2038
Word #:
8 of 18
to toil (as a task, occupation, etc.), (by implication) effect, be engaged in or with, etc
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ταῖς
G3588
ταῖς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
11 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
χερσὶν
with his hands
G5495
χερσὶν
with his hands
Strong's:
G5495
Word #:
12 of 18
the hand (literally or figuratively (power); especially (by hebraism) a means or instrument)
ἔχοντι
he may have
G2192
ἔχοντι
he may have
Strong's:
G2192
Word #:
14 of 18
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
τῷ
G3588
τῷ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
16 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
1 Timothy 6:18That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;Galatians 6:10As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.Exodus 20:15Thou shalt not steal.Job 34:32That which I see not teach thou me: if I have done iniquity, I will do no more.Proverbs 13:11Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase.Proverbs 30:9Lest I be full, and deny thee, and say, Who is the LORD? or lest I be poor, and steal, and take the name of my God in vain.Proverbs 14:23In all labour there is profit: but the talk of the lips tendeth only to penury.Proverbs 28:13He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.Jeremiah 7:9Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;Exodus 21:16And he that stealeth a man, and selleth him, or if he be found in his hand, he shall surely be put to death.
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 4:28 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?
Analysis & Commentary
[Verse 4:28 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.