Ephesians 4:28
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?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
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.