Ephesians 4:28

Authorized King James Version

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.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#2
κλεπτέτω
Let
to filch
#3
μηκέτι
no more
no further
#4
κλεπτέτω
Let
to filch
#5
μᾶλλον
rather
(adverbially) more (in a greater degree)) or rather
#6
δὲ
but
but, and, etc
#7
κοπιάτω
let him labour
to feel fatigue; by implication, to work hard
#8
ἐργαζόμενος
working
to toil (as a task, occupation, etc.), (by implication) effect, be engaged in or with, etc
#9
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
ἀγαθόν
G18
the thing which is good
"good" (in any sense, often as noun)
#11
ταῖς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
χερσὶν
with his hands
the hand (literally or figuratively (power); especially (by hebraism) a means or instrument)
#13
ἵνα
that
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#14
ἔχοντι
he may have
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
#15
μεταδιδόναι
to give
to give over, i.e., share
#16
τῷ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#17
χρείαν
to him that needeth
employment, i.e., an affair; also (by implication) occasion, demand, requirement or destitution
#18
ἔχοντι
he may have
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

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

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