Ephesians 4:31

Authorized King James Version

Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:

Word-by-Word Analysis

πάσῃ

G3956

all

all, any, every, the whole

πικρία

G4088

bitterness

acridity (especially poison), literally or figuratively

καὶ

G2532

and

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

θυμὸς

G2372

wrath

passion (as if breathing hard)

καὶ

G2532

and

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

ὀργὴ

G3709

anger

properly, desire (as a reaching forth or excitement of the mind), i.e., (by analogy), violent passion (ire, or (justifiable) abhorrence); by implicati

καὶ

G2532

and

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

κραυγὴ

G2906

clamour

an outcry (in notification, tumult or grief)

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#10

βλασφημία

G988

evil speaking

vilification (especially against god)

#11

ἀρθήτω

G142

Let

to lift up; by implication, to take up or away; figuratively, to raise (the voice), keep in suspense (the mind), specially, to sail away (i.e., weigh

#12

ἀφ'

G575

from

"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)

#13

ὑμῶν

G5216

you

of (from or concerning) you

#14

σὺν

G4862

with

with or together (but much closer than g3326 or g3844), i.e., by association, companionship, process, resemblance, possession, instrumentality, additi

#15

πάσῃ

G3956

all

all, any, every, the whole

#16

κακίᾳ

G2549

malice

badness, i.e., (subjectively) depravity, or (actively) malignity, or (passively) trouble

Analysis

Within the broader context of Ephesians, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
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?

Related Resources

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

Topics

Salvation