Ephesians 4:32

And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.

Word-by-Word Analysis

γίνεσθε

G1096

to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)

δὲ

G1161

And

but, and, etc

εἰς

G1519

one to another

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

ἀλλήλους

G240

one another

χρηστοί

G5543

ye kind

employed, i.e., (by implication) useful (in manner or morals)

εὔσπλαγχνοι

G2155

tenderhearted

well compassioned, i.e., sympathetic

ἐχαρίσατο

G5483

forgiving

to grant as a favor, i.e., gratuitously, in kindness, pardon or rescue

ἑαυτοῖς

G1438

one another

(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc

καθὼς

G2531

even as

just (or inasmuch) as, that

#10

καὶ

G2532

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

#11

ὁ

G3588

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

#12

θεὸς

G2316

God

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

#13

ἐν

G1722

for

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

#14

Χριστῷ

G5547

Christ's

anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus

#15

ἐχαρίσατο

G5483

forgiving

to grant as a favor, i.e., gratuitously, in kindness, pardon or rescue

#16

ὑμῖν

G5213

you

to (with or by) you

Cross References

Related verses that illuminate this passage (hover to preview):

¹ Colossians 3:13 Colossians 3:13
Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.
— Forgiving one another
² Matthew 6:14 Matthew 6:14
For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:
— Forgive men their trespasses

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Ephesians. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

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?
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?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?

Related Resources

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Topics

Salvation