Ephesians 4:9
(Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth?
Original Language Analysis
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
1 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τί
what
G5101
τί
what
Strong's:
G5101
Word #:
4 of 17
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
μὴ
G3361
μὴ
Strong's:
G3361
Word #:
7 of 17
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
ὅτι
that
G3754
ὅτι
that
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
8 of 17
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
9 of 17
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
εἰς
into
G1519
εἰς
into
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
12 of 17
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
τὰ
G3588
τὰ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
13 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
μέρη
parts
G3313
μέρη
parts
Strong's:
G3313
Word #:
15 of 17
a division or share (literally or figuratively, in a wide application)
Cross References
John 3:13And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven.Matthew 12:40For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.Psalms 63:9But those that seek my soul, to destroy it, shall go into the lower parts of the earth.Proverbs 30:4Who hath ascended up into heaven, or descended? who hath gathered the wind in his fists? who hath bound the waters in a garment? who hath established all the ends of the earth? what is his name, and what is his son's name, if thou canst tell?John 6:33For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world.Hebrews 2:9But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.Psalms 8:5For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour.John 20:17Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God.Genesis 11:5And the LORD came down to see the city and the tower, which the children of men builded.
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 4:9 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 4:9 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.