Ephesians 4:9

Authorized King James Version

(Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth?

Word-by-Word Analysis

τὸ

G3588

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

δὲ

G1161

(Now

but, and, etc

Ἀνέβη

G305

that he ascended

to go up (literally or figuratively)

τί

G5101

what

an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)

ἐστιν

G2076

is it

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

εἰ

G1487

if, whether, that, etc

μὴ

G3361

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

ὅτι

G3754

that

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

καὶ

G2532

also

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

#10

κατέβη

G2597

descended

to descend (literally or figuratively)

#11

πρῶτον

G4412

first

firstly (in time, place, order, or importance)

#12

εἰς

G1519

into

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

#13

τὰ

G3588

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

#14

κατώτερα

G2737

the lower

inferior (locally, of hades)

#15

μέρη

G3313

parts

a division or share (literally or figuratively, in a wide application)

#16

τῆς

G3588

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

#17

γῆς

G1093

of the earth

soil; by extension a region, or the solid part or the whole of the terrene globe (including the occupants in each application)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?

Related Resources

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

Topics

Salvation