Ephesians 5:11

Authorized King James Version

And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.

Word-by-Word Analysis

καὶ

G2532

And

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

μὴ

G3361

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

συγκοινωνεῖτε

G4790

fellowship

to share in company with, i.e., co-participate in

τοῖς

G3588

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

ἔργοις

G2041

works

toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act

τοῖς

G3588

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

ἀκάρποις

G175

with the unfruitful

barren (literally or figuratively)

τοῦ

G3588

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

σκότους

G4655

of darkness

shadiness, i.e., obscurity (literally or figuratively)

#10

μᾶλλον

G3123

rather

(adverbially) more (in a greater degree)) or rather

#11

δὲ

G1161

but

but, and, etc

#12

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#13

ἐλέγχετε

G1651

reprove

to confute, admonish

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 understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
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 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