Ephesians 5:17
Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.
Original Language Analysis
διὰ
Wherefore
G1223
διὰ
Wherefore
Strong's:
G1223
Word #:
1 of 12
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
μὴ
not
G3361
μὴ
not
Strong's:
G3361
Word #:
3 of 12
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
γίνεσθε
be ye
G1096
γίνεσθε
be ye
Strong's:
G1096
Word #:
4 of 12
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
ἄφρονες
unwise
G878
ἄφρονες
unwise
Strong's:
G878
Word #:
5 of 12
properly, mindless, i.e., stupid, (by implication) ignorant, (specially) egotistic, (practically) rash, or (morally) unbelieving
ἀλλὰ
but
G235
ἀλλὰ
but
Strong's:
G235
Word #:
6 of 12
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
συνιέντες
understanding
G4920
συνιέντες
understanding
Strong's:
G4920
Word #:
7 of 12
to put together, i.e., (mentally) to comprehend; by implication, to act piously
τί
what
G5101
τί
what
Strong's:
G5101
Word #:
8 of 12
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
θέλημα
the will
G2307
θέλημα
the will
Strong's:
G2307
Word #:
10 of 12
a determination (properly, the thing), i.e., (actively) choice (specially, purpose, decree; abstractly, volition) or (passively) inclination
Cross References
Romans 12:2And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.1 Thessalonians 5:18In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.Colossians 1:9For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;Ephesians 5:15See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,Jeremiah 4:22For my people is foolish, they have not known me; they are sottish children, and they have none understanding: they are wise to do evil, but to do good they have no knowledge.1 Peter 4:2That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God.Colossians 4:5Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.John 7:17If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.Psalms 111:10The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.Job 28:28And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding.
Historical Context
Written during Paul's Roman imprisonment (60-62 CE), this verse in chapter 5 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 5:17 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 5:17 text would be quoted here] This verse in Ephesians chapter 5 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.