Ephesians 5:3

Authorized King James Version

But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;

Word-by-Word Analysis

πορνεία

G4202

fornication

harlotry (including adultery and incest); figuratively, idolatry

δὲ

G1161

and

but, and, etc

καὶ

G2532

But

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

πᾶσα

G3956

all

all, any, every, the whole

ἀκαθαρσία

G167

uncleanness

impurity (the quality), physically or morally

ἢ

G2228

disjunctive, or; comparative, than

πλεονεξία

G4124

covetousness

avarice, i.e., (by implication) fraudulency, extortion

μηδὲ

G3366

not be once

but not, not even; in a continued negation, nor

ὀνομαζέσθω

G3687

let it

to name, i.e., assign an appellation; by extension, to utter, mention, profess

#10

ἐν

G1722

among

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

#11

ὑμῖν

G5213

you

to (with or by) you

#12

καθὼς

G2531

just (or inasmuch) as, that

#13

πρέπει

G4241

becometh

to tower up (be conspicuous), i.e., (by implication) to be suitable or proper (third person singular present indicative, often used impersonally, it i

#14

ἁγίοις

G40

saints

sacred (physically, pure, morally blameless or religious, ceremonially, consecrated)

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 literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Ephesians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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?
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 this verse's literary context within Ephesians chapter 5 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

Related Resources

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

Topics

Salvation