Ephesians 6:20

For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ὑπὲρ

G5228

For

"over", i.e., (with the genitive case) of place, above, beyond, across, or causal, for the sake of, instead, regarding; with the accusative case super

οὗ

G3739

which

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

πρεσβεύω

G4243

I am an ambassador

to be a senior, i.e., (by implication) act as a representative (figuratively, preacher)

ἐν

G1722

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

ἁλύσει

G254

bonds

a fetter or manacle

ἵνα

G2443

that

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

ἐν

G1722

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

αὐτῷ

G846

therein

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

παῤῥησιάσωμαι

G3955

I may speak boldly

to be frank in utterance, or confident in spirit and demeanor

#10

ὡς

G5613

which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)

#11

δεῖ

G1163

ought

also deon deh-on'; neuter active participle of the same; both used impersonally; it is (was, etc.) necessary (as binding)

#12

με

G3165

#13

λαλῆσαι

G2980

to speak

to talk, i.e., utter words

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 might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?

Related Resources

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Topics

Salvation