Ephesians 6:8

Authorized King James Version

Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
εἰδότες
Knowing
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
#2
ὅτι
that
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#3
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#4
ἐάν
whatsoever
a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
#5
τι
some or any person or object
#6
ἕκαστος
any man
each or every
#7
ποιήσῃ
doeth
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
#8
ἀγαθόν
G18
good thing
"good" (in any sense, often as noun)
#9
τοῦτο
the same
that thing
#10
κομιεῖται
shall he receive
properly, to provide for, i.e., (by implication) to carry off (as if from harm; genitive case obtain)
#11
παρὰ
of
properly, near; i.e., (with genitive case) from beside (literally or figuratively), (with dative case) at (or in) the vicinity of (objectively or subj
#12
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
κυρίου
the Lord
supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)
#14
εἴτε
or
if too
#15
δοῦλος
he be bond
a slave (literal or figurative, involuntary or voluntary; frequently, therefore in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency)
#16
εἴτε
or
if too
#17
ἐλεύθερος
free
unrestrained (to go at pleasure), i.e., (as a citizen) not a slave (whether freeborn or manumitted), or (genitive case) exempt (from obligation or lia

Analysis

Within the broader context of Ephesians, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Ephesians.

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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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