John 1:16
And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἐκ
of
G1537
ἐκ
of
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
2 of 12
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πληρώματος
fulness
G4138
πληρώματος
fulness
Strong's:
G4138
Word #:
4 of 12
repletion or completion, i.e., (subjectively) what fills (as contents, supplement, copiousness, multitude), or (objectively) what is filled (as contai
αὐτοῦ
his
G846
αὐτοῦ
his
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
5 of 12
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
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
9 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
χάριτος·
grace
G5485
χάριτος·
grace
Strong's:
G5485
Word #:
10 of 12
graciousness (as gratifying), of manner or act (abstract or concrete; literal, figurative or spiritual; especially the divine influence upon the heart
Cross References
Colossians 1:19For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;Romans 5:2By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.Ephesians 1:23Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.Ephesians 3:19And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.Romans 5:17For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)John 3:34For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him.Matthew 13:12For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath.Colossians 2:3In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.Romans 8:9But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.Matthew 3:14But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?
Historical Context
Paul would later develop 'fullness' theology extensively (Colossians 1:19, 2:9). Early believers experienced ongoing grace—not merely initial forgiveness but daily provision. The phrase may also contrast the giving of the law through Moses (verse 17) with the greater grace through Christ—one gracious dispensation replaced by another, fuller one.
Questions for Reflection
- How have you experienced grace 'upon grace' in your walk with Christ?
- What does it mean to receive from Christ's 'fullness,' and how does this shape daily dependence on Him?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Believers testify: 'of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace' (charin anti charitos). The word 'pleroma' (fullness) indicates Christ possesses complete divine attributes and blessings. From this inexhaustible reservoir, believers continuously receive. The phrase 'charin anti charitos' is debated: 'grace upon grace' (accumulating grace), 'grace replacing grace' (new covenant replacing old), or 'grace corresponding to grace' (Christ's grace matched to our need). Whatever the precise meaning, the emphasis is on abundant, continuous, overflowing grace from Christ's inexhaustible fullness.