King James Version

What Does Ephesians 1:11 Mean?

Ephesians 1:11 in the King James Version says “In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things... — study this verse from Ephesians chapter 1 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:

Ephesians 1:11 · KJV


Context

9

Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself:

10

That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him: heaven: Gr. the heavens

11

In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:

12

That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. trusted: or, hoped

13

In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
[Verse 1:11 text would be quoted here] This verse in Ephesians chapter 1 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.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Written during Paul's Roman imprisonment (60-62 CE), this verse in chapter 1 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.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the truth of Ephesians 1:11 about verse-specific transform your daily walk with Christ?
  2. What does this verse teach about theological theme that challenges modern Christian practice?
  3. How can you apply the theological principle of doctrinal emphasis in your relationships and witness?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 17 words
ἐν1 of 17

In

G1722

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

2 of 17

whom

G3739

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

καὶ3 of 17

also

G2532

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

ἐκληρώθημεν4 of 17

we have obtained an inheritance

G2820

to allot, i.e., (figuratively) to assign (a privilege)

προορισθέντες5 of 17

being predestinated

G4309

to limit in advance, i.e., (figuratively) predetermine

κατὰ6 of 17

according to

G2596

(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)

πρόθεσιν7 of 17

the purpose

G4286

a setting forth, i.e., (figuratively) proposal (intention); specially, the show-bread (in the temple) as exposed before god

τοῦ8 of 17
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

τὰ9 of 17
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

πάντα10 of 17

all things

G3956

all, any, every, the whole

ἐνεργοῦντος11 of 17

of him who worketh

G1754

to be active, efficient

κατὰ12 of 17

according to

G2596

(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)

τὴν13 of 17
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

βουλὴν14 of 17

the counsel

G1012

volition, i.e., (objectively) advice, or (by implication) purpose

τοῦ15 of 17
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

θελήματος16 of 17

will

G2307

a determination (properly, the thing), i.e., (actively) choice (specially, purpose, decree; abstractly, volition) or (passively) inclination

αὐτοῦ17 of 17
G846

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


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Ephesians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Ephesians 1:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Ephesians 1:11 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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