King James Version

What Does Ephesians 1:13 Mean?

Ephesians 1:13 in the King James Version says “In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye... — study this verse from Ephesians chapter 1 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

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,

Ephesians 1:13 · King James Version


Context

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,

14

Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.

15

Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints,


Commentaries3 scholars

KJV Study CommentaryPublic Domain
[Verse 1:13 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.

KJV Study — Public Domain

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 1:13 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?

Compare 3 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.


Original Language Analysis

Greek · 25 words
ἐν1 of 25

In

G1722

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

2 of 25

whom

G3739

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

καὶ3 of 25

also

G2532

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

ὑμεῖς4 of 25

ye

G5210

you (as subjective of verb)

ἀκούσαντες5 of 25

trusted after that ye heard

G191

to hear (in various senses)

τὸν6 of 25
G3588

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

λόγον7 of 25

the word

G3056

something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a

τῆς8 of 25
G3588

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

ἀληθείας9 of 25

of truth

G225

truth

τὸ10 of 25
G3588

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

εὐαγγέλιον11 of 25

the gospel

G2098

a good message, i.e., the gospel

τῆς12 of 25
G3588

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

σωτηρίας13 of 25

salvation

G4991

rescue or safety (physically or morally)

ὑμῶν14 of 25

of your

G5216

of (from or concerning) you

ἐν15 of 25

In

G1722

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

16 of 25

whom

G3739

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

καὶ17 of 25

also

G2532

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

πιστεύσαντες18 of 25

after that ye believed

G4100

to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing), i.e., credit; by implication, to entrust (especially one's spiritual well-being to ch

ἐσφραγίσθητε19 of 25

ye were sealed with

G4972

to stamp (with a signet or private mark) for security or preservation (literally or figuratively); by implication, to keep secret, to attest

τῷ20 of 25
G3588

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

πνεύματι21 of 25

Spirit

G4151

a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin

τῆς22 of 25
G3588

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

ἐπαγγελίας23 of 25

of promise

G1860

an announcement (for information, assent or pledge; especially a divine assurance of good)

τῷ24 of 25
G3588

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

ἁγίῳ25 of 25

that holy

G40

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


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 1:13 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 1:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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