King James Version

What Does Ephesians 2:4 Mean?

Ephesians 2:4 in the King James Version says “But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, — study this verse from Ephesians chapter 2 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,

Ephesians 2:4 · KJV


Context

2

Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:

3

Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. desires: Gr. wills

4

But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,

5

Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) by: or, by whose grace

6

And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
[Verse 2:4 text would be quoted here] This verse in Ephesians chapter 2 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 2 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 2:4 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 · 15 words
1 of 15
G3588

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

δὲ2 of 15

But

G1161

but, and, etc

θεὸς3 of 15

God

G2316

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

πλούσιος4 of 15

rich

G4145

wealthy; figuratively, abounding with

ὢν5 of 15

who is

G5607

being

ἐν6 of 15

in

G1722

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

ἐλέει7 of 15

mercy

G1656

compassion (human or divine, especially active)

διὰ8 of 15

for

G1223

through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)

τὴν9 of 15
G3588

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

πολλὴν10 of 15

great

G4183

(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely

ἀγάπην11 of 15

love

G26

love, i.e., affection or benevolence; specially (plural) a love-feast

αὐτοῦ12 of 15
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

ἣν13 of 15

wherewith

G3739

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

ἠγάπησεν14 of 15

he loved

G25

to love (in a social or moral sense)

ἡμᾶς15 of 15

us

G2248

us


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 2:4 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 2:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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