King James Version

What Does Ephesians 3:18 Mean?

Ephesians 3:18 in the King James Version says “May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; — study this verse from Ephesians chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height;

Ephesians 3:18 · KJV


Context

16

That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man;

17

That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,

18

May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height;

19

And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.

20

Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
[Verse 3:18 text would be quoted here] This verse in Ephesians chapter 3 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 3 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 3:18 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 · 16 words
ἵνα1 of 16
G2443

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

ἐξισχύσητε2 of 16

May be able

G1840

to have full strength, i.e., be entirely competent

καταλαβέσθαι3 of 16

to comprehend

G2638

to take eagerly, i.e., seize, possess, etc. (literally or figuratively)

σὺν4 of 16

with

G4862

with or together (but much closer than g3326 or g3844), i.e., by association, companionship, process, resemblance, possession, instrumentality, additi

πᾶσιν5 of 16

all

G3956

all, any, every, the whole

τοῖς6 of 16
G3588

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

ἁγίοις7 of 16

saints

G40

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

τί8 of 16

what

G5101

an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)

τὸ9 of 16
G3588

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

πλάτος10 of 16

is the breadth

G4114

width

καὶ11 of 16

and

G2532

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

μῆκος12 of 16

length

G3372

length (literally or figuratively) length

καὶ13 of 16

and

G2532

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

βάθος14 of 16

depth

G899

profundity, i.e., (by implication) extent; (figuratively) mystery

καὶ15 of 16

and

G2532

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

ὕψος16 of 16

height

G5311

elevation, i.e., (abstractly) altitude, (specially), the sky, or (figuratively) dignity


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 3:18 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 3:18 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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