King James Version

What Does Ephesians 3:8 Mean?

Ephesians 3:8 in the King James Version says “Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unse...” — study this verse from Ephesians chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;”

Ephesians 3:8 · KJV

Grace

Context

6

That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:

7

Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.

8

Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;

9

And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:

10

To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,

Read Ephesians 3 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
[Verse 3:8 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 3:8 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 · 19 words
ἐμοὶ1 of 19

“Unto me”

G1698

to me

τῷ2 of 19
G3588

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

ἐλαχιστοτέρῳ3 of 19

“who am less than the least”

G1647

far less

πάντων4 of 19

“of all”

G3956

all, any, every, the whole

τῶν5 of 19
G3588

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

ἁγίων6 of 19

“saints”

G40

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

ἐδόθη7 of 19

“given”

G1325

to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)

ἡ8 of 19
G3588

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

χάρις9 of 19

“grace”

G5485

graciousness (as gratifying), of manner or act (abstract or concrete; literal, figurative or spiritual; especially the divine influence upon the heart

αὕτη10 of 19

“this”

G3778

the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)

ἐν11 of 19

“among”

G1722

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

τοῖς12 of 19
G3588

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

ἔθνεσιν13 of 19

“the Gentiles”

G1484

a race (as of the same habit), i.e., a tribe; specially, a foreign (non-jewish) one (usually, by implication, pagan)

εὐαγγελίσασθαι14 of 19

“that I should preach”

G2097

to announce good news ("evangelize") especially the gospel

τὸν15 of 19
G3588

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

ἀνεξιχνίαστον16 of 19

“the unsearchable”

G421

not tracked out, i.e., (by implication) untraceable

πλοῦτον17 of 19

“riches”

G4149

wealth (as fulness), i.e., (literally) money, possessions, or (figuratively) abundance, richness, (specially), valuable bestowment

τοῦ18 of 19
G3588

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

Χριστοῦ19 of 19

“of Christ”

G5547

anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus

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 3:8 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 3:8 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Corinthians 15:9Colossians 1:27Ephesians 2:7Ephesians 3:161 Timothy 2:71 Timothy 1:13

Test Your Knowledge

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