King James Version

What Does Ephesians 4:19 Mean?

Ephesians 4:19 in the King James Version says “Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness. — study this verse from Ephesians chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.

Ephesians 4:19 · KJV


Context

17

This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind,

18

Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: blindness: or, hardness

19

Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.

20

But ye have not so learned Christ;

21

If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus:


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
[Verse 4:19 text would be quoted here] This verse in Ephesians chapter 4 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 4 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 4:19 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 · 12 words
οἵτινες1 of 12

Who

G3748

which some, i.e., any that; also (definite) which same

ἀπηλγηκότες2 of 12

being past feeling

G524

to grieve out, i.e., become apathetic

ἑαυτοὺς3 of 12

themselves

G1438

(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc

παρέδωκαν4 of 12

have given

G3860

to surrender, i.e yield up, entrust, transmit

τῇ5 of 12
G3588

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

ἀσελγείᾳ6 of 12

unto lasciviousness

G766

licentiousness (sometimes including other vices)

εἰς7 of 12

to

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

ἐργασίαν8 of 12

work

G2039

occupation; by implication, profit, pains

ἀκαθαρσίας9 of 12

uncleanness

G167

impurity (the quality), physically or morally

πάσης10 of 12

all

G3956

all, any, every, the whole

ἐν11 of 12

with

G1722

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

πλεονεξίᾳ12 of 12

greediness

G4124

avarice, i.e., (by implication) fraudulency, extortion


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 4:19 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 4:19 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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