King James Version

What Does Ephesians 4:28 Mean?

Ephesians 4:28 in the King James Version says “Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may...” — study this verse from Ephesians chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth . to give: or, to distribute”

Ephesians 4:28 · KJV

Context

26

Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:

27

Neither give place to the devil.

28

Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth . to give: or, to distribute

29

Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. to: or, to edify profitably

30

And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.

Read Ephesians 4 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
[Verse 4:28 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 4:28 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 · 18 words
ὁ1 of 18
G3588

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

κλεπτέτω2 of 18

“Let”

G2813

to filch

μηκέτι3 of 18

“no more”

G3371

no further

κλεπτέτω4 of 18

“Let”

G2813

to filch

μᾶλλον5 of 18

“rather”

G3123

(adverbially) more (in a greater degree)) or rather

δὲ6 of 18

“but”

G1161

but, and, etc

κοπιάτω7 of 18

“let him labour”

G2872

to feel fatigue; by implication, to work hard

ἐργαζόμενος8 of 18

“working”

G2038

to toil (as a task, occupation, etc.), (by implication) effect, be engaged in or with, etc

τὸ9 of 18
G3588

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

ἀγαθόν10 of 18

“the thing which is good”

G18

"good" (in any sense, often as noun)

ταῖς11 of 18
G3588

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

χερσὶν12 of 18

“with his hands”

G5495

the hand (literally or figuratively (power); especially (by hebraism) a means or instrument)

ἵνα13 of 18

“that”

G2443

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

ἔχοντι14 of 18

“he may have”

G2192

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

μεταδιδόναι15 of 18

“to give”

G3330

to give over, i.e., share

τῷ16 of 18
G3588

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

χρείαν17 of 18

“to him that needeth”

G5532

employment, i.e., an affair; also (by implication) occasion, demand, requirement or destitution

ἔχοντι18 of 18

“he may have”

G2192

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

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 4:28 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 4:28 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Timothy 6:181 Thessalonians 4:11-12Galatians 6:10Exodus 20:152 Thessalonians 3:11-12Zechariah 5:3

Test Your Knowledge

Ephesians 4 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterEphesians Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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