King James Version
Ephesians 5:17 in the King James Version says “Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.” — study this verse from Ephesians chapter 5 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.”
Ephesians 5:17 · KJV
See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,
Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.
And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;
Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;
KJV Study — Public Domain
“not”
G3361(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
“be ye”
G1096to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
“unwise”
G878properly, mindless, i.e., stupid, (by implication) ignorant, (specially) egotistic, (practically) rash, or (morally) unbelieving
“understanding”
G4920to put together, i.e., (mentally) to comprehend; by implication, to act piously
“the will”
G2307a determination (properly, the thing), i.e., (actively) choice (specially, purpose, decree; abstractly, volition) or (passively) inclination
“of the Lord”
G2962supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)
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.
Ephesians 5:17 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Ephesians 5:17 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge