King James Version

What Does Ephesians 5:2 Mean?

Ephesians 5:2 in the King James Version says “And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a s... — study this verse from Ephesians chapter 5 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.

Ephesians 5:2 · KJV


Context

1

Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children;

2

And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.

3

But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;

4

Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
[Verse 5:2 text would be quoted here] This verse in Ephesians chapter 5 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 5 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 5:2 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 · 23 words
καὶ1 of 23

And

G2532

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

περιπατεῖτε2 of 23

walk

G4043

to tread all around, i.e., walk at large (especially as proof of ability); figuratively, to live, deport oneself, follow (as a companion or votary)

ἐν3 of 23

in

G1722

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

ἀγάπῃ4 of 23

love

G26

love, i.e., affection or benevolence; specially (plural) a love-feast

καθὼς5 of 23

as

G2531

just (or inasmuch) as, that

καὶ6 of 23

And

G2532

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

7 of 23
G3588

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

Χριστὸς8 of 23

Christ

G5547

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

ἠγάπησεν9 of 23

hath loved

G25

to love (in a social or moral sense)

ἡμᾶς10 of 23

us

G2248

us

καὶ11 of 23

And

G2532

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

παρέδωκεν12 of 23

hath given

G3860

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

ἑαυτὸν13 of 23

himself

G1438

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

ὑπὲρ14 of 23

for

G5228

"over", i.e., (with the genitive case) of place, above, beyond, across, or causal, for the sake of, instead, regarding; with the accusative case super

ἡμῶν15 of 23

us

G2257

of (or from) us

προσφορὰν16 of 23

an offering

G4376

presentation; concretely, an oblation (bloodless) or sacrifice

καὶ17 of 23

And

G2532

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

θυσίαν18 of 23

a sacrifice

G2378

sacrifice (the act or the victim, literally or figuratively)

τῷ19 of 23
G3588

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

θεῷ20 of 23

to God

G2316

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

εἰς21 of 23

for

G1519

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

ὀσμὴν22 of 23

savour

G3744

fragrance (literally or figuratively)

εὐωδίας23 of 23

a sweetsmelling

G2175

good-scentedness, i.e., fragrance


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 5:2 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 5:2 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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