King James Version

What Does Ephesians 6:18 Mean?

Ephesians 6:18 in the King James Version says “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplica...” — study this verse from Ephesians chapter 6 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;”

Ephesians 6:18 · King James Version


Context

16

Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

17

And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:

18

Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

19

And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly , to make known the mystery of the gospel,

20

For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. in bonds: or, in a chain therein: or, thereof


Commentaries3 scholars

KJV Study CommentaryPublic Domain
[Verse 6:18 text would be quoted here] This verse in Ephesians chapter 6 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.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Written during Paul's Roman imprisonment (60-62 CE), this verse in chapter 6 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 6:18 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?

Compare 3 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.


Original Language Analysis

Greek · 25 words
διὰ1 of 25

“with”

G1223

through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)

πάντων2 of 25

“all”

G3956

all, any, every, the whole

προσευχῆς3 of 25

“prayer”

G4335

prayer (worship); by implication, an oratory (chapel)

καὶ4 of 25

“and”

G2532

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

δεήσει5 of 25

“supplication”

G1162

a petition

προσευχόμενοι6 of 25

“Praying”

G4336

to pray to god, i.e., supplicate, worship

ἐν7 of 25

“always”

G1722

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

πάντων8 of 25

“all”

G3956

all, any, every, the whole

καιρῷ9 of 25
G2540

an occasion, i.e., set or proper time

ἐν10 of 25

“always”

G1722

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

πνεύματι11 of 25

“the Spirit”

G4151

a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin

καὶ12 of 25

“and”

G2532

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

εἰς13 of 25

“thereunto”

G1519

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

αὐτὸ14 of 25
G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

τοῦτο15 of 25
G5124

that thing

ἀγρυπνοῦντες16 of 25

“watching”

G69

to be sleepless, i.e., keep awake

ἐν17 of 25

“always”

G1722

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

πάντων18 of 25

“all”

G3956

all, any, every, the whole

προσκαρτερήσει19 of 25

“perseverance”

G4343

persistancy

καὶ20 of 25

“and”

G2532

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

δεήσει21 of 25

“supplication”

G1162

a petition

περὶ22 of 25

“for”

G4012

properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas

πάντων23 of 25

“all”

G3956

all, any, every, the whole

τῶν24 of 25
G3588

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

ἁγίων25 of 25

“saints”

G40

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


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 6:18 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 6:18 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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