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front:intro e3di 0 # Introduction to Ephesians\n\n## Part 1: General Introduction\n\n### Outline of Ephesians\n\n1. Greeting and prayer for the spiritual blessings in Christ (1:1–23)\n1. Sin and salvation (2:1–10)\n1. Unity and peace (2:11–22)\n1. Mystery of Christ in the believers, made known (3:1–13)\n1. Prayer for riches of his glory to make the believers strong (3:14–21)\n1. Unity of the Spirit, building up the Body of Christ (4:1–16)\n1. New life (4:17–32)\n1. Imitators of God (5:1–21)\n1. 1 Wives and husbands; children and parents; slaves and masters (5:22–6:9)\n11. Armor of God (6:10–20)\n1. Final greeting (6:21–24)\n\n### Who wrote the Book of Ephesians?\n\nPaul wrote Ephesians. Paul was from the city of Tarsus. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee. He persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus.\n\nThe Apostle Paul helped start the church in Ephesus on one of his trips. He also lived in Ephesus for a year and a half and helped the believers there. Paul probably wrote this letter while he was in prison in Rome.\n\n### What is the Book of Ephesians about?\n\nPaul wrote this letter to the Christians in Ephesus to explain God’s love for them in Christ Jesus. He described the blessings that God was giving them because they were now united with Christ. He explained that all believers are united together, whether Jew or Gentile. Paul also wanted to encourage them to live in a way that pleases God.\n\n### How should the title of this book be translated?\n\nTranslators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “Ephesians.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “Paul’s Letter to the Church in Ephesus” or “A Letter to the Christians in Ephesus.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])\n\n## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts\n\n### What was the “mystery” in the book of Ephesians?\n\nThe expression translated in the ULT as “mystery” or “hidden” occurs six times. By it, Paul always meant something that God had to reveal to human beings because they could not know it on their own. It always referred to something about how God planned to save mankind. Sometimes it was about his plan to bring about peace between himself and mankind. Sometimes it was more specifically about his plan to save both Jews and Gentiles by uniting them through Christ. This hidden truth was that Gentiles are now able to benefit from the promises of Christ as equals with the Jews.\n\n### What did Paul say about salvation and righteous living?\n\nPaul said much about salvation and righteous living in this letter and in many of his letters. He said that God has been very kind and saved Christians because they believe in Jesus. Therefore, after they become Christians, they should live in a righteous way to show that they have faith in Christ. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]])\n\n## Part 3: Important Translation Issues\n\n### Singular and plural “you”\n\nIn this book, the word “I” refers to Paul. The word “you” is almost always plural and refers to the believers who may read this letter. The three exceptions to this are: 5:14, 6:2, and 6:3. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])\n\n### What did Paul mean by the “new self” or the “new man”?\n\nWhen Paul spoke of the “new self” or the “new man,” he meant the new nature that a believer receives from the Holy Spirit. This new nature was created in God’s image (See: 4:24). The phrase “new man” is also used for God bringing about peace between Jews and Gentiles. God brought them together as one people group that belong to him (See: 2:15).\n\n### How are the ideas of “holy” and “sanctify” represented in Ephesians in the ULT?\n\nThe scriptures use such words to indicate any one of several ideas. For this reason, it is often difficult for translators to represent them well in their versions. In translating into English,
1:intro fg42 0 # Ephesians 1 General Notes\n\n## Structure and Formatting\n\n### “I pray”\n\nPaul structures part of this chapter like a prayer of praise to God. But Paul is not just talking to God. He is teaching the church in Ephesus. He also tells the Ephesians how he is praying for them.\n\n## Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter\n\n### Predestination\n\nMany scholars believe this chapter teaches on a subject known as “predestination.” See the use of the word “predestine” in 1:5, 11. Some scholars take this to indicate that God has, from before the foundation of the world, chosen some people to save. Christians have different views on what the Bible teaches on this subject, so translators need to take extra care when translating this chapter. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/predestine]])
1:1 kx1g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you 0 # General Information:\n\nPaul names himself as the writer of this letter to the believers in the church at Ephesus (and elsewhere). Except where noted, all instances of “you” and “your” refer to the Ephesian believers as well as to all believers, and so are plural.
1:1 ilf2 Παῦλος, ἀπόστολος Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ & τοῖς ἁγίοις τοῖς οὖσιν 1 Your language may have a particular way of introducing the author of a letter and the intended audience. Alternate translation: “I, Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ … write this letter to you, God’s holy people”
1:1 u73p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 The phrase **in Christ Jesus** and similar expressions are metaphors that frequently occur in the New Testament letters. They express the strongest kind of relationship possible between Christ and those who believe in him, picturing believers as being surrounded by Christ. Alternate translation: “in close relationship to Christ Jesus”
1:2 x9ey χάρις ὑμῖν καὶ εἰρήνη 1 This is a common greeting and blessing that Paul often uses in the beginning of his letters. Use a form in your language that makes it clear that this is a greeting and blessing.
1:3 lm67 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive 0 # General Information:\n\nIn this book, unless otherwise stated, the words “us” and “we” refer to Paul, the believers in Ephesus, and all believers.
1:3 zdh3 Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nPaul opens his letter by talking about the believers’ position and their safety before God.
1:3 g6sj rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive εὐλογητὸς ὁ Θεὸς καὶ Πατὴρ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “Let us praise the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ”
1:3 v9qz rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐν Χριστῷ 1 Here, **in Christ** could mean: (1) a metaphor referring to our close relationship with Christ. Alternate translation: “by uniting us with Christ” or “because we are united with Christ” (2) what Christ has done. Alternate translation: “through Christ” or “through what Christ has done”
1:4 ibv6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet ἁγίους καὶ ἀμώμους 1 Paul uses the two similar words **holy** and **blameless** to emphasize moral goodness. If your language does not have two similar words, you can use one word for both, as in the UST.
1:4 ab01 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives ἀμώμους 1 The word **blameless** contains two negative ideas: “blame” or “fault,” and “-less,” which means “without.” If it would be helpful in your language, the two negative ideas can be replaced with the corresponding positive idea, “perfect.”
1:5 h7pn rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive προορίσας ἡμᾶς εἰς υἱοθεσίαν 1 The word **us** refers to Paul, the Ephesian church, and all believers in Christ. Alternate translation: “God planned long ago to adopt us”
1:5 e6f6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor εἰς υἱοθεσίαν 1 Here, **adoption** is a metaphor that refers to becoming part of God’s family. Alternate translation: “to become his children”
1:7 abcb rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy διὰ τοῦ αἵματος αὐτοῦ 1 The **blood** of Jesus is a metonym for his death. Alternate translation: “because he died”
1:7 m9l4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τὸ πλοῦτος τῆς χάριτος αὐτοῦ 1 Paul speaks of God’s **grace** as if it were material wealth. Alternate translation: “greatness of God’s grace” or “abundance of God’s grace”
1:8 pg6j ἧς ἐπερίσσευσεν εἰς ἡμᾶς 1 Alternate translation: “which he gave us in a great amount” or “being extremely kind to us”
1:8 sw98 ἐν πάσῃ σοφίᾳ καὶ φρονήσει 1 This could mean: (1) because he has all wisdom and understanding. (2) so that we might have great wisdom and understanding.
1:8 ab98 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet σοφίᾳ καὶ φρονήσει 1 Here, **wisdom** and **understanding** mean very similar things. If your language does not have two similar words, you can use one word for both.
1:9 v71p κατὰ τὴν εὐδοκίαν αὐτοῦ 1 This could mean: (1) because he wanted to make it known to us. (2) which was what he wanted.
1:9 c2uk ἣν προέθετο ἐν αὐτῷ 1 Alternate translation: “as he demonstrated this purpose in Christ”
1:9 u53h ἐν αὐτῷ 1 Alternate translation: “by means of Christ”
1:10 n2sl εἰς οἰκονομίαν 1 A new sentence can be started here. Alternate translation: “He did this with a view to an administration” or “He did this, thinking about a stewardship”
1:10 em7q τοῦ πληρώματος τῶν καιρῶν 1 Alternate translation: “when the time is right” or “at the time that he has appointed”
1:10 ab7q ἐν αὐτῷ 1 Alternate translation: “under his rule” or “under his authority”
1:11 ww9s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive καὶ ἐκληρώθημεν, προορισθέντες 1 Both pronouns **we** and **We** are inclusive in this verse. Paul is referring to all Christians, who were predestined to belong to Christ. In verses 12 and 13 he will divide this group into “we” (exclusive) Jewish Christians and “you” Gentile Christians.
1:11 t281 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive καὶ ἐκληρώθημεν 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. This could mean: (1) God also chose us to be his possession. (2) God also chose us to be heirs.
1:11 nkf8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive προορισθέντες 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God chose us ahead of time” or “God chose us long ago”
1:12 gj44 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive ἡμᾶς & τοὺς προηλπικότας ἐν τῷ Χριστῷ 1 Here, the word **we** is exclusive and refers to the Jewish believers who first heard the good news, not the believers at Ephesus.
1:13 j1zc 0 # General Information:\n\nPaul has been speaking in the previous two verses about himself and the other Jewish believers, but now he begins speaking about the Ephesian believers.
1:13 qgf9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐσφραγίσθητε τῷ Πνεύματι τῆς ἐπαγγελίας, τῷ Ἁγίῳ 1 In this metaphor Paul pictures the **Holy Spirit** as a seal, comparing him to the wax that was placed on a letter and stamped with a symbol representing the person who wrote the letter. Paul uses this custom as a picture to show how God has used the Holy Spirit to assure us that we belong to him. Alternate translation: “God has placed the Holy Spirit that he promised on you as if he were a seal”
1:13 abcf rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἐσφραγίσθητε 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God has sealed you”
1:14 g6dw rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἀρραβὼν τῆς κληρονομίας ἡμῶν 1 Receiving what God has promised is spoken of in terms of one inheriting property or wealth from a family member. Alternate translation: “an initial portion that we will receive from what God has promised” or “a guarantee that we will receive what God has promised to give us”
1:15 d9qy Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nPaul prays for the Ephesian believers and praises God for the power that believers have through Christ.
1:15 abcc rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result διὰ τοῦτο 1 The connecting phrase **Because of this** introduces a reason-result relationship. The reason is that the Ephesians had believed the gospel and had been sealed by the Holy Spirit. The result is that Paul praises God. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
1:16 scy9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes οὐ παύομαι εὐχαριστῶν 1 Paul uses **not stopped** to emphasize that he continues to thank God. Alternate translation: “I continue to thank God”
1:16 aby9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole οὐ παύομαι εὐχαριστῶν 1 Paul uses this exaggeration to emphasize that he thanks God very often. Alternate translation: “I continue to thank God” or “I often thank God”
1:17 abcd rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result ἵνα 1 The connecting phrase **so that** introduces a reason-result relationship. The reason is that Paul prays for the Ephesians. The result is that God would enlighten the Ephesians about all that he has done for them through Christ. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
1:18 gbl7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy πεφωτισμένους τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς τῆς καρδίας 1 Here, **heart** refers to a person’s mind or thinking. Alternate translation: “that you may gain understanding”
1:18 iv1h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive πεφωτισμένους τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς τῆς καρδίας 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “that God may give you understanding” or “that God may enlighten your mind”
1:18 abcg rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς τῆς καρδίας 1 The phrase **eyes of your heart** is a metaphor for one’s ability to gain understanding. Alternate translation: “that you may gain understanding and be enlightened”
1:18 m5j5 πεφωτισμένους 1 Alternate translation: “may be made to see”
1:18 abc4 τῆς κλήσεως αὐτοῦ 1 The **calling** of God refers to his choosing people to believe in him. Alternate translation: “that you have because he chose you to be his people”
1:18 h6ig rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τῆς κληρονομίας αὐτοῦ 1 Receiving what God has promised believers is spoken of as if one were inheriting property and wealth from a family member.
1:19 abce rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet τοῦ κράτους τῆς ἰσχύος αὐτοῦ 1 The words **force** and **strength** have very similar meanings and may be combined. Alternate translation: “of his great strength”
1:20 pu97 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj ἐκ νεκρῶν 1 This expression describes all **dead** people together in the underworld. To come back from among them speaks of becoming alive again. Alternate translation: “from among all those who have died”
1:20 ekj4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy καθίσας ἐν δεξιᾷ αὐτοῦ, ἐν τοῖς ἐπουρανίοις 1 The person who sits **at his right hand** of a king sits at his right side and rules with all the authority of the king at whose right hand or side he sits. This is a metonym of location that represents the authority that the person in that location possesses. Alternate translation: “gave him all authority to rule from heaven”
1:20 f3dh rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction καθίσας ἐν δεξιᾷ αὐτοῦ 1 To sit at the **right hand** of God is a symbolic action of receiving great honor and authority from God. Alternate translation: “seated him in the place of honor and authority beside him”
1:21 k8k7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet ὑπεράνω πάσης ἀρχῆς, καὶ ἐξουσίας, καὶ δυνάμεως, καὶ κυριότητος 1 These are all terms for the ranks of supernatural beings, both angelic and demonic. If your language does not have four different terms for rulers or authorities, you can combine them. Alternate translation: “far above all types of supernatural beings”
1:21 ra11 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive παντὸς ὀνόματος ὀνομαζομένου 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. This could mean: (1) every name that man gives. (2) every name that God gives.
1:22 pm4t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor κεφαλὴν ὑπὲρ πάντα 1 Here, **head** is a metaphor that refers to the leader or the one who is in charge. Alternate translation: “ruler over all things”
1:23 ge2c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τὸ σῶμα αὐτοῦ 1 Just as the head (verse 22) rules all things pertaining to a human body, so Christ is the head of the church **body**.
1:23 w2kh τὸ πλήρωμα τοῦ τὰ πάντα ἐν πᾶσιν πληρουμένου 1 Alternate translation: “for Christ fills the church with his life and power just as he gives life to all things”
1:23 x2kh τὸ πλήρωμα 1 This could have: (1) a passive sense, which would mean that Christ fills or completes the church. (2) an active sense, which would mean that the church completes Christ (as a body completes a head).
2:intro e7qn 0 # Ephesians 2 General Notes\n\n## Structure and Formatting\n\nThis chapter focuses on the life that a Christian had before coming to believe in Jesus. Paul then uses this information to explain how a person’s former way of living is distinct from a Christian’s new identity “in Christ.” (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])\n\n## Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter\n\n### One body\n\nPaul teaches about the church in this chapter. The church is made of two different groups of people (Jews and Gentiles). They are now one group or “body.” The church is also known as the body of Christ. Jews and Gentiles are united in Christ.\n\n## Translation Issues in This Chapter\n\n### “Dead in trespasses and sins”\n\nPaul teaches that those who are not Christians are “dead” in their sin. Sin binds or enslaves them. This makes them spiritually “dead.” Paul writes that God makes Christians alive in Christ. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/other/death]], [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])\n\n### Descriptions of worldly living\n\nPaul uses many different ways to describe how non-Christians act. They “lived according to the ways of this world” and are “living according to the ruler of the authorities of the air,” “fulfilling the evil desires of our sinful nature,” and “carrying out the desires of the body and of the mind.”\n\n## Translation Issues in This Chapter\n\n### “It is the gift of God”\n\nSome scholars believe “it” here refers to being saved. Other scholars believe that it is faith that is the gift of God. Because of how the Greek tenses agree, “it” here probably refers to both things: the gift is that we are saved by God’s grace through faith.\n\n### Flesh\n\n“Flesh” is sometimes used as a metaphor for a person’s sinful nature. The phrase “Gentiles in the flesh” indicates the Ephesians once lived without any concern for God. But “flesh” is also used in this verse to refer to the physical person, similar to “body part of man.” (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/flesh]])
2:1 dxx8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ὑμᾶς ὄντας νεκροὺς τοῖς παραπτώμασιν καὶ ταῖς ἁμαρτίαις ὑμῶν 1 This shows how the inability of a sinful person to obey God is similar to a **dead** person’s inability to respond physically. Alternate translation: “you were spiritually dead, unable to do anything but sin”
2:1 lp32 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet τοῖς παραπτώμασιν καὶ ταῖς ἁμαρτίαις ὑμῶν 1 The words **trespasses** and **sins** have similar meanings. Paul uses them together to emphasize the greatness of the people’s sin. If your language has just one word for this, the two words can be combined. Alternate translation: “your many sins”
2:1 ab32 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns τοῖς παραπτώμασιν καὶ ταῖς ἁμαρτίαις ὑμῶν 1 The words **trespasses** and **sins** are abstract nouns that represent actions. You could use an adjective or a verb for this if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: “the sinful things that you did” or “always sinning against God”
2:2 ab80 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐν αἷς ποτε περιεπατήσατε 1 Here, “walk” is a metaphor for the way a person lives. Alternate translation: “which is how you lived” or “which you did habitually”
2:2 i7d4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy κατὰ τὸν αἰῶνα τοῦ κόσμου τούτου 1 The apostles often used **world** to refer to the selfish behaviors and corrupt values of the people living in this world. Alternate translation: “according to the values of people living in the world” or “following the principles of this present world”
2:3 d3wd rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy τὰ θελήματα τῆς σαρκὸς καὶ τῶν διανοιῶν 1 The words **body** and **minds** represent the entire person. Alternate translation: “the selfish things that people want to do”
2:3 zd6v rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom τέκνα & ὀργῆς 1 Alternate translation: “people with whom God is angry”
2:4 abco rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 The connecting word **But** introduces a contrast relationship. The love and mercy of God is in sharp contrast to the evil way the Ephesians lived before they believed in God.
2:4 chm6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns Θεὸς πλούσιος ὢν ἐν ἐλέει 1 The word **mercy** is an abstract noun. Alternate translation: “God is abundantly merciful” or “God is very kind to us”
2:4 hrx9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns διὰ τὴν πολλὴν ἀγάπην αὐτοῦ, ἣν ἠγάπησεν ἡμᾶς 1 The word **love** is an abstract noun. Alternate translation: “because he loved us so very much”
2:5 h6km rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive χάριτί ἐστε σεσῳσμένοι 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God saved you by being gracious to you”
2:5 abkm rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns χάριτί ἐστε σεσῳσμένοι 1 The word **grace** is an abstract noun. Alternate translation: “God saved you by being extremely kind to you” or “God saved you as a free gift”
2:6 na2n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom συνήγειρεν 1 Here, **raised up** is an idiom for causing someone who has died to become alive again.
2:6 abch rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture συνήγειρεν 1 This could mean: (1) because God has caused Christ to come alive again, God has already given Paul and the believers in Ephesus new spiritual life. Alternate translation: “God has given us new life because we belong to Christ” (2) because God has caused Christ to come alive again, the believers in Ephesus can know that after they die they will live with Christ, and Paul can speak of the believers living again as if it has already happened. Alternate translation: “we can be sure that God will give us life just as he has caused Christ to come alive again”
2:6 ab11 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture συνεκάθισεν 1 Paul talks about the believers as already **seated** in heaven with Christ because, although it is something that will happen in the future, it was guaranteed by what Christ did in the past. Alternate translation: “it is as though God has already seated us next to Christ”
2:6 b499 ἐν τοῖς ἐπουρανίοις 1 The phrase **heavenly places** refers to the place where God is. See how this is translated in [Ephesians 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “in the supernatural world”
2:6 m6pq ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 The phrase **in Christ Jesus** and similar expressions are metaphors that frequently occur in the New Testament letters. They express the strongest kind of relationship possible between Christ and those who believe in him.
2:7 abcp rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 The connecting phrase **so that** introduces a goal relationship. The goal or purpose of God raising up believers and seating them in heaven with Christ is to show the extent of his grace in Christ.
2:8 abcq rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 The connecting word **For** introduces a reason-result relationship. The reason is that the Ephesians had been saved by God, and not by their own good works. The result is that people would see the grace of God to us in Christ. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
2:8 t9pc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive τῇ γὰρ χάριτί ἐστε σεσῳσμένοι διὰ πίστεως 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God saved you by grace because of your faith in him”
2:8 abpc rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns τῇ γὰρ χάριτί ἐστε σεσῳσμένοι 1 See how you translated this phrase in [Ephesians 2:5](../02/05.md).
2:8 r8u8 τοῦτο 1 The word **this** refers back to **by grace you have been saved by faith**.
2:9 al4s οὐκ ἐξ ἔργων, ἵνα μή τις καυχήσηται 1 You may want to start a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “Salvation does not come from works, so that no one may boast” or “God does not save a person because of what that person does, so no one can boast and say that he earned his salvation”
2:9 abcr rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 The connecting phrase **so that** introduces a goal relationship. The goal or purpose of God for saving believers by grace instead of by their works is that no person might boast.
2:10 abcs rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result γάρ 1 The connecting word **For** introduces a reason-result relationship. The reason is that God is the one who created us to do any good works that we do. The result is that people cannot boast. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
2:10 fa4l ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 The phrase **in Christ Jesus** and similar expressions are metaphors that frequently occur in the New Testament letters. They express the strongest kind of relationship possible between Christ and those who believe in him.
2:10 abd0 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 The connecting phrase **so that** introduces a goal relationship. The goal or purpose of God creating us as he did is that we would do the good works that he intended for us to do.
2:10 lws4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐν αὐτοῖς περιπατήσωμεν 1 To **walk** on a path is a metaphor for how a person lives his life. Here, **in them** refers to the “good works.” Alternate translation: “we would always and continually do those good deeds”
2:11 abct rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result διὸ 1 The connecting word **Therefore** introduces a reason-result relationship. The reason is that they were saved by God and not by anything they had done on their own. The result is that the Ephesians would remember that they were once separated from God. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
2:11 diq1 Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nPaul reminds these believers that God has now made Gentiles and Jews into one body through Christ and his cross.
2:11 p7m2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τὰ ἔθνη ἐν σαρκί 1 Here, **Gentiles** refers to people who were not born Jewish.
2:11 e76g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy ἀκροβυστία 1 Non-Jewish people were not circumcised as babies and thus the Jews considered them people who do not follow any of God’s laws. Alternate translation: “uncircumcised pagans”
2:11 nlf2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy περιτομῆς 1 This was another term for Jewish people because all male infants were **circumcised**. Alternate translation: “circumcised people”
2:11 tf9i rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ὑπὸ τῆς λεγομένης 1 You can translate this with an active form. Alternate translation: “by what people call” or “by those whom people call”
2:11 fb4r τῆς λεγομένης περιτομῆς ἐν σαρκὶ χειροποιήτου 1 This could refer to: (1) the Jews, who are circumcised by humans. (2) the Jews, who circumcise the physical body.
2:12 abcz rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result ὅτι 1 The connecting word **For** introduces a reason-result relationship. The reason is that they were not part of the Jews, who were circumcised. The result is that the Gentile Ephesians were separated from God. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
2:12 sti2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ξένοι τῶν διαθηκῶν τῆς ἐπαγγελίας 1 Paul speaks to the Gentile believers as if they had been foreigners, kept out of the land of God’s **covenants** and **promise**.
2:13 abcw rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 The connecting word **But** introduces a contrast relationship. The current condition of the Ephesian Gentile believers, after they believed in Christ, is that they are near to God. That is in contrast to their previous condition, before they believed in Christ, of being separated from God.
2:13 uf8m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ὑμεῖς οἵ ποτε ὄντες μακρὰν, ἐγενήθητε ἐγγὺς ἐν τῷ αἵματι τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 Not belonging to God due to sin is spoken of as **being far away** from God. Belonging to God because of **the blood of Christ** is spoken of as being **brought near** to God. Alternate translation: “you who once did not belong to God now belong to God because of the blood of Christ”
2:13 tth1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy ἐν τῷ αἵματι τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 Here the **blood of Christ** is a metonym for his death. Alternate translation: “by Christ’s death” or “when Christ died for us”
2:14 abcv rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result γάρ 1 The connecting word **For** introduces a reason-result relationship. The reason is that Christ himself joined them to the Jewish believers. The result is that the Ephesian Gentile believers were brought near to God. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
2:14 t6rd rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy ἐν τῇ σαρκὶ αὐτοῦ 1 The phrase **his flesh,** his physical body, is a metonym for his body dying. Alternate translation: “by the death of his body on the cross”
2:14 d7uf rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τὸ μεσότοιχον τοῦ φραγμοῦ & τὴν ἔχθραν 1 The **hostility** between the Jews and Gentiles is compared to a **wall**. Alternate translation: “the hostility that was like a wall that separated them”
2:15 bn71 τὸν νόμον τῶν ἐντολῶν ἐν δόγμασιν καταργήσας 1 Jesus’ blood satisfies the law of Moses so that both the Jews and Gentiles can live at peace in God. Alternate translation: “He took away the requirements in the law of Moses”
2:15 abcx rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 The connecting phrase **so that** introduces a goal relationship. The goal or purpose of Christ in abolishing the law was to join the Jews and the Gentiles together into one group.
2:15 sr2r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἕνα καινὸν ἄνθρωπον 1 Paul talks about the unity of Jews and Gentiles as if they had become **one** person. Alternate translation: “a single new people”
2:15 b628 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐν αὑτῷ 1 Being joined to Christ is what makes reconciliation possible between Jews and Gentiles. Paul describes this relationship as though Christ surrounded all of us. Alternate translation: “because he made it possible”
2:16 abc0 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐν ἑνὶ σώματι 1 The church is often pictured as the **body** of Christ, who is its head. Here it is comprised of both Jews and Gentiles.
2:16 bj8x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy διὰ τοῦ σταυροῦ 1 Here the **cross** here represents Christ’s death on the cross. Alternate translation: “by means of Christ’s death on the cross”
2:16 lq3m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἀποκτείνας τὴν ἔχθραν 1 Stopping their **hostility** is spoken of as if he killed their hostility. By dying on the cross, Jesus eliminated the reason for Jews and Gentiles to be hostile toward each other. Neither are now required to live according to the law of Moses. Alternate translation: “stopping them from hating one another”
2:17 vhi8 Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nPaul tells the Ephesians that Gentile believers are also now just as much a part of God’s people as are Jewish believers. The Jewish apostles and prophets are theirs, as is Christ, and they all form a temple for God in the Spirit.
2:17 g1hz εὐηγγελίσατο εἰρήνην 1 Alternate translation: “and announced the gospel of peace” or “declaring the gospel of peace”
2:17 wdu8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ὑμῖν τοῖς μακρὰν 1 Paul pictures the Gentiles (non-Jews), who were not part of God’s people, as though they were physically distant from God.
2:17 a58n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τοῖς ἐγγύς 1 Paul pictures the Jews, who were God’s people by birth, as though they were physically close to God.
2:18 qw56 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive ὅτι δι’ αὐτοῦ ἔχομεν τὴν προσαγωγὴν, οἱ ἀμφότεροι 1 Here, **both** refers to Paul and the believing Jews, and the believing non-Jews.
2:18 abcu rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result ὅτι 1 The connecting word **for** introduces a reason-result relationship. The reason is that he himself is the one who enabled both Jew and Gentile to come to the Father. The result is that Christ proclaimed peace to both the Jews and the Gentiles. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
2:18 kt1m ἐν ἑνὶ Πνεύματι 1 All believers, both Jewish and Gentile, are enabled to enter into the presence of God the Father by the same Holy **Spirit**. Alternate translation: “by means of the same Spirit”
2:19 abcy rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result ἄρα οὖν 1 The connecting phrase **So then** introduces a reason-result relationship. The reason is that Christ gave them access to God through the Spirit. The result is that the Ephesian believers are no longer separated from God. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
2:19 abd1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet ξένοι καὶ πάροικοι 1 The words **strangers** and **foreigners** have very similar meanings and may be combined. Alternate translation: “people who had no relationship to God”
2:19 abd2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλὰ 1 The connecting word **Instead** introduces a contrast relationship. The previous separation of the Ephesians from God is in contrast to their current status as citizens of the kingdom of God and members of his household.
2:19 r11r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐστὲ συνπολῖται τῶν ἁγίων καὶ οἰκεῖοι τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Paul is again speaking of the spiritual condition of Gentiles after they become believers as he would speak about foreigners becoming **citizens** of a different nation.
2:20 r2je rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐποικοδομηθέντες ἐπὶ τῷ θεμελίῳ 1 Paul speaks of God’s people as if they were a building. Christ is the cornerstone, the apostles are the **foundation**, and the believers are the structure. Alternate translation: “you depend on the teaching”
2:20 fs7j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἐποικοδομηθέντες 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God has built you”
2:21 g8ga rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor πᾶσα οἰκοδομὴ συναρμολογουμένη, αὔξει εἰς ναὸν ἅγιον 1 Paul continues to speak of Christ’s family as if it were a **building**. In the same way that a builder fits stones together while building, so Christ is fitting us together. Alternate translation: “all of us, as we grow together, become a holy group that worships God”
2:21 ljt5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐν ᾧ & ἐν Κυρίῳ 1 These metaphors express the strongest kind of relationship possible between Christ and those who believe in him. Alternate translation: “In Christ … in the Lord Jesus”
2:22 u55j rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐν ᾧ 1 You can translate this as “in Christ,” which is a metaphor that expresses the strongest kind of relationship possible between Christ and those who believe in him.
2:22 b4c8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor καὶ ὑμεῖς συνοικοδομεῖσθε, εἰς κατοικητήριον τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐν Πνεύματι 1 This describes how believers are being put together to become a **place** where **God** will permanently live through the power of the Holy **Spirit**. Alternate translation: “you also are being joined to this group where God lives by his Spirit”
2:22 e52h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive καὶ ὑμεῖς συνοικοδομεῖσθε 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God is also building you together”
3:intro gha7 0 # Ephesians 3 General Notes\n\n## Structure and Formatting\n\n### “I pray”\n\nPaul structures part of this chapter as a prayer to God. But Paul is not just talking to God. He is both praying for and instructing the church in Ephesus.\n\n## Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter\n\n### Mystery\n\nPaul refers to the church as a “mystery.” The role of the church in the plans of God was once not known. But God has now revealed it. Part of this mystery involves the Gentiles having equal standing with the Jews in the plans of God.
3:1 w896 Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nTo make clear the hidden truth about the church to believers, Paul refers back to the oneness of Jews and Gentiles and how believers from both groups form part of the one group that worships God, like the stones that form one temple.
3:1 jb9u rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result τούτου χάριν 1 The connecting phrase **For this reason** introduces a reason-result relationship. The reason is what Paul talked about in Chapter 2, that Christ showed his grace by removing the division between Jews and Gentiles and making them into one group. The result is that Paul prays for the Gentiles. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
3:1 abd6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit τούτου χάριν 1 You may need to make explicit what the reason is. Alternate translation: “Because of God’s grace to you” You may also need to make explicit here what the result is, as in the UST, because Paul does not state the result until 3:14, that he prays for them.
3:1 m9b6 ὁ δέσμιος τοῦ Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ 1 Alternate translation: “the one who is in prison because I serve Christ Jesus”
3:2 rx7t τὴν οἰκονομίαν τῆς χάριτος τοῦ Θεοῦ, τῆς δοθείσης μοι εἰς ὑμᾶς 1 Here, **grace** could mean: (1) the gift of the gospel that Paul is bringing to the Gentiles, and you could translate, “the responsibility that God gave me to bring his grace to you.” (2) the gift to Paul of being the steward of the gospel for the Gentiles, and you could translate that as “the responsibility that God graciously gave me for your benefit.”
3:3 dc7x rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive κατὰ ἀποκάλυψιν ἐγνωρίσθη μοι 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “according to what God revealed to me”
3:5 srn9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ὃ ἑτέραις γενεαῖς οὐκ ἐγνωρίσθη τοῖς υἱοῖς τῶν ἀνθρώπων 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God did not make these things known to people in the past”
3:5 eq5u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ὡς νῦν ἀπεκαλύφθη & ἐν Πνεύματι 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “but now the Spirit has revealed it” or “but now the Spirit has made it known”
3:6 pqy3 εἶναι τὰ ἔθνη, συνκληρονόμα & διὰ τοῦ εὐαγγελίου 1 This is the hidden truth that Paul began to explain in the previous verse. The **Gentiles** who receive Christ also receive everything that the Jewish believers receive from God.
3:6 y88q σύνσωμα 1 The church is often referred to as the **body** of Christ.
3:6 wxs4 ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 The phrase **in Christ Jesus** and similar expressions are metaphors that frequently occur in the New Testament letters. They express the strongest kind of relationship possible between Christ and those who believe in him.
3:6 i4h7 διὰ τοῦ εὐαγγελίου 1 This could mean: (1) because of the **gospel**, the Gentiles are fellow sharers in the promise. (2) because of the **gospel**, the Gentiles are fellow heirs and members of the body and fellow sharers in the promise.
3:8 y97f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἀνεξιχνίαστον 1 Paul speaks of everything that Christ offers as something so physically vast that it cannot be fully explored. Alternate translation: “unable to be completely known”
3:8 e96z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor πλοῦτος τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 Paul speaks of the truth about **Christ** and the blessings he brings as if they were material wealth.
3:9 f2zp rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive τοῦ μυστηρίου, τοῦ ἀποκεκρυμμένου ἀπὸ τῶν αἰώνων ἐν τῷ Θεῷ, τῷ τὰ πάντα κτίσαντι 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “of God, who created all things, kept this plan hidden for long ages in the past”
3:10 abd3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 The connecting phrase **so that** introduces a goal relationship. The goal or purpose of God revealing the mystery of the church to Paul is to enable the rulers in the heavenly places to see the wisdom of God.
3:10 q62l rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive γνωρισθῇ & ταῖς ἀρχαῖς καὶ ταῖς ἐξουσίαις ἐν τοῖς ἐπουρανίοις & ἡ πολυποίκιλος σοφία τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God may make his great wisdom known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places”
3:10 elh2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet ταῖς ἀρχαῖς καὶ ταῖς ἐξουσίαις 1 The words **rulers** and **authorities** share similar meanings. Paul uses them together to emphasize that every spiritual being will know God’s wisdom. If your language does not have two words for this, you can use one.
3:10 z7vy ἐν τοῖς ἐπουρανίοις 1 The phrase **heavenly places** refers to the place where God is. See how this is translated in [Ephesians 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “in the supernatural world”
3:10 ll77 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἡ πολυποίκιλος σοφία τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Paul talks of God’s **wisdom** as though it were an object with many surfaces. Alternate translation: “the complex wisdom of God” or “how extremely wise God is”
3:11 aaz8 κατὰ πρόθεσιν τῶν αἰώνων 1 Alternate translation: “in keeping with the eternal plan” or “consistent with the eternal plan”
3:12 qfn9 Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nIn the next section, Paul praises God in his sufferings and prays for these Ephesian believers.
3:12 we6c ἔχομεν τὴν παρρησίαν 1 Alternate translation: “we are without fear” or “we have courage”
3:12 ab6c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys τὴν παρρησίαν καὶ προσαγωγὴν 1 The two words **boldness** and **access**work together to express one idea: “bold access” or “boldness to enter”
3:12 zx5c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit προσαγωγὴν ἐν πεποιθήσει 1 It may be helpful to state explicitly that this **access** is into God’s presence. Alternate translation: “access into God’s presence with confidence” or “freedom to enter into God’s presence with confidence”
3:13 abd4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result διὸ 1 The connecting word **Therefore** introduces a reason-result relationship. The reason is that the believers have access to Christ with confidence. The result is that the believers will not be discouraged. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
3:13 ciu6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν, ἥτις ἐστὶν δόξα ὑμῶν 1 Here, **your glory** is a metonym for the salvation and eternal life that the Ephesians will have because of Paul’s work of telling them about Christ, which resulted in his suffering in prison. You can state this as a new sentence. Alternate translation: “for you. They bring you a wonderful benefit” or “for you. They result in your salvation”
3:14 abd5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result τούτου χάριν 1 The connecting phrase **For this reason** introduces a reason-result relationship. The reason is that Paul’s sufferings have caused glory for the believers. The result is that Paul prays to the Father. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
3:14 v3gd rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit τούτου χάριν 1 You may need to make explicit what the reason is. Alternate translation: “Because God has done all this for you”
3:14 vju2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche κάμπτω τὰ γόνατά μου πρὸς τὸν Πατέρα 1 Bent **knees** are a picture of the whole person in an attitude of prayer. Alternate translation: “I bow down in prayer to the Father” or “I humbly pray to the Father”
3:15 c492 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἐξ οὗ πᾶσα πατριὰ ἐν οὐρανοῖς καὶ ἐπὶ γῆς ὀνομάζεται 1 The act of naming here probably also represents the act of creating. Alternate translation: “who created and named every family in heaven and on earth”
3:16 abd7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 The connecting phrase **so that** introduces a goal relationship. The goal or purpose of Paul’s prayer is that the Ephesian believers would be strengthened by God in their faith and love.
3:16 z9q5 δῷ ὑμῖν κατὰ τὸ πλοῦτος τῆς δόξης αὐτοῦ, δυνάμει κραταιωθῆναι 1 Alternate translation: “God, because he is so great and powerful, would allow you to become strong with his power”
3:16 rgf5 δῷ 1 Alternate translation: “he would give”
3:17 n87p Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nPaul continues the prayer he began in [Ephesians 3:14](../03/14.md).
3:17 wg1v κατοικῆσαι τὸν Χριστὸν διὰ τῆς πίστεως ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ὑμῶν ἐν ἀγάπῃ, ἐρριζωμένοι καὶ τεθεμελιωμένοι 1 This is the second item for which Paul prays that God will “grant” the Ephesians “according to the riches of his glory.” The first is that they would “be strengthened” ([Ephesians 3:16](../03/16.md)).
3:17 q6yy rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor κατοικῆσαι τὸν Χριστὸν διὰ τῆς πίστεως ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ὑμῶν 1 Here, **hearts** represent a person’s inner being, and **through** expresses the means by which Christ lives within the believer. Christ lives in the hearts of believers because God graciously allows them to have faith. Alternate translation: “that Christ may live within you because you trust in him”
3:17 g4g1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐν ἀγάπῃ, ἐρριζωμένοι καὶ τεθεμελιωμένοι 1 Paul speaks of their faith as if it were a tree that has deep roots or a house built on a solid foundation. Alternate translation: “you will be like a firmly rooted tree and a building built on stone”
3:18 abd8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result ἵνα 1 The connecting phrase **so that** introduces a reason-result relationship. The reason is that Christ would live in their hearts. The result is that the Ephesian believers would fully know the love of God and be filled with God’s fullness. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
3:18 bkk6 καταλαβέσθαι 1 This is the third item for which Paul bends his knees and prays; the first is that God will grant that they be strengthened ([Ephesians 3:16](../03/16.md)) and the second is that Christ may live in their hearts through faith ([Ephesians 3:17](../03/17.md)).
3:18 uu6l πᾶσιν τοῖς ἁγίοις 1 Alternate translation: “all the believers in Christ”
3:18 ef4s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τὸ πλάτος, καὶ μῆκος, καὶ ὕψος, καὶ βάθος 1 In this metaphor Paul pictures something that is not physical or measurable as something that is physical but stretches out in all directions and, thus, is very large. This could refer to: (1) the intensity of Christ’s love for us. Alternate translation: “how very much Christ loves us” (2) the greatness of God’s wisdom. Alternate translation: “how very wise God is”
3:18 ef4t rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit τὸ πλάτος, καὶ μῆκος, καὶ ὕψος, καὶ βάθος 1 It may be necessary to state explicitly what these words refer to. If so, you could combine this with the phrase from the next verse and say: “the width and length and height and depth of, and truly know the love of Christ” or “the width and length and height and depth of the love of Christ, and truly know it”
3:19 rev9 γνῶναί τε τὴν & ἀγάπην τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 This continues the idea from the previous verse. They both refer to knowing the greatness of the love of Christ. Alternate translation: “that you can know how great Christ’s love for us is”
3:19 px4z ἵνα πληρωθῆτε εἰς πᾶν τὸ πλήρωμα τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 This is the fourth item for which Paul bends his knees and prays ([Ephesians 3:14](../03/14.md)). The first is that they would “be strengthened” ([Ephesians 3:16](../03/16.md)), the second is that “Christ would live in their hearts through faith” ([Ephesians 3:17](../03/17.md)), and the third is that they “could comprehend Christ’s love” ([Ephesians 3:18](../03/18.md)).
3:19 ab4z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἵνα πληρωθῆτε εἰς πᾶν τὸ πλήρωμα τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 In this metaphor Paul pictures the Ephesian believers as containers into which **God** can pour himself. Alternate translation: “so God can give you everything that he has to give you”
3:19 cd4z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἵνα πληρωθῆτε 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “so that God can fill you”
3:19 ef4z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns εἰς πᾶν τὸ πλήρωμα τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **fullness**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “with everything that God is full of”
3:19 abd9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result ἵνα 1 The connecting phrase **so that** introduces a reason-result relationship. The reason is that the Ephesian believers would know the love of Christ. The result is that they would be filled with the fulness of God. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
3:20 jk5c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive 0 # General Information:\n\nThe words “we” and “us” in this book continue to include Paul and all believers.
3:20 zxt3 ὑπὲρ πάντα, ποιῆσαι ὑπέρἐκπερισσοῦ ὧν αἰτούμεθα ἢ νοοῦμεν 1 Alternate translation: “to do much more than all that we ask or think” or “to do things that are much greater than anything that we ask him for or think about”
3:21 ab12 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns αὐτῷ ἡ δόξα ἐν τῇ ἐκκλησίᾳ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **glory**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “may God’s people glorify him” or “may God’s people praise him for how great he is” See the UST.
4:intro ang8 0 # Ephesians 4 General Notes\n\n## Structure and Formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with verse 8, which is quoted from the Old Testament.\n\n## Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter\n\n### Spiritual gifts\n\nSpiritual gifts are specific supernatural abilities that the Holy Spirit gives to Christians after they come to believe in Jesus. These spiritual gifts were foundational to developing the church. Paul lists here only some of the spiritual gifts. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])\n\n### Unity\n\nPaul considers it very important that the church is united. This is a major theme of this chapter.\n\n## Translation Issues in This Chapter\n\n### Old man and new man\n\nThe term “old man” probably refers to the sinful nature with which a person is born. The “new man” is the new nature or new life that God gives a person after they come to believe in Christ.
4:1 sb64 Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nBecause of what Paul has been writing to the Ephesians, he tells them how they should live their lives as believers and again emphasizes that believers are to agree with each other.
4:1 abda rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result οὖν 1 The connecting word **Therefore** introduces a reason-result relationship. The reason is that God will be glorified in the church for all generations. The result is that believers should walk in a way that is worthy of the Lord. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
4:1 zxr1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἀξίως περιπατῆσαι τῆς κλήσεως 1 The phrase **to walk** is a common way to express the idea of living one’s life.
4:1 abc5 τῆς κλήσεως ἧς ἐκλήθητε 1 Here, **the calling** refers to the fact that God chose them to be his people. Alternate translation: “because God chose you to be his people”
4:2 zs6s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns μετὰ πάσης ταπεινοφροσύνης καὶ πραΰτητος 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the words **humility**, **gentleness**, and **patience**, you could express the same ideas with verbal forms. Alternate translation: “to learn to be humble, gentle, and patient”
4:3 pi5c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τηρεῖν τὴν ἑνότητα τοῦ Πνεύματος ἐν τῷ συνδέσμῳ τῆς εἰρήνης 1 Here Paul speaks of **peace** as if it were a **bond** that ties people together. This is a metaphor for being united with other people by living peacefully with them. Alternate translation: “to live peacefully with one another and remain united as the Spirit made possible”
4:3 ab5c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns τηρεῖν τὴν ἑνότητα τοῦ Πνεύματος ἐν τῷ συνδέσμῳ τῆς εἰρήνης 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the words **unity** and **peace**, you could express the same ideas with verbal forms. Alternate translation: “to live peacefully with one another and remain united as the Spirit made possible”
4:4 b9mr rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἐκλήθητε ἐν μιᾷ ἐλπίδι τῆς κλήσεως ὑμῶν 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God called you to have one confident hope in your calling” or “there is one thing that God also chose you to be confident in and expect him to do”
4:7 i4za Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nPaul reminds believers of the gifts that Christ gives believers to use in the church, which is the whole body of believers.
4:7 u2bw rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἑνὶ & ἑκάστῳ ἡμῶν ἐδόθη ἡ χάρις 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God has given grace to each one of us” or “God gave a gift to each believer”
4:7 abbw rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἑνὶ & ἑκάστῳ ἡμῶν ἐδόθη ἡ χάρις 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **grace**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “God has given a gift to each believer”
4:8 abdb rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result διὸ 1 The connecting word **Therefore** introduces a reason-result relationship. The reason is that every believer has been given a spiritual gift. The result is that the Scripture says Jesus gave gifts to men. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
4:8 wj8t ἀναβὰς εἰς ὕψος 1 Alternate translation: “When Christ went up into heaven”
4:9 e5at ἀνέβη 1 Alternate translation: “Christ went up”
4:9 zu81 καὶ κατέβη 1 Alternate translation: “Christ also came down”
4:9 eq56 εἰς τὰ κατώτερα μέρη τῆς γῆς 1 This could refer to: (1) the **lower regions** as a part of the **earth**. (2) **the lower regions** as another way of referring to the **earth** itself. Alternate translation: “into the lower regions, the earth”
4:10 w6t5 ἵνα πληρώσῃ τὰ πάντα 1 Alternate translation: “so that he might be working powerfully everywhere”
4:11 y9ow rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ποιμένας 1 The word translated as **pastors** here is the the same word that is translated as “shepherds” elsewhere in the ULT. It is the plural form of the word used by Jesus to refer to himself in John 10:10 where he says that he is the “good Shepherd.” The idea here is that in a similar way to how a shepherd feeds, protects, and watches over the well-being of his flock, so pastors feed (with spiritual food) and watch over and protect the spiritual well-being of those within their church. If it would help your readers, you could indicate explicitly the meaning of the word “pastors.” Alternate translation: “spiritual shepherds” or “shepherding Christian leaders”
4:12 jx12 πρὸς τὸν καταρτισμὸν τῶν ἁγίων 1 Alternate translation: “to prepare the people whom he has set apart” or “to provide the believers with what they need”
4:12 y9gd εἰς ἔργον διακονίας 1 Alternate translation: “so that they can serve others”
4:12 n33m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor εἰς οἰκοδομὴν τοῦ σώματος τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 Paul is speaking of people who grow spiritually as if they were doing exercises to increase the strength of their physical bodies.
4:12 pdh4 οἰκοδομὴν 1 Alternate translation: “the improvement”
4:12 x5gd τοῦ σώματος τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 The **body of Christ** refers to all of the members of Christ’s Church.
4:13 w1ik καταντήσωμεν οἱ πάντες εἰς τὴν ἑνότητα τῆς πίστεως, καὶ τῆς ἐπιγνώσεως τοῦ Υἱοῦ τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 The believers need to know Jesus as the **Son of God** if they are to be united in **faith** and mature as believers.
4:13 er6a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns καταντήσωμεν οἱ πάντες εἰς τὴν ἑνότητα τῆς πίστεως 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **unity**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “we all become equally strong in faith” or “we all become united together in faith”
4:13 ab6a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns καταντήσωμεν οἱ πάντες εἰς τὴν ἑνότητα τῆς πίστεως 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **faith**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “become united together as believers”
4:13 cd6a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns τῆς ἐπιγνώσεως τοῦ Υἱοῦ τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **knowledge**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “all know well the Son of God”
4:13 x7k3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples τοῦ Υἱοῦ τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 **Son of God** is an important title for Jesus.
4:14 abdc rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 The connecting phrase **so that** introduces a goal relationship. The goal or purpose of gifted people in the church is to bring all the believers to spiritual maturity.
4:14 xgi4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor μηκέτι ὦμεν νήπιοι 1 Paul refers to believers who have not grown spiritually as if they were **children** who have had very little experience in life. Alternate translation: “we may no longer be like children”
4:14 ndj2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor κλυδωνιζόμενοι καὶ περιφερόμενοι παντὶ ἀνέμῳ τῆς διδασκαλίας 1 Paul speaks of a believer who has not become mature and follows various wrong teachings as if that believer were a boat and the teachings were the **wind** and **waves** that move the boat in different directions on the water. See the UST.
4:14 r3bj rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἐν τῇ κυβίᾳ τῶν ἀνθρώπων, ἐν πανουργίᾳ πρὸς τὴν μεθοδίαν τῆς πλάνης 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the words **trickery**, **cleverness**, and **scheming**, you could express the same ideas with verbal forms. Alternate translation: “by crafty people who trick believers with clever lies”
4:15 abdd rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 The connecting word **Instead** introduces a contrast relationship. Following every changing teaching is in contrast to becoming mature in Christ and building up his body. Use a word in your language that indicates contrast.
4:15 ab88 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἀληθεύοντες 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **truth**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “speaking truthfully”
4:15 i2ff rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἐν ἀγάπῃ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **love**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “as the members love one another”
4:15 zw32 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor εἰς αὐτὸν & ὅς ἐστιν ἡ κεφαλή 1 Paul uses a metaphor of the human body to describe how Christ causes believers to work together in harmony as the **head** of a body causes the body parts to work together to grow in a healthy way. See the UST.
4:16 ll7f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐξ οὗ πᾶν τὸ σῶμα & τὴν αὔξησιν τοῦ σώματος ποιεῖται 1 Paul continues the metaphor of the believers as a human **body** with Christ as the head to describe how Christ causes believers to work together in harmony as the head of a body causes the body parts to work together to grow in a healthy way. See the UST.
4:16 ab7f rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal εἰς οἰκοδομὴν ἑαυτοῦ ἐν ἀγάπῃ 1 The word **for** indicates a purpose clause. The purpose of all of the believers working together in harmony, as the members of a human body do, is so that all believers will grow in our ability to love each other and to love God. Use a word in your language that marks this as a purpose clause.
4:16 abff rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἐν ἀγάπῃ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **love**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “as the members love one another” or “to be able to love each other more”
4:16 l5r6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor διὰ πάσης ἁφῆς τῆς ἐπιχορηγίας 1 Paul continues the metaphor comparing the believers to a human body. A **ligament** is a strong band that connects bones or holds organs in place in the body. Just as the body is held together by strong ligaments, so the believers are held together by love that grows stronger as the body parts grow and work together. See the UST.
4:17 n5cy Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nPaul tells them what they should no longer do now that they, as believers, are sealed by the Holy Spirit of God.
4:17 abde rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result οὖν 1 The connecting word **Therefore** introduces a reason-result relationship. The reason is that Christ wants every believer to become spiritually mature and to serve the other believers. The result is that the Ephesian believers should no longer act as the Gentiles act. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
4:17 ksr8 τοῦτο οὖν λέγω καὶ μαρτύρομαι 1 Alternate translation: “Because of what I have just said, I will now say something more in order to strongly encourage”
4:17 abr8 ἐν Κυρίῳ 1 This could be: (1) referring to the authority of the Lord. (2) stating that we all belong to the Lord.
4:17 wcx2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor μηκέτι ὑμᾶς περιπατεῖν, καθὼς καὶ τὰ ἔθνη περιπατεῖ ἐν ματαιότητι τοῦ νοὸς αὐτῶν 1 Paul commonly uses this metaphor that compares walking to living one’s life. Alternate translation: “you … to stop living like the Gentiles with their worthless thoughts”
4:18 lab7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐσκοτωμένοι τῇ διανοίᾳ 1 This metaphor compares wrong thinking with darkness. Alternate translation: “they no longer think or reason clearly” or “they are not able to understand”
4:18 abci rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἐσκοτωμένοι τῇ διανοίᾳ 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “Their way of thinking has become dark” or “They no longer think or reason clearly” or “They are not able to understand”
4:18 w69u rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἀπηλλοτριωμένοι τῆς ζωῆς τοῦ Θεοῦ, διὰ τὴν ἄγνοιαν τὴν οὖσαν ἐν αὐτοῖς 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “because they do not know God, they cannot live the way that God wants his people to live” or “they have cut themselves off from the life of God by their ignorance”
4:18 k8qv rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor διὰ τὴν πώρωσιν τῆς καρδίας αὐτῶν 1 The phrase **hardness of their hearts** is a metaphor that means “stubbornness.” Alternate translation: “because they are stubborn” or “because they refuse to listen to God”
4:18 abdf rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result διὰ 1 The connecting word **because** introduces a reason-result relationship. The first reason is that they are ignorant of him. The result is that the Gentiles are separated from God. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
4:18 abdg rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result διὰ 2 The connecting word **because** introduces a reason-result relationship. The second reason is that their hearts are hardened. The result is that Gentiles are separated from God. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
4:19 ldy8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἑαυτοὺς παρέδωκαν τῇ ἀσελγείᾳ 1 Paul speaks of these people as if they were objects that they themselves were giving to other people, and he speaks of the way that they want to satisfy their physical desires as if the desires were the person to whom they give themselves. Alternate translation: “have given in to every physical desire” or “only want to satisfy their physical desires”
4:20 e5vk ὑμεῖς δὲ οὐχ οὕτως ἐμάθετε τὸν Χριστόν 1 The word **thus** refers to the way that the Gentiles live, as described in [Ephesians 4:17–19](../04/17.md). This emphasizes that what the believers learned from Christ was the opposite of that. Alternate translation: “But what you learned about the ways of Christ was not like that”
4:20 abdh rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 The connecting word **But** introduces a contrast relationship. The sinful way the Gentiles live is in contrast to the way that Paul taught the Ephesians to live according to the truth of Jesus. Use a connecting word in your language that marks a contrast here
4:21 hy7r rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony εἴ γε αὐτὸν ἠκούσατε καὶ ἐν αὐτῷ ἐδιδάχθητε 1 Paul knows that the people to whom he is writing have **heard** and been **taught** these things. He is using irony as a form of rebuke—if they are doing things contrary to the way of Christ, they know better than that and need to stop. See the UST.
4:21 b3pn rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἐν αὐτῷ ἐδιδάχθητε 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. This could mean: (1) they received instruction in his ways. (2) Jesus’ people have taught them.
4:21 gdz6 καθώς ἐστιν ἀλήθεια ἐν τῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 See the UST. Alternate translation: “as Jesus teaches us the true way to live” or “as everything about Jesus is true”
4:22 h1ha rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἀποθέσθαι ὑμᾶς κατὰ τὴν προτέραν ἀναστροφὴν 1 Paul is speaking of moral qualities as if they were pieces of clothing. Alternate translation: “You must stop living according to your former manner of life”
4:22 j7n7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἀποθέσθαι ὑμᾶς κατὰ τὴν προτέραν ἀναστροφὴν τὸν παλαιὸν ἄνθρωπον 1 Paul is speaking of a way of living as if it were a person. Alternate translation: “You must stop doing the things that your former self did” or “Stop doing the things that you used to do”
4:22 d3j6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τὸν παλαιὸν ἄνθρωπον 1 The **old man** refers to the “old nature” or “former self,” the way that the person was before the person became a believer in Christ
4:22 qw3d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τὸν φθειρόμενον κατὰ τὰς ἐπιθυμίας τῆς ἀπάτης 1 Paul is continuing to speak of a sinful way of living as if it were a person who does evil things. Alternate translation: “when you fooled yourself into thinking that it was good to do whatever evil thing that you wanted to do” See the UST.
4:23 jy7h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἀνανεοῦσθαι & τῷ πνεύματι τοῦ νοὸς ὑμῶν 1 This may be translated with an active form. Alternate translation: “to allow God to change your attitudes and thoughts” or “to allow God to give you new attitudes and thoughts” See the UST.
4:24 x41y rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἐν δικαιοσύνῃ καὶ ὁσιότητι τῆς ἀληθείας 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the words **righteousness**, **holiness**, and **truth**, you could express the same ideas with verbal forms. Alternate translation: “truly righteous and holy”
4:24 abc7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐνδύσασθαι τὸν καινὸν ἄνθρωπον 1 Paul continues to speak of a way of living as if it were a person, and also as if it were clothing, so that one could **put on** the **new** person like a robe. Alternate translation: “be the new person” or “start living in the new way”
4:25 abdi rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result διὸ 1 The connecting word **Therefore** introduces a reason-result relationship. The reason is that God has created the believers as new, holy people. The result is that they would stop acting immorally like they used to live. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
4:25 abn8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἀποθέμενοι τὸ ψεῦδος 1 Paul speaks of telling lies as if they were objects that the believers could set aside. Alternate translation: “no longer telling lies” or “instead of telling lies”
4:25 ab23 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns λαλεῖτε ἀλήθειαν ἕκαστος 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **truth**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “each of you should speak truthfully”
4:25 abdj rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result ὅτι 1 The connecting word **because** introduces a reason-result relationship. The reason is that believers are members of the same body of Christ. The result is that believers should speak the truth to each other. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
4:25 zh2g rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐσμὲν ἀλλήλων μέλη 1 Here Paul speaks of the close union of believers with each other as if they were each part of one single body. Alternate translation: “we belong to one another” or “we are all members of God’s family”
4:26 ki7p rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy ὁ ἥλιος μὴ ἐπιδυέτω ἐπὶ παροργισμῷ ὑμῶν 1 The **sun** going **down** represents nightfall or the end of the day. Alternate translation: “You must stop being angry before night comes” or “Let go of your anger before the day ends”
4:28 abdk rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast μᾶλλον δὲ 1 The connecting phrase **But rather** introduces a contrast relationship. The way a former thief should work hard to have something to share with others is in contrast to the way he formerly stole for himself.
4:28 abdl rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 The connecting phrase **so that** introduces a goal relationship. The goal or purpose of working hard with ones own hands is to be able to meet the needs of others.
4:29 abdm rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλ’ 1 The connecting word **but** introduces a contrast relationship. Speaking what is corrupt is in contrast to speaking good things that will build up others.
4:29 abdn rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 The connecting phrase **so that** introduces a goal relationship. The goal or purpose of speaking things that build up others is to give grace to those who hear the words.
4:29 ab8a rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἵνα δῷ χάριν τοῖς ἀκούουσιν 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **grace**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “so that those who hear you may be spiritually encouraged”
4:30 pgk9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐν ᾧ ἐσφραγίσθητε εἰς ἡμέραν ἀπολυτρώσεως 1 The Holy Spirit assures believers that God will redeem them. Paul speaks of the Holy Spirit as if he were a mark that God puts on believers to show that he owns them. Alternate translation: “for he is the seal that assures you that God will redeem you on the day of redemption” or “for he is the one who assures you that God will redeem you on the day of redemption”
4:30 abck rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἐν ᾧ ἐσφραγίσθητε εἰς ἡμέραν ἀπολυτρώσεως 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “for he has sealed you for the day of redemption”
4:31 b72p Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nPaul finishes his instructions on what believers should not do and ends with what they must do.
4:31 v576 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἀρθήτω 1 Paul speaks of attitudes and behaviors as though they were physical objects that can be removed. Alternate translation: “you must not allow … to be part of your life”
4:31 t1gj rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns πικρία, καὶ θυμὸς, καὶ ὀργὴ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the words **bitterness**, **rage**, and **anger**, you could express the same ideas as adjectives. Alternate translation: “being bitter, and intensely angry, and angry”
4:31 abgj rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns κακίᾳ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **malice**, you could express the same idea as an adjective. Alternate translation: “being malicious”
4:32 abdo rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 The connecting word **Instead** introduces a contrast relationship. Speaking angry and hurtful things is in contrast to speaking kind and tender things to one another.
5:intro tdd2 0 # Ephesians 5 General Notes\n\n## Structure and Formatting\n\nSome translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the words of verse 14.\n\n## Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter\n\n### Inheritance of the kingdom of Christ\n\nSome scholars believe that those who continue to practice the things listed in 5:5 will not inherit eternal life. But God can forgive all the sins listed in this verse. Immoral, impure, or greedy people can still receive eternal life if they repent and believe in Jesus. God will be the one who decides this. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/forgive]], [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/eternity]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/life]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/inherit]])\n\n## Translation Issues in This Chapter\n\n### Wives, submit to your husbands\n\nScholars are divided over how to understand this passage in its historical and cultural context. Some scholars believe that men and women are perfectly equal in all things. Other scholars believe that God created men and women to serve in distinctly different roles in marriage and the church. Translators should be careful not to let how they interpret this issue affect how they translate this passage.
5:1 wus5 Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nPaul continues to tell the believers how they should and should not live as God’s children.
5:1 jx2q γίνεσθε οὖν μιμηταὶ τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 The word **imitators** is a verbal noun, and can be translated with a verb. Alternate translation: “Therefore, imitate God” or “Therefore you should do what God does.”
5:1 abdp rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result οὖν 1 The connecting word **Therefore** introduces a reason-result relationship. The reason (stated in [Ephesians 4:32](../04/32.md)) is that God has forgiven us through Christ. The result (stated here) is that believers should imitate what God is like. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
5:1 zen5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile ὡς τέκνα ἀγαπητά 1 God desires us to imitate or follow him since we are his spiritual **children**. Alternate translation: “as dearly loved children imitate their fathers” or “because you are his children and he loves you dearly”
5:2 ta41 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor περιπατεῖτε ἐν ἀγάπῃ 1 To **walk** is a common way to express the idea of living one’s life. Alternate translation: “live a life of love” or “always love each other”
5:2 bak1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor προσφορὰν καὶ θυσίαν τῷ Θεῷ εἰς ὀσμὴν εὐωδίας 1 This metaphor compares Christ dying on the cross for our sins with an Old Testament **sacrifice** for sin, which were roasted in a fire and gave off a pleasing smell. Alternate translation: “like a sweet-smelling offering and sacrifice to God” or “an offering and sacrifice to God that pleased God very much” See the UST.
5:3 le5f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive πορνεία δὲ, καὶ ἀκαθαρσία πᾶσα, ἢ πλεονεξία, μηδὲ ὀνομαζέσθω ἐν ὑμῖν 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. “Do not do anything that would let anyone think that you are guilty of sexual immorality or any kind of impurity or greed.”
5:3 abdq rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 The connecting word **But** introduces a contrast relationship. The fragrant offering and sacrifice to God is in contrast to sinful acts and thoughts that are not fitting for saints. Use a connecting word that indicates a contrast in your language.
5:3 xat9 ἀκαθαρσία πᾶσα 1 Alternate translation: “any moral uncleanness”
5:4 utm5 ἀλλὰ μᾶλλον εὐχαριστία 1 The word **thanksgiving** is a verbal noun, and can be translated with a verb: “instead of those things, you should thank God”
5:4 abdr rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλὰ μᾶλλον 1 The connecting phrase **but instead** introduces a contrast relationship. Sinful acts and thoughts are in contrast to thanksgiving to God. Use a connecting word that indicates a contrast in your language.
5:5 abc6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἀκάθαρτος 1 Here being **unclean** (dirty) is a metaphor for being sinful.
5:5 vb16 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor οὐκ ἔχει κληρονομίαν 1 Receiving what God has promised believers is spoken of as if it were inheriting property and wealth from a family member. Alternate translation: “will receive nothing” or “has no part” See the UST.
5:6 abds rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 The connecting word **for** introduces a reason-result relationship. The result is stated first: that the Ephesian believers should not let anyone deceive them with empty words. Then the reason is stated: that the wrath of God will judge those things. Use a phrase that connects a reason to a result, and put them in the order that is most natural in your language.
5:6 ab16 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἔρχεται ἡ ὀργὴ τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐπὶ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **wrath**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “God will certainly punish”
5:6 ab73 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom τοὺς υἱοὺς τῆς ἀπειθείας 1 This is an idiom that means, “people who habitually disobey” or “people who are characterized by disobedience” Alternate translation: “those who disobey God”
5:7 abdt rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result οὖν 1 The connecting word **Therefore** introduces a reason-result relationship. The reason is that God will judge those people in his wrath. The result is that the Ephesian believers should not become partners with evil men. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
5:8 wy9d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἦτε γάρ ποτε σκότος 1 Just as one cannot see in the dark, so people who love to sin cannot see or understand the things of God. Alternate translation: “because formerly you did not understand anything about God” See the UST.
5:8 abdw rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result γάρ 1 The connecting word **because** introduces a reason-result relationship. The result is stated first (v.7): that the Ephesian believers should not become partners with evil men. The reason is stated second (v. 8): that the Ephesian believers are no longer darkness, but are now light. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result, using the order that is most natural for your language.
5:8 iw4q rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor νῦν δὲ φῶς ἐν Κυρίῳ 1 Just as one can see in the **light**, so people whom God has saved understand how to please God. Alternate translation: “but now you know God and can live for him” See the UST.
5:8 abdu rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 The connecting word **but** introduces a contrast relationship. The fact that the Ephesian believers were formerly darkness is in contrast to the fact that they are now light.
5:8 l6ki rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ὡς τέκνα φωτὸς περιπατεῖτε 1 To **Walk** on a path is a metaphor for how a person lives his life. Alternate translation: “Live as people who understand what the Lord wants them to do”
5:8 abc9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile ὡς τέκνα φωτὸς 1 God desires us to imitate or follow him since we are his spiritual **children**. Alternate translation: “as God’s children who know the truth” or “because you are God’s children and see the truth”
5:9 q194 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ὁ & καρπὸς τοῦ φωτὸς ἐν πάσῃ ἀγαθωσύνῃ, καὶ δικαιοσύνῃ, καὶ ἀληθείᾳ 1 Here, **fruit** is a metaphor for “result” or “outcome.” Alternate translation: “the result of living in the light is good work, right living, and truthful behavior”
5:9 abdv rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 The connecting word **for** introduces the reason of a reason-result relationship. The reason is that fruit of the light is goodness and righteousness and truth. The result is that the Ephesian believers should walk as children of light. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
5:11 zdu1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor μὴ συνκοινωνεῖτε τοῖς ἔργοις τοῖς ἀκάρποις τοῦ σκότους 1 Paul speaks of the useless, sinful things that unbelievers do as if they are evil deeds that people do in the dark so no one will see them. Alternate translation: “do not do useless, sinful things with unbelievers”
5:11 v4d1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τοῖς ἔργοις τοῖς ἀκάρποις τοῦ σκότους 1 Here Paul is comparing evil actions to an unhealthy tree that produces nothing good. Alternate translation: “actions that do nothing good, useful, or profitable, caused by darkness”
5:11 abc8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τοῖς ἔργοις τοῖς ἀκάρποις τοῦ σκότους 1 The word **darkness** is often used to represent sin. In this instance, these works result from sinful motives. Alternate translation: “deeds that are worthless because they were done from sinful motives”
5:11 abdx rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast μᾶλλον δὲ 1 The connecting phrase **but rather** introduces contrast relationship. Participating in the works of darkness is in contrast to exposing them.
5:11 hpl2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐλέγχετε 1 Speaking against the works of darkness is spoken of as bringing them out into the light so that people can see them. Alternate translation: “bring them out into the light” or “uncover them” or “show and tell people how wrong these actions are”
5:12 cd23 rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns αὐτῶν 1 Here, **them** refers to the “sons of disobedience” mentioned in 5:6 and also referred to as “them” in 5:7. If it is unclear who “them” refers to in either place, then use “those who disobey God” or a similar phrase.
5:13 sp1z 0 # General Information:\n\nIt is unknown if this quotation is a combination of quotations from the prophet Isaiah or a quotation from a hymn sung by the believers.
5:13 abdy rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 The connecting word **But** introduces a contrast relationship. Hiding the shameful works of darkness now is in contrast to the light exposing them later.
5:13 vqi7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor πᾶν & τὸ φανερούμενον φῶς ἐστιν 1 Paul makes this general statement in order to imply that God’s Word shows people’s actions to be good or bad. The Bible often speaks of God’s truth as if it were **light** that could reveal the character of something. Alternate translation: “if you compare everything to what God says, you could know if it is good or bad” See the UST.
5:14 abdz rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result διὸ 1 The connecting word **Therefore** introduces a reason-result relationship. The reason is that their sins will be revealed by the light. The result is that sinners should allow Christ to shine on them. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
5:14 z4ar rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe ἔγειρε, ὁ καθεύδων, καὶ ἀνάστα ἐκ τῶν νεκρῶν 1 This could mean: (1) Paul is addressing the believers and using death as a metaphor for their areas of spiritual weakness that they need to become aware of and reject. (2) Paul is addressing unbelievers who need to wake up from being dead spiritually just as a person who has died must come alive again in order to respond. See the UST.
5:14 abcl rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe ὁ καθεύδων 1 This could mean: (1) Paul is addressing this comment directly to the believers who are reading or hearing the letter. (2) Paul is addressing this comment directly to unbelievers who are not reading or hearing the letter.
5:14 e873 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐκ τῶν νεκρῶν 1 This expression describes all **dead** people together in the underworld. To arise from among them speaks of becoming alive again and is a metaphor for becoming alive spiritually and living for God. Alternate translation: “from among all those who have died” or “from among those who are spiritually dead”
5:14 ma8w rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you ἐπιφαύσει σοι 1 Here, **you** refers to the “sleeper” and is singular.
5:14 ym6b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐπιφαύσει σοι ὁ Χριστός 1 **Christ** will enable an unbeliever to understand how evil his deeds are and how Christ will forgive him and give him new life, just as light shows what actually is there that the darkness had hid. This aso applies to anything that a believer has not yet recognized as sinful. Alternate translation: “Christ will show you what is right”
5:15 du5n βλέπετε οὖν ἀκριβῶς πῶς περιπατεῖτε, μὴ ὡς ἄσοφοι, ἀλλ’ ὡς σοφοί 1 People who are **unwise** do not guard themselves against sin. Wise people, however, can identify sin and flee from it. Alternate translation: “Therefore, you must be careful to live as a wise person rather than a foolish person”
5:15 abe0 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result οὖν 1 The connecting word **therefore** introduces a reason-result relationship. The reason is that Christ has shown the light on him. The result is that the sinner will walk carefully in the light. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
5:15 abe1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλ’ 1 The connecting word **but** introduces a contrast relationship. Being unwise is in contrast to being wise.
5:15 abe2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis ὡς σοφοί 1 The verb “walk” is left out. You can state this clearly. Alternate translation: “walk as wise”
5:16 h8b1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐξαγοραζόμενοι τὸν καιρόν 1 Using time wisely is spoken of as if it were **redeeming the time**. Alternate translation: “doing the best things you can with your time” or “using time wisely” or “putting time to its best use”
5:16 lrb6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy ὅτι αἱ ἡμέραι πονηραί εἰσιν 1 The word **days** is a metonym for what people do during those days. Alternate translation: “because the people around you are constantly doing all kinds of evil things and the opportunities that you have to do good may become few”
5:16 abe3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result ὅτι 1 The connecting word **because** introduces the reason of a reason-result relationship. The reason is that the days are evil. The result is that the believers must redeem the time. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
5:17 abe4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result διὰ τοῦτο 1 The connecting phrase **Because of this** introduces the result of a reason-result relationship. The reason is that the days are evil. The result is that the believers will not be foolish, but understand God’s will. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
5:17 abe5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλὰ 1 The connecting word **but** introduces a contrast relationship. Being foolish is in contrast to understanding God’s will.
5:18 cd33 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἐν ᾧ ἐστιν ἀσωτία 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **recklessness**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “which leads to reckless behavior” or “because that will ruin you”
5:18 abe6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλὰ 1 The connecting word **Instead** introduces a contrast relationship. Being drunk is in contrast to being filled with the Spirit.
5:19 egk6 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism ψαλμοῖς, καὶ ὕμνοις, καὶ ᾠδαῖς πνευματικαῖς 1 This could mean: (1) Paul is using these words as a merism for “all sorts of songs to praise God” (2) Paul is listing specific forms of music.
5:19 v9ay rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet ᾠδαῖς πνευματικαῖς 1 This could mean: (1) these are songs that the Holy Spirit inspires a person to sing right at that moment (2) **spiritual songs** and “hymns” form a doublet. They mean basically the same thing, and you could use one word for these instead of two.
5:19 v3ql rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy τῇ καρδίᾳ ὑμῶν 1 Here, **heart** is a metonym for a person’s thoughts or inner being. This could mean: (1) they should do this with true motives and sincerity. Alternate translation: “from deep within your being” or “sincerely” (2) they should do this with enthusiasm: Alternate translation: “with all of your being” or “enthusiastically” See the UST.
5:20 e6w5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐν ὀνόματι τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 Here, **name** could refer to: (1) Jesus himself. Alternate translation: “because you belong to our Lord Jesus Christ” (2) the authority of Jesus. Alternate translation: “with the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ”
5:20 abw5 τῷ Θεῷ καὶ Πατρί 1 Alternate translation: “to God, who is our Father”
5:22 isd7 Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nPaul begins to explain how Christians are to submit themselves to one another ([Ephesians 5:21](../05/21.md)). He starts with instructions to wives and husbands on how they should act toward each other.
5:23 abe7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result ὅτι 1 The connecting word **For** introduces the reason of a reason-result relationship. The reason is that the husband is head of the wife in the same way Christ is head of the church. The result is that wives should submit to their husbands. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
5:23 x637 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor κεφαλὴ τῆς γυναικὸς & κεφαλὴ τῆς ἐκκλησίας 1 The word **head** here represents the leader.
5:25 sm9e ἀγαπᾶτε τὰς γυναῖκας 1 Here, **love** means that the husband unselfishly does what is best for the wife, unselfishly serving or giving to his wife.
5:25 i24y ἑαυτὸν παρέδωκεν 1 Alternate translation: “allowed people to kill him”
5:25 kp8k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ὑπὲρ αὐτῆς 1 Paul speaks of the assembly of believers as though it were a woman whom Jesus will marry. Alternate translation: “for us”
5:26 abe9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 The connecting phrase **so that** introduces a goal relationship. The goal or purpose of Christ giving himself up to death is to sanctify the church.
5:26 h6vx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor αὐτὴν ἁγιάσῃ, καθαρίσας 1 Paul speaks of the assembly of believers as though it were a woman whom Jesus will marry. Alternate translation: “he might make us holy, having cleansed us”
5:26 a9p5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor καθαρίσας τῷ λουτρῷ τοῦ ὕδατος ἐν ῥήματι 1 This could mean: (1) Paul is referring to God making Christ’s people clean by the preaching and acceptance of God’s **word** in the gospel message and through **water** baptism in Christ. (2) Paul is speaking of God making us spiritually clean from our sins by the message as if God were making our bodies clean by washing them with **water**.
5:27 abea rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 The connecting phrase **so that** introduces a goal relationship. The goal or purpose of Christ cleansing the church with the word is to present the church to himself as a glorious bride.
5:27 d1sm rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor μὴ ἔχουσαν σπίλον, ἢ ῥυτίδα 1 Paul speaks of the church as though it were a garment that is clean and in perfect condition. Alternate translation: “not having any defect”
5:27 abcm rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet μὴ ἔχουσαν σπίλον, ἢ ῥυτίδα 1 Here, **stain** and **wrinkle** represent the same idea of defect in two ways to emphasize the church’s purity. If your language does not have two different words, you can use one word for this.
5:27 abeb rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλ’ 1 The connecting word **but** introduces a contrast relationship. The church having stains and wrinkles of sin is in contrast to the church being holy and blameless.
5:27 abec rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 2 The connecting phrase **so that** introduces a goal relationship. The goal or purpose of Christ washing the church is to make the church holy and blameless.
5:27 jvi4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet ἁγία καὶ ἄμωμος 1 Here, **blameless** means basically the same thing as **holy**. Paul uses the two together to emphasize the church’s purity. If your language does not have two different words, you can use one word for this.
5:28 wp8b rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ὡς τὰ ἑαυτῶν σώματα 1 You can state explicitly that people love **their own bodies**. Alternate translation: “as husbands love their own bodies”
5:29 abed rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλὰ 1 The connecting word **but** introduces a contrast relationship. Hating one’s own body is in contrast to caring for it.
5:30 abee rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result ὅτι 1 The connecting word **because** introduces the reason of a reason-result relationship. The reason is that the church is Christ’s body. The result is that Christ cares for the church. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
5:30 h44f rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor μέλη ἐσμὲν τοῦ σώματος αὐτοῦ 1 Here Paul speaks of the close union of believers with Christ as if they were part of his own **body**, for which he would naturally care.
5:31 abef rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result ἀντὶ τούτου 1 The connecting phrase **Because of this** introduces the result of a reason-result relationship. In this case, this phrase is part of a quotation from Genesis 2:24 and so the reason is not stated here, but it is stated in Genesis 2:23 that woman was created out of man. The result is that a man will leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife. If it is confusing to not state the reason, you could include a footnote that says, “the reason for this is that woman was created out of man. See Genesis 2:23”
6:intro r7c3 0 # Ephesians 6 General Notes\n\n## Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter\n\n### Slavery\n\nPaul does not write in this chapter about whether slavery is good or bad. Paul teaches about working to please God whether as a slave or as a master. What Paul teaches here about slavery would have been surprising. In his time, masters were not expected to treat their slaves with respect and not threaten them.\n\n## Translation Issues in This Chapter\n\n### Armor of God\n\nThis extended metaphor describes how Christians can protect themselves when spiritually attacked. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/spirit]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
6:1-3 wq46 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you 0 # General Information:\n\nThe command in verse one is plural. Then in verses two and three Paul quotes from the law of Moses. Moses was talking to the people of Israel as though they were one person, so **your** and **you** are singular there. If that does not make sense, you may need to translate them as plurals.
6:1 jf17 Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nPaul continues to explain how Christians are to submit themselves to each other. He gives instructions to children, fathers, workers, and masters.
6:1 ev8m ἐν Κυρίῳ 1 Alternate translation: “because you belong to the Lord” or “as followers of the Lord”
6:1 abeg rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result γάρ 1 The connecting word **for** introduces the reason of a reason-result relationship. The reason is that children should do what is right. The result is that children should obey their parents. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
6:3 abeh rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 The connecting phrase **so that** introduces a goal relationship. The goal or purpose of obeying your father and mother is to live well and long on the earth.
6:4 abei rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλὰ 1 The connecting word **Instead** introduces a contrast relationship. Fathers provoking their children to anger is in contrast to raising their children in discipline and instruction.
6:4 ytg5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἐκτρέφετε αὐτὰ ἐν παιδείᾳ καὶ νουθεσίᾳ Κυρίου 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the words **discipline** and **instruction**, you could express the same ideas with verbal forms. Alternate translation: “teach them to become adults by making sure that they know and do what the Lord wants them to do”
6:5 s1pq rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet φόβου καὶ τρόμου 1 The phrase **fear and trembling** uses two similar ideas to emphasize the importance of honoring their masters. Alternate translation: “with deep respect”
6:5 z6xx rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole καὶ τρόμου 1 Here, **trembling** is an exaggeration used to emphasize how important it is that slaves obey their masters. Alternate translation: “and deep respect” or “as though you were shaking with fear”
6:5 pd6z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy ἐν ἁπλότητι τῆς καρδίας ὑμῶν 1 Here, **heart** is a metonym for a person’s mind or intentions. Alternate translation: “with honesty” or “with sincerity”
6:5 ab6z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἐν ἁπλότητι 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **honesty**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “honestly” or “sincerely”
6:5 cd6z rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ὡς τῷ Χριστῷ 1 To make the meaning of this phrase clear, you may want to include the verb here: “as you obey Christ.”
6:6 abej rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλ’ 1 The connecting word **but** introduces a contrast relationship. Obeying our masters as men-pleasers is in contrast to obeying them because we are slaves of Christ.
6:6 u5fn rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy ἐκ ψυχῆς 1 Here, **soul** is a metonym for “attitudes” or “intentions.” Alternate translation: “wholeheartedly” or “enthusiastically”
6:9 i85s rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit τὰ αὐτὰ ποιεῖτε πρὸς αὐτούς 1 Here, **the same** refers back to “if he does something good” from ([Ephesians 6:8](../06/08.md)). Alternate translation: “you also must treat your slaves well” or “just as slaves must do good to their masters, you also must do good to your slaves”
6:9 wii4 εἰδότες ὅτι καὶ αὐτῶν καὶ ὑμῶν ὁ Κύριός ἐστιν ἐν οὐρανοῖς 1 Alternate translation: “You know that Christ is the Master of both slaves and their masters, and that he is in heaven”
6:9 r9ue προσωπολημψία οὐκ ἔστιν παρ’ αὐτῷ 1 Alternate translation: “he judges everyone the same way”
6:10 t5th Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nPaul gives instructions to make believers strong in this battle we are in for God.
6:10 e4mg rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet τῷ κράτει τῆς ἰσχύος αὐτοῦ 1 These two words are very similar in meaning. Together, they reinforce each other. See how you translated this phrase near the end of [Ephesians 1:19](../01/19.md) Alternate translation: “his great power”
6:11 n8x8 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐνδύσασθε τὴν πανοπλίαν τοῦ Θεοῦ, πρὸς τὸ δύνασθαι ὑμᾶς στῆναι πρὸς τὰς μεθοδίας τοῦ διαβόλου 1 In this metaphor, Paul pictures the spiritual resources that **God** gives to all Christians as a soldier’s **armor**. Alternate translation: “Just as a soldier puts on armor to protect himself from enemy attacks, use all of God’s resources to stand firmly against the devil”
6:12 abek rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result ὅτι 1 The connecting word **For** introduces the reason of a reason-result relationship. The reason is that we are in a struggle against spiritual forces of darkness. The result is that we should put on the whole armor of God. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
6:12 d7be rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche αἷμα καὶ σάρκα 1 This expression refers to people, not to spirits who do not have human bodies. Alternate translation: “human beings”
6:12 abel rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλὰ 1 The connecting word **but** introduces a contrast relationship. People made of flesh and blood are in contrast to spiritual forces.
6:12 ftu4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit πρὸς τοὺς κοσμοκράτορας 1 Here it is implied that **the world-controllers** refers to powerful spiritual beings. Alternate translation: “against the powerful spiritual beings that rule over people”
6:12 abcn rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τοῦ σκότους τούτου 1 Here, **darkness** is a metaphor for things that are evil. Alternate translation: “during this present evil time”
6:13 jrn9 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor διὰ τοῦτο, ἀναλάβετε τὴν πανοπλίαν τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Christians should use the protective resources **God** gives them in fighting the devil in the same way that a soldier puts on **armor** to protect himself against his enemies. See the UST.
6:13 abem rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result διὰ τοῦτο 1 The connecting phrase **Because of this** introduces the result of a reason-result relationship. The reason is that we are in a battle against evil spiritual forces. The result is that we should put on the whole armor of God. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
6:13 cy9h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἵνα δυνηθῆτε ἀντιστῆναι ἐν τῇ ἡμέρᾳ τῇ πονηρᾷ 1 The word **withstand** means to successfully resist something. Alternate translation: “so that you may be able to resist when evil attacks you”
6:13 ab9h rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ἵνα δυνηθῆτε ἀντιστῆναι 1 It may be helpful to state explicitly what believers are to **withstand**. Alternate translation: “so that you may be able to withstand the attacks of the devil”
6:13 aben rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 The connecting phrase **so that** introduces a goal relationship. The goal or purpose of putting on the whole armor of God is to be able to withstand the attacks of the spiritual forces of darkness.
6:14 r5m7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor στῆτε οὖν 1 Here the word **Stand** represents taking a position on what is right and true and successfully resisting forces that try to make the believer compromise that position. See how you translated “stand firm” in [Ephesians 6:13](../06/13.md). “So resist evil”
6:14 abex rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result οὖν 1 The connecting word **therefore** introduces the result of a reason-result relationship. The reason is that we believers have put on our spiritual armor. The result is that we will stand and resist the evil spiritual forces. Use a phrase in your language that connects a reason to a result.
6:14 lbd4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor περιζωσάμενοι τὴν ὀσφὺν ὑμῶν ἐν ἀληθείᾳ 1 In this metaphor, **truth** is compared to a soldier’s belt. Truth holds everything together for a believer just as a belt holds the clothing of a soldier together. See the UST.
6:14 abq4 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἀληθείᾳ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **truth**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “what is true”
6:14 abca rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐνδυσάμενοι τὸν θώρακα τῆς δικαιοσύνης 1 In this metaphor, **righteousness** is compared to a soldier’s **breastplate**. Just as soldiers put on a breastplate to protect themselves from enemy attacks, believers should behave in a righteous way to protect themselves from spiritual attacks. See the UST.
6:14 cdca rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns δικαιοσύνης 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **righteousness**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “the right way to live”
6:15 f6w1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ὑποδησάμενοι τοὺς πόδας ἐν ἑτοιμασίᾳ τοῦ εὐαγγελίου τῆς εἰρήνης 1 In this metaphor, **the gospel of peace** is compared to a soldier’s sandals. Just as a soldier wears sturdy footwear to give him solid footing and enable him to march long distances, the believer must have solid knowledge of the gospel of peace and be ready to go where the Lord sends him to proclaim it. See the UST.
6:15 abw1 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns εἰρήνης 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **peace**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “that makes everything good between people and God”
6:16 n65c rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἐν πᾶσιν ἀναλαβόντες τὸν θυρεὸν τῆς πίστεως 1 In this metaphor, faith is compared to a soldier’s **shield**. Just as a soldier uses a shield to protect himself from enemy attacks, the believer must use the **faith** that God gives for protection when the devil attacks. See the UST.
6:16 ab5d rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns τῆς πίστεως 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **faith**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “that represents how much you trust in the Lord” See the UST.
6:16 djl5 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τὰ βέλη τοῦ πονηροῦ πεπυρωμένα 1 The attacks of the devil against a believer are like **flaming arrows** shot at a soldier by an enemy.
6:17 g2kw rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τὴν περικεφαλαίαν τοῦ σωτηρίου δέξασθε 1 The **salvation** that God gives protects the believer’s mind just as a **helmet** protects the head of a soldier.
6:17 abkw rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns τοῦ σωτηρίου 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **salvation**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “that represents the fact that God has saved you” See the UST.
6:17 c191 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τὴν μάχαιραν τοῦ Πνεύματος, ὅ ἐστιν ῥῆμα Θεοῦ 1 In this metaphor, God’s message is compared to a soldier’s **sword**. Just as soldiers use a sword to fight and defeat their enemy, so a believer can use God’s message in the Bible to fight against the devil.
6:18 mu4w διὰ πάσης προσευχῆς καὶ δεήσεως, προσευχόμενοι ἐν παντὶ καιρῷ ἐν Πνεύματι 1 Alternate translation: “Pray at all times in the Spirit as you pray and make specific requests”
6:18 g1i7 rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal εἰς αὐτὸ 1 The connecting phrase **to this {end}** marks a goal or purpose relationship. The goal is what was just mentioned: to pray at all times in the Spirit. In order to do that, believers must be watchful and persevere in making requests for all the saints. Alternate translation: “for this reason” or “in order to do that”
6:18 i5hm rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἀγρυπνοῦντες ἐν πάσῃ προσκαρτερήσει καὶ δεήσει περὶ πάντων τῶν ἁγίων 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **perseverance**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “persevere in being alert, and pray for all God’s holy people” or “pray with constant alertness for all the believers” See the UST.
6:19 rm1h Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nIn closing this letter, Paul asks his readers to pray for his boldness in telling the gospel while he is in prison and he says that he is sending Tychicus to comfort them.
6:19 j135 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive ἵνα μοι δοθῇ λόγος 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “that God might give me the word” or “God might give me the message”
6:19 abeo rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 The connecting phrase **so that** introduces a goal relationship. The goal or purpose of the believers praying for Paul is to enable him to preach the gospel boldly.
6:19 gu1n rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy ἀνοίξει τοῦ στόματός μου 1 This is a metonym for speaking. Alternate translation: “I speak”
6:20 wx9k rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy ὑπὲρ οὗ πρεσβεύω ἐν ἁλύσει 1 The phrase **in chains** is a metonym for being in prison. Alternate translation: “because of which I am now in prison”
6:20 pmm2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit ἵνα ἐν αὐτῷ παρρησιάσωμαι, ὡς δεῖ με λαλῆσαι 1 The word “pray” is understood from verse 18. Alternate translation: “pray that whenever I teach the gospel, I will speak it as boldly as I should” or “pray that I may speak the gospel as boldly as I should”
6:20 abep rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 The connecting phrase **so that** introduces a goal relationship. The goal or purpose of the believers praying for Paul is to enable him to preach the gospel boldly even though he is in chains.
6:20 cdep rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns ἐν αὐτῷ 1 Here, **it** refers back to the “message” in verse 19 that Paul wants to speak. If it would be helpful in your language, you could repeat the word “message” here. Alternate translation: “in my message”
6:21 aber rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 The connecting phrase **so that** introduces a goal relationship. The goal or purpose of Paul sending Tychicus to Ephesus was to tell the Ephesian believers what was happening to Paul.
6:21 abc2 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor ἀδελφὸς 1 Paul speaks of Tychicus as if he were a **brother** to all the other believers who were in God’s spiritual family. Alternate translation: “fellow believer”
6:22 nv5m rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy παρακαλέσῃ τὰς καρδίας ὑμῶν 1 Here, **hearts** is a metonym for people’s inner beings. Alternate translation: “he may encourage you”
6:22 abes rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 The connecting phrase **so that** introduces a goal relationship. The goal or purpose of Paul sending Tychicus to the Ephesians is to encourage their hearts and to let them know what was happening to Paul and his companions.
6:23 j395 Connecting Statement: 0 # Connecting Statement:\n\nPaul closes his letter to the Ephesian believers with a blessing of peace and grace on all believers who love Christ.
6:23 ab33 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns εἰρήνη τοῖς ἀδελφοῖς 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **Peace**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “May the brothers have a peaceful spirit”
6:23 abc3 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor τοῖς ἀδελφοῖς 1 Paul speaks of the other believers as if they were **brothers** to all of the other believers who were in God’s spiritual family. Alternate translation: “to the fellow believers”
6:23 ab44 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἀγάπη 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **love**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “may you love one another”
6:23 ab55 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns μετὰ πίστεως 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **faith**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “as you trust in the Lord” See the UST.
6:24 cd55 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἡ χάρις μετὰ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **Grace**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “May God act graciously to”
6:24 ef55 rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns ἐν ἀφθαρσίᾳ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **incorruptibility**, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “in a way that no one is able to corrupt” or “so much that no one can make them stop loving him” See the UST.
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