Ephesians 4 7

Ephesians 4:7 kjv

But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.

Ephesians 4:7 nkjv

But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ's gift.

Ephesians 4:7 niv

But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it.

Ephesians 4:7 esv

But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ's gift.

Ephesians 4:7 nlt

However, he has given each one of us a special gift through the generosity of Christ.

Ephesians 4 verses

Ephesians 4 7 Meaning

Ephesians 4:7 declares that, in contrast to the singular unity of the triune Godhead and the church's shared essentials (Eph 4:1-6), each individual believer has received a distinct measure of God's enabling grace. This grace is not only a free gift but is specifically measured out by Christ according to His divine will and wisdom, providing unique capacities for service within the unified body of believers.

Ephesians 4 7 Context

Ephesians chapter 4 shifts from theological doctrine (Eph 1-3), describing God's grand redemptive plan and the church's unified reality in Christ, to practical exhortation. The initial verses (Eph 4:1-6) call believers to live out the unity that they already possess in Christ. This unity is defined by one Body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father of all. Ephesians 4:7 introduces a complementary truth: while there is profound unity, there is also intentional diversity. This verse acts as a bridge, explaining how Christ's sovereign distribution of varied "grace" empowers believers for ministry within the unified Body, which then sets the stage for the specific gifts listed in subsequent verses (Eph 4:11). The immediate historical context is the early church striving to function effectively as Christ's body, utilizing individual abilities for corporate edification.

Ephesians 4 7 Word analysis

• But (Δὲ - De): This is a strong contrasting conjunction. It signals a shift from the theme of the church's essential unity in verses 1-6 to the individual diversity of grace and gifts that operates within that unity. It prevents the misunderstanding that unity means uniformity.
• to each one of us (ἑνὶ δὲ ἑκάστῳ ἡμῶν - heni de hekastō hēmōn): The repetition of "one" (henos/hekastō) emphasizes the individual nature of this bestowal. Every single believer receives grace, signifying an active, personal, and intentional distribution to all members, not just a select few or the leaders. This counters any elitism or exclusion.
• grace (χάρις - charis): While "grace" often refers to God's unmerited favor for salvation (Eph 2:8), in this context, connected with the subsequent verses (Eph 4:8, 11-12), it specifically denotes enabling grace – a divine endowment or spiritual capacity given for effective service and ministry within the church. It is the power to serve according to God's will.
• has been given (ἐδόθη - edothē): This is an aorist passive indicative verb, emphasizing a completed action in the past by a divine agent. It underscores that this grace is not earned, achieved, or self-generated, but sovereignly and freely bestowed by God/Christ. The passive voice points to Christ as the Giver, making it a divine bestowal rather than a human acquisition.
• as Christ apportioned it / according to the measure of the gift of Christ (κατὰ τὸ μέτρον τῆς δωρεᾶς τοῦ Χριστοῦ - kata to metron tēs dōreas tou Christou):
  • "measure" (μέτρον - metron): Implies a precise, deliberate, and fitting distribution, not arbitrary. Each receives a specific "amount" or kind of grace suitable for their intended purpose in the body. It speaks of divine wisdom and tailor-made provisions, negating comparison or envy.
  • "of the gift" (τῆς δωρεᾶς - tēs dōreas): This further clarifies that the "grace" being discussed is a "gift," something freely given. This gift refers to spiritual endowments or capacities for ministry.
  • "of Christ" (τοῦ Χριστοῦ - tou Christou): Clearly identifies Christ as the sovereign source and distributor of this measured grace. It highlights His authority and generosity stemming from His victory and ascension (Eph 4:8). The distribution is according to His sovereign will, not human merit or preference.

Ephesians 4 7 Bonus section

The concept of Christ "apportioning" grace directly links to the subsequent verse (Eph 4:8) which quotes Psalm 68:18, connecting Christ's ascension and His triumph over captivity with His subsequent act of "giving gifts to men." This emphasizes that the individual graces believers receive are a direct consequence of Christ's finished work and exalted position. The diversity of gifts (mentioned explicitly in Eph 4:11) is therefore not incidental but purposeful, intended to equip the saints for the work of ministry, leading to the maturity and unity of the Body (Eph 4:12-16). This measured grace underscores God's wisdom in providing precisely what is needed for each believer's role, promoting both individual stewardship and corporate edification without partiality.

Ephesians 4 7 Commentary

Ephesians 4:7 serves as a crucial bridge between the theological unity of the church and its practical outworking through diverse gifts. It asserts that despite our oneness in Christ, each believer receives a unique, measured impartation of divine grace. This isn't merely salvific grace but enabling grace, equipping individuals for specific service within the Body of Christ. The measurement is Christ's sovereign decision, ensuring that every part functions harmoniously and purposefully. This distribution fosters humility (since it's a gift) and interdependence, as no one possesses all the gifts, but each possesses a necessary one. It encourages believers to discern, develop, and deploy their specific grace for the edification of the whole church.

• Practical Usage:
  • Recognize and affirm the unique grace given to you, resisting the urge to covet another's "measure" or to feel inadequate for not possessing certain prominent gifts.
  • Understand that your grace is given for service within the body, not for personal status or private enjoyment.
  • Humbly employ your God-given capacities, trusting Christ's wisdom in His distribution, knowing your part is essential for the Body's health and growth.