But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,
What does Ephesians 2:4 mean?
Sin is the death of the soul. A man dead in trespasses and sins has no desire for spiritual pleasures.
Key themes
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Keep this verse inside Ephesians 2:1-5 and alongside a few nearby related passages.
Commentary on Ephesians 2:4
But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, But God, who is rich in mercy - On the use of the word "rich" by Paul, see the notes at Ephesians 1:7 . It is a beautiful expression. "God is 'rich' in mercy;" overflowing, abundant. Mercy is the riches or the wealth of God. People are often rich in gold, and silver, and diamonds, and they pride themselves in these possessions; but God is "rich in mercy." In that he abounds and he is so rich in it that he is wilting to impart it to others; so rich that he can make all blessed.
Context in Ephesians 2
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Ephesians 2 belongs to the early movement of the book, especially the section often described as blessing and new identity in Christ. Ephesians presents the church as Christ’s body and temple, chosen in grace, united across dividing walls, and called to mature holy life. Read this chapter with the wider themes of union with Christ, church, and grace in view so the individual verses keep their proper weight.
Related topics
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A guided collection of passages on God’s love, neighbor-love, steadfast covenant love, and the shape of love in Christian life.
Bible verses about justice and mercy
Key texts on public righteousness, neighbor-love, social ethics, compassion, and the prophetic refusal to separate worship from justice.
Key passages on God's unmerited favour, the grace of Christ, salvation by grace through faith, and how grace transforms the way believers live.