Ephesians 2:21

In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:

In {G1722} whom {G3739} all {G3956} the building {G3619} fitly framed together {G4883} groweth {G837} unto {G1519} an holy {G40} temple {G3485} in {G1722} the Lord {G2962}:

In union with him the whole building is held together, and it is growing into a holy temple in union with the Lord.

In Him the whole building is fitted together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord.

in whom each several building, fitly framed together, groweth into a holy temple in the Lord;

Ephesians 2:21 KJV continues Paul's profound description of the Church as a unified, living structure built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Jesus Christ as the chief cornerstone. This verse emphasizes the dynamic growth and ultimate purpose of this spiritual edifice.

Context

This verse is part of a larger section in Ephesians chapter 2 where Paul explains the magnificent reconciliation of Jews and Gentiles into one new humanity through Christ's sacrifice. Having previously been alienated, both groups are now brought near to God and to each other. Verses 19 and 20 establish believers as "fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God," built upon the "foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone." Verse 21 then builds directly on this imagery, detailing the ongoing construction and spiritual development of this divine dwelling.

Key Themes

  • The Church as a Living Temple: The primary imagery here is that of a spiritual building, not a physical one. This "building" is the collective body of believers, growing into a sacred space where God dwells. It signifies that God's presence is now found not in a stone edifice, but within His people.
  • Unity and Interconnectedness: The phrase "fitly framed together" (Greek: synarmologoumena) implies a precise, harmonious joining of various parts, ensuring stability and strength. It highlights the essential unity among believers, regardless of their background, as they are all integral components of this divine construction. This unity is crucial for the church's health and effectiveness.
  • Ongoing Growth and Development: The word "groweth" (Greek: auxei) signifies a continuous, organic process of spiritual maturation and expansion. The church is not static; it is constantly being built up and perfected by the Holy Spirit, moving towards its ultimate purpose as a holy sanctuary. This growth is both individual (believers maturing) and corporate (the church expanding and deepening its faith).
  • Holiness and Divine Purpose: The goal of this growth is to become "an holy temple in the Lord." This emphasizes the sacred nature of the church and its ultimate purpose: to be a dwelling place for God's Spirit, set apart for His glory and purposes. This holiness is derived from and sustained "in the Lord" Jesus Christ.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "fitly framed together," synarmologoumena (συναρμολογούμενα), is a compound word meaning "to join together harmoniously" or "to be closely fitted." It paints a vivid picture of precision and interdependence, suggesting that each part of the building (each believer) has a specific, essential place and function within the whole. This contrasts with a haphazard collection of parts, emphasizing the divine design and order within the body of Christ.

Related Scriptures

  • The concept of Christ as the foundational "chief corner stone" is further explored in Ephesians 2:20 and reinforced in 1 Peter 2:6.
  • Paul also uses the imagery of believers as God's temple in 1 Corinthians 3:16, stating, "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?"
  • The idea of the church as a unified "body of Christ" with diverse members working together is a central theme in 1 Corinthians 12:27 and Romans 12:5.

Practical Application

Ephesians 2:21 calls believers to recognize their vital role in God's ongoing work. Every Christian is a living stone in this spiritual temple. This implies:

  • Personal Responsibility: Each believer contributes to the overall strength and holiness of the church. Our individual spiritual growth directly impacts the health of the collective body.
  • Embracing Unity: The command to be "fitly framed together" reminds us of the importance of unity and cooperation within the church. Differences should not divide, but rather highlight the complementary nature of our gifts and roles, all working together for God's glory.
  • Living a Holy Life: As parts of a "holy temple," believers are called to live lives that reflect God's holiness, recognizing that the Spirit of God dwells within them and among them.
  • Participating in Growth: The church is meant to "groweth." This encourages active participation in discipleship, outreach, and ministry, contributing to both the numerical and spiritual expansion of God's kingdom.

Ultimately, this verse provides a powerful vision of the Church as a dynamic, divinely orchestrated dwelling place for God, built on Christ, and continually growing in holiness and unity.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 Corinthians 3:16

    ¶ Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and [that] the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?

  • 1 Corinthians 3:17

    If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which [temple] ye are.

  • 1 Corinthians 3:9

    For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, [ye are] God's building.

  • 2 Corinthians 6:16

    And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in [them]; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.

  • Ephesians 4:13

    Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:

  • Ephesians 4:16

    From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.

  • 1 Kings 6:7

    And the house, when it was in building, was built of stone made ready before it was brought thither: so that there was neither hammer nor axe [nor] any tool of iron heard in the house, while it was in building.

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