Ephesians 6:24

KJV

Grace [be] with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen.

KJV (with Strong's)

Grace {G5485} be with {G3326} all {G3956} them that love {G25} our {G2257} Lord {G2962} Jesus {G2424} Christ {G5547} in {G1722} sincerity {G861}. Amen {G281}. To {G4314} the Ephesians {G2180} written {G1125} from {G575} Rome {G4516}, by {G1223} Tychicus {G5190}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Grace be to all who love our Lord Yeshua the Messiah with undying love.

Berean Standard Bible

Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love.

American Standard Version

Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ witha loveincorruptible.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ephesians 6:24 serves as the concluding benediction of Paul's letter, a powerful and concise prayer for God's unmerited favor to rest upon all believers who demonstrate a genuine, uncorrupted, and steadfast love for the Lord Jesus Christ. It encapsulates the core spiritual blessings Paul desires for the Ephesian church, emphasizing the foundational role of divine grace and the essential nature of sincere devotion to Christ as the hallmarks of true faith, bringing the entire epistle to a hopeful and affirming close.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ephesians 6:24 functions as the final, heartfelt blessing and farewell in Paul's Epistle to the Ephesians. It immediately follows a series of practical exhortations concerning Christian conduct, including household relationships ([Ephesians 5:22-6:9](/ephesians/5-22-6-9 "Ephesians 5:22-6-9 - Household Codes")), the call to spiritual warfare and the donning of the armor of God ([Ephesians 6:10-20](/ephesians/6-10-20 "Ephesians 6:10-20 - The Armor of God")), and a personal note about Tychicus, the letter-bearer ([Ephesians 6:21-22](/ephesians/6-21-22 "Ephesians 6:21-22 - Tychicus, the Letter-Bearer")). This concluding benediction, beginning with "Grace" and ending with "Amen," mirrors the opening salutation of the letter, providing a literary inclusio that frames Paul's comprehensive theological instruction and practical application with an emphasis on God's foundational grace. It serves as a final, pastoral embrace, reinforcing the spiritual well-being of the recipients.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Epistle to the Ephesians was likely written by Paul during his first Roman imprisonment, around A.D. 60-62, as indicated by the postscript of this verse and references to his being a "prisoner for Christ Jesus" ([Ephesians 3:1](/ephesians/3-1 "Ephesians 3:1 - Paul, a Prisoner for Christ")). Ephesus was a prominent Roman city in Asia Minor, a bustling center of commerce, culture, and pagan worship, particularly the cult of Artemis. The church in Ephesus was diverse, comprising both Jewish and Gentile believers, and faced challenges related to maintaining unity, resisting pagan influences, and growing in spiritual maturity. Paul's letter addresses these issues, urging believers to live out their new identity in Christ, emphasizing unity in the Spirit ([Ephesians 4:1-6](/ephesians/4-1-6 "Ephesians 4:1-6 - Unity in the Body of Christ")) and spiritual discernment in a hostile world. The closing benediction, therefore, is not merely a polite farewell but a potent spiritual reinforcement for a church navigating complex cultural and spiritual landscapes.

* **Key Themes:** This concluding verse powerfully encapsulates several key themes prevalent throughout the Epistle to the Ephesians. The central concept of **grace** (Greek: *charis*) is foundational, appearing prominently at the letter's beginning as the source of salvation ([Ephesians 2:8](/ephesians/2-8 "Ephesians 2:8 - Salvation by Grace Through Faith")) and continuing as the wellspring of Christian living. The emphasis on **love for Jesus Christ** underscores the personal and relational core of faith, a theme Paul develops through discussions of Christ's headship over the church ([Ephesians 1:22-23](/ephesians/1-22-23 "Ephesians 1:22-23 - Christ, Head of the Church")) and the church's love for Him. The quality of this love, described as "in sincerity" (Greek: *aphtharsia*), points to the theme of **genuine and incorruptible faith**, contrasting with the superficiality and corruption of the surrounding pagan culture. This sincerity is vital for the **spiritual maturity and endurance** that Paul consistently calls for, especially in the face of spiritual warfare ([Ephesians 6:10-12](/ephesians/6-10-12 "Ephesians 6:10-12 - The Spiritual Battle")). Ultimately, the verse serves as a final affirmation of **God's unwavering blessing** upon those who demonstrate authentic devotion to Christ, reinforcing the overarching message of unity, holiness, and steadfastness in the Lord.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Grace (Greek, _cháris'_):** This term (G5485) signifies "graciousness (as gratifying), of manner or act (abstract or concrete; literal, figurative or spiritual; especially the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life; including gratitude)." In this context, it refers to God's unmerited favor and divine enablement, the very foundation of the Christian life, which provides salvation, strength, and spiritual growth. It is the active, benevolent influence of God upon humanity, freely given.
* **love (Greek, _agapáō'_):** This verb (G25) means "to love (in a social or moral sense)." It denotes a volitional, self-sacrificial, and unconditional love, distinct from mere affection or emotional attachment. Here, it describes the profound, active devotion that believers are to have for Jesus Christ, a love that is demonstrated through obedience and commitment.
* **sincerity (Greek, _aphtharsía'_):** This noun (G861) means "incorruptibility; genitive, unending existence; (figuratively) genuineness." While often translated as "sincerity" or "integrity," its core meaning points to something imperishable, not subject to decay or corruption. In this verse, it emphasizes that the love for Christ must be genuine, unadulterated, pure, and enduring, free from hypocrisy or ulterior motives, reflecting a steadfast and unblemished devotion.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Grace [be] with all them":** This opening phrase is a powerful benediction, invoking God's unmerited favor and divine enablement. The "all them" signifies the universal scope of this blessing, extending to every believer within the Christian community, not just a select few. It underscores that grace is the continuous, active presence and power of God in the lives of His people.
* **"that love our Lord Jesus Christ":** This clause defines the recipients of the grace: those who possess a genuine, active love for Jesus Christ. This is not merely intellectual assent but a heartfelt, volitional devotion to Him as their sovereign Master and Savior. It emphasizes the personal relationship with Christ as central to experiencing God's full blessing.
* **"in sincerity":** This crucial phrase qualifies the nature of the love for Christ. The Greek word *aphtharsia* (G861) conveys "incorruptibility" or "genuineness." It means the love must be pure, unadulterated, unfeigned, and not subject to decay or corruption. It implies a love that is true, steadfast, and enduring, free from hypocrisy, self-interest, or ulterior motives, a love that is as imperishable as the spiritual realities it embraces.
* **"Amen.":** This concluding Hebrew transliteration (G281) serves as a solemn affirmation, meaning "so be it" or "truly." It seals the benediction, expressing a fervent wish that the blessing of grace and sincere love for Christ would indeed be realized and confirmed in the lives of the Ephesians and all believers.

#### Literary Devices
Ephesians 6:24 employs several literary devices that enhance its impact as a closing benediction. Foremost is **Benediction**, a formal prayer or blessing invoking divine favor, which is characteristic of Pauline epistles' conclusions. The verse functions as a final, comprehensive blessing, wishing God's grace upon the faithful. There is also a strong element of **Apostolic Authority**, as Paul, the apostle, pronounces this blessing, reinforcing his pastoral care and spiritual authority over the church. The structure of the verse also demonstrates **Emphasis** through qualification: the blessing of "grace" is not indiscriminate but specifically directed towards those whose love for Christ is characterized "in sincerity," highlighting the crucial quality of genuine devotion. Furthermore, the use of **Inclusio** is evident when considering the entire letter; the epistle begins with "Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ" ([Ephesians 1:2](/ephesians/1-2 "Ephesians 1:2 - Salutation")) and concludes with "Grace [be] with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen." This literary device frames the entire theological discourse with the overarching theme of God's grace, underscoring its foundational and enduring presence in the Christian life.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ephesians 6:24, though a brief benediction, is rich with theological significance, synthesizing core Pauline themes. It underscores that God's **grace** is not merely the means of initial salvation but the continuous, sustaining power for Christian living. This divine favor is uniquely experienced by those whose **love for Jesus Christ** is not superficial but profound and **sincere**, reflecting an authentic transformation of the heart. This "incorruptible" love is a testament to the Holy Spirit's work, enabling believers to live out their new identity in Christ, united in Him and empowered to resist the world's corrupting influences. The verse implicitly connects the grace received with the ethical response of genuine devotion, suggesting that true spiritual flourishing is predicated on both God's unmerited gift and humanity's loving, faithful response. It highlights the deeply relational nature of faith, where the Lordship of Christ is acknowledged not just intellectually but with heartfelt, enduring affection, leading to a life characterized by divine favor.

* [1 Corinthians 16:22](/1_corinthians/16-22 "1 Corinthians 16:22 - Anathema to those who do not love the Lord")
* [Romans 1:7](/romans/1-7 "Romans 1:7 - Grace and Peace to all in Rome")
* [Titus 2:11-12](/titus/2-11-12 "Titus 2:11-12 - Grace teaches us to deny ungodliness")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ephesians 6:24 offers a profound challenge and encouragement for believers today. It calls us to examine the very core of our faith: the quality of our love for Jesus Christ. Is our devotion to Him truly "in sincerity," meaning it is genuine, unadulterated, and enduring, or is it marred by hypocrisy, self-interest, or fleeting emotions? This verse reminds us that the grace of God, which saves us, also empowers us to cultivate such a pure and steadfast love. It urges us to live in constant reliance on this grace, recognizing that our ability to love Christ authentically flows from His unmerited favor. In a world often characterized by superficiality and transient commitments, Paul's final words to the Ephesians serve as a timeless reminder that a deep, incorruptible love for our Lord Jesus Christ is the hallmark of true discipleship and the pathway to experiencing God's continued blessing and presence.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How would you describe the "sincerity" of your love for Jesus Christ? What does "incorruptible" love look like in your daily life?**
* **In what ways does God's grace empower you to love Him more genuinely, especially when facing challenges or temptations?**
* **What practical steps can you take to cultivate a more pure and enduring love for the Lord Jesus Christ, free from hypocrisy or ulterior motives?**
* **How does the understanding of "grace" as a continuous, active presence of God influence your spiritual walk and your relationship with Christ?**

### FAQ

**What does "in sincerity" truly mean in this context?**

Answer: The phrase "in sincerity" translates the Greek word *aphtharsia* (G861), which literally means "incorruptibility," "immortality," or "imperishableness." In this context, it refers to the quality of love for Jesus Christ. It signifies a love that is genuine, pure, unadulterated, and not subject to decay or corruption. It means loving Christ with a true heart, free from hypocrisy, ulterior motives, or any form of spiritual compromise. This love is steadfast and enduring, reflecting the imperishable nature of the spiritual inheritance believers receive, as described in [1 Peter 1:4](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - An Incorruptible Inheritance").

**Why does Paul end his letter with a blessing of "grace"?**

Answer: Paul frequently begins and ends his epistles with a benediction of "grace," underscoring its paramount importance in the Christian life. Starting with grace ([Ephesians 1:2](/ephesians/1-2 "Ephesians 1:2 - Paul's Opening Salutation")) establishes it as the foundation of salvation and the Christian walk. Ending with grace ([Ephesians 6:24](/ephesians/6-24 "Ephesians 6:24 - Paul's Concluding Benediction")) reinforces that God's unmerited favor is not just for conversion but is the ongoing, sustaining power for believers to live faithfully, love genuinely, and persevere in their spiritual journey. It's a reminder that all spiritual blessings and the ability to live a godly life flow from God's continuous, gracious provision.

**Is this verse only for the original recipients in Ephesus, or does it apply to all believers?**

Answer: While addressed to the church in Ephesus, the principles within this verse are universal and apply to all believers across all generations. The desire for God's "grace" to be with "all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity" is a timeless spiritual truth. The qualities of genuine love for Christ and reliance on God's grace are fundamental to the Christian faith, making this benediction relevant and applicable to every individual who names Jesus as Lord. Paul's letters, though initially sent to specific churches, contain inspired teaching intended for the broader body of Christ, as seen in passages like [2 Timothy 3:16](/2_timothy/3-16 "2 Timothy 3:16 - All Scripture is God-breathed").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ephesians 6:24, though a concluding benediction, profoundly points to Christ as the ultimate source and object of all that it blesses. "Grace" itself is personified and embodied in Jesus Christ, for it is through His sacrificial death that God's unmerited favor is poured out upon humanity ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Love")). He is the "Lord Jesus Christ" whom believers are called to love, and this love is not merely an emotional response but a profound devotion to the One who "loved us and gave himself up for us" ([Ephesians 5:2](/ephesians/5-2 "Ephesians 5:2 - Christ's Sacrificial Love")). The "sincerity" or "incorruptibility" of this love is made possible by Christ's transformative work and the indwelling Holy Spirit, who enables believers to walk in newness of life, free from the corruption of sin ([Romans 8:9-11](/romans/8-9-11 "Romans 8:9-11 - Life in the Spirit")). Thus, this verse is not just a wish for spiritual qualities but a recognition that these qualities are cultivated and sustained by a living, active relationship with the resurrected Christ, who is the very essence of grace and the worthy recipient of all genuine, enduring love ([Philippians 3:7-8](/philippians/3-7-8 "Philippians 3:7-8 - Paul's Pursuit of Christ")). He is the foundation, the sustainer, and the ultimate goal of the sincere love that marks true discipleship.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Matthew 22:37

Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.

2 Corinthians 8:12

For if there be first a willing mind, [it is] accepted according to that a man hath, [and] not according to that he hath not.

Matthew 6:13

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.

1 Corinthians 16:22

If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha.

1 Corinthians 16:23

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [be] with you.

Titus 2:7

In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine [shewing] uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,

Titus 3:15

All that are with me salute thee. Greet them that love us in the faith. Grace [be] with you all. Amen.