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Ephesians 4:7

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

But {G1161} unto every {G1538} one {G1520} of us {G2257} is given {G1325} grace {G5485} according to {G2596} the measure {G3358} of the gift {G1431} of Christ {G5547}.

Each one of us, however, has been given grace to be measured by the Messiah’s bounty.

Now to each one of us grace has been given according to the measure of the gift of Christ.

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

Commentary

Ephesians 4:7 serves as a foundational verse in Paul's discussion of the Church, highlighting both the diversity within the body of Christ and the divine source of that diversity. Following a powerful declaration of the unity of the Spirit and the singular nature of God (Ephesians 4:4-6), this verse transitions to explain how individual believers are uniquely equipped for ministry within that unified body.

Context

The Apostle Paul, writing from prison, dedicates the first three chapters of Ephesians to the theological truths of salvation and God's eternal plan for the Church. Chapter 4 then shifts to practical exhortations, beginning with a call to walk worthy of the Christian calling, emphasizing humility, meekness, longsuffering, and love to maintain the unity of the Spirit. Verse 7 introduces the concept of individual grace and gifting, setting the stage for the subsequent verses (Ephesians 4:8-16) which elaborate on Christ's ascension and the distribution of spiritual gifts for the edification of the Church.

Key Themes

  • Universal Gifting: The phrase "unto every one of us" underscores that no believer is excluded from receiving a measure of grace and gifting from Christ. This counters any idea that spiritual enablement is reserved for a select few.
  • Divine Grace as the Source: The "grace" (Greek: charis) mentioned here is not merely God's unmerited favor for salvation, but also the divine enablement and capacity to serve within the body of Christ. It is a supernatural endowment.
  • Christ's Sovereign Distribution: The grace is given "according to the measure of the gift of Christ." This signifies that Christ Himself, in His wisdom and sovereignty, determines the specific measure and type of spiritual endowment each believer receives. It's not earned or chosen by us, but bestowed by Him. This leads directly into the discussion of various ministry gifts like apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers given for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry.

Linguistic Insights

The term "grace" (Greek: charis) in this context refers to God's benevolent provision and empowering presence, enabling believers to fulfill their unique roles. It's not just a theological concept but a dynamic force at work within individuals. The "gift of Christ" (Greek: dorea or doma in related verses) emphasizes that these abilities are truly presents, freely given by Jesus Himself, particularly after His ascension.

Practical Application

This verse offers profound encouragement and practical guidance for believers today:

  • Embrace Your Uniqueness: Every Christian has been uniquely graced and gifted by Christ. There is no need to compare oneself to others or feel inadequate. Your specific "measure" is divinely appointed.
  • Discover and Utilize Your Gifts: Since grace is given for purpose, believers are called to discern what grace and gifts they have received and to use them for the glory of God and the benefit of the Church. This contributes to the overall health and growth of the body.
  • Humility in Service: Recognizing that all grace and gifts come "from the gift of Christ" fosters humility. Our abilities are not of our own making, but divine endowments for service. This perspective helps prevent pride and self-reliance in ministry.
  • Unity in Diversity: This verse beautifully balances the preceding emphasis on unity with the reality of diverse gifting. It teaches that our individual differences are not divisive but are essential components that contribute to the rich tapestry and effective functioning of the unified body of Christ.
Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash (May 20, 2025) using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Romans 12:3 (20 votes)

    For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think [of himself] more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

  • 1 Peter 4:10 (19 votes)

    As every man hath received the gift, [even so] minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

  • 1 Corinthians 12:7 (13 votes)

    But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.

  • 1 Corinthians 12:11 (13 votes)

    But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.

  • Ephesians 3:2 (10 votes)

    If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward:

  • Romans 12:6 (9 votes)

    Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, [let us prophesy] according to the proportion of faith;

  • Romans 12:8 (9 votes)

    Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, [let him do it] with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.