Ephesians 2:3 Meaning and Explanation
“Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Paul includes himself: all once lived in the desires of the flesh and stood under wrath.
What Does Ephesians 2:3 Mean?
Paul refuses to stand above his readers; he says 'we all' once lived this way. The pull of disordered desire -- 'the desires of the flesh and of the mind' -- belonged to everyone. No one is exempt; the need for grace is universal.
To be 'children of wrath' is to stand justly under God's righteous opposition to sin. Paul states the gravity of the human plight honestly, 'even as others.' But he says it as a man already rescued, looking back. The next verse will turn the whole picture, for this dark 'we were' is about to meet a brighter 'but God.'
Ephesians 2:3 in the Original Language
sarx (σάρξ), 'flesh' -- human nature as weak and inclined toward sin.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ephesians 2:3
What does Ephesians 2:3 mean?
Paul includes himself: all once lived in the desires of the flesh and stood under wrath.