Ephesians 4:9 Meaning and Explanation
“(Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth?”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Paul notes that Christ's ascending implies that He first descended to the lower parts.
What Does Ephesians 4:9 Mean?
Paul pauses to reflect on the word 'ascended.' If Christ went up, He must first have come down -- 'he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth.' The One now exalted is the same One who stooped low before rising high.
This descent points to the depth of Christ's humility. Before the throne came the stooping; before the glory came the lowliness. The Lord who fills all things did not begin at the height but reached down to the depths first. His ascent is glorious precisely because His descent was so deep.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ephesians 4:9
What does Ephesians 4:9 mean?
Paul notes that Christ's ascending implies that He first descended to the lower parts.