Bible Strands
Ephesians 5:17
Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — Paul addresses the Ephesian believers, placing the directive to grasp divine direction between the command to redeem time (v. 16) and the instruction to be filled with the Spirit (v. 18).
The words — The phrase μὴ γίνεσθε ἄφρονες (mē ginesthe aphrones) literally commands "do not be foolish," while συνιέτε τὶ (suniete ti) means "do understand what."
The thread — The text links this directive to Romans 12:2, 1 Thessalonians 5:18, and Colossians 1:9.
Why it lands — The passage requires readers to actively discern God's specific will rather than act recklessly or passively.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.
Cross-references
- Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:18 Give thanks in every circumstance, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
- Colossians 1:9 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding,
- Ephesians 5:15 Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk, not as unwise but as wise,
- Jeremiah 4:22 “For My people are fools; they have not known Me. They are foolish children, without understanding. They are skilled in doing evil, but they know not how to do good.”
- 1 Peter 4:2 Consequently, he does not live out his remaining time on earth for human passions, but for the will of God.
- 1 Thessalonians 4:1 Finally, brothers, we ask and encourage you in the Lord Jesus to live in a way that is pleasing to God, just as you have received from us. This is how you already live, so you should do so all the more.
- Colossians 4:5 Act wisely toward outsiders, redeeming the time.
- John 7:17 If anyone desires to do His will, he will know whether My teaching is from God or whether I speak on My own.
- Psalms 111:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His precepts gain rich understanding. His praise endures forever!