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Ephesians 6:12 Wrestling with words
by RS  admin@creationpie.com : 1024 x 640
1. Ephesians 6:12 Wrestling with words
Under development and update.
2. Ephesians 6:12
   Ephesians 6:12 
 All 
KJV: For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
Greek: οτι ουκ εστιν ημιν η παλη προς αιμα και σαρκα αλλα προς τας αρχας προς τας εξουσιας προς τους κοσμοκρατορας του σκοτουςτου αιωνος τουτου προς τα πνευματικα της πονηριας εν τοις επουρανιοις
Luther: Denn wir haben nicht mit Fleisch und Blut zu kämpfen, sondern mit Fürsten und Gewaltigen, nämlich mit den Herren der Welt, die in der Finsternis dieser Welt herrschen, mit den bösen Geistern unter dem Himmel.
3. Ephesians 6: Defending the full armor of God
Verse routeEphesians 6:11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. [kjv]
Verse routeενδυσασθε την πανοπλιαν του θεου προς το δυνασθαι υμας στηναι προς τας μεθοδειας του διαβολου [gnt]

Sword vertical
Paul concludes his letter to the Ephesians in chapter 6 by talking about "clothing" oneself with the full "armor" of God. One should "stand" up for Jesus against the "wiles" or "methods" as in "following after the path" of the "devil" or "accuser".
All the armaments mentioned are defensive and require teamwork and not individual combat. The exception is the sword (of truth, of the spirit, etc.) which can be both an offensive and a defensive weapon.

This conclusion has many military allusions but, as a conclusion, each refers to things already said in the letter and not completely new ideas.

Information sign More: Ephesians 6: Defending the full armor of God
4. Ephesians 6:11 Methods of the devil
Verse routeEphesians 6:11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. [kjv]
Verse routeενδυσασθε την πανοπλιαν του θεου προς το δυνασθαι υμας στηναι προς τας μεθοδειας του διαβολου [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "μέθοδος" ≈ "following after, pursuit".

The "wiles of the devil" might be thought of as the "methods of the devil" as in a trap to deceive those. In both cases in Ephesians, the word for "method" is not used in a positive light. Deception has been an important part of military operations since time began.

This analogy would be familiar to any soldier of the time as deception was common in military operations. Alexander the Great made great use of deception since he usually had a much smaller force than his opponents. The Romans were deceived at a devastating ambush at Teuteburg Forest about 9 A.D.

Information sign More: Streets: Flowing after a path into a plaza
Information sign More: Ephesians 6: Defending the full armor of God
5. Genesis 32: Wresting with the dark powers of the night
Verse routeGenesis 32:24 And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the breaking of the day. [kjv]
Verse routeυπελειφθη δε ιακωβ μονος και επαλαιεν ανθρωπος μετ αυτου εως πρωι [lxx]

In Genesis 32, Jacob "wrestles" all night with someone who declines identification but instead "blesses" Jacob. Looking ahead, Jacob does not appear to be "blessed" in any way. Joseph is sold into slavery and rises to secular power in Egypt which eventually brings in Jacob and family who, in a few years, end up in slavery. It takes Moses and a lot of work to get that family out of (worldly) Egypt and into the "promised land".

The only use of the Greek word for "wrestle" in the GNT (Greek New Testament) is in Ephesians and refers to the dark powers that control this earthly world.

The only time that Jesus figuratively "wrestles" with the powers of darkness in the dark is in the garden before being arrested, tried, and crucified by those dark powers. Who might this unnamed individual be with whom Jacob wrestled?

Information sign More: Genesis 32: Wresting with the dark powers of the night
6. Ephesians 6:12 Wrestling with words
Verse routeEphesians 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. [kjv]

The noun "the wrestle" here, the only time in the GNT, indicates that the combat or attack will be at very close range but the word can be interpreted as a mental exercise rather than a physical exercise (or both). The ancient Greek word "πάλη" ≈ "wrestling, fight" is from the ancient Greek word "πάλλω" ≈ "poise or sway a missile" as in before it is thrown or to brandish a weapon. What are the dangers that go beyond "flesh" and "blood"? What patterns are being used by Paul for the targets of that "wrestle"?

One "challenge" here is to "wrestle" with the words as written by Paul and not as translated into English.
7. Matthew 10:28 Soul and body
Verse routeMatthew 10:28 And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. [kjv]
Verse routeκαι μη φοβεισθε απο των αποκτεινοντων το σωμα την δε ψυχην μη δυναμενων αποκτειναι φοβεισθε δε μαλλον τον δυναμενον και ψυχην και σωμα απολεσαι εν γεεννη [gnt]

Jesus tells us who we should "fear" and it is not "fear" about the cares and concerns of this world. The most dangerous attacks are not from the outside but from the inside and involve deception.

One cannot "destroy the soul" by "killing" the body is in persecution (e.g., by the Roman administrations). The primary way to "destroy" the "soul" is through deception so that you "sell yourself out" or are "sold out".

Jesus provides an example in the next verse.

Information sign More: Matthew 10:26-27 The fear deception: focus on friends rather than Jesus
8. Matthew 10:29-31 Soul and body
Verse routeMatthew 10:29 Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. [kjv]
Verse routeουχι δυο στρουθια ασσαριου πωλειται και εν εξ αυτων ου πεσειται επι την γην ανευ του πατρος υμων [gnt]
Verse route10:30 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. [kjv]
Verse routeυμων δε και αι τριχες της κεφαλης πασαι ηριθμημεναι εισιν [gnt]
Verse route10:31 Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows. [kjv]
Verse routeμη ουν φοβεισθε πολλων στρουθιων διαφερετε υμεις [gnt]

Discuss:
9. Ephesians 6:12 Geneva Bible
Verse routeEphesians 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. [kjv]
Verse routeοτι ουκ εστιν ημιν η παλη προς αιμα και σαρκα αλλα προς τας αρχας προς τας εξουσιας προς τους κοσμοκρατορας του σκοτους τουτου προς τα πνευματικα της πονηριας εν τοις επουρανιοις [gnt]

If what Paul says follows from what Jesus says, then the following should have to do with deception and not direct opposition. In general, religious institutions that might be using deception would tend to not translate words or ideas correctly that have to do with deception.
10. Ephesians 6:12 Geneva Bible
Verse routeEphesians 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. [kjv]
Verse routeοτι ουκ εστιν ημιν η παλη προς αιμα και σαρκα αλλα προς τας αρχας προς τας εξουσιας προς τους κοσμοκρατορας του σκοτους τουτου προς τα πνευματικα της πονηριας εν τοις επουρανιοις [gnt]

For comparison, the Geneva Bible (1857) says the following:

Ephesians 6:12: For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, and against the worldly gouernours, the princes of the darkenesse of this worlde, against spirituall wickednesses, which are in ye hie places. Geneva Bible of 1857
11. Ephesians 6:12 Wrestling towards an understanding
Verse routeEphesians 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. [kjv]
Verse routeοτι ουκ εστιν ημιν η παλη προς αιμα και σαρκα αλλα προς τας αρχας προς τας εξουσιας προς τους κοσμοκρατορας του σκοτους τουτου προς τα πνευματικα της πονηριας εν τοις επουρανιοις [gnt]

A key to understanding this verse is the ancient Greek word "πρός" ≈ "to, towards" Paul uses this word five times in this verse. In the accusative, one is taking something "to" or "towards" something (else) which can be, in context, in the sense of "against". Paul appears to be saying that instead of just scoring points to hopefully win the game, we need to thoroughly understand the competition. This is line with military commanders, throughout history, studying the opposing generals in order to get an edge. One way sports teams do this is to study film.
12. Strongs - wrestle
13. Strongs - wrestle
*G3823 *1 πάλη (pal'-ay) : from pallo (to vibrate; another form for G906); wrestling:--+ wrestle.
Word usage per chapter Words: παλη=1

The ancient Greek word "πάλη" ≈ "wrestling, fight" is from the ancient Greek word "πάλλω" ≈ "poise or sway a missile" as in before it is thrown or to brandish a weapon. The noun form appears to be needed to make certain play on word meanings work. The verb form would not have the same effect.
14. Ephesians 6:12 Wrestling sports analogies
Verse routeEphesians 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. [kjv]
Verse routeοτι ουκ εστιν ημιν η παλη προς αιμα και σαρκα αλλα προς τας αρχας προς τας εξουσιας προς τους κοσμοκρατορας του σκοτους τουτου προς τα πνευματικα της πονηριας εν τοις επουρανιοις [gnt]

Professional wrestling types of organizations. Discuss: What aspects of your church, if any, might be considered an "entertainment" venture (e.g., fill the pews, etc.) for "profit"? At least, to fund the nests for any birds who reside in that tree. Note: This may or may not apply to your church.
15. An old play on words again
The ancient Greek word "πάλη" ≈ "wrestling, fight" .

Verse routeMatthew 4:7 Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. [kjv]
Verse routeεφη αυτω ο ιησους παλιν γεγραπται ουκ εκπειρασεις κυριον τον θεον σου [gnt]

A potential play on words is with the ancient Greek word "πάλιν" ≈ "again, once more" and can mean "back in time" and is related to the ancient Greek word "παλιά" ≈ "old". The modern Greek word "πάλιν" (PA-leen) ≈ "again".

The play on words would relate to something happening "again" or from "ancient times". This is the theme of the start of Romans. Paul uses the word for "old" earlier in Ephesians.

Verse routeEphesians 4:22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; [kjv]
Verse routeαποθεσθαι υμας κατα την προτεραν αναστροφην τον παλαιον ανθρωπον τον φθειρομενον κατα τας επιθυμιας της απατης [gnt]



Information sign More: 2 Peter 2:1-22 Déjà vu all over again
Information sign More: Matthew 4:1-11 Examining evil temptations
Information sign More: A recent new beginning
16. Matthew 4:7
   Matthew 4:7 
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KJV: Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.
Greek: εφη αυτω ο ιησους παλιν γεγραπται ουκ εκπειρασεις κυριον τον θεον σου
17. Ephesians 4:22
   Ephesians 4:22 
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KJV: That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;
Greek: αποθεσθαι υμας κατα την προτεραν αναστροφην τον παλαιον ανθρωπον τον φθειρομενον κατα τας επιθυμιας της απατης
18. Ephesians 6:12 Base case
Verse routeEphesians 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. [kjv]
Verse routeοτι ουκ εστιν ημιν η παλη προς αιμα και σαρκα αλλα προς τας αρχας προς τας εξουσιας προς τους κοσμοκρατορας του σκοτους τουτου προς τα πνευματικα της πονηριας εν τοις επουρανιοις [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "ἀρχή" ≈ "beginning, origin, sovereignty, authority" and could be the end of a rope, stick, etc., or the corner of a sheet.
19. Strongs - rulers
20. Usage - rulers
*G746 *54 ἀρχή (ar-khay') : from G756; (properly abstract) a commencement, or (concretely) chief (in various applications of order, time, place, or rank):--beginning, corner, (at the, the) first (estate), magistrate, power, principality, principle, rule.
Word usage per chapter Words: αρχαι=2 αρχαις=4 αρχας=4 αρχη=12 αρχην=6 αρχης=26

The ancient Greek word "ἀρχή" ≈ "beginning, origin, sovereignty, authority" and could be the end of a rope, stick, etc., or the corner of a sheet.
21. Genesis 1:16
Verse routeGenesis 1:16 And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also. [kjv]
Verse routeκαι εποιησεν ο θεος τους δυο φωστηρας τους μεγαλους τον φωστηρα τον μεγαν εις αρχας της ημερας και τον φωστηρα τον ελασσω εις αρχας της νυκτος και τους αστερας [lxx]

22. Genesis 1:16
   Genesis 1:16 
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KJV: And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also.
Hebrew: ויעש אלהים את שני המארת הגדלים את המאור הגדל לממשלת היום ואת המאור הקטן לממשלת הלילה ואת הכוכבים׃
Greek: και εποιησεν ο θεος τους δυο φωστηρας τους μεγαλους τον φωστηρα τον μεγαν εις αρχας της ημερας και τον φωστηρα τον ελασσω εις αρχας της νυκτος και τους αστερας
23. Genesis 2:10
Verse routeGenesis 2:10 And a river went out of Eden to water the garden; and from thence it was parted, and became into four heads. [kjv]
Verse routeποταμος δε εκπορευεται εξ εδεμ ποτιζειν τον παραδεισον εκειθεν αφοριζεται εις τεσσαρας αρχας [lxx]

The ancient Greek word "ἀρχή" ≈ "beginning, origin, sovereignty, authority" and could be the end of a rope, stick, etc., or the corner of a sheet.

The ancient Greek word "παράδεισος" ≈ "paradise, enclosed park". The word "paradise" is a Persian word brought into Greek as "peri" (around) the "dise" (enclosed) - or a "garden".

Information sign More: Paradise as a garden
24. Genesis 2:10
   Genesis 2:10 
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KJV: And a river went out of Eden to water the garden; and from thence it was parted, and became into four heads.
Hebrew: ונהר יצא מעדן להשקות את הגן ומשם יפרד והיה לארבעה ראשים׃
Greek: ποταμος δε εκπορευεται εξ εδεμ ποτιζειν τον παραδεισον εκειθεν αφοριζεται εις τεσσαρας αρχας
25. Exodus 39:16
Verse routeExodus 39:16 And they made two ouches of gold, and two gold rings; and put the two rings in the two ends of the breastplate. [kjv]
Verse routeκαι εποιησαν δυο ασπιδισκας χρυσας και δυο δακτυλιους χρυσους και επεθηκαν τους δυο δακτυλιους τους χρυσους επ αμφοτερας τας αρχας του λογειου [lxx]

The ancient Greek word "ἀρχή" ≈ "beginning, origin, sovereignty, authority" and could be the end of a rope, stick, etc., or the corner of a sheet.

The ancient Greek word "χρυσός" ≈ "gold".

Information sign More: A golden cross down to the tee
26. Exodus 39:16
   Exodus 39:16 
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KJV: And they made two ouches of gold, and two gold rings; and put the two rings in the two ends of the breastplate.
Hebrew: ויעשו שתי משבצת זהב ושתי טבעת זהב ויתנו את שתי הטבעת על שני קצות החשן׃
Greek: και εποιησαν δυο ασπιδισκας χρυσας και δυο δακτυλιους χρυσους και επεθηκαν τους δυο δακτυλιους τους χρυσους επ αμφοτερας τας αρχας του λογειου
27. Four corners
Verse routeActs 10:11 And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending unto him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth: [kjv]
Verse routeκαι θεωρει τον ουρανον ανεωγμενον και καταβαινον σκευος τι ως οθονην μεγαλην τεσσαρσιν αρχαις καθιεμενον επι της γης [gnt]
Verse route11:5 I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came even to me: [kjv]
Verse routeεγω ημην εν πολει ιοππη προσευχομενος και ειδον εν εκστασει οραμα καταβαινον σκευος τι ως οθονην μεγαλην τεσσαρσιν αρχαις καθιεμενην εκ του ουρανου και ηλθεν αχρι εμου [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "ἀρχή" ≈ "beginning, origin, sovereignty, authority" and could be the end of a rope, stick, etc., or the corner of a sheet.

The ancient Greek word "ως" ≈ "as". This indicates that this is a comparison or analogy and not an actual reality.
28. Acts 10:11
   Acts 10:11 
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KJV: And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending unto him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth:
Greek: και θεωρει τον ουρανον ανεωγμενον και καταβαινον επ αυτον σκευος τι ως οθονην μεγαλην τεσσαρσιν αρχαις δεδεμενον και καθιεμενον επι της γης
29. Acts 11:5
   Acts 11:5 
 All 
KJV: I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came even to me:
Greek: εγω ημην εν πολει ιοππη προσευχομενος και ειδον εν εκστασει οραμα καταβαινον σκευος τι ως οθονην μεγαλην τεσσαρσιν αρχαις καθιεμενην εκ του ουρανου και ηλθεν αχρις αχρι εμου
30. Hebrews 1:10
Verse routeHebrews 1:10 And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands: [kjv]
Verse routeκαι συ κατ αρχας κυριε την γην εθεμελιωσας και εργα των χειρων σου εισιν οι ουρανοι [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "ἀρχή" ≈ "beginning, origin, sovereignty, authority" and could be the end of a rope, stick, etc., or the corner of a sheet.
31. Hebrews 1:10
   Hebrews 1:10 
 All 
KJV: And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands:
Greek: και συ κατ αρχας κυριε την γην εθεμελιωσας και εργα των χειρων σου εισιν οι ουρανοι
32. Revelation 12:9
Verse routeRevelation 12:9 And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. [kjv]
Verse routeκαι εβληθη ο δρακων ο μεγας ο οφις ο αρχαιος ο καλουμενος διαβολος και ο σατανας ο πλανων την οικουμενην ολην εβληθη εις την γην και οι αγγελοι αυτου μετ αυτου εβληθησαν [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "ἀρχή" ≈ "beginning, origin, sovereignty, authority" and could be the end of a rope, stick, etc., or the corner of a sheet.

The word for "cast out" is the same word used to describe the situation where an "eye" that deceives or entraps, if not "plucked" out, would result in the entire body being "cast out" into "hell".

Information sign More: Matthew 5:29-30 : The ayes came in handy, if not plucked out
33. Revelation 12:9
   Revelation 12:9 
 All 
KJV: And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.
Greek: και εβληθη ο δρακων ο μεγας ο οφις ο αρχαιος ο καλουμενος διαβολος και ο σατανας ο πλανων την οικουμενην ολην εβληθη εις την γην και οι αγγελοι αυτου μετ αυτου εβληθησαν
34. Ephesians 6:12 Step case
Verse routeEphesians 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. [kjv]
Verse routeοτι ουκ εστιν ημιν η παλη προς αιμα και σαρκα αλλα προς τας αρχας προς τας εξουσιας προς τους κοσμοκρατορας του σκοτους τουτου προς τα πνευματικα της πονηριας εν τοις επουρανιοις [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "ἐξουσία" ≈ "possibility, opportunity, lack of restraint (lifestyle)". In context, it can mean "power", "means", "authority", etc. This is the meaning often used in the GNT but the most common definitions provide interesting meanings.

Future topic Details are left as a future topic.

35. Strongs - power
36. Usage - power
*G1849 *102 ἐξουσία (ex-oo-see'-ah) : from G1832 (in the sense of ability); privilege, i.e. (subjectively) force, capacity, competency, freedom, or (objectively) mastery (concretely, magistrate, superhuman, potentate, token of control), delegated influence:--authority, jurisdiction, liberty, power, right, strength.
Word usage per chapter Words: εξουσια=29 εξουσιαι εξουσιαις=3 εξουσιαν=56 εξουσιας=12 εξουσιων

37. Prodigal son
The Greek word for "substance" or "ousia" is used only twice in the GNT - in successive verses in Luke.

Verse routeLuke 15:12 And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living. [kjv]
Verse routeκαι ειπεν ο νεωτερος αυτων τω πατρι πατερ δος μοι το επιβαλλον μερος της ουσιας ο δε διειλεν αυτοις τον βιον [gnt]
Verse route15:13 And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living. [kjv]
Verse routeκαι μετ ου πολλας ημερας συναγαγων παντα ο νεωτερος υιος απεδημησεν εις χωραν μακραν και εκει διεσκορπισεν την ουσιαν αυτου ζων ασωτως [gnt]



Information sign More: Philippians 2:12-13 working things out
38. Substance
Verse routePhilippians 2:12 … not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, … [kjv]
Verse routeωστε αγαπητοι μου καθως παντοτε υπηκουσατε μη ως εν τη παρουσια μου μονον αλλα νυν πολλω μαλλον εν τη απουσια μου μετα φοβου και τρομου την εαυτων σωτηριαν κατεργαζεσθε [gnt]
Verse route… oboedistis … praesentia … absentia … operamini [v]

The words for "presence" and "absence" have as a root word a word Aristotle used often as a "substance" of reality. It appears that Paul wanted to use "ousia" twice in this verse, right after the poem that appears to allude to Aristotle's four causes and before using Aristotle's term for "actualization" twice.
39. Ephesians 6:12 Step case
Verse routeEphesians 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. [kjv]
Verse routeοτι ουκ εστιν ημιν η παλη προς αιμα και σαρκα αλλα προς τας αρχας προς τας εξουσιας προς τους κοσμοκρατορας του σκοτους τουτου προς τα πνευματικα της πονηριας εν τοις επουρανιοις [gnt]

Paul appears to be making a play on words with "out of " and "substance" or "ousia" as in "out of your substance". These two general ideas (base and step) are somewhat abstract and inductive as in "bottom-up".
40. Luke 12:11
Verse routeLuke 12:11 And when they bring you unto the synagogues, and unto magistrates, and powers, take ye no thought how or what thing ye shall answer, or what ye shall say: [kjv]
Verse routeοταν δε εισφερωσιν υμας επι τας συναγωγας και τας αρχας και τας εξουσιας μη μεριμνησητε πως η τι απολογησησθε η τι ειπητε [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "ἀρχή" ≈ "beginning, origin, sovereignty, authority" and could be the end of a rope, stick, etc., or the corner of a sheet.

The ancient Greek word "ἐξουσία" ≈ "possibility, opportunity, lack of restraint (lifestyle)". In context, it can mean "power", "means", "authority", etc.

Note: Some pastors may use this as an excuse not to prepare a sermon. This is part of the story of the origin of Jingle Bells.

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41. Luke 12:11
   Luke 12:11 
 All 
KJV: And when they bring you unto the synagogues, and unto magistrates, and powers, take ye no thought how or what thing ye shall answer, or what ye shall say:
Greek: οταν δε προσφερωσιν εισφερωσιν υμας επι τας συναγωγας και τας αρχας και τας εξουσιας μη μεριμνατε μεριμνησητε πως η τι απολογησησθε η τι ειπητε
42. Colossians 2:15 Principalities and powers
Verse routeColossians 2:15 And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. [kjv]
Verse routeαπεκδυσαμενος τας αρχας και τας εξουσιας εδειγματισεν εν παρρησια θριαμβευσας αυτους εν αυτω [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "ἀρχή" ≈ "beginning, origin, sovereignty, authority" and could be the end of a rope, stick, etc., or the corner of a sheet.

The ancient Greek word "ἐξουσία" ≈ "possibility, opportunity, lack of restraint (lifestyle)". In context, it can mean "power", "means", "authority", etc.

Information sign More: Colossians 1
43. Colossians 1:16
Verse routeColossians 1:16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: [kjv]
Verse routeοτι εν αυτω εκτισθη τα παντα εν τοις ουρανοις και επι της γης τα ορατα και τα αορατα ειτε θρονοι ειτε κυριοτητες ειτε αρχαι ειτε εξουσιαι τα παντα δι αυτου και εις αυτον εκτισται [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "ἀρχή" ≈ "beginning, origin, sovereignty, authority" and could be the end of a rope, stick, etc., or the corner of a sheet.

The ancient Greek word "ἐξουσία" ≈ "possibility, opportunity, lack of restraint (lifestyle)". In context, it can mean "power", "means", "authority", etc.

Information sign More: Colossians 1
44. Titus 3:1
Verse routeTitus 3:1 Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work, [kjv]
Verse routeυπομιμνησκε αυτους αρχαις εξουσιαις υποτασσεσθαι πειθαρχειν προς παν εργον αγαθον ετοιμους ειναι [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "ἀρχή" ≈ "beginning, origin, sovereignty, authority" and could be the end of a rope, stick, etc., or the corner of a sheet.

The ancient Greek word "ἐξουσία" ≈ "possibility, opportunity, lack of restraint (lifestyle)". In context, it can mean "power", "means", "authority", etc.
45. Titus 3:1
   Titus 3:1 
 All 
KJV: Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,
Greek: υπομιμνησκε αυτους αρχαις και εξουσιαις υποτασσεσθαι πειθαρχειν προς παν εργον αγαθον ετοιμους ειναι
46. Daniel 7:27
Verse routeDaniel 7:27 And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him. [kjv]
Verse routeκαι η βασιλεια και η εξουσια και η μεγαλωσυνη των βασιλεων των υποκατω παντος του ουρανου εδοθη αγιοις υψιστου και η βασιλεια αυτου βασιλεια αιωνιος και πασαι αι αρχαι αυτω δουλευσουσιν και υπακουσονται [lxx]
Verse routeAnd the kingdom and the power and the greatness of the kings that are under the whole heaven were given to the saints of the Most High; and his kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all powers shall serve and obey him. [bs3]

The ancient Greek word "ἀρχή" ≈ "beginning, origin, sovereignty, authority" and could be the end of a rope, stick, etc., or the corner of a sheet.

The ancient Greek word "ἐξουσία" ≈ "possibility, opportunity, lack of restraint (lifestyle)". In context, it can mean "power", "means", "authority", etc.
47. Daniel 7:27
   Daniel 7:27 
 All 
KJV: And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him.
Hebrew: ומלכותה ושלטנא ורבותא די מלכות תחות כל שמיא יהיבת לעם קדישי עליונין מלכותה מלכות עלם וכל שלטניא לה יפלחון וישתמעון׃
Greek: και η βασιλεια και η εξουσια και η μεγαλωσυνη των βασιλεων των υποκατω παντος του ουρανου εδοθη αγιοις υψιστου και η βασιλεια αυτου βασιλεια αιωνιος και πασαι αι αρχαι αυτω δουλευσουσιν και υπακουσονται
Brenton: And the kingdom and the power and the greatness of the kings that are under the whole heaven were given to the saints of the Most High; and his kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all powers shall serve and obey him.
48. Clothed in strength
Verse routeEphesians 6:10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. [kjv]
Verse route του λοιπου ενδυναμουσθε εν κυριω και εν τω κρατει της ισχυος αυτου [gnt]
Verse route… confortamini … potentia virtutis … [v]

The Greek word for "strong" here is that of being "clothed" or "endowed" or "empowered" with something, as in the "power of his might".

The ancient Greek word "ἐνδύνω" ≈ "get into, put on (clothes)" and comes from two Greek words.
49. Power of might
Verse routeEphesians 6:10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. [kjv]
Verse route του λοιπου ενδυναμουσθε εν κυριω και εν τω κρατει της ισχυος αυτου [gnt]
Verse route… confortamini … potentia virtutis … [v]

The ancient Greek word "κράτος" ≈ "might, strength" and is the source of the English word "democracy". The Latin uses the Latin word "potentia" ≈ "power" and is the source of the English word "potential".

The ancient Greek word"ἰσχυρός" ≈ "strong, mighty". This word is used to describe the "strong man" of the world (Satan) and the "healthy" using this Greek word for "strong" who do not "want" a "healer" or "doctor".

Information sign More: Democracy etymology
Information sign More: Matthew 12:26-29 Snatching the raptured goods from the strong man
Information sign More: Matthew 9:8-13 The healthy make a strong case for evil sick time
Information sign More: Ephesians 6: Defending the full armor of God
50. Strongs - cosmic powers
The ancient Greek word "κρατύς" ≈ "strong".
51. Usage - cosmic powers
*G2888 *1 κοσμοκράτωρ (kos-mok-fat'-ore) : from G2889 and G2902; a world-ruler, an epithet of Satan:--ruler.
Word usage per chapter Words: κοσμοκρατορας=1

The "rulers of darkness of this world" is, in the Greek, literally, the "power" of the "cosmos" (people) of "darkness". The "darkness" of "false light" looks, in a physical sense, just like "true light". That the "darkness" does not understand means that the "darkness" is an intelligent entity.

In a sense, the Greek word made up by Paul and whose parts are "people (adornments of the world) power", is semantically the same as "democracy" or "power of the people".

Discuss: Why might this word be attributed to some esoteric Satanic power when the manifestation comes much closer to home?

Information sign More: The adornment of people in the cosmos
52. Rulers of darkness
Verse routeEphesians 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. [kjv]
Verse routeοτι ουκ εστιν ημιν η παλη προς αιμα και σαρκα αλλα προς τας αρχας προς τας εξουσιας προς τους κοσμοκρατορας του σκοτους τουτου προς τα πνευματικα της πονηριας εν τοις επουρανιοις [gnt]

In a sense, the Greek word made up by Paul and whose parts are "people (adornments of the world) power", is semantically the same as "democracy" or "power of the people".

This word is similar in composition of sub-words to the "Nicolaitans" in Revelation which means, literally, "victory of the people" and is similar to the "Nicholas" in "Saint Nicholas" or "Santa Claus".

When Jesus is tempted, Satan offers him the kingdoms of this earthly world. Jesus does not contest that claim. Satan is the ruler, or strong man, of this world.

Information sign More: The doctrine of Santa Claus
Information sign More: Matthew 12:26-29 Snatching the raptured goods from the strong man
53. Deep state
This "people power" is sometimes explicit control but often it is implicit as in the "deep state" where each person does what is "right in their eyes" and does what will be to their benefit and not the good of the people in general. This can be better understood using the "prisoner's dilemma" problem in "game theory".

Future topic Details are left as a future topic.



Information sign More: The deep state is everywhere
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54. Analogies
Verse routeEphesians 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. [kjv]
Verse routeοτι ουκ εστιν ημιν η παλη προς αιμα και σαρκα αλλα προς τας αρχας προς τας εξουσιας προς τους κοσμοκρατορας του σκοτους τουτου προς τα πνευματικα της πονηριας εν τοις επουρανιοις [gnt]

Like the other parts of the military analogies in Ephesians 6, each conclusion statement can be traced to one or more things that Paul says previously in the letter.

Here, we just look at part of the above reference in Ephesians 4:14. These are some of the evil forces of darkness and some of the darts of the devil. Deception is a primary weapon that can surprise us in our stand.

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55. Ephesians 4:14 Deceptions
Verse routeEphesians 4:14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; [kjv]
Verse routeινα μηκετι ωμεν νηπιοι κλυδωνιζομενοι και περιφερομενοι παντι ανεμω της διδασκαλιας εν τη κυβεια των ανθρωπων εν πανουργια προς την μεθοδειαν της πλανης [gnt]

Paul talks of deception in various ways in Ephesians 4:14. The ancient Greek word "μέθοδος" ≈ "following after, pursuit" and is used here for as "deception". The KJV (King James Version) translates this as "lie in wait". Who are the "they"?

The ancient Greek word "πλάνη" ≈ "wandering, roaming" and, figuratively, "going astray" or "in error". as in wandering off-target.

The ancient Greek word "πανοῦργος" ≈ "ready to try anything" and is often translated as "crafty".

Information sign More: Ready to try anything crafty
56. Ephesians 4:14 Play on words
Verse routeEphesians 4:14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; [kjv]
Verse routeινα μηκετι ωμεν νηπιοι κλυδωνιζομενοι και περιφερομενοι παντι ανεμω της διδασκαλιας εν τη κυβεια των ανθρωπων εν πανουργια προς την μεθοδειαν της πλανης [gnt]

The following is conducive to a play on words in the Greek. Paul appears to do this once in Ephesians 4:14. The Greek for "doctrine" is that of "teaching". Any teaching that goes against "Loving God" or "Loving neighbor as yourself" would be "without-law" or "against-law".

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Information sign More: An unlawful wind as an air of the spirit
57. Ephesians 4:14

   Ephesians 4:14 
 All 
KJV: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
Greek: ινα μηκετι ωμεν νηπιοι κλυδωνιζομενοι και περιφερομενοι παντι ανεμω της διδασκαλιας εν τη κυβεια των ανθρωπων εν πανουργια προς την μεθοδειαν της πλανης
58. Ephesians 3:10
Verse routeEphesians 3:10 To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, [kjv]
Verse routeινα γνωρισθη νυν ταις αρχαις και ταις εξουσιαις εν τοις επουρανιοις δια της εκκλησιας η πολυποικιλος σοφια του θεου [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "ἀρχή" ≈ "beginning, origin, sovereignty, authority" and could be the end of a rope, stick, etc., or the corner of a sheet.

The ancient Greek word "ἐξουσία" ≈ "possibility, opportunity, lack of restraint (lifestyle)". In context, it can mean "power", "means", "authority", etc.

What is translated (correctly) here as "heavenly places" in chapter 3 is translated in chapter 6 as (somewhat unclear) "high places".
59. Ephesians 3:10
   Ephesians 3:10 
 All 
KJV: To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,
Greek: ινα γνωρισθη νυν ταις αρχαις και ταις εξουσιαις εν τοις επουρανιοις δια της εκκλησιας η πολυποικιλος σοφια του θεου
60. Ephesians 6:12 Spiritual wickedness
Verse routeEphesians 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. [kjv]
Verse routeοτι ουκ εστιν ημιν η παλη προς αιμα και σαρκα αλλα προς τας αρχας προς τας εξουσιας προς τους κοσμοκρατορας του σκοτους τουτου προς τα πνευματικα της πονηριας εν τοις επουρανιοις [gnt]

The Greek for "spiritual" is that of the "Holy" in "Holy Spirit".

The Greek for "wickedness" is that of "evil" as in "oppression". In spiritual terms, this would be a "yoke of oppression".

Information sign More: Overly burdened in the cares and concerns of evil
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Information sign More: Matthew 9:8-13 The healthy make a strong case for evil sick time
61. Ephesians 6:12 High places
Verse routeEphesians 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. [kjv]
Verse routeοτι ουκ εστιν ημιν η παλη προς αιμα και σαρκα αλλα προς τας αρχας προς τας εξουσιας προς τους κοσμοκρατορας του σκοτους τουτου προς τα πνευματικα της πονηριας εν τοις επουρανιοις [gnt]

The word here translated as "high places" is in other places translated as "heaven", "heavenly places", etc.

This tends to indicate that the "spiritual" "wickedness" is in religious establishments in "heavenly places" and not in the secular powers of the world which is covered in the "rulers" of "darkness".
62. Strongs - Heavenly places
63. Usage - Heavenly places
*G2032 *19 ἐπουράνιος (ep-oo-ran'-ee-os) : from G1909 and G3772; above the sky:--celestial, (in) heaven(-ly), high.
Word usage per chapter Words: επουρανια=3 επουρανιοι επουρανιοις=5 επουρανιον επουρανιος επουρανιου=4 επουρανιω επουρανιων=3

64. Ephesians 6:12 Concrete deductive examples
Verse routeEphesians 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. [kjv]
Verse routeοτι ουκ εστιν ημιν η παλη προς αιμα και σαρκα αλλα προς τας αρχας προς τας εξουσιας προς τους κοσμοκρατορας του σκοτους τουτου προς τα πνευματικα της πονηριας εν τοις επουρανιοις [gnt]

After two abstract ideas, Paul has presented two more examples that are more concrete and deductive as in "top-down".
65. Ephesians 6:12 Review the opposition
Verse routeEphesians 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. [kjv]
Verse routeοτι ουκ εστιν ημιν η παλη προς αιμα και σαρκα αλλα προς τας αρχας προς τας εξουσιας προς τους κοσμοκρατορας του σκοτους τουτου προς τα πνευματικα της πονηριας εν τοις επουρανιοις [gnt]

Summary of the opposition (not some long ago and far away esoteric evil): [Roman times, Nazi times, etc.]
66. End of page
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