Ἔφεσος (ephesos)
ephesos
Ephesus
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 16 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
Ephesus was a major maritime city in ancient Asia Minor, serving as the capital of the Roman province of Asia. Situated on the Icarian Sea between Smyrna and Miletus, it functioned as a vital hub for trade and culture. The name likely derives from foreign origins, though early interpretations sometimes linked it to the idea of being "permitted" or granted access.
The New Testament highlights this city frequently, particularly in the Acts of the Apostles where Paul spent significant time there (Acts 18:19–20; 19:1). It also features prominently in Revelation as one of the seven churches addressed by John (Revelation 2:1) and appears in Paul’s letters to Timothy (1 Timothy 1:3; 2 Timothy 4:12). Its prominence reflects its status as a center of early Christian activity and theological instruction.
Ephesus holds enduring significance in biblical history due to its role in shaping early church practices and teachings. As a cosmopolitan port city, it provided a backdrop for diverse interactions between Jews, Greeks, and Romans, influencing how the gospel message spread across regions. This context helps explain why so much attention is given to Ephesus in Scripture.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Ephesus was more than a stop on Paul’s missionary map; it was a spiritual battleground where the gospel met powerful cultural forces. When believers gathered there, they faced pressure from established religious systems and economic interests that relied on idolatry. Their witness required courage, yet it also brought tangible hope to a city often described as chaotic or morally complex.
Today, this history reminds us that faithfulness often happens in places of significant influence and challenge. The early Christians did not retreat from their community but engaged it with truth and love. We can find encouragement in knowing that God’s presence was real and active in such a diverse environment, offering peace to those who sought it.
Whether you feel called to serve in a busy center or a quiet neighborhood, your work matters. The example of the Ephesian church shows that steadfast commitment to Christ brings light to any setting. May you find strength in knowing that God walks among His people, guiding and sustaining them through every season.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 16 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Ephesus10×
- Ephesus.2×
- Ephesus,2×
- in Ephesus1×
- Ephesus;1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Ἔφεσον5×
- Ἐφέσῳ5×
- Ἔφεσον·1×
- Ἔφεσον.¶1×
- Ἔφεσον,1×
- Ἐφέσῳ,1×
- Ἐφέσου.1×
- Ἐφέσου1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 19:17
This became known to all, both Jews and Greeks, who lived at Ephesus. Fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified.
This verse shows how the spread of the gospel in Ephesus led to a widespread reverence for Jesus that affected both Jews and Greeks.
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Acts 19:26
You see and hear that not at Ephesus alone, but almost throughout all Asia, this Paul has persuaded and turned away many people, saying that they are no gods that are made with hands.
This occurrence illustrates the significant economic and social impact of Christian teaching on a major metropolitan center.
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Ephesians 1:1
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus through the will of God, to the saints who are at Ephesus, and the faithful in Christ Jesus:
Paul’s letter to this specific community establishes foundational truths about unity and identity in Christ for all believers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ephesus in the Bible?
Why is Ephesus important in the New Testament?
Where does Paul mention Ephesus in his letters?
Every Occurrence (16 verses across 6 books)
Acts 8 verses
He came to Ephesus, and he left them there; but he himself entered into the synagogue and reasoned with the Jews.
Acts 18:21but taking his leave of them, he said, “I must by all means keep this coming feast in Jerusalem, but I will return…
Acts 18:24Now a certain Jew named Apollos, an Alexandrian by race, an eloquent man, came to Ephesus. He was mighty in the…
Acts 19:1While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul, having passed through the upper country, came to Ephesus and found certain…
Acts 19:17This became known to all, both Jews and Greeks, who lived at Ephesus. Fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord…
Acts 19:26You see and hear that not at Ephesus alone, but almost throughout all Asia, this Paul has persuaded and turned away…
Acts 20:16For Paul had determined to sail past Ephesus, that he might not have to spend time in Asia; for he was hastening, if it…
Acts 20:17From Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called to himself the elders of the assembly.