Ephesians 4:14

Then we will no longer be infants, tossed about by the waves and carried around by every wind of teaching and by the clever cunning of men in their deceitful scheming.

Study Bible

Then we will no longer be infants
The phrase "no longer be infants" suggests a transition from spiritual immaturity to maturity. In the Greek, the word for "infants" is "νήπιοι" (nēpioi), which refers to those who are not yet able to speak or reason fully. This metaphor highlights the need for growth in understanding and discernment. In a historical context, the early church faced many challenges, including false teachings, which required believers to mature in their faith to withstand these challenges.

tossed about by the waves
The imagery of being "tossed about by the waves" evokes a sense of instability and vulnerability. The Greek word "κλυδωνιζόμενοι" (klydōnizomenoi) is used here, which conveys the idea of being agitated or disturbed by the sea. This metaphor would have been particularly vivid for the Ephesians, who lived near the coast and understood the dangers of the sea. Spiritually, it warns against being easily swayed by external forces and emphasizes the need for a firm foundation in Christ.

and carried around by every wind of teaching
The phrase "carried around by every wind of teaching" uses the Greek word "περιφερόμενοι" (peripheromenoi), meaning to be moved or driven about. This suggests a lack of direction and purpose, being influenced by various doctrines without discernment. In the early church, diverse teachings and philosophies were prevalent, and Paul urges believers to anchor themselves in the truth of the Gospel to avoid being misled.

and by the clever cunning of men
Here, "clever cunning of men" refers to the deceitful strategies used by false teachers. The Greek word "πανουργία" (panourgia) implies craftiness or trickery. Historically, the church faced numerous heresies and deceptive teachings, and this phrase serves as a warning to be vigilant against those who distort the truth for personal gain or influence.

in their deceitful scheming
The term "deceitful scheming" is translated from the Greek "μεθοδεία" (methodeia), which denotes a methodical or systematic plan, often with malicious intent. This highlights the deliberate and calculated nature of false teachings. In a scriptural context, it underscores the spiritual warfare believers face and the need for discernment and reliance on the Holy Spirit to recognize and resist such schemes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of the letter to the Ephesians, Paul is writing to the church in Ephesus to encourage unity and maturity in faith.

2. Ephesians
The recipients of the letter, the church in Ephesus was a diverse community of believers in a major city of the Roman Empire, known for its temple to Artemis and a hub of various philosophies and teachings.

3. Infants
Used metaphorically by Paul to describe believers who are immature in their faith and easily swayed by false teachings.

4. Waves and Wind
Symbolic of the unstable and unpredictable nature of false doctrines and teachings that can lead believers astray.

5. Cunning of Men
Refers to those who intentionally deceive others with false teachings, using cleverness and deceit.

Teaching Points

Spiritual Maturity
Believers are called to grow in their faith, moving beyond spiritual infancy to maturity. This involves deepening their understanding of Scripture and developing discernment.

Discernment Against False Teachings
Christians must be vigilant and discerning, testing teachings against the truth of God's Word to avoid being misled by false doctrines.

Unity in Faith
The church is encouraged to maintain unity in the faith, which provides strength and stability against external pressures and false teachings.

Role of Church Leadership
Pastors and teachers play a crucial role in equipping believers with sound doctrine, helping them to grow and stand firm in their faith.

Personal Responsibility
Each believer has a responsibility to study the Scriptures and seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit to develop a strong, personal faith that is not easily shaken.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we identify and guard against the "winds of teaching" that Paul warns about in Ephesians 4:14?

2. In what ways can we encourage spiritual maturity within our church community to prevent being "tossed about by the waves"?

3. How does the imagery of "infants" and "waves" help us understand the dangers of spiritual immaturity?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure we are grounded in sound doctrine, as advised in Ephesians 4:14 and related scriptures?

5. How can we support our church leaders in their role of equipping the saints for the work of ministry, as outlined in the broader context of Ephesians 4?

Connections to Other Scriptures

James 1:6
This verse also uses the imagery of being tossed by the wind, emphasizing the importance of faith and stability in one's beliefs.

Hebrews 13:9
Warns against being carried away by diverse and strange teachings, reinforcing the need for a firm foundation in sound doctrine.

Colossians 2:8
Advises believers to be wary of deceptive philosophy and empty deceit, similar to Paul's warning in Ephesians.