Ephesians 2:5
Euen when wee were dead in sinnes, hath quickned vs together with Christ, (by grace ye are saued) Ephesians 2:5 (KJV)
Ephesians 2:5 is situated within a larger passage where the apostle Paul explains God’s work in salvation. In the preceding verses (Ephesians 2:1‑4) Paul describes humanity’s spiritual condition before faith in Christ, emphasizing that we were spiritually dead in our sins and under God’s wrath. Verse 5 then reveals the good news of God’s grace and the life‑giving work of Christ.
Spiritual Death and Quickening
Before appreciating verse 5, it is essential to understand spiritual death. Spiritual death means separation from God and a lack of relationship with Him because of sin; in that state we cannot save ourselves or reconcile with God. The phrase “hath quickened us” indicates that God has made us alive together with Christ. By His mercy and grace He breathes new life into our dead spirits, rendering us spiritually alive.
Salvation by Grace
The parenthetical “(by grace ye are saved;)” highlights that salvation is a gift from God that cannot be earned by our efforts or good works. It is freely given by God’s unmerited favour—His grace. Thus we are saved not because of anything we have done, but solely because of God’s love, mercy, and kindness toward us.
The Role of Christ
The words “together with Christ” stress the believer’s union and identification with Christ. Through His death and resurrection Christ accomplished the work of salvation. When we place our faith in Him, we are united with Him spiritually; His life becomes our life, and His victory over sin and death becomes ours.
Application
Ephesians 2:5 teaches several key truths. First, it reminds us of our desperate state before coming to faith—spiritually dead and separated from God. Second, it underscores the amazing work of God’s grace in salvation, a gift given solely by His undeserved favour. Third, it highlights the vital role of Jesus Christ; our union with Him brings new life and victory over sin and death.
In conclusion, Ephesians 2:5 powerfully reminds us of God’s incredible grace and the life‑transforming work He does in believers. It points to our spiritual resurrection in Christ and affirms that our salvation is entirely a gift from God.
