Ephesians 4:9

Afrikaans DB 2006 (Die Boodskap)

[9-10] (Wat presies beteken hierdie “teruggaan hemel toe”? Dit beteken mos dat Hy voorheen in die hemel was en toe na die aarde toe afgekom het. Juis Hy is terug hemel toe. Nou is daar nie ’n hoekie of kantjie van hierdie heelal waar Jesus nie teenwoordig is nie.)

What Does This Mean?

This verse says that Jesus first went down to the lower parts of the earth before he ascended up to heaven. It's talking about Jesus' journey and how it involved both going down and then coming back up.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a toy box in your basement (that's like the 'lower parts'). Before you can show your toys to your friends upstairs, you first need to go downstairs and get them from the toy box. That's kind of what Jesus did - he went down before he came back up.

Historical Background

This verse is part of Ephesians, written by Paul around 60-62 AD. It was addressed to believers in Ephesus who were trying to understand their new life in Christ and the importance of unity among Christians.

Living It Out Today

Think about a project you're working on. Sometimes you have to first do some groundwork or planning (going down) before you can reach your goal (ascending). This verse reminds us that every journey involves both ups and downs.

Topics

• salvation
• Jesus
• ascension
• descension
• unity
• groundwork

Related Verses

• John 3:14-15
• Colossians 2:12
• Philippians 2:8
• Romans 10:6-7
• Acts 2:34

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 'lower parts of the earth' mentioned in this verse?

The phrase refers to a place below the earthly realm, often interpreted as a reference to Hades or Sheol where Jesus went to proclaim His victory over death.

Does this verse suggest a specific order - descent then ascent?

Yes, it indicates that before Jesus ascended to heaven, he first descended into the lower parts, emphasizing the sequence in his redemptive mission.

How does this verse relate to Christian unity?

This verse highlights Jesus' comprehensive work from descent to ascent, reminding believers of their shared experiences and common destiny in Christ, fostering unity among them.