Ephesians 6:9 (KJV)

What does Ephesians 6:9 mean?

Ephesians 6:9 tells those in authority (“masters”) to treat those under their care in the same fair and respectful way, avoiding threats, because both master and servant have the same ultimate Lord in heaven, who shows no favoritism. The verse reminds leaders that God, their own Master, judges everyone equally and does not show partiality.

Paul is writing to Christian slave owners in Ephesus, instructing them on how to treat their servants. The verse comes after instructions to servants, and now turns to those with power, urging them to act justly and kindly. Paul grounds this command in the reality that God is the true Master of all, and He does not judge based on status or position.

The Greek behind Ephesians 6:9

• "masters" (κύριοι, kyrioi): This word is the same used for “Lord” elsewhere, highlighting that those in authority are not ultimate—they too are under a higher Lord.
• "forbearing" (ἀνίεντες, anientes): This means to let go or refrain, here referring to holding back from threatening or harsh treatment.
• "threatening" (ἀπειλή, apeilē): The Greek word refers to intimidation or threats, emphasizing that leadership should not rely on fear.
• "respect of persons" (προσωποληψία, prosōpolēpsia): This phrase means favoritism or partiality; Paul stresses that God does not judge by outward status, so neither should Christians.

Why Ephesians 6:9 matters

• Ephesians 6:9 corrects any idea that authority or social status gives someone the right to mistreat others, making clear that all are accountable to God.
• The verse balances the earlier commands to servants, showing that Christian teaching applies equally to those with power and those without.
• By stating that God shows no favoritism, Paul highlights the radical equality of all believers before God, which would have been a striking message in the ancient world.