Commonwealth
TextsWhat is the meaning of Commonwealth in the Bible?
The Greek term politeia signifies citizenship, state, or commonwealth, appearing in Ephesians 2:12 and various Apocryphal texts where translations vary between 'freedom,' 'citizenship,' and 'commonwealth.'
TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding politeia clarifies the specific legal and social standing of Gentiles as excluded from the covenantal community of Israel, contrasting their former state of alienation with their inclusion in the people of God.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Manuscript & Literary Context: Notice how Commonwealth functions as an authoritative historical witness connecting earlier prophetic promises with scripture's broader fulfillment.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Commonwealth in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Commonwealth clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Ephesians 2:12
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Commonwealth." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/commonwealth/