1 Corinthians 1:26

Authorized King James Version

For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Βλέπετε
ye see
to look at (literally or figuratively)
#2
γὰρ
For
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#3
τὴν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
κλῆσιν
calling
an invitation (figuratively)
#5
ὑμῶν
your
of (from or concerning) you
#6
ἀδελφοί
G80
brethren
a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)
#7
ὅτι
how that
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#8
οὐ
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#9
πολλοὶ
many
(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely
#10
σοφοὶ
wise men
wise (in a most general application)
#11
κατὰ
after
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
#12
σάρκα
the flesh
flesh (as stripped of the skin), i.e., (strictly) the meat of an animal (as food), or (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul (or spirit), or
#13
οὐ
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#14
πολλοὶ
many
(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely
#15
δυνατοί
mighty
powerful or capable (literally or figuratively); neuter possible
#16
οὐ
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#17
πολλοὶ
many
(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely
#18
εὐγενεῖς·
noble
well born, i.e., (literally) high in rank, or (figuratively) generous

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by establishing foundational concepts crucial to 1 Corinthians's theological argument.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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