1 Corinthians 10:19

Authorized King James Version

What say I then? that the idol is any thing, or that which is offered in sacrifice to idols is any thing?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
τί
What
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#2
οὖν
then
(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly
#3
φημι
say I
to show or make known one's thoughts, i.e., speak or say
#4
ὅτι
that
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#5
εἴδωλον
the idol
an image (i.e., for worship); by implication, a heathen god, or (plural) the worship of such
#6
τί
any thing
some or any person or object
#7
ἐστιν;
is
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are
#8
or
disjunctive, or; comparative, than
#9
ὅτι
that
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#10
εἰδωλόθυτον
which is offered in sacrifice to idols
an image-sacrifice, i.e., part of an idolatrous offering
#11
τί
any thing
some or any person or object
#12
ἐστιν;
is
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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