1 Corinthians 10:31

Authorized King James Version

Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.

Word-by-Word Analysis

εἴτε

G1535

Whether

if too

οὖν

G3767

therefore

(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly

ἐσθίετε

G2068

ye eat

used only in certain tenses, the rest being supplied by g5315; to eat (usually literal)

εἴτε

G1535

Whether

if too

πίνετε

G4095

drink

to imbibe (literally or figuratively)

εἴτε

G1535

Whether

if too

τι

G5100

whatsoever

some or any person or object

ποιεῖτε

G4160

to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)

πάντα

G3956

all

all, any, every, the whole

#10

εἰς

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

#11

δόξαν

G1391

the glory

glory (as very apparent), in a wide application (literal or figurative, objective or subjective)

#12

θεοῦ

G2316

of God

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

#13

ποιεῖτε

G4160

to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)

Cross References

Related verses that illuminate this passage (hover to preview):

¹ Colossians 3:17 Colossians 3:17
And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
— Do all in name of the Lord Jesus
² 1 Peter 4:11 1 Peter 4:11
If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
— That God may be glorified

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of glory connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about glory, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 1 Corinthians.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

How does this verse's literary context within 1 Corinthians chapter 10 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?

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