1 Corinthians 11:16

Authorized King James Version

But if any man seem to be contentious, we have no such custom, neither the churches of God.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Εἰ
if, whether, that, etc
#2
δέ
But
but, and, etc
#3
τις
some or any person or object
#4
δοκεῖ
seem
compare the base of g1166) of the same meaning; to think; by implication, to seem (truthfully or uncertainly)
#5
φιλόνεικος
contentious
fond of strife, i.e., disputatious
#6
εἶναι
to be
to exist
#7
ἡμεῖς
we
we (only used when emphatic)
#8
τοιαύτην
such
truly this, i.e., of this sort (to denote character or individuality)
#9
συνήθειαν
custom
mutual habituation, i.e., usage
#10
οὐκ
no
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#11
ἔχομεν
have
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
#12
οὐδὲ
neither
not however, i.e., neither, nor, not even
#13
αἱ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
ἐκκλησίαι
the churches
a calling out, i.e., (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation (jewish synagogue, or christian community of members on earth
#15
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#16
θεοῦ
of God
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Corinthians. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within pastoral letter addressing practical Christian living issues to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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