1 Corinthians 12:13

Authorized King James Version

For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.

Word-by-Word Analysis

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

γὰρ

G1063

For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

ἐν

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

ἓν

G1520

one

πνεῦμα

G4151

Spirit

a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin

ἡμεῖς

G2249

we (only used when emphatic)

πάντες

G3956

all

all, any, every, the whole

εἰς

G1519

into

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

ἓν

G1520

one

#10

σῶμα

G4983

body

the body (as a sound whole), used in a very wide application, literally or figuratively

#11

ἐβαπτίσθημεν

G907

are

to immerse, submerge; to make whelmed (i.e., fully wet); used only (in the new testament) of ceremonial ablution, especially (technically) of the ordi

#12

εἴτε

G1535

if too

#13

Ἰουδαῖοι

G2453

we be Jews

judaean, i.e., belonging to jehudah

#14

εἴτε

G1535

if too

#15

Ἕλληνες

G1672

Gentiles

a hellen (grecian) or inhabitant of hellas; by extension a greek-speaking person, especially a non-jew

#16

εἴτε

G1535

if too

#17

δοῦλοι

G1401

we be bond

a slave (literal or figurative, involuntary or voluntary; frequently, therefore in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency)

#18

εἴτε

G1535

if too

#19

ἐλεύθεροι

G1658

free

unrestrained (to go at pleasure), i.e., (as a citizen) not a slave (whether freeborn or manumitted), or (genitive case) exempt (from obligation or lia

#20

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#21

πάντες

G3956

all

all, any, every, the whole

#22

εἰς

G1519

into

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

#23

ἓν

G1520

one

#24

πνεῦμα

G4151

Spirit

a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin

#25

ἐποτίσθημεν

G4222

have been

to furnish drink, irrigate

Cross References

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

¹ Galatians 3:28 Galatians 3:28
There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
— All one in Christ Jesus
² Ephesians 4:4 Ephesians 4:4
There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;
— One body, one Spirit

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 building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 1 Corinthians.

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

How does this verse's literary context within 1 Corinthians chapter 12 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics

Love