1 Corinthians 12:24

Authorized King James Version

For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked:

Word-by-Word Analysis

τὰ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

δὲ

G1161

For

but, and, etc

εὐσχήμονα

G2158

comely

well-formed, i.e., (figuratively) decorous, noble (in rank)

ἡμῶν

G2257

our

of (or from) us

οὐ

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

χρείαν

G5532

need

employment, i.e., an affair; also (by implication) occasion, demand, requirement or destitution

ἔχει

G2192

parts have

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

ἀλλ'

G235

but

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

ὁ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#10

θεὸς

G2316

God

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

#11

συνεκέρασεν

G4786

hath tempered

to commingle, i.e., (figuratively) to combine or assimilate

#12

τὸ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#13

σῶμα

G4983

the body

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

#14

τῷ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#15

ὑστεροῦντι

G5302

to that part which lacked

to be later, i.e., (by implication) to be inferior; generally, to fall short (be deficient)

#16

περισσοτέραν

G4053

superabundant (in quantity) or superior (in quality); by implication, excessive; adverbially (with g1537) violently; neuter (as noun) preeminence

#17

δοὺς

G1325

having given

to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)

#18

τιμήν

G5092

honour

a value, i.e., money paid, or (concretely and collectively) valuables; by analogy, esteem (especially of the highest degree), or the dignity itself

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
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?
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?

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