1 Corinthians 15:19

Authorized King James Version

If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
εἰ
If
if, whether, that, etc
#2
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#3
τῇ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
ζωῇ
life
life (literally or figuratively)
#5
ταύτῃ
the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)
#6
ἠλπικότες
we have hope
to expect or confide
#7
ἐσμέν
we are
we are
#8
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#9
Χριστῷ
Christ
anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus
#10
μόνον
only
merely
#11
ἐλεεινότεροι
most miserable
pitiable
#12
πάντων
of all
all, any, every, the whole
#13
ἀνθρώπων
men
man-faced, i.e., a human being
#14
ἐσμέν
we are
we are

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Corinthians. The concept of life reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to pastoral letter addressing practical Christian living issues, advancing the author's theological argument. 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

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 1 Corinthians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes life in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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