1 Corinthians 15:56

Authorized King James Version

The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#2
δὲ
and
but, and, etc
#3
κέντρον
The sting
a point ("center"), i.e., a sting (figuratively, poison) or goad (figuratively, divine impulse)
#4
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
θανάτου
of death
(properly, an adjective used as a noun) death (literally or figuratively)
#6
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
ἁμαρτίας
is sin
a sin (properly abstract)
#8
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
δὲ
and
but, and, etc
#10
δύναμις
the strength
force (literally or figuratively); specially, miraculous power (usually by implication, a miracle itself)
#11
τῆς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
ἁμαρτίας
is sin
a sin (properly abstract)
#13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
νόμος·
is the law
law (through the idea of prescriptive usage), genitive case (regulation), specially, (of moses (including the volume); also of the gospel), or figurat

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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 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 divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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