1 Corinthians 3:4

Authorized King James Version

For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ὅταν
while
whenever (implying hypothesis or more or less uncertainty); also causatively (conjunctionally) inasmuch as
#2
γὰρ
For
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#3
λέγῃ
saith
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#4
τις
one
some or any person or object
#5
Ἐγὼ
I
i, me
#6
μέν
properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)
#7
εἰμι
am
i exist (used only when emphatic)
#8
Παύλου
of Paul
(little; but remotely from a derivative of g3973, meaning the same); paulus, the name of a roman and of an apostle
#9
ἕτερος
another
(an-, the) other or different
#10
δέ
and
but, and, etc
#11
Ἐγὼ
I
i, me
#12
Ἀπολλῶ
am of Apollos
apollos, an israelite
#13
οὐχὶ
ye not
not indeed
#14
σαρκικοί
carnal
pertaining to flesh, i.e., (by extension) bodily, temporal, or (by implication) animal, unregenerate
#15
ἐστε
are
ye are

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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

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