1 Corinthians 4:7

Authorized King James Version

For who maketh thee to differ from another? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory, as if thou hadst not received it?

Word-by-Word Analysis

τί

G5101

it why

an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)

γάρ

G1063

For

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

σε

G4571

thee

διακρίνει

G1252

maketh

to separate thoroughly, i.e., (literally and reflexively) to withdraw from, or (by implication) oppose; figuratively, to discriminate (by implication,

τί

G5101

it why

an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)

δὲ

G1161

from another and

but, and, etc

ἔχεις

G2192

hast thou

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

ὃ

G3739

that

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

οὐκ

G3756

not

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

#10

λαβών

G2983

if thou hadst

while g0138 is more violent, to seize or remove))

#11

εἰ

G1487

if, whether, that, etc

#12

δὲ

G1161

from another and

but, and, etc

#13

καὶ

G2532

now

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

#14

λαβών

G2983

if thou hadst

while g0138 is more violent, to seize or remove))

#15

τί

G5101

it why

an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)

#16

καυχᾶσαι

G2744

dost thou glory

to vaunt (in a good or a bad sense)

#17

ὡς

G5613

which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)

#18

μὴ

G3361

not

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

#19

λαβών

G2983

if thou hadst

while g0138 is more violent, to seize or remove))

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of glory connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about glory, 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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within 1 Corinthians chapter 4 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?

Related Resources

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