1 Corinthians 4:9

Authorized King James Version

For I think that God hath set forth us the apostles last, as it were appointed to death: for we are made a spectacle unto the world, and to angels, and to men.

Word-by-Word Analysis

δοκῶ

G1380

I think

compare the base of g1166) of the same meaning; to think; by implication, to seem (truthfully or uncertainly)

γάρ

G1063

For

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

ὅτι

G3754

for

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

ὁ

G3588

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

θεὸς

G2316

God

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

ἡμᾶς

G2248

τοὺς

G3588

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

ἀποστόλους

G652

the apostles

a delegate; specially, an ambassador of the gospel; officially a commissioner of christ ("apostle") (with miraculous powers)

ἐσχάτους

G2078

last

farthest, final (of place or time)

#10

ἀπέδειξεν

G584

hath set forth

to show off, i.e., exhibit; figuratively, to demonstrate, i.e., accredit

#11

ὡς

G5613

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

#12

ἐπιθανατίους

G1935

it were appointed to death

doomed to death

#13

ὅτι

G3754

for

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

#14

θέατρον

G2302

a spectacle

a place for public show ("theatre"), i.e., general audience-room; by implication, a show itself (figuratively)

#15

ἐγενήθημεν

G1096

we are made

to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)

#16

τῷ

G3588

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

#17

κόσμῳ

G2889

unto the world

orderly arrangement, i.e., decoration; by implication, the world (including its inhabitants, literally or figuratively (morally))

#18

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#19

ἀγγέλοις

G32

to angels

compare g0034) (to bring tidings); a messenger; especially an "angel"; by implication, a pastor

#20

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#21

ἀνθρώποις

G444

to men

man-faced, i.e., a human being

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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 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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
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?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics

Love