1 Corinthians 6:4

Authorized King James Version

If then ye have judgments of things pertaining to this life, set them to judge who are least esteemed in the church.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
βιωτικὰ
of things pertaining to this life
relating to the present existence
#2
μὲν
then
properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)
#3
οὖν
(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly
#4
κριτήρια
judgments
a rule of judging ("criterion"), i.e., (by implication) a tribunal
#5
ἐὰν
If
a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
#6
ἔχητε
ye have
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
#7
τοὺς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
ἐξουθενημένους
to judge who are least esteemed
to despise
#9
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#10
τῇ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
ἐκκλησίᾳ
the church
a calling out, i.e., (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation (jewish synagogue, or christian community of members on earth
#12
τούτους
them
these (persons, as objective of verb or preposition)
#13
καθίζετε
set
to seat down, i.e., set (figuratively, appoint); intransitively, to sit (down); figuratively, to settle (hover, dwell)

Analysis

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

Questions for Reflection

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