1 Corinthians 7:17

Authorized King James Version

But as God hath distributed to every man, as the Lord hath called every one, so let him walk. And so ordain I in all churches.

Word-by-Word Analysis

Εἰ

G1487

if, whether, that, etc

μὴ

G3361

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

ἕκαστον

G1538

every one

each or every

ὡς

G5613

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

ἐμέρισεν

G3307

hath distributed

to part, i.e., (literally) to apportion, bestow, share, or (figuratively) to disunite, differ

ὁ

G3588

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

θεός

G2316

God

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

ἕκαστον

G1538

every one

each or every

ὡς

G5613

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

#10

κέκληκεν

G2564

hath called

to "call" (properly, aloud, but used in a variety of applications, directly or otherwise)

#11

ὁ

G3588

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

#12

κύριος

G2962

the Lord

supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)

#13

οὕτως

G3779

in this way (referring to what precedes or follows)

#14

περιπατείτω

G4043

let him walk

to tread all around, i.e., walk at large (especially as proof of ability); figuratively, to live, deport oneself, follow (as a companion or votary)

#15

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#16

οὕτως

G3779

in this way (referring to what precedes or follows)

#17

ἐν

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

#18

ταῖς

G3588

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

#19

ἐκκλησίαις

G1577

churches

a calling out, i.e., (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation (jewish synagogue, or christian community of members on earth

#20

πάσαις

G3956

all

all, any, every, the whole

#21

διατάσσομαι

G1299

ordain I

to arrange thoroughly, i.e., (specially) institute, prescribe, etc

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Corinthians. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within pastoral letter addressing practical Christian living issues to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?

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