1 Corinthians 7:19

Authorized King James Version

Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but the keeping of the commandments of God.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ἡ

G3588

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

περιτομὴ

G4061

Circumcision

circumcision (the rite, the condition or the people, literally or figuratively)

οὐδέν

G3762

nothing

not even one (man, woman or thing), i.e., none, nobody, nothing

ἐστιν

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

καὶ

G2532

and

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

ἡ

G3588

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

ἀκροβυστία

G203

uncircumcision

the prepuce; by implication, an uncircumcised (i.e., gentile, figuratively, unregenerate) state or person

οὐδέν

G3762

nothing

not even one (man, woman or thing), i.e., none, nobody, nothing

ἐστιν

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

#10

ἀλλὰ

G235

but

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

#11

τήρησις

G5084

the keeping

a watching, i.e., (figuratively) observance, or (concretely) a prison

#12

ἐντολῶν

G1785

of the commandments

injunction, i.e., an authoritative prescription

#13

θεοῦ

G2316

of God

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

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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 does this verse's literary context within 1 Corinthians chapter 7 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?
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?

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