1 Corinthians 8:3

Authorized King James Version

But if any man love God, the same is known of him.

Word-by-Word Analysis

εἰ

G1487

if, whether, that, etc

δέ

G1161

But

but, and, etc

τις

G5100

some or any person or object

ἀγαπᾷ

G25

love

to love (in a social or moral sense)

τὸν

G3588

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

θεόν

G2316

God

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

οὗτος

G3778

the same

the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)

ἔγνωσται

G1097

is known

to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)

ὑπ'

G5259

under, i.e., (with the genitive case) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the accusative case) of place (whither (

#10

αὐτοῦ

G846

him

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Corinthians. The concept of love 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 agape in Greek contexts or hesed in Hebrew, indicating covenantal loyalty, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood love. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within 1 Corinthians chapter 8 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How might the original audience's understanding of love differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?

Related Resources

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Topics

Love