1 Corinthians 9:2

Authorized King James Version

If I be not an apostle unto others, yet doubtless I am to you: for the seal of mine apostleship are ye in the Lord.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
εἰ
If
if, whether, that, etc
#2
ἄλλοις
unto others
"else," i.e., different (in many applications)
#3
οὐκ
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#4
εἰμι·
I am
i exist (used only when emphatic)
#5
ἀπόστολος
an apostle
a delegate; specially, an ambassador of the gospel; officially a commissioner of christ ("apostle") (with miraculous powers)
#6
ἀλλά
yet
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
#7
γε
doubtless
doubtless, since
#8
ὑμῖν
to you
to (with or by) you
#9
εἰμι·
I am
i exist (used only when emphatic)
#10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
γὰρ
for
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#12
σφραγὶς
the seal
a signet (as fencing in or protecting from misappropriation); by implication, the stamp impressed (as a mark of privacy, or genuineness), literally or
#13
τῆς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
ἐμῆς
of mine
my
#15
ἀποστολῆς
apostleship
commission, i.e., (specially) apostolate
#16
ὑμεῖς
ye
you (as subjective of verb)
#17
ἐστε
are
ye are
#18
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#19
κυρίῳ
the Lord
supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)

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 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 divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

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

Topics