1 Corinthians 9:27

Authorized King James Version

But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ἀλλ'

G235

But

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

ὑπωπιάζω

G5299

I keep under

to hit under the eye (buffet or disable an antagonist as a pugilist), i.e., (figuratively) to tease or annoy (into compliance), subdue (one's passions

μου

G3450

of me

τὸ

G3588

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

σῶμα

G4983

body

the body (as a sound whole), used in a very wide application, literally or figuratively

καὶ

G2532

and

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

δουλαγωγῶ

G1396

bring it into subjection

to be a slave-driver, i.e., to enslave (figuratively, subdue)

μήπως,

G3381

lest

lest somehow

ἄλλοις

G243

to others

"else," i.e., different (in many applications)

#10

κηρύξας

G2784

when I have preached

to herald (as a public crier), especially divine truth (the gospel)

#11

αὐτὸς

G846

I myself

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

#12

ἀδόκιμος

G96

a castaway

unapproved, i.e., rejected; by implication, worthless (literally or morally)

#13

γένωμαι

G1096

should be

to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Corinthians. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to pastoral letter addressing practical Christian living issues, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?

Related Resources

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

Topics

Love