1 John 4:14

Authorized King James Version

And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.

Word-by-Word Analysis

καὶ

G2532

And

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

ἡμεῖς

G2249

we (only used when emphatic)

τεθεάμεθα

G2300

have seen

to look closely at, i.e., (by implication) perceive (literally or figuratively); by extension to visit

καὶ

G2532

And

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

μαρτυροῦμεν

G3140

do testify

to be a witness, i.e., testify (literally or figuratively)

ὅτι

G3754

that

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

ὁ

G3588

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

πατὴρ

G3962

the Father

a "father" (literally or figuratively, near or more remote)

ἀπέσταλκεν

G649

sent

set apart, i.e., (by implication) to send out (properly, on a mission) literally or figuratively

#10

τὸν

G3588

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

#11

υἱὸν

G5207

the Son

a "son" (sometimes of animals), used very widely of immediate, remote or figuratively, kinship

#12

σωτῆρα

G4990

to be the Saviour

a deliverer, i.e., god or christ

#13

τοῦ

G3588

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

#14

κόσμου

G2889

of the world

orderly arrangement, i.e., decoration; by implication, the world (including its inhabitants, literally or figuratively (morally))

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 John. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, 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

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

Questions for Reflection

How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
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?

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