1 Peter 2:25

Authorized King James Version

For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ἦτε

G2258

ye were

i (thou, etc.) was (wast or were)

γὰρ

G1063

For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

ὡς

G5613

which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)

πρόβατα

G4263

sheep

something that walks forward (a quadruped), i.e., (specially), a sheep (literally or figuratively)

πλανώμενα·

G4105

going astray

to (properly, cause to) roam (from safety, truth, or virtue)

ἀλλ'

G235

but

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

ἐπεστράφητε

G1994

are

to revert (literally, figuratively or morally)

νῦν

G3568

now

"now" (as adverb of date, a transition or emphasis); also as noun or adjective present or immediate

ἐπὶ

G1909

unto

properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re

#10

τὸν

G3588

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

#11

ποιμένα

G4166

the Shepherd

a shepherd (literally or figuratively)

#12

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#13

ἐπίσκοπον

G1985

Bishop

a superintendent, i.e., christian officer in genitive case charge of a (or the) church (literally or figuratively)

#14

τῶν

G3588

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

#15

ψυχῶν

G5590

souls

breath, i.e., (by implication) spirit, abstractly or concretely (the animal sentient principle only; thus distinguished on the one hand from g4151, wh

#16

ὑμῶν

G5216

of your

of (from or concerning) you

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Peter, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 Peter.

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

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?
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?

Related Resources

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Topics

Hope