1 Peter 4:16

Authorized King James Version

Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
εἰ
if
if, whether, that, etc
#2
δὲ
Yet
but, and, etc
#3
ὡς
any man suffer as
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
#4
Χριστιανός
a Christian
a christian, i.e., follower of christ
#5
μὴ
not
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#6
αἰσχυνέσθω
be ashamed
to feel shame (for oneself)
#7
δοξαζέτω
let him glorify
to render (or esteem) glorious (in a wide application)
#8
δὲ
Yet
but, and, etc
#9
τὸν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
θεὸν
God
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
#11
ἐν
on
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#12
τῷ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
μέρει
behalf
a division or share (literally or figuratively, in a wide application)
#14
τούτῳ
this
to (in, with or by) this (person or thing)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Peter. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

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