1 Peter 5:12

Authorized King James Version

By Silvanus, a faithful brother unto you, as I suppose, I have written briefly, exhorting, and testifying that this is the true grace of God wherein ye stand.

Word-by-Word Analysis

δι'

G1223

through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)

Σιλουανοῦ

G4610

Silvanus

"silvan"; silvanus, a christian

ὑμῖν

G5213

unto you

to (with or by) you

τοῦ

G3588

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

πιστοῦ

G4103

a faithful

objectively, trustworthy; subjectively, trustful

ἀδελφοῦ

G80

brother

a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)

ὡς

G5613

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

λογίζομαι

G3049

I suppose

to take an inventory, i.e., estimate (literally or figuratively)

δι'

G1223

through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)

#10

ὀλίγων

G3641

puny (in extent, degree, number, duration or value); especially neuter (adverbially) somewhat

#11

ἔγραψα

G1125

I have written

to "grave", especially to write; figuratively, to describe

#12

παρακαλῶν

G3870

exhorting

to call near, i.e., invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation)

#13

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#14

ἐπιμαρτυρῶν

G1957

testifying

to attest further, i.e., corroborate

#15

ταύτην

G3778

the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)

#16

εἶναι

G1511

to exist

#17

ἀληθῆ

G227

the true

true (as not concealing)

#18

χάριν

G5485

grace

graciousness (as gratifying), of manner or act (abstract or concrete; literal, figurative or spiritual; especially the divine influence upon the heart

#19

τοῦ

G3588

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

#20

θεοῦ

G2316

of God

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

#21

εἰς

G1519

wherein

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

#22

ἣν

G3739

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

#23

ἑστήκατε

G2476

ye stand

to stand (transitively or intransitively), used in various applications (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

This verse develops the covenant theme central to 1 Peter. The concept of grace reflects the development of covenant 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 pistis in Greek, encompassing both belief and faithfulness, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of covenant within the theological tradition of 1 Peter Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes grace in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding covenant as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?
How does the covenant 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 grace in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about covenant?

Related Resources

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