1 Peter 5:2

Authorized King James Version

Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ποιμάνατε
Feed
to tend as a shepherd of (figuratively, superviser)
#2
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#3
ἐν
which is among
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#4
ὑμῖν
you
to (with or by) you
#5
ποίμνιον
the flock
a flock, i.e., (figuratively) group (of believers)
#6
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
θεοῦ
of God
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
#8
ἐπισκοποῦντες
taking the oversight
to oversee; by implication, to beware
#9
μὴ
thereof not
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#10
ἀναγκαστῶς
by constraint
compulsorily
#11
ἀλλὰ
but
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
#12
ἑκουσίως
willingly
voluntarily
#13
μηδὲ
not
but not, not even; in a continued negation, nor
#14
αἰσχροκερδῶς
for filthy lucre
sordidly
#15
ἀλλὰ
but
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
#16
προθύμως
of a ready mind
with alacrity

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Peter, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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