1 Thessalonians 2:10

Authorized King James Version

Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe:

Word-by-Word Analysis

ὑμεῖς

G5210

you (as subjective of verb)

μάρτυρες

G3144

are witnesses

a witness (literally (judicially) or figuratively (genitive case)); by analogy, a "martyr"

καὶ

G2532

and

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

ὁ

G3588

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

θεός

G2316

God

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

ὡς

G5613

also how

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

ὁσίως

G3743

holily

piously

καὶ

G2532

and

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

δικαίως

G1346

justly

equitably

#10

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#11

ἀμέμπτως

G274

unblameably

faultlessly

#12

ὑμῖν

G5213

among you

to (with or by) you

#13

τοῖς

G3588

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

#14

πιστεύουσιν

G4100

that believe

to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing), i.e., credit; by implication, to entrust (especially one's spiritual well-being to ch

#15

ἐγενήθημεν

G1096

we behaved ourselves

to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Thessalonians, 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 Thessalonians.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

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?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
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?

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Topics

Prayer