1 Thessalonians 2:12

That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory.

Word-by-Word Analysis

εἰς

G1519

That

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

τὸ

G3588

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

περιπατῆσαι

G4043

would walk

to tread all around, i.e., walk at large (especially as proof of ability); figuratively, to live, deport oneself, follow (as a companion or votary)

ὑμᾶς

G5209

you (as the objective of a verb or preposition)

ἀξίως

G516

worthy

appropriately

τοῦ

G3588

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

θεοῦ

G2316

of God

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

τοῦ

G3588

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

καλοῦντος

G2564

who hath called

to "call" (properly, aloud, but used in a variety of applications, directly or otherwise)

#10

ὑμᾶς

G5209

you (as the objective of a verb or preposition)

#11

εἰς

G1519

That

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

#12

τὴν

G3588

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

#13

ἑαυτοῦ

G1438

his

(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc

#14

βασιλείαν

G932

kingdom

properly, royalty, i.e., (abstractly) rule, or (concretely) a realm (literally or figuratively)

#15

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#16

δόξαν

G1391

glory

glory (as very apparent), in a wide application (literal or figurative, objective or subjective)

Analysis

This verse develops the kingdom of God theme central to 1 Thessalonians. The concept of kingdom reflects the development of kingdom of God 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 kingdom of God particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show imperial and royal imagery familiar to subjects of ancient monarchies, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within 1 Thessalonians chapter 2 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does understanding kingdom in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about kingdom of God?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of kingdom of God, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of eschatology and the doctrine of last things?

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Topics

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