1 Thessalonians 2:16

Authorized King James Version

Forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they might be saved, to fill up their sins alway: for the wrath is come upon them to the uttermost.

Word-by-Word Analysis

κωλυόντων

G2967

Forbidding

to estop, i.e., prevent (by word or act)

ἡμᾶς

G2248

τοῖς

G3588

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

ἔθνεσιν

G1484

to the Gentiles

a race (as of the same habit), i.e., a tribe; specially, a foreign (non-jewish) one (usually, by implication, pagan)

λαλῆσαι

G2980

to speak

to talk, i.e., utter words

ἵνα

G2443

that

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

σωθῶσιν

G4982

they might be saved

to save, i.e., deliver or protect (literally or figuratively)

εἰς

G1519

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)

#10

ἀναπληρῶσαι

G378

fill up

to complete; by implication, to occupy, supply; figuratively, to accomplish (by coincidence ot obedience)

#11

αὐτοὺς

G846

them

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

#12

τὰς

G3588

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

#13

ἁμαρτίας

G266

sins

a sin (properly abstract)

#14

πάντοτε

G3842

alway

every when, i.e., at all times

#15

ἔφθασεν

G5348

is come

to be beforehand, i.e., anticipate or precede; by extension, to have arrived at

#16

δὲ

G1161

for

but, and, etc

#17

ἐπ'

G1909

upon

properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re

#18

αὐτοὺς

G846

them

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

#19

ἡ

G3588

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

#20

ὀργὴ

G3709

the wrath

properly, desire (as a reaching forth or excitement of the mind), i.e., (by analogy), violent passion (ire, or (justifiable) abhorrence); by implicati

#21

εἰς

G1519

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

#22

τέλος

G5056

the uttermost

properly, the point aimed at as a limit, i.e., (by implication) the conclusion of an act or state (termination (literally, figuratively or indefinitel

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Thessalonians. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. 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

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

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
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?
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?

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Prayer