1 Thessalonians 2:5

Authorized King James Version

For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
οὔτε
neither
not too, i.e., neither or nor; by analogy, not even
#2
γάρ
For
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#3
ποτε
at any time
indefinite adverb, at some time, ever
#4
ἐν
a cloke
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#5
λόγῳ
something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a
#6
κολακείας
flattering
flattery
#7
ἐγενήθημεν
used we
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
#8
καθὼς
as
just (or inasmuch) as, that
#9
οἴδατε
ye know
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
#10
οὔτε
neither
not too, i.e., neither or nor; by analogy, not even
#11
ἐν
a cloke
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#12
προφάσει
an outward showing, i.e., pretext
#13
πλεονεξίας
of covetousness
avarice, i.e., (by implication) fraudulency, extortion
#14
θεὸς
God
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
#15
μάρτυς
is witness
a witness (literally (judicially) or figuratively (genitive case)); by analogy, a "martyr"

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Thessalonians. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation 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

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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