1 Thessalonians 3:4

Authorized King James Version

For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know.

Word-by-Word Analysis

καὶ

G2532

and

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

γὰρ

G1063

For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

ὅτε

G3753

when

at which (thing) too, i.e., when

πρὸς

G4314

with

a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,

ὑμᾶς

G5209

you

you (as the objective of a verb or preposition)

ἦμεν

G1510

i exist (used only when emphatic)

προελέγομεν

G4302

before

to say beforehand, i.e., predict, forewarn

ὑμῖν

G5213

you

to (with or by) you

ὅτι

G3754

that

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

#10

μέλλομεν

G3195

we should

to intend, i.e., be about to be, do, or suffer something (of persons or things, especially events; in the sense of purpose, duty, necessity, probabili

#11

θλίβεσθαι

G2346

suffer tribulation

to crowd (literally or figuratively)

#12

καθὼς

G2531

just (or inasmuch) as, that

#13

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#14

ἐγένετο

G1096

it came to pass

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

#15

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#16

οἴδατε

G1492

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

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

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?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
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?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics

Prayer