1 Thessalonians 4:13

Authorized King James Version

But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.

Word-by-Word Analysis

Οὐ

G3756

not

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

θέλω

G2309

I would

to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),

δὲ

G1161

But

but, and, etc

ὑμᾶς

G5209

you

you (as the objective of a verb or preposition)

ἀγνοεῖν

G50

to be ignorant

not to know (through lack of information or intelligence); by implication, to ignore (through disinclination)

ἀδελφοί

G80

brethren

a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)

περὶ

G4012

concerning

properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas

οἱ

G3588

which

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

κεκοιμημένων,

G2837

them which are asleep

to put to sleep, i.e., (passively or reflexively) to slumber; figuratively, to decease

#10

ἵνα

G2443

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

#11

μὴ

G3361

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

#12

λυπῆσθε

G3076

ye sorrow

to distress; reflexively or passively, to be sad

#13

καθὼς

G2531

just (or inasmuch) as, that

#14

καὶ

G2532

even

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

#15

οἱ

G3588

which

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

#16

λοιποὶ

G3062

others

remaining ones

#17

οἱ

G3588

which

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

#18

μὴ

G3361

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

#19

ἔχοντες

G2192

have

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

#20

ἐλπίδα

G1680

hope

expectation (abstractly or concretely) or confidence

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

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within 1 Thessalonians chapter 4 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?
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?

Related Resources

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

Topics

Prayer