1 Timothy 1:17

Authorized King James Version

Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Word-by-Word Analysis

τῷ

G3588

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

δὲ

G1161

Now

but, and, etc

βασιλεῖ

G935

unto the King

a sovereign (abstractly, relatively, or figuratively)

τῶν

G3588

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

αἰώνων

G165

and ever

properly, an age; by extension, perpetuity (also past); by implication, the world; specially (jewish) a messianic period (present or future)

ἀφθάρτῳ

G862

immortal

undecaying (in essence or continuance)

ἀοράτῳ

G517

invisible

μόνῳ

G3441

the only

remaining, i.e., sole or single; by implication, mere

σοφῶ

G4680

wise

wise (in a most general application)

#10

θεῷ

G2316

God

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

#11

τιμὴ

G5092

be honour

a value, i.e., money paid, or (concretely and collectively) valuables; by analogy, esteem (especially of the highest degree), or the dignity itself

#12

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#13

δόξα

G1391

glory

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

#14

εἰς

G1519

for

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

#15

τοὺς

G3588

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

#16

αἰώνων

G165

and ever

properly, an age; by extension, perpetuity (also past); by implication, the world; specially (jewish) a messianic period (present or future)

#17

τῶν

G3588

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

#18

αἰώνων

G165

and ever

properly, an age; by extension, perpetuity (also past); by implication, the world; specially (jewish) a messianic period (present or future)

#19

ἀμήν

G281

Amen

properly, firm, i.e., (figuratively) trustworthy; adverbially, surely (often as interjection, so be it)

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 glory 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

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 salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How might the original audience's understanding of glory differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on glory address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?