1 Timothy 2:4

Authorized King James Version

Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ὃς

G3739

Who

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

πάντας

G3956

all

all, any, every, the whole

ἀνθρώπους

G444

men

man-faced, i.e., a human being

θέλει

G2309

will have

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

σωθῆναι

G4982

to be saved

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

καὶ

G2532

and

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

εἰς

G1519

unto

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

ἐπίγνωσιν

G1922

the knowledge

recognition, i.e., (by implication) full discernment, acknowledgement

ἀληθείας

G225

of the truth

truth

#10

ἐλθεῖν

G2064

to come

to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Timothy. The concept of truth 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 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 truth. 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?
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?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on truth address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?