2 Corinthians 12:18

Authorized King James Version

I desired Titus, and with him I sent a brother. Did Titus make a gain of you? walked we not in the same spirit? walked we not in the same steps?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
παρεκάλεσα
I desired
to call near, i.e., invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation)
#2
Τίτος
Titus
titus, a christian
#3
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#4
συναπέστειλα
with him I sent
to despatch (on an errand) in company with
#5
τὸν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
ἀδελφόν·
G80
a brother
a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)
#7
μή
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#8
τι
some or any person or object
#9
ἐπλεονέκτησεν
Did
to be covetous, i.e., (by implication) to over-reach
#10
ὑμᾶς
of you
you (as the objective of a verb or preposition)
#11
Τίτος
Titus
titus, a christian
#12
οὐ
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#13
τῷ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
αὐτοῖς
in the same
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
#15
πνεύματι
spirit
a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin
#16
περιεπατήσαμεν
walked we
to tread all around, i.e., walk at large (especially as proof of ability); figuratively, to live, deport oneself, follow (as a companion or votary)
#17
οὐ
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#18
τοῖς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#19
αὐτοῖς
in the same
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
#20
ἴχνεσιν
steps
a track (figuratively)

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 2 Corinthians.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 2 Corinthians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection