2 Corinthians 12:3

Authorized King James Version

And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;)

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

οἶδεν

G1492

I knew

used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl

τὸν

G3588

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

τοιοῦτον

G5108

such

truly this, i.e., of this sort (to denote character or individuality)

ἄνθρωπον

G444

a man

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

εἴτε

G1535

(whether

if too

ἐν

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

σώματος

G4983

of the body

the body (as a sound whole), used in a very wide application, literally or figuratively

εἴτε

G1535

(whether

if too

#10

ἐκτὸς

G1622

out

the exterior; figuratively (as a preposition) aside from, besides

#11

τοῦ

G3588

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

#12

σώματος

G4983

of the body

the body (as a sound whole), used in a very wide application, literally or figuratively

#13

οὐκ

G3756

I cannot

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

#14

οἶδεν

G1492

I knew

used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl

#15

ὁ

G3588

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

#16

θεὸς

G2316

God

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

#17

οἶδεν

G1492

I knew

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

Within the broader context of 2 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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

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

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?
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?
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?