2 Corinthians 4:7

Authorized King James Version

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Ἔχομεν
G2192
we have
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
#2
δὲ
G1161
But
but, and, etc
#3
τὸν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
θησαυρὸν
G2344
treasure
a deposit, i.e., wealth (literally or figuratively)
#5
τοῦτον
G5126
this
this (person, as objective of verb or preposition)
#6
ἐν
G1722
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#7
ὀστρακίνοις
G3749
earthen
earthen-ware, i.e., clayey; by implication, frail
#8
σκεύεσιν
G4632
vessels
a vessel, implement, equipment or apparatus (literally or figuratively (specially, a wife as contributing to the usefulness of the husband))
#9
ἵνα
G2443
that
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#10
ἡ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
ὑπερβολὴ
G5236
the excellency
a throwing beyond others, i.e., (figuratively) supereminence; adverbially (with g1519 or g2596) pre- eminently
#12
τῆς
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
δυνάμεως
G1411
of the power
force (literally or figuratively); specially, miraculous power (usually by implication, a miracle itself)
#14
ᾖ
G5600
may be
(may, might, can, could, would, should, must, etc.; also with g1487 and its comparative, as well as with other particles) be
#15
τοῦ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#16
θεοῦ
G2316
of God
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
#17
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#18
μὴ
G3361
not
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#19
ἐξ
G1537
of
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
#20
ἡμῶν·
G2257
us
of (or from) us

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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

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

Questions for Reflection