2 Corinthians 6:2

Authorized King James Version

(For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)

Word-by-Word Analysis

λέγει

G3004

he saith

properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an

γάρ

G1063

(For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

καιρὸς

G2540

in a time

an occasion, i.e., set or proper time

δεκτῷ

G1184

accepted

approved; (figuratively) propitious

ἐπήκουσά

G1873

I have heard

to hearken (favorably) to

σου

G4675

thee

of thee, thy

καὶ

G2532

and

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

ἐν

G1722

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

ἡμέρα

G2250

is the day

day, i.e., (literally) the time space between dawn and dark, or the whole 24 hours (but several days were usually reckoned by the jews as inclusive of

#10

σωτηρίας

G4991

of salvation

rescue or safety (physically or morally)

#11

ἐβοήθησά

G997

have I succoured

to aid or relieve

#12

σοι

G4671

thee

to thee

#13

ἰδού,

G2400

behold

used as imperative lo!

#14

νῦν

G3568

now

"now" (as adverb of date, a transition or emphasis); also as noun or adjective present or immediate

#15

καιρὸς

G2540

in a time

an occasion, i.e., set or proper time

#16

εὐπρόσδεκτος

G2144

is the accepted

well-received, i.e., approved, favorable

#17

ἰδού,

G2400

behold

used as imperative lo!

#18

νῦν

G3568

now

"now" (as adverb of date, a transition or emphasis); also as noun or adjective present or immediate

#19

ἡμέρα

G2250

is the day

day, i.e., (literally) the time space between dawn and dark, or the whole 24 hours (but several days were usually reckoned by the jews as inclusive of

#20

σωτηρίας

G4991

of salvation

rescue or safety (physically or morally)

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 salvation encompasses justification, sanctification, and glorification in the ordo salutis and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 salvation in this particular way.

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 verse's literary context within 2 Corinthians chapter 6 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?