2 Corinthians 8:3

Authorized King James Version

For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ὅτι
G3754
For
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#2
κατὰ
G2596
to
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
#3
δύναμιν
G1411
their power
force (literally or figuratively); specially, miraculous power (usually by implication, a miracle itself)
#4
μαρτυρῶ
G3140
I bear record
to be a witness, i.e., testify (literally or figuratively)
#5
καὶ
G2532
yea and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#6
ὑπὲρ
G5228
beyond
"over", i.e., (with the genitive case) of place, above, beyond, across, or causal, for the sake of, instead, regarding; with the accusative case super
#7
δύναμιν
G1411
their power
force (literally or figuratively); specially, miraculous power (usually by implication, a miracle itself)
#8
αὐθαίρετοι
G830
they were willing of themselves
self-chosen, i.e., (by implication) voluntary

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 divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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