2 Corinthians 9:10

Authorized King James Version

Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;)

Word-by-Word Analysis

ὁ

G3588

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

δὲ

G1161

Now

but, and, etc

ἐπιχορηγῶν

G2023

he that ministereth

to furnish besides, i.e., fully supply, (figuratively) aid or contribute

σπέρμα

G4690

seed

something sown, i.e., seed (including the male "sperm"); by implication, offspring; specially, a remnant (figuratively, as if kept over for planting)

τῷ

G3588

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

σπείροντι

G4687

to the sower

to scatter, i.e., sow (literally or figuratively)

καὶ

G2532

and

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

ἄρτον

G740

bread

bread (as raised) or a loaf

εἰς

G1519

for

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

#10

βρῶσιν

G1035

your food

(abstractly) eating (literally or figuratively); by extension (concretely) food (literally or figuratively)

#11

χορηγήσαι

G5524

minister

to be a dance-leader, i.e., (generally) to furnish

#12

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#13

πληθυναῖ

G4129

multiply

to increase (transitively or intransitively)

#14

τὸν

G3588

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

#15

σπόρον

G4703

seed sown

a scattering (of seed), i.e., (concretely) seed (as sown)

#16

ὑμῶν·

G5216

of your

of (from or concerning) you

#17

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#18

αὐξήσαι

G837

increase

to grow ("wax"), i.e., enlarge (literal or figurative, active or passive)

#19

τὰ

G3588

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

#20

γεννήματα

G1081

the fruits

offspring; by analogy, produce (literally or figuratively)

#21

τῆς

G3588

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

#22

δικαιοσύνης

G1343

righteousness

equity (of character or act); specially (christian) justification

#23

ὑμῶν·

G5216

of your

of (from or concerning) you

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 2 Corinthians. The concept of righteousness reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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?
In what ways does understanding righteousness in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on righteousness address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?