2 Peter 2:4

Authorized King James Version

For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment;

Word-by-Word Analysis

Εἰ

G1487

if, whether, that, etc

γὰρ

G1063

For

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

ὁ

G3588

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

θεὸς

G2316

God

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

ἀγγέλων

G32

the angels

compare g0034) (to bring tidings); a messenger; especially an "angel"; by implication, a pastor

ἁμαρτησάντων

G264

that sinned

properly, to miss the mark (and so not share in the prize), i.e., (figuratively) to err, especially (morally) to sin

οὐκ

G3756

not

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

ἐφείσατο

G5339

spared

to be chary of, i.e., (subjectively) to abstain or (objectively) to treat leniently

ἀλλὰ

G235

but

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

#10

σειραῖς

G4577

them into chains

akin to g0138); a chain (as binding or drawing)

#11

ζόφου

G2217

of darkness

gloom (as shrouding like a cloud)

#12

ταρταρώσας

G5020

cast them down to hell

to incarcerate in eternal torment

#13

παρέδωκεν

G3860

and delivered

to surrender, i.e yield up, entrust, transmit

#14

εἰς

G1519

unto

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

#15

κρίσιν

G2920

judgment

decision (subjectively or objectively, for or against); by extension, a tribunal; by implication, justice (especially, divine law)

#16

τετηρημένους·

G5083

to be reserved

to guard (from loss or injury, properly, by keeping the eye upon; and thus differing from g5442, which is properly to prevent escaping; and from g2892

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 2 Peter. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. 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

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 Peter Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does this verse's literary context within 2 Peter chapter 2 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?