2 Peter 3:9

Authorized King James Version

The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
οὐ
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#2
βραδύνει
is
to delay
#3
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
κύριος
The Lord
supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)
#5
τῆς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
ἐπαγγελίας
concerning his promise
an announcement (for information, assent or pledge; especially a divine assurance of good)
#7
ὥς
as
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
#8
τινας
some men
some or any person or object
#9
βραδύτητα
slackness
tardiness
#10
ἡγοῦνται
count
to lead, i.e., command (with official authority); figuratively, to deem, i.e., consider
#11
ἀλλὰ
but
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
#12
μακροθυμεῖ
is longsuffering
to be long-spirited, i.e., (objectively) forbearing or (subjectively) patient
#13
εἰς
to
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#14
ἡμᾶς,
us-ward
us
#15
μὴ
not
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#16
βουλόμενός
willing
to "will," i.e., (reflexively) be willing
#17
τινας
some men
some or any person or object
#18
ἀπολέσθαι
should perish
to destroy fully (reflexively, to perish, or lose), literally or figuratively
#19
ἀλλὰ
but
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
#20
πάντας
that all
all, any, every, the whole
#21
εἰς
to
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#22
μετάνοιαν
repentance
(subjectively) compunction (for guilt, including reformation); by implication, reversal (of (another's) decision)
#23
χωρῆσαι
should come
to be in (give) space, i.e., (intransitively) to pass, enter, or (transitively) to hold, admit (literally or figuratively)

Cross References

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Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Peter, this passage highlights covenant 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 Peter.

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