2 Thessalonians 3:9

Authorized King James Version

Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
οὐκ
G3756
Not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#2
ὅτι
G3754
because
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#3
οὐκ
G3756
Not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#4
ἔχομεν
G2192
we have
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
#5
ἐξουσίαν
G1849
power
privilege, i.e., (subjectively) force, capacity, competency, freedom, or (objectively) mastery (concretely, magistrate, superhuman, potentate, token o
#6
ἀλλ'
G235
but
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
#7
ἵνα
G2443
to
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#8
ἑαυτοὺς
G1438
ourselves
(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc
#9
τύπον
G5179
an ensample
a die (as struck), i.e., (by implication) a stamp or scar; by analogy, a shape, i.e., a statue, (figuratively) style or resemblance; specially, a samp
#10
δῶμεν
G1325
make
to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)
#11
ὑμῖν
G5213
unto you
to (with or by) you
#12
εἰς
G1519
to
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#13
τὸ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
μιμεῖσθαι
G3401
follow
to imitate
#15
ἡμᾶς
G2248
us
us

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Thessalonians, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 Thessalonians.

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 revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection