3 John 1:2

Authorized King James Version

Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.

Word-by-Word Analysis

Ἀγαπητέ,

G27

Beloved

beloved

περὶ

G4012

above

properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas

πάντων

G3956

all things

all, any, every, the whole

εὔχομαί

G2172

I wish

to wish; by implication, to pray to god

σε

G4571

that thou

thee

εὐοδοῦταί

G2137

mayest prosper

to help on the road, i.e., (passively) succeed in reaching; figuratively, to succeed in business affairs

καὶ

G2532

and

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

ὑγιαίνειν

G5198

be in health

to have sound health, i.e., be well (in body); figuratively, to be uncorrupt (true in doctrine)

καθὼς

G2531

even as

just (or inasmuch) as, that

#10

εὐοδοῦταί

G2137

mayest prosper

to help on the road, i.e., (passively) succeed in reaching; figuratively, to succeed in business affairs

#11

σου

G4675

thy

of thee, thy

#12

ἡ

G3588

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

#13

ψυχή

G5590

soul

breath, i.e., (by implication) spirit, abstractly or concretely (the animal sentient principle only; thus distinguished on the one hand from g4151, wh

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 3 John. The concept of love reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The emotional and relational language employed here is characteristic of biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, emphasizing the personal nature of divine-human relationship. The original language emphasizes agape in Greek contexts or hesed in Hebrew, indicating covenantal loyalty, 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 3 John Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes love in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of love differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
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?
How does this verse's literary context within 3 John chapter 1 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?