3 John 1:7

Authorized King James Version

Because that for his name's sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ὑπὲρ
G5228
for
"over", i.e., (with the genitive case) of place, above, beyond, across, or causal, for the sake of, instead, regarding; with the accusative case super
#2
γὰρ
G1063
Because that
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#3
τοῦ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
ὀνόματος
G3686
name's
a "name" (literally or figuratively) (authority, character)
#5
ἐξῆλθον
G1831
they went forth
to issue (literally or figuratively)
#6
μηδὲν
G3367
nothing
not even one (man, woman, thing)
#7
λαμβάνοντες
G2983
taking
while g0138 is more violent, to seize or remove))
#8
ἀπὸ
G575
of
"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)
#9
τῶν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
ἐθνῶν
G1484
the Gentiles
a race (as of the same habit), i.e., a tribe; specially, a foreign (non-jewish) one (usually, by implication, pagan)

Analysis

Within the broader context of 3 John, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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 establishing foundational concepts crucial to 3 John's theological argument.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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