Acts 11:9

Authorized King James Version

But the voice answered me again from heaven, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἀπεκρίθη
answered
to conclude for oneself, i.e., (by implication) to respond; by hebraism (compare h6030) to begin to speak (where an address is expected)
#2
δὲ
But
but, and, etc
#3
μοι
me
to me
#4
φωνὴ
the voice
a tone (articulate, bestial or artificial); by implication, an address (for any purpose), saying or language
#5
ἐκ
again
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
#6
δευτέρου
(ordinal) second (in time, place, or rank; also adverb)
#7
ἐκ
again
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
#8
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
οὐρανοῦ
heaven
the sky; by extension, heaven (as the abode of god); by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the gospel (christianity)
#10
What
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
θεὸς
God
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
#13
ἐκαθάρισεν
hath cleansed
to cleanse (literally or figuratively)
#14
σὺ
thou
thou
#15
μὴ
not
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#16
κοίνου
common
to make (or consider) profane (ceremonially)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Acts. 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 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

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