Acts 15:9

Authorized King James Version

And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.

Word-by-Word Analysis

καὶ

G2532

And

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

οὐδέν

G3762

not even one (man, woman or thing), i.e., none, nobody, nothing

διέκρινεν

G1252

difference

to separate thoroughly, i.e., (literally and reflexively) to withdraw from, or (by implication) oppose; figuratively, to discriminate (by implication,

μεταξὺ

G3342

between

betwixt (of place or person); (of time) as adjective, intervening, or (by implication) adjoining

ἡμῶν

G2257

of (or from) us

τε

G5037

both or also (properly, as correlation of g2532)

καὶ

G2532

And

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

αὐτῶν

G846

their

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

τῇ

G3588

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

#10

πίστει

G4102

by faith

persuasion, i.e., credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of god or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon christ

#11

καθαρίσας

G2511

purifying

to cleanse (literally or figuratively)

#12

τὰς

G3588

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

#13

καρδίας

G2588

hearts

the heart, i.e., (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind); also (by analogy) the middle

#14

αὐτῶν

G846

their

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

Analysis

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

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 Acts Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes faith in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How might the original audience's understanding of faith differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does this verse's literary context within Acts chapter 15 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

Related Resources

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