Acts 16:5

Authorized King James Version

And so were the churches established in the faith, and increased in number daily.

Word-by-Word Analysis

αἱ

G3588

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

μὲν

G3303

And so

properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)

οὖν

G3767

(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly

ἐκκλησίαι

G1577

the churches

a calling out, i.e., (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation (jewish synagogue, or christian community of members on earth

ἐστερεοῦντο

G4732

established

to solidify, i.e., confirm (literally or figuratively)

τῇ

G3588

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

πίστει

G4102

in the faith

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

καὶ

G2532

and

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

ἐπερίσσευον

G4052

increased

to superabound (in quantity or quality), be in excess, be superfluous; also (transitively) to cause to superabound or excel

#10

τῷ

G3588

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

#11

ἀριθμῷ

G706

in number

a number (as reckoned up)

#12

καθ'

G2596

(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)

#13

ἡμέραν

G2250

daily

day, i.e., (literally) the time space between dawn and dark, or the whole 24 hours (but several days were usually reckoned by the jews as inclusive of

Analysis

Within the broader context of Acts, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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 this verse's literary context within Acts chapter 16 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?
In what ways does understanding faith in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?

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