Acts 17:27

Authorized King James Version

That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ζητεῖν
That they should seek
to seek (literally or figuratively); specially, (by hebraism) to worship (god), or (in a bad sense) to plot (against life)
#2
τὸν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#3
Κύριον,
the Lord
supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)
#4
εἰ
if
if, whether, that, etc
#5
ἄρα
haply
a particle denoting an inference more or less decisive (as follows)
#6
γε
doubtless, since
#7
ψηλαφήσειαν
they might feel
to manipulate, i.e., verify by contact; figuratively, to search for
#8
αὐτὸν
after him
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
#9
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#10
εὕροιεν
find him
to find (literally or figuratively)
#11
καίτοιγε
though
and yet indeed, i.e., although really
#12
οὐ
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#13
μακρὰν
far
at a distance (literally or figuratively)
#14
ἀπὸ
from
"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)
#15
ἑνὸς
one
one
#16
ἑκάστου
every
each or every
#17
ἡμῶν
of us
of (or from) us
#18
ὑπάρχοντα
he be
to begin under (quietly), i.e., come into existence (be present or at hand); expletively, to exist (as copula or subordinate to an adjective, particip

Analysis

Within the broader context of Acts, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 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

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People