Acts 19:15

Authorized King James Version

And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἀποκριθὲν
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
And
but, and, etc
#3
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
πνεῦμα
spirit
a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin
#5
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
πονηρὸν
the evil
hurtful, i.e., evil (properly, in effect or influence, and thus differing from g2556, which refers rather to essential character, as well as from g455
#7
εἶπεν
and said
to speak or say (by word or writing)
#8
Τὸν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
Ἰησοῦν
Jesus
jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites
#10
γινώσκω
I know
to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)
#11
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#12
τὸν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
Παῦλον
Paul
(little; but remotely from a derivative of g3973, meaning the same); paulus, the name of a roman and of an apostle
#14
ἐπίσταμαι
I know
to put the mind upon, i.e., comprehend, or be acquainted with
#15
ὑμεῖς
ye
you (as subjective of verb)
#16
δὲ
And
but, and, etc
#17
τίνες
who
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#18
ἐστέ
are
ye are

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Acts. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. 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 revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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