Acts 2:15

Authorized King James Version

For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
οὐ
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#2
γὰρ
For
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#3
ὡς
as
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
#4
ὑμεῖς
ye
you (as subjective of verb)
#5
ὑπολαμβάνετε
suppose
to take from below, i.e., carry upward; figuratively, to take up, i.e., continue a discourse or topic; mentally, to assume (presume)
#6
οὗτοι
these
the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)
#7
μεθύουσιν
are
to drink to intoxication, i.e., get drunk
#8
ἔστιν
it is
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are
#9
γὰρ
For
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#10
ὥρα
hour
an "hour" (literally or figuratively)
#11
τρίτη
but the third
third; neuter (as noun) a third part, or (as adverb) a (or the) third time, thirdly
#12
τῆς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
ἡμέρας
of the day
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

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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