Acts 24:17

Authorized King James Version

Now after many years I came to bring alms to my nation, and offerings.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
δι'
after
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
#2
ἐτῶν
years
a year
#3
δὲ
Now
but, and, etc
#4
πλειόνων
many
more in quantity, number, or quality; also (in plural) the major portion
#5
παρεγενόμην
I came
to become near, i.e., approach (have arrived); by implication, to appear publicly
#6
ἐλεημοσύνας
alms
compassionateness, i.e., (as exercised towards the poor) beneficence, or (concretely) a benefaction
#7
ποιήσων
to bring
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
#8
εἰς
to
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#9
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
ἔθνος
nation
a race (as of the same habit), i.e., a tribe; specially, a foreign (non-jewish) one (usually, by implication, pagan)
#11
μου
my
of me
#12
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#13
προσφοράς
offerings
presentation; concretely, an oblation (bloodless) or sacrifice

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Acts. The concept of covenant community 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 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 covenant community in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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