Acts 3:17

Authorized King James Version

And now, brethren, I wot that through ignorance ye did it, as did also your rulers.

Word-by-Word Analysis

καὶ

G2532

And

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

νῦν

G3568

now

"now" (as adverb of date, a transition or emphasis); also as noun or adjective present or immediate

ἀδελφοί

G80

brethren

a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)

οἶδα

G1492

I wot

used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl

ὅτι

G3754

that

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

κατὰ

G2596

through

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

ἄγνοιαν

G52

ignorance

ignorance (properly, the quality)

ἐπράξατε

G4238

ye did

to "practise", i.e., perform repeatedly or habitually (thus differing from g4160, which properly refers to a single act); by implication, to execute,

ὥσπερ

G5618

it as

just as, i.e., exactly like

#10

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#11

οἱ

G3588

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

#12

ἄρχοντες

G758

rulers

a first (in rank or power)

#13

ὑμῶν·

G5216

your

of (from or concerning) you

Analysis

Within the broader context of Acts, this passage highlights kingdom of God through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on kingdom of God particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How does the kingdom of God theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about kingdom of God?

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