Acts 4:25

Authorized King James Version

Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, Why did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain things?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
τοῦ
Who
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#2
διὰ
by
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
#3
στόματος
the mouth
the mouth (as if a gash in the face); by implication, language (and its relations); figuratively, an opening (in the earth); specially, the front or e
#4
Δαβὶδ
David
david, the israelite king
#5
τοῦ
Who
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
παιδός
servant
a boy (as often beaten with impunity), or (by analogy), a girl, and (genitive case) a child; specially, a slave or servant (especially a minister to a
#7
σου
of thy
of thee, thy
#8
εἰπών
hast said
to speak or say (by word or writing)
#9
Ἱνατί
Why
for what reason ?, i.e., why?
#10
ἐφρύαξαν
did
to snort (as a spirited horse), i.e., (figuratively) to make a tumult
#11
ἔθνη
the heathen
a race (as of the same habit), i.e., a tribe; specially, a foreign (non-jewish) one (usually, by implication, pagan)
#12
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#13
λαοὶ
the people
a people (in general; thus differing from g1218, which denotes one's own populace)
#14
ἐμελέτησαν
imagine
to take care of, i.e., (by implication) revolve in the mind
#15
κενά
vain things
empty (literally or figuratively)

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

Related Resources

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

People