Acts 9:22

Authorized King James Version

But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Σαῦλος
Saul
saulus (i.e., shaul), the jewish name of paul
#2
δὲ
But
but, and, etc
#3
μᾶλλον
the more
(adverbially) more (in a greater degree)) or rather
#4
ἐνεδυναμοῦτο
in strength
to empower
#5
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#6
συνέχυνεν
confounded
to commingle promiscuously, i.e., (figuratively) to throw (an assembly) into disorder, to perplex (the mind)
#7
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
Ἰουδαίους
the Jews
judaean, i.e., belonging to jehudah
#9
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
κατοικοῦντας
dwelt
to house permanently, i.e., reside (literally or figuratively)
#11
ἐν
at
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#12
Δαμασκῷ
Damascus
damascus, a city of syria
#13
συμβιβάζων
proving
causative (by reduplication) of the base of g0939); to drive together, i.e., unite (in association or affection), (mentally) to infer, show, teach
#14
ὅτι
that
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#15
οὗτός
this
the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)
#16
ἐστιν
is
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are
#17
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#18
Χριστός
Christ
anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus

Analysis

Within the broader context of Acts, this passage highlights salvation 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

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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