Colossians 3:4

Authorized King James Version

When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ὅταν
G3752
When
whenever (implying hypothesis or more or less uncertainty); also causatively (conjunctionally) inasmuch as
#2
ὁ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#3
Χριστὸς
G5547
Christ
anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus
#4
φανερωθήσεσθε
G5319
appear
to render apparent (literally or figuratively)
#5
ἡ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
ζωὴ
G2222
life
life (literally or figuratively)
#7
ἡμῶν
G2257
who is our
of (or from) us
#8
τότε
G5119
then
the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)
#9
καὶ
G2532
also
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#10
ὑμεῖς
G5210
ye
you (as subjective of verb)
#11
σὺν
G4862
with
with or together (but much closer than g3326 or g3844), i.e., by association, companionship, process, resemblance, possession, instrumentality, additi
#12
αὐτῷ
G846
him
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
#13
φανερωθήσεσθε
G5319
appear
to render apparent (literally or figuratively)
#14
ἐν
G1722
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#15
δόξῃ
G1391
glory
glory (as very apparent), in a wide application (literal or figurative, objective or subjective)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Colossians, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of glory connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about glory, 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 Colossians.

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 Colossians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes glory in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection