Galatians 1:20

Authorized King James Version

Now the things which I write unto you, behold, before God, I lie not.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
the things which
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#2
δὲ
Now
but, and, etc
#3
γράφω
I write
to "grave", especially to write; figuratively, to describe
#4
ὑμῖν
unto you
to (with or by) you
#5
ἰδού,
behold
used as imperative lo!
#6
ἐνώπιον
before
in the face of (literally or figuratively)
#7
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
θεοῦ
God
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
#9
ὅτι
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#10
οὐ
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#11
ψεύδομαι
I lie
to utter an untruth or attempt to deceive by falsehood

Analysis

Within the broader context of Galatians, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by establishing foundational concepts crucial to Galatians's theological argument.

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

Questions for Reflection