Galatians 2:17

Authorized King James Version

But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid.

Word-by-Word Analysis

εἰ

G1487

if, whether, that, etc

δὲ

G1161

But

but, and, etc

ζητοῦντες

G2212

while we seek

to seek (literally or figuratively); specially, (by hebraism) to worship (god), or (in a bad sense) to plot (against life)

δικαιωθῆναι

G1344

to be justified

to render (i.e., show or regard as) just or innocent

ἐν

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

Χριστὸς

G5547

Christ

anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus

εὑρέθημεν

G2147

are found

to find (literally or figuratively)

καὶ

G2532

also

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

αὐτοὶ

G846

ourselves

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

#10

ἁμαρτωλοί

G268

sinners

sinful, i.e., a sinner

#11

ἆρα

G687

is therefore

therefore

#12

Χριστὸς

G5547

Christ

anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus

#13

ἁμαρτίας

G266

of sin

a sin (properly abstract)

#14

διάκονος

G1249

the minister

an attendant, i.e., (genitive case) a waiter (at table or in other menial duties); specially, a christian teacher and pastor (technically, a deacon)

#15

μὴ

G3361

God forbid

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

#16

γένοιτο

G1096

to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Galatians, this passage highlights salvation through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. 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 building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Galatians.

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 salvation 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does this verse's literary context within Galatians chapter 2 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?