Galatians 3:7

Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham.

Word-by-Word Analysis

Γινώσκετε

G1097

Know ye

to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)

ἄρα

G686

therefore

a particle denoting an inference more or less decisive (as follows)

ὅτι

G3754

that

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

οἱ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἐκ

G1537

they which are of

a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct

πίστεως

G4102

faith

persuasion, i.e., credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of god or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon christ

οὗτοι

G3778

the same

the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)

εἰσιν

G1526

are

they are

υἱοί

G5207

the children

a "son" (sometimes of animals), used very widely of immediate, remote or figuratively, kinship

#10

Ἀβραάμ

G11

of Abraham

abraham, the hebrew patriarch

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Galatians. The concept of faith 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 pistis in Greek, encompassing both belief and faithfulness, 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 Galatians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes faith in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?