Hebrews 12:23

Authorized King James Version

To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect,

Word-by-Word Analysis

πανηγύρει

G3831

To the general assembly

a mass-meeting, i.e., (figuratively) universal companionship

καὶ

G2532

and

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

ἐκκλησίᾳ

G1577

church

a calling out, i.e., (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation (jewish synagogue, or christian community of members on earth

πρωτοτόκων

G4416

of the firstborn

first-born (usually as noun, literally or figuratively)

ἐν

G1722

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

οὐρανοῖς

G3772

heaven

the sky; by extension, heaven (as the abode of god); by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the gospel (christianity)

ἀπογεγραμμένων

G583

which are written

to write off (a copy or list), i.e., enrol

καὶ

G2532

and

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

κριτῇ

G2923

the Judge

a judge (genitive case or specially)

#10

θεῷ

G2316

to God

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

#11

πάντων

G3956

of all

all, any, every, the whole

#12

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#13

πνεύμασιν

G4151

to the spirits

a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin

#14

δικαίων

G1342

of just men

equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy (absolutely or relatively)

#15

τετελειωμένων

G5048

made perfect

to complete, i.e., (literally) accomplish, or (figuratively) consummate (in character)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Hebrews, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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 Hebrews.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about 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?
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?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics

Faith
Hope