John 1:30

Authorized King James Version

This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man which is preferred before me: for he was before me.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
οὗτός
G3778
This
the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)
#2
ἐστιν
G2076
is he
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are
#3
περὶ
G4012
of
properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas
#4
ὃς
G3739
which
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#5
ἐγὼ
G1473
I
i, me
#6
εἶπον
G2036
said
to speak or say (by word or writing)
#7
Ὀπίσω
G3694
After
to the back, i.e., aback (as adverb or preposition of time or place; or as noun)
#8
μου
G3450
me
of me
#9
ἔρχεται
G2064
cometh
to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#10
ἀνὴρ
G435
a man
a man (properly as an individual male)
#11
ὃς
G3739
which
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#12
ἔμπροσθέν
G1715
before
in front of (in place (literally or figuratively) or time)
#13
μου
G3450
me
of me
#14
γέγονεν
G1096
is preferred
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
#15
ὅτι
G3754
for
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#16
πρῶτός
G4413
before
foremost (in time, place, order or importance)
#17
μου
G3450
me
of me
#18
ἦν
G2258
he was
i (thou, etc.) was (wast or were)

Analysis

This verse develops the divine love theme central to John. The concept of divine revelation reflects the essential nature of God revealed through Christ. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to theological biography emphasizing Jesus' divine identity, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

Related Resources

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

Topics

People

Study Resources