John 16:8

Authorized King James Version

And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#2
ἐλθὼν
G2064
when he is come
to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#3
ἐκεῖνος
G1565
he
that one (or (neuter) thing); often intensified by the article prefixed
#4
ἐλέγξει
G1651
will reprove
to confute, admonish
#5
τὸν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
κόσμον
G2889
the world
orderly arrangement, i.e., decoration; by implication, the world (including its inhabitants, literally or figuratively (morally))
#7
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
#8
ἁμαρτίας
G266
sin
a sin (properly abstract)
#9
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#10
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
#11
δικαιοσύνης
G1343
righteousness
equity (of character or act); specially (christian) justification
#12
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#13
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
#14
κρίσεως·
G2920
judgment
decision (subjectively or objectively, for or against); by extension, a tribunal; by implication, justice (especially, divine law)

Analysis

This verse develops the divine love theme central to John. The concept of righteousness 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

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