John 17:20

Authorized King James Version

Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;

Word-by-Word Analysis

Οὐ

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

περὶ

G4012

for

properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas

τούτων

G5130

these

of (from or concerning) these (persons or things)

δὲ

G1161

Neither

but, and, etc

ἐρωτῶ

G2065

pray I

to interrogate; by implication, to request

μόνον

G3440

alone

merely

ἀλλὰ

G235

but

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

καὶ

G2532

them also

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

περὶ

G4012

for

properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas

#10

τῶν

G3588

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

#11

πιστευσόντων

G4100

which shall believe

to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing), i.e., credit; by implication, to entrust (especially one's spiritual well-being to ch

#12

διὰ

G1223

through

through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)

#13

τοῦ

G3588

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

#14

λόγου

G3056

word

something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a

#15

αὐτῶν

G846

their

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

#16

εἰς

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

#17

ἐμέ

G1691

Analysis

This verse develops the faith and obedience theme central to John. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of faith and obedience within biblical theology. 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

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of faith and obedience within the theological tradition of John Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address the relationship between faith and works in salvation, and how should the church respond?
How does the faith and obedience theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How does this verse's literary context within John chapter 17 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

Related Resources

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John 17:20

Analysis

Historical Context

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Topics

People

Study Resources