John 21:19

Authorized King James Version

This spake he, signifying by what death he should glorify God. And when he had spoken this, he saith unto him, Follow me.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
τοῦτο
This
that thing
#2
δὲ
but, and, etc
#3
εἰπὼν
spake he
to speak or say (by word or writing)
#4
σημαίνων
signifying
to indicate
#5
ποίῳ
by what
individualizing interrogative (of character) what sort of, or (of number) which one
#6
θανάτῳ
death
(properly, an adjective used as a noun) death (literally or figuratively)
#7
δοξάσει
he should glorify
to render (or esteem) glorious (in a wide application)
#8
τὸν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
θεόν
God
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
#10
καὶ
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#11
τοῦτο
This
that thing
#12
εἰπὼν
spake he
to speak or say (by word or writing)
#13
λέγει
he saith
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#14
αὐτῷ
unto him
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
#15
Ἀκολούθει
Follow
properly, to be in the same way with, i.e., to accompany (specially, as a disciple)
#16
μοι
me
to me

Analysis

Within the broader context of John, this passage highlights faith and obedience through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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 John.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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