John 3:17

Authorized King James Version

For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
οὐ
G3756
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#2
γὰρ
G1063
For
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#3
ἀπέστειλεν
G649
sent
set apart, i.e., (by implication) to send out (properly, on a mission) literally or figuratively
#4
ὁ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
θεὸς
G2316
God
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
#6
τὸν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
υἱὸν
G5207
Son
a "son" (sometimes of animals), used very widely of immediate, remote or figuratively, kinship
#8
αὐτοῦ
G846
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
#9
εἰς
G1519
into
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#10
τὸν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
κόσμος
G2889
the world
orderly arrangement, i.e., decoration; by implication, the world (including its inhabitants, literally or figuratively (morally))
#12
ἵνα
G2443
that
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#13
κρίνῃ
G2919
condemn
by implication, to try, condemn, punish
#14
τὸν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#15
κόσμος
G2889
the world
orderly arrangement, i.e., decoration; by implication, the world (including its inhabitants, literally or figuratively (morally))
#16
ἀλλ'
G235
but
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
#17
ἵνα
G2443
that
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#18
σωθῇ
G4982
might be saved
to save, i.e., deliver or protect (literally or figuratively)
#19
ὁ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#20
κόσμος
G2889
the world
orderly arrangement, i.e., decoration; by implication, the world (including its inhabitants, literally or figuratively (morally))
#21
δι'
G1223
through
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
#22
αὐτοῦ
G846
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

Analysis

Within the broader context of John, this passage highlights salvation 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

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation 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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

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

Topics

People

Study Resources