John 4:34

Authorized King James Version

Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
λέγει
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
#2
αὐτοῦ
his
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
#3
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
Ἰησοῦς
Jesus
jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites
#5
Ἐμὸν
My
my
#6
βρῶμά
meat
food (literally or figuratively), especially (ceremonially) articles allowed or forbidden by the jewish law
#7
ἐστιν
is
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are
#8
ἵνα
to
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#9
ποιῶ
do
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
#10
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
θέλημα
the will
a determination (properly, the thing), i.e., (actively) choice (specially, purpose, decree; abstractly, volition) or (passively) inclination
#12
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
πέμψαντός
of him that sent
to dispatch (from the subjective view or point of departure, whereas ???? (as a stronger form of ????) refers rather to the objective point or <i>term
#14
με
me
me
#15
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#16
τελειώσω
to finish
to complete, i.e., (literally) accomplish, or (figuratively) consummate (in character)
#17
αὐτοῦ
his
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
#18
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#19
ἔργον
work
toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act

Analysis

Within the broader context of John, this passage highlights divine love through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 divine love 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

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