John 6:28

Authorized King James Version

Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
εἶπον
said they
to speak or say (by word or writing)
#2
οὖν
Then
(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly
#3
πρὸς
unto
a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,
#4
αὐτόν
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
#5
Τί
What
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#6
ποιοῦμεν
shall we do
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
#7
ἵνα
that
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#8
ἐργαζώμεθα
we might work
to toil (as a task, occupation, etc.), (by implication) effect, be engaged in or with, etc
#9
τὰ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
ἔργα
the works
toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act
#11
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
θεοῦ
of God
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

Analysis

This verse develops the divine love theme central to John. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the essential nature of God revealed through Christ. The divine name or title here functions within theological biography emphasizing Jesus' divine identity to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. 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 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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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