Luke 12:4

And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do.

Word-by-Word Analysis

Λέγω

G3004

I say

properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an

δὲ

G1161

And

but, and, etc

ὑμῖν

G5213

unto you

to (with or by) you

τοῖς

G3588

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

φίλοις

G5384

friends

actively, fond, i.e., friendly (still as a noun, an associate, neighbor, etc.)

μου

G3450

of me

μὴ

G3361

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

φοβηθῆτε

G5399

to frighten, i.e., (passively) to be alarmed; by analogy, to be in awe of, i.e., revere

ἀπὸ

G575

of them

"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)

#10

τῶν

G3588

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

#11

ἀποκτεινόντων

G615

that kill

to kill outright; figuratively, to destroy

#12

τὸ

G3588

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

#13

σῶμα

G4983

the body

the body (as a sound whole), used in a very wide application, literally or figuratively

#14

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#15

μετὰ

G3326

after

properly, denoting accompaniment; "amid" (local or causal); modified variously according to the case (genitive association, or accusative succession)

#16

ταῦτα

G5023

that

these things

#17

μὴ

G3361

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

#18

ἐχόντων

G2192

have

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

#19

περισσότερόν

G4053

superabundant (in quantity) or superior (in quality); by implication, excessive; adverbially (with g1537) violently; neuter (as noun) preeminence

#20

τι

G5100

some or any person or object

#21

ποιῆσαι

G4160

that they can do

to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Luke, this passage highlights salvation 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 Luke.

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 Luke 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

How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?

Related Resources

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

Luke 12:4

Analysis

Historical Context

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Topics

People

Study Resources