Luke 12:52

Authorized King James Version

For from henceforth there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἔσονται
there shall be
will be
#2
γὰρ
For
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#3
ἀπὸ
from
"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)
#4
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
νῦν
henceforth
"now" (as adverb of date, a transition or emphasis); also as noun or adjective present or immediate
#6
πέντε
five
"five"
#7
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#8
οἴκῳ
house
a dwelling (more or less extensive, literal or figurative); by implication, a family (more or less related, literally or figuratively)
#9
ἑνὶ
one
one
#10
διαμεμερισμένοι
divided
to partition thoroughly (literally in distribution, figuratively in dissension)
#11
τρισίν
three
"three"
#12
ἐπὶ
against
properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
#13
δύο
two
"two"
#14
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#15
δύο
two
"two"
#16
ἐπὶ
against
properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
#17
τρισίν
three
"three"

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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

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