Luke 13:24

Authorized King James Version

Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Ἀγωνίζεσθε
G75
Strive
to struggle, literally (to compete for a prize), figuratively (to contend with an adversary), or genitive case (to endeavor to accomplish something)
#2
εἰσελθεῖν
to enter in
to enter (literally or figuratively)
#3
διὰ
at
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
#4
τῆς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
στενῆς
the strait
narrow (from obstacles standing close about)
#6
πύλης·
gate
a gate, i.e., the leaf or wing of a folding entrance (literally or figuratively)
#7
ὅτι
for
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#8
πολλοί
many
(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely
#9
λέγω
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
#10
ὑμῖν
unto you
to (with or by) you
#11
ζητήσουσιν
will seek
to seek (literally or figuratively); specially, (by hebraism) to worship (god), or (in a bad sense) to plot (against life)
#12
εἰσελθεῖν
to enter in
to enter (literally or figuratively)
#13
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#14
οὐκ
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#15
ἰσχύσουσιν
be able
to have (or exercise) force (literally or figuratively)

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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