Luke 17:10

Authorized King James Version

So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
οὕτως
G3779
So
in this way (referring to what precedes or follows)
#2
καὶ
G2532
likewise
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#3
ὑμεῖς
G5210
ye
you (as subjective of verb)
#4
ὅταν
G3752
when
whenever (implying hypothesis or more or less uncertainty); also causatively (conjunctionally) inasmuch as
#5
πεποιήκαμεν
G4160
to do
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
#6
πάντα
G3956
all
all, any, every, the whole
#7
τὰ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
διαταχθέντα
G1299
those things which are commanded
to arrange thoroughly, i.e., (specially) institute, prescribe, etc
#9
ὑμῖν
G5213
you
to (with or by) you
#10
λέγετε
G3004
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
#11
ὅτι
G3754
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#12
Δοῦλοι
G1401
servants
a slave (literal or figurative, involuntary or voluntary; frequently, therefore in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency)
#13
ἀχρεῖοί
G888
unprofitable
useless, i.e., (euphemistically) unmeritorious
#14
ἐσμεν
G2070
We are
we are
#15
ὅτι
G3754
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#16
ὃ
G3739
that which
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#17
ὠφείλομεν
G3784
was our duty
to owe (pecuniarily); figuratively, to be under obligation (ought, must, should); morally, to fail in duty
#18
πεποιήκαμεν
G4160
to do
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
#19
πεποιήκαμεν
G4160
to 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 simile or metaphorical language. 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

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