Luke 19:10

Authorized King James Version

For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἦλθεν
is come
to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#2
γὰρ
For
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#3
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
υἱὸς
the Son
a "son" (sometimes of animals), used very widely of immediate, remote or figuratively, kinship
#5
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
ἀνθρώπου
of man
man-faced, i.e., a human being
#7
ζητῆσαι
to seek
to seek (literally or figuratively); specially, (by hebraism) to worship (god), or (in a bad sense) to plot (against life)
#8
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#9
σῶσαι
to save
to save, i.e., deliver or protect (literally or figuratively)
#10
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
ἀπολωλός
that which was lost
to destroy fully (reflexively, to perish, or lose), literally or figuratively

Cross References

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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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