Luke 8:4

Authorized King James Version

And when much people were gathered together, and were come to him out of every city, he spake by a parable:

Word-by-Word Analysis

Συνιόντος

G4896

were gathered together

to assemble

δὲ

G1161

And

but, and, etc

ὄχλου

G3793

people

a throng (as borne along); by implication, the rabble; by extension, a class of people; figuratively, a riot

πολλοῦ

G4183

when much

(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely

καὶ

G2532

and

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

τῶν

G3588

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

κατὰ

G2596

out of every

(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)

πόλιν

G4172

city

a town (properly, with walls, of greater or less size)

ἐπιπορευομένων

G1975

were come

to journey further, i.e., travel on (reach)

#10

πρὸς

G4314

a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,

#11

αὐτὸν

G846

him

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

#12

εἶπεν

G2036

he spake

to speak or say (by word or writing)

#13

διὰ

G1223

through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)

#14

παραβολῆς·

G3850

a parable

a similitude ("parable"), i.e., (symbolic) fictitious narrative (of common life conveying a moral), apothegm or adage

Analysis

Within the broader context of Luke, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, 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 covenant community 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?
In what ways does understanding covenant community in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?

Related Resources

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

Luke 8:4

Analysis

Historical Context

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Topics

People

Study Resources