Mark 14:38

Authorized King James Version

Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
γρηγορεῖτε
Watch ye
to keep awake, i.e., watch (literally or figuratively)
#2
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#3
προσεύχεσθε
pray
to pray to god, i.e., supplicate, worship
#4
ἵνα
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#5
μὴ
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#6
εἰσέλθητε
ye enter
to enter (literally or figuratively)
#7
εἰς
into
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#8
πειρασμόν·
temptation
a putting to proof (by experiment (of good), experience (of evil), solicitation, discipline or provocation); by implication, adversity
#9
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
μὲν
truly
properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)
#11
πνεῦμα
The spirit
a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin
#12
πρόθυμον
is ready
forward in spirit, i.e., predisposed; neuter (as noun) alacrity
#13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
δὲ
but
but, and, etc
#15
σὰρξ
the flesh
flesh (as stripped of the skin), i.e., (strictly) the meat of an animal (as food), or (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul (or spirit), or
#16
ἀσθενής
is weak
strengthless (in various applications, literal, figurative and moral)

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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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