Mark 3:20

Authorized King James Version

And the multitude cometh together again, so that they could not so much as eat bread.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Καὶ
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#2
συνέρχεται
cometh together
to convene, depart in company with, associate with, or (specially), cohabit (conjugally)
#3
πάλιν
again
(adverbially) anew, i.e., (of place) back, (of time) once more, or (conjunctionally) furthermore or on the other hand
#4
ὄχλος
the multitude
a throng (as borne along); by implication, the rabble; by extension, a class of people; figuratively, a riot
#5
ὥστε
so that
so too, i.e., thus therefore (in various relations of consecution, as follow)
#6
μὴ
not
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#7
δύνασθαι
could
to be able or possible
#8
αὐτοὺς
they
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
#9
μήτε
so much as
not too, i.e., (in continued negation) neither or nor; also, not even
#10
ἄρτον
bread
bread (as raised) or a loaf
#11
φαγεῖν
eat
to eat (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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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