Matthew 10:27

Authorized King James Version

What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light: and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
What
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#2
λέγω
I tell
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#3
ὑμῖν
you
to (with or by) you
#4
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#5
τῇ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
σκοτίᾳ
darkness
dimness, obscurity (literally or figuratively)
#7
εἴπατε
that speak ye
to speak or say (by word or writing)
#8
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#9
τῷ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
φωτί
light
luminousness (in the widest application, natural or artificial, abstract or concrete, literal or figurative)
#11
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#12
What
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#13
εἰς
in
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#14
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#15
οὖς
the ear
the ear (physically or mentally)
#16
ἀκούετε
ye hear
to hear (in various senses)
#17
κηρύξατε
that preach ye
to herald (as a public crier), especially divine truth (the gospel)
#18
ἐπὶ
upon
properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
#19
τῶν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#20
δωμάτων
the housetops
properly, an edifice, i.e., (specially) a roof

Analysis

Within the broader context of Matthew, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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 Matthew.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of Jewish biographical literature presenting Jesus as the fulfillment of Scripture shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Matthew Understanding a worldview expecting divine intervention through a promised Messiah helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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