Matthew 11:26

Authorized King James Version

Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in thy sight.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ναί,
Even so
yes
#2
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#3
πατήρ,
Father
a "father" (literally or figuratively, near or more remote)
#4
ὅτι
for
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#5
οὕτως
so
in this way (referring to what precedes or follows)
#6
ἐγένετο
it seemed
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
#7
εὐδοκία
good
satisfaction, i.e., (subjectively) delight, or (objectively) kindness, wish, purpose
#8
ἔμπροσθέν
sight
in front of (in place (literally or figuratively) or time)
#9
σου
in thy
of thee, thy

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 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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