Matthew 13:49

Authorized King James Version

So shall it be at the end of the world: the angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
οὕτως
So
in this way (referring to what precedes or follows)
#2
ἔσται
shall it be
will be
#3
ἐν
at
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#4
τῇ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
συντελείᾳ
the end
entire completion, i.e., consummation (of a dispensation)
#6
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
αἰῶνος·
of the world
properly, an age; by extension, perpetuity (also past); by implication, the world; specially (jewish) a messianic period (present or future)
#8
ἐξελεύσονται
shall come forth
to issue (literally or figuratively)
#9
οἱ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
ἄγγελοι
G32
the angels
compare g0034) (to bring tidings); a messenger; especially an "angel"; by implication, a pastor
#11
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#12
ἀφοριοῦσιν
sever
to set off by boundary, i.e., (figuratively) limit, exclude, appoint, etc
#13
τοὺς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
πονηροὺς
the wicked
hurtful, i.e., evil (properly, in effect or influence, and thus differing from g2556, which refers rather to essential character, as well as from g455
#15
ἐκ
from
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
#16
μέσου
among
middle (as an adjective or (neuter) noun)
#17
τῶν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#18
δικαίων
the just
equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy (absolutely or relatively)

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 first-century Palestinian Jewish culture under Roman occupation 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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