Matthew 14:31
And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?
Word-by-Word Analysis
Analysis
Within the broader context of Matthew, this passage highlights salvation through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. The theological weight of faith connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about faith, 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 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 faith. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.
Questions for Reflection
- In what ways does understanding faith in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
- How does this verse's literary context within Matthew chapter 14 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
- How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.