Matthew 18:31

Authorized King James Version

So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἰδόντες
saw
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
#2
δὲ
So
but, and, etc
#3
οἱ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
σύνδουλοι
fellowservants
a co-slave, i.e., servitor or ministrant of the same master (human or divine)
#5
ἀυτῶν
when his
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
#6
τὰ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
γενόμενα
that was done
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
#8
ἐλυπήθησαν
sorry
to distress; reflexively or passively, to be sad
#9
σφόδρα
they were very
of uncertain derivation) as adverb; vehemently, i.e., in a high degree, much
#10
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#11
ἐλθόντες
came
to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#12
διεσάφησαν
and told
to clear thoroughly, i.e., (figuratively) declare
#13
τῷ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
κυρίῳ
lord
supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)
#15
ἀυτῶν
when his
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
#16
πάντα
all
all, any, every, the whole
#17
τὰ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#18
γενόμενα
that was done
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Matthew, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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