Matthew 20:10

Authorized King James Version

But when the first came, they supposed that they should have received more; and they likewise received every man a penny.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἐλθόντες
G2064
came
to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#2
δὲ
G1161
But
but, and, etc
#3
οἱ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
πρῶτοι
G4413
when the first
foremost (in time, place, order or importance)
#5
ἐνόμισαν
G3543
they supposed
properly, to do by law (usage), i.e., to accustom (passively, be usual); by extension, to deem or regard
#6
ὅτι
G3754
that
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#7
πλεῖονα
G4119
more
more in quantity, number, or quality; also (in plural) the major portion
#8
ἔλαβον
G2983
received
while g0138 is more violent, to seize or remove))
#9
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#10
ἔλαβον
G2983
received
while g0138 is more violent, to seize or remove))
#11
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#12
αὐτοί
G846
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
#13
ἀνὰ
G303
every man
properly, up; but (by extension) used (distributively) severally, or (locally) at (etc.)
#14
δηνάριον
G1220
a penny
a denarius (or ten asses)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Matthew, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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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