Matthew 20:27

Authorized King James Version

And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
καὶ
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#2
ὃς
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#3
ἐὰν
whosoever
a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
#4
θέλῃ
will
to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),
#5
ἐν
among
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#6
ὑμῖν
you
to (with or by) you
#7
εἶναι
be
to exist
#8
πρῶτος
chief
foremost (in time, place, order or importance)
#9
ἔστω
let him be
be thou; also ??????? <pronunciation strongs="es'-to-san"/>, third person of the same; let them be
#10
ὑμῶν
your
of (from or concerning) you
#11
δοῦλος·
servant
a slave (literal or figurative, involuntary or voluntary; frequently, therefore in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency)

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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