Matthew 26:61

Authorized King James Version

And said, This fellow said, I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to build it in three days.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
εἶπον,
And said
to speak or say (by word or writing)
#2
Οὗτος
This
the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)
#3
ἔφη
fellow said
to show or make known one's thoughts, i.e., speak or say
#4
Δύναμαι
I am able
to be able or possible
#5
καταλῦσαι
to destroy
to loosen down (disintegrate), i.e., (by implication) to demolish (literally or figuratively); specially (compare g2646) to halt for the night
#6
τὸν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
ναὸν
the temple
a fane, shrine, temple
#8
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
θεοῦ
of God
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
#10
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#11
διὰ
in
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
#12
τριῶν
three
"three"
#13
ἡμερῶν
days
day, i.e., (literally) the time space between dawn and dark, or the whole 24 hours (but several days were usually reckoned by the jews as inclusive of
#14
οἰκοδομῆσαι
to build
to be a house-builder, i.e., construct or (figuratively) confirm
#15
αὐτόν
it
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

Analysis

Within the broader context of Matthew, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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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