Matthew 7:29

Authorized King James Version

For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἦν
i (thou, etc.) was (wast or were)
#2
γὰρ
For
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#3
διδάσκων
he taught
to teach (in the same broad application)
#4
αὐτοὺς
them
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
#5
ὡς
as
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
#6
ἐξουσίαν
authority
privilege, i.e., (subjectively) force, capacity, competency, freedom, or (objectively) mastery (concretely, magistrate, superhuman, potentate, token o
#7
ἔχων
one having
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
#8
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#9
οὐχ
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#10
ὡς
as
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
#11
οἱ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
γραμματεῖς
the scribes
a professional writer

Analysis

The kingdom of God theme here intersects with the progressive revelation of God's rule from creation to consummation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of development from creation mandate through Davidic kingdom to eschatological fulfillment. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's reign from creation through the millennial kingdom.

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 kingdom of God 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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