Philemon 1:4

Authorized King James Version

I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers,

Word-by-Word Analysis

Εὐχαριστῶ

G2168

I thank

to be grateful, i.e., (actively) to express gratitude (towards); specially, to say grace at a meal

τῷ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

Θεῷ

G2316

God

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

μου

G3450

of me

πάντοτε

G3842

always

every when, i.e., at all times

μνείαν

G3417

mention

recollection; by implication, recital

σου

G4675

of thee

of thee, thy

ποιούμενος

G4160

making

to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)

ἐπὶ

G1909

properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re

#10

τῶν

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#11

προσευχῶν

G4335

prayers

prayer (worship); by implication, an oratory (chapel)

#12

μου

G3450

of me

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Philemon. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Philemon Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within Philemon chapter 1 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?