Philippians 1:12

Authorized King James Version

But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel;

Word-by-Word Analysis

Γινώσκειν

G1097

should understand

to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)

δὲ

G1161

But

but, and, etc

ὑμᾶς

G5209

you (as the objective of a verb or preposition)

βούλομαι

G1014

I would

to "will," i.e., (reflexively) be willing

ἀδελφοί

G80

brethren

a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)

ὅτι

G3754

that

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

τὰ

G3588

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

κατ'

G2596

the things which happened unto

(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)

ἐμὲ

G1691

#10

μᾶλλον

G3123

rather

(adverbially) more (in a greater degree)) or rather

#11

εἰς

G1519

unto

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

#12

προκοπὴν

G4297

the furtherance

progress, i.e., advancement (subjectively or objectively)

#13

τοῦ

G3588

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

#14

εὐαγγελίου

G2098

of the gospel

a good message, i.e., the gospel

#15

ἐλήλυθεν

G2064

have fallen out

to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

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

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within Philippians chapter 1 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
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?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics

Peace