Philippians 1:22

Authorized King James Version

But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not.

Word-by-Word Analysis

εἰ

G1487

if, whether, that, etc

δὲ

G1161

But

but, and, etc

τὸ

G3588

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

ζῆν

G2198

I live

to live (literally or figuratively)

ἐν

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

σαρκί

G4561

the flesh

flesh (as stripped of the skin), i.e., (strictly) the meat of an animal (as food), or (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul (or spirit), or

τοῦτό

G5124

this

that thing

μοι

G3427

to me

καρπὸς

G2590

is the fruit

fruit (as plucked), literally or figuratively

#10

ἔργου

G2041

of my labour

toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act

#11

καὶ

G2532

yet

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#12

τί

G5101

what

an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)

#13

αἱρήσομαι

G138

I shall choose

to take for oneself, i.e., to prefer

#14

οὐ

G3756

not

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

#15

γνωρίζω

G1107

I wot

to make known; subjectively, to know

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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?

Related Resources

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Topics

Peace