Philippians 1:23

For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:

Word-by-Word Analysis

συνέχομαι

G4912

I am in a strait

to hold together, i.e., to compress (the ears, with a crowd or siege) or arrest (a prisoner); figuratively, to compel, perplex, afflict, preoccupy

γὰρ

G1063

For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

ἐκ

G1537

betwixt

a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct

τῶν

G3588

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

δύο

G1417

two

"two"

τὴν

G3588

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

ἐπιθυμίαν

G1939

a desire

a longing (especially for what is forbidden)

ἔχων

G2192

having

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

εἰς

G1519

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

#10

τὸ

G3588

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

#11

ἀναλῦσαι

G360

depart

to break up, i.e., depart (literally or figuratively)

#12

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#13

σὺν

G4862

with

with or together (but much closer than g3326 or g3844), i.e., by association, companionship, process, resemblance, possession, instrumentality, additi

#14

Χριστῷ

G5547

Christ

anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus

#15

εἶναι

G1511

to be

to exist

#16

πολλῷ

G4183

which is far

(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely

#17

μᾶλλον

G3123

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

#18

κρεῖσσον·

G2908

(as noun) better, i.e., greater advantage

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Philippians. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. 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

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

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?
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?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?

Related Resources

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Topics

Peace