Philippians 1:28

Authorized King James Version

And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God.

Word-by-Word Analysis

καὶ

G2532

And

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

μὴ

G3361

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

πτυρόμενοι

G4426

terrified

to frighten

ἐν

G1722

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

μηδενὶ

G3367

nothing

not even one (man, woman, thing)

ὑπὸ

G5259

under, i.e., (with the genitive case) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the accusative case) of place (whither (

τῶν

G3588

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

ἀντικειμένων

G480

your adversaries

to lie opposite, i.e., be adverse (figuratively, repugnant) to

ἥτις

G3748

which

which some, i.e., any that; also (definite) which same

#10

αὐτοῖς

G846

to 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

#11

μέν

G3303

properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)

#12

ἐστὶν

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

#13

ἔνδειξις

G1732

an evident token

indication (abstractly)

#14

ἀπωλείας

G684

of perdition

ruin or loss (physical, spiritual or eternal)

#15

ὑμῖν

G5213

to you

to (with or by) you

#16

δὲ

G1161

but

but, and, etc

#17

σωτηρίας

G4991

of salvation

rescue or safety (physically or morally)

#18

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#19

τοῦτο

G5124

that

that thing

#20

ἀπὸ

G575

"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)

#21

θεοῦ·

G2316

God

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

Analysis

Within the broader context of Philippians, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of salvation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about salvation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by establishing foundational concepts crucial to Philippians's theological argument.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood salvation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on salvation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
In what ways does understanding salvation 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

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Topics

Peace