Philippians 2:17

Authorized King James Version

Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ἀλλ'

G235

Yea

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

εἰ

G1487

if, whether, that, etc

καὶ

G2532

and

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

σπένδομαι

G4689

I be offered

to pour out as a libation, i.e., (figuratively) to devote (one's life or blood, as a sacrifice) ("spend")

ἐπὶ

G1909

upon

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

τῇ

G3588

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

θυσίᾳ

G2378

the sacrifice

sacrifice (the act or the victim, literally or figuratively)

καὶ

G2532

and

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

λειτουργίᾳ

G3009

service

public function (as priest ("liturgy") or almsgiver)

#10

τῆς

G3588

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

#11

πίστεως

G4102

faith

persuasion, i.e., credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of god or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon christ

#12

ὑμῶν

G5216

of your

of (from or concerning) you

#13

χαίρω

G5463

I joy

to be "cheer"ful, i.e., calmly happy or well-off; impersonally, especially as salutation (on meeting or parting), be well

#14

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#15

συγχαίρω

G4796

rejoice with

to sympathize in gladness, congratulate

#16

πᾶσιν

G3956

all

all, any, every, the whole

#17

ὑμῖν·

G5213

you

to (with or by) you

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Philippians. The concept of faith 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 pistis in Greek, encompassing both belief and faithfulness, 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

What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How does this verse's literary context within Philippians chapter 2 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?

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Topics

Peace