Philippians 2:27

Authorized King James Version

For indeed he was sick nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.

Word-by-Word Analysis

καὶ

G2532

also

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

γὰρ

G1063

For

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

ἠσθένησεν

G770

he was sick

to be feeble (in any sense)

παραπλήσιον

G3897

nigh

close by, i.e., (figuratively) almost

θανάτῳ·

G2288

unto death

(properly, an adjective used as a noun) death (literally or figuratively)

ἀλλὰ

G235

but

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

ὁ

G3588

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

θεὸς

G2316

God

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

αὐτὸν

G846

on him

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

#10

ἠλέησεν

G1653

had mercy

to compassionate (by word or deed, specially, by divine grace)

#11

οὐκ

G3756

not

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

#12

αὐτὸν

G846

on him

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

#13

δὲ

G1161

and

but, and, etc

#14

μόνον

G3440

only

merely

#15

ἀλλὰ

G235

but

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

#16

καὶ

G2532

also

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

#17

ἐμέ

G1691

on me

#18

ἵνα

G2443

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

#19

μὴ

G3361

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

#20

λύπῃ

G3077

sorrow

sadness

#21

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

#22

λύπῃ

G3077

sorrow

sadness

#23

σχῶ

G2192

I should have

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

Analysis

Within the broader context of Philippians, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of mercy connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about mercy, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Philippians.

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 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?
How does this verse's literary context within Philippians chapter 2 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does understanding mercy in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?

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Topics

Peace