Philippians 3:18

Authorized King James Version

(For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ:

Word-by-Word Analysis

πολλοὶ

G4183

many

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

γὰρ

G1063

(For

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

περιπατοῦσιν

G4043

walk

to tread all around, i.e., walk at large (especially as proof of ability); figuratively, to live, deport oneself, follow (as a companion or votary)

οὓς

G3739

of whom

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

πολλάκις

G4178

often

many times, i.e., frequently

λέγω

G3004

I have told

properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an

ὑμῖν

G5213

you

to (with or by) you

νῦν

G3568

now

"now" (as adverb of date, a transition or emphasis); also as noun or adjective present or immediate

δὲ

G1161

and

but, and, etc

#10

καὶ

G2532

you even

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

#11

κλαίων

G2799

weeping

to sob, i.e., wail aloud (whereas 1145 is rather to cry silently)

#12

λέγω

G3004

I have told

properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an

#13

τοὺς

G3588

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

#14

ἐχθροὺς

G2190

that they are the enemies

hateful (passively, odious, or actively, hostile); usually as a noun, an adversary (especially satan)

#15

τοῦ

G3588

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

#16

σταυροῦ

G4716

of the cross

a stake or post (as set upright), i.e., (specially), a pole or cross (as an instrument of capital punishment); figuratively, exposure to death, i.e.,

#17

τοῦ

G3588

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

#18

Χριστοῦ

G5547

of Christ

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

Analysis

Within the broader context of Philippians, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Philippians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
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?
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?

Related Resources

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Topics

Peace