Revelation 2:14

Authorized King James Version

But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ἀλλ'

G235

But

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

ἔχεις

G2192

I have

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

κατὰ

G2596

against

(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)

σοῦ

G4675

thee

of thee, thy

ὀλίγα

G3641

a few things

puny (in extent, degree, number, duration or value); especially neuter (adverbially) somewhat

ὅτι

G3754

because

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

ἔχεις

G2192

I have

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

ἐκεῖ

G1563

there

there; by extension, thither

κρατοῦντας

G2902

them that hold

to use strength, i.e., seize or retain (literally or figuratively)

#10

τὴν

G3588

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

#11

διδαχὴν

G1322

the doctrine

instruction (the act or the matter)

#12

Βαλαάμ

G903

of Balaam

balaam, a mesopotamian (symbolic of a false teacher)

#13

ὃς

G3739

who

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

#14

ἐδίδασκεν

G1321

to teach (in the same broad application)

#15

τὸν

G3588

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

#16

Βαλὰκ

G904

Balac

balak, a moabite

#17

βαλεῖν

G906

to cast

to throw (in various applications, more or less violent or intense)

#18

σκάνδαλον

G4625

a stumblingblock

a trap-stick (bent sapling), i.e., snare (figuratively, cause of displeasure or sin)

#19

ἐνώπιον

G1799

before

in the face of (literally or figuratively)

#20

τῶν

G3588

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

#21

υἱῶν

G5207

the children

a "son" (sometimes of animals), used very widely of immediate, remote or figuratively, kinship

#22

Ἰσραήλ

G2474

of Israel

israel (i.e., jisrael), the adopted name of jacob, including his descendants (literally or figuratively)

#23

φαγεῖν

G5315

to eat

to eat (literally or figuratively)

#24

εἰδωλόθυτα

G1494

things sacrificed unto idols

an image-sacrifice, i.e., part of an idolatrous offering

#25

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#26

πορνεῦσαι

G4203

to commit fornication

to act the harlot, i.e., (literally) indulge unlawful lust (of either sex), or (figuratively) practise idolatry

Analysis

This verse develops the kingdom of God theme central to Revelation. The concept of divine revelation reflects the ultimate establishment of divine rule over creation. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to apocalyptic literature revealing God's ultimate victory, 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

The historical context of the Domitian persecution period (c. 95 CE) 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 divine revelation. 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 divine revelation address the apparent delay of Christ's return and God's justice, and how should the church respond?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about kingdom of God?
What practical applications emerge from understanding kingdom of God as presented in this verse, particularly in light of providing hope in times of political and social upheaval?