Luke did not address Theophilus in a way that enables us to know if he was a believer in Jesus when Luke penned these words. He had received some information about Christianity, specifically reports of the words and works of Jesus Christ. We do not know either if Theophilus was in danger of abandoning the faith or if he just needed a strong foundation for immature faith. Luke"s introduction promised a factual foundation. [1][source]
The Christian faith does not require believing things that are contrary to the facts but believing things that are true. Luke wrote his introduction to assure his readers that there was a factual basis for their faith. The gospel tradition was and is reliable. Luke was the only Gospel writer who stated his purpose at the beginning of his book (cf. John 20:31). [source][source][source]
Context Summary
Luke 1:1-12 - The Beginning Of The Good News
The opening verses are very explicit. They are answer enough to those who question the story of our Lord's supernatural birth and early years. Luke did not catch up the first legend that floated past him. He made searching inquiry. Doctor Weymouth renders the words in Luke 1:3, "having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first," as, "After careful examination of the facts from the commencement."
That our Lord should come into our race under special and supernatural conditions was as it should have been; but the historicity of this story largely rests on the careful investigations of "the beloved physician," who was authenticated by Paul.
The priests were divided into 24 courses, and shared the Temple services for a week each, the work of each priest being decided by lot, 1 Chronicles 24:1-31. Sweeter than the incense which he sprinkled on the coals, was Zacharias' own prayer, commemorated in the name given to his son, "God's gracious gift," Exodus 30:7-8; Revelation 8:3, etc. [source]
Chapter Summary: Luke 1
1The preface of Luke to his whole gospel 5The conception of John the Baptist; 26and of Jesus 39The prophecy of Elisabeth and of Mary, concerning Jesus 57The nativity and circumcision of John 67The prophecy of Zachariah, both of Jesus, 76and of John
Greek Commentary for Luke 1:4
Mightest know [επιγνωις] Second aorist active subjunctive of επιγινωσκω epiginōskō Full knowledge (επι epi -), in addition to what he already has. [source]
The certainty [την ασπαλειαν] Make no slip Luke promises a reliable narrative. “Theophilus shall know that the faith which he has embraced has an impregnable historical foundation” (Plummer).The things (λογων logōn). Literally “words,” the details of the words in the instruction.Wast instructed First aorist passive indicative. Not in O.T. and rare in ancient Greek. Occurs in the papyri. The word ηχεω ēcheō is our word echo (cf. 1 Thessalonians 1:8 for εχηχηται exēchētai has sounded forth). Κατηχεω Katēcheō is to sound down, to din, to instruct, to give oral instruction. Cf. 1 Corinthians 14:9; Acts 21:21,Acts 21:24; Acts 18:25; Galatians 6:6. Those men doing the teaching were called catechists and those receiving it were called catechumens. Whether Theophilus was still a catechumen is not known. This Preface by Luke is in splendid literary Koiné and is not surpassed by those in any Greek writer (Herodotus, Thucydides, Polybius). It is entirely possible that Luke was familiar with this habit of Greek historians to write prefaces since he was a man of culture. [source]
The things [λογων] Literally “words,” the details of the words in the instruction. [source]
Wast instructed [κατηχητης] First aorist passive indicative. Not in O.T. and rare in ancient Greek. Occurs in the papyri. The word ηχεω ēcheō is our word echo (cf. 1 Thessalonians 1:8 for εχηχηται exēchētai has sounded forth). Κατηχεω Katēcheō is to sound down, to din, to instruct, to give oral instruction. Cf. 1 Corinthians 14:9; Acts 21:21,Acts 21:24; Acts 18:25; Galatians 6:6. Those men doing the teaching were called catechists and those receiving it were called catechumens. Whether Theophilus was still a catechumen is not known. This Preface by Luke is in splendid literary Koiné and is not surpassed by those in any Greek writer (Herodotus, Thucydides, Polybius). It is entirely possible that Luke was familiar with this habit of Greek historians to write prefaces since he was a man of culture. [source]
Mightest know [ἐπιγνῷς] See on Matthew 7:16. With the idea offull knowledge; or, as regards Theophilus, of more accurate knowledge than is possible from the many who have undertaken the narration. [source]
Certainty [ἀσφάλειαν] From ἀ , not, and σφάλλομαι ,to fall. Hence steadfastness, stability, security against error. [source]
Wast instructed [κατήχηθης] From κατηχέω ,to resound; to teach by word of mouth; and so, in Christian writers, to instruct orally in the elements of religion. It would imply that Theophilus had, thus far, been orally instructed. See on delivered, Luke 1:2. The word catechumen is derived from it. [source]
Things [λόγων] Properly words (so Wyc.), which Rev. gives in margin. If the word can mean thing at all, it is only in the sense of the thing spoken of; the subject or matter of discourse, in which sense it occurs often in classical Greek. Some render it accounts, histories; others, doctrines of the faith. Godet translates instruction, and claims that not only the facts of the gospel, but the exposition of the facts with a view to show their evangelical meaning and to their appropriation by faith, are included in the word. There is force in this idea; and if we hold to the meaning histories, or even words, this sense will be implied in the context. Luke has drawn up his account in order that Theophilus may have fuller knowledge concerning the accounts which he has heard by word of mouth. That his knowledge may go on from the facts, to embrace their doctrinal and evangelical import; that he may see the facts of Jesus' life and ministry as the true basis of the Gospel of salvation.sa40 [source]
Reverse Greek Commentary Search for Luke 1:4
Matthew 1:21Jesus [Ιησοῦν] The Greek form of a Hebrew name, which had been borne by two illustrious individuals in former periods of the Jewish history - Joshua, the successor of Moses, and Jeshua, the high-priest, who with Zerubbabel took so active a part in the re-establishment of the civil and religious polity of the Jews on their return from Babylon. Its original and full form is Jehoshua, becoming by contraction Joshua or Jeshua. Joshua, the son of Nun, the successor of Moses, was originally named Hoshea (saving )which was altered by Moses into Jehoshua (Jehovah (our )Salvation ) (Numbers 13:16). The meaning of the name, therefore, finds expression in the title Saviour, applied to our Lord (Luke 1:47; Luke 2:11; John 4:42). Joshua, the son of Nun, is a type of Christ in his office of captain and deliverer of his people, in the military aspect of his saving work (Revelation 19:11-16). As God's revelation to Moses was in the character of a law-giver, his revelation to Joshua was in that of the Lord of Hosts (Joshua 5:13,Joshua 5:14). Under Joshua the enemies of Israel were conquered, and the people established in the Promised Land. So Jesus leads his people in the fight with sin and temptation. He is the leader of the faith which overcomes the world (Hebrews 12:2). Following him, we enter into rest. -DIVIDER-
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The priestly office of Jesus is foreshadowed in the high-priest Jeshua, who appears in the vision of Zechariah (Zechariah 3:1-10; compare Ezra 2:2) in court before God, under accusation of Satan, and clad in filthy garments. Jeshua stands not only for himself, but as the representative of sinning and suffering Israel. Satan is defeated. The Lord rebukes him, and declares that he will redeem and restore this erring people; and in token thereof he commands that the accused priest be clad in clean robes and crowned with the priestly mitre. -DIVIDER-
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Thus in this priestly Jeshua we have a type of our “Great High-Priest, touched with the feeling of our infirmities, and in all points tempted and tried like as we are;” confronting Satan in the wilderness; trying conclusions with him upon the victims of his malice - the sick, the sinful, and the demon-ridden. His royal robes are left behind. He counts not “equality with God a thing to be grasped at,” but “empties-DIVIDER-
himself,” taking the “form of a servant,” humbling himself and becoming “obedient even unto death” (Philemon 2:6,Philemon 2:7, Rev.). He assumes the stained garments of our humanity. He who “knew no sin” is “made to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in him” (2 Corinthians 5:21). He is at once priest and victim. He pleads for sinful man before God's throne. He will redeem him. He will rebuke the malice and cast down the power of Satan. He will behold him” as lightning fall from heaven” (Luke 10:18). He will raise and save and purify men of weak natures, rebellious wills, and furious passions - cowardly braggarts and deniers like Peter, persecutors like Saul of Tarsus, charred brands - and make them witnesses of his grace and preachers of his love and power. His kingdom shall be a kingdom of priests, and the song of his redeemed church shall be, “unto him that loveth us, and loosed us from our sins by his own blood, and made us to be a kingdom, to be priests unto his God and Father; to him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen” (Revelation 1:5,Revelation 1:6, in Rev.). -DIVIDER-
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It is no mere fancy which sees a suggestion and a foreshadowing of the prophetic work of Jesus in the economy of salvation, in a third name closely akin to the former. Hoshea, which we know in our English Bible as Hosea, was the original name of Joshua (compare Romans 9:25, Rev.) and means saving. He is, in a peculiar sense, the prophet of grace and salvation, placing his hope in God's personal coming as the refuge and strength of humanity; in the purification of human life by its contact with the divine. The great truth which he has to teach is the love of Jehovah to Israel as expressed in the relation of husband, an idea which pervades his prophecy, and which is generated by his own sad domestic experience. He foreshadows Jesus in his pointed warnings against sin, his repeated offers of divine mercy, and his patient, forbearing love, as manifested in his dealing with an unfaithful and dissolute wife, whose soul he succeeded in rescuing from sin and death (Hosea 1-3). So long as he lived, he was one continual, living prophecy of the tenderness of God toward sinners; a picture of God's love for us when alien from him, and with nothing in us to love. The faithfulness of the prophetic teacher thus blends in Hosea, as in our Lord, with the compassion and sympathy and sacrifice of the priest. [source]
Matthew 1:21Thou shalt call his name Jesus [Καλεσιες το ονομα αυτου Ιησουν] The rabbis named six whose names were given before birth: “Isaac, Ishmael, Moses, Solomon, Josiah, and the name of the Messiah, whom may the Holy One, blessed be His name, bring in our day.” The angel puts it up to Joseph as the putative father to name the child. “Jesus is the same as Joshua, a contraction of Jehoshuah (Numbers 13:16; 1 Chronicles 7:27), signifying in Hebrew, ‹Jehovah is helper,‘ or ‹Help of Jehovah‘”(Broadus). So Jesus is the Greek form of Joshua (Hebrews 4:8). He is another Joshua to lead the true people of God into the Promised Land. The name itself was common enough as Josephus shows. Jehovah is Salvation as seen in Joshua for the Hebrews and in Jesus for all believers. “The meaning of the name, therefore, finds expression in the title Saviour applied to our Lord (Luke 1:47; Luke 2:11; John 4:42)” (Vincent). He will save He will be prophet, priest, and king, but “Saviour” sums it all up in one word. The explanation is carried out in the promise, “for he is the one who (αυτος autos) will save (σωσει sōsei with a play on the name Jesus) his people from their sins.” Paul will later explain that by the covenant people, the children of promise, God means the spiritual Israel, all who believe whether Jews or Gentiles. This wonderful word touches the very heart of the mission and message of the Messiah. Jesus himself will show that the kingdom of heaven includes all those and only those who have the reign of God in their hearts and lives. [source]
Matthew 5:3Blessed [μακαριοι] The English word “blessed” is more exactly represented by the Greek verbal ευλογητοι eulogētoi as in Luke 1:68 of God by Zacharias, or the perfect passive participle ευλογημενος eulogēmenos as in Luke 1:42 of Mary by Elizabeth and in Matthew 21:9. Both forms come from ευλογεω eulogeō to speak well of The Greek word here English has thus ennobled “blessed” to a higher rank than “happy.” But “happy” is what Jesus said and the Braid Scots New Testament dares to say “Happy” each time here as does the Improved Edition of the American Bible Union Version. The Greek word is as old as Homer and Pindar and was used of the Greek gods and also of men, but largely of outward prosperity. Then it is applied to the dead who died in the Lord as in Revelation 14:13. Already in the Old Testament the Septuagint uses it of moral quality. “Shaking itself loose from all thoughts of outward good, it becomes the express symbol of a happiness identified with pure character. Behind it lies the clear cognition of sin as the fountain-head of all misery, and of holiness as the final and effectual cure for every woe. For knowledge as the basis of virtue, and therefore of happiness, it substitutes faith and love” (Vincent). Jesus takes this word “happy” and puts it in this rich environment. “This is one of the words which have been transformed and ennobled by New Testament use; by association, as in the Beatitudes, with unusual conditions, accounted by the world miserable, or with rare and difficult” (Bruce). It is a pity that we have not kept the word “happy” to the high and holy plane where Jesus placed it. “If you know these things, happy “Happy And Paul applies this adjective to God, “according to the gospel of the glory of the happy The term “Beatitudes” (Latin beatus) comes close to the meaning of Christ here by οτι makarioi It will repay one to make a careful study of all the “beatitudes” in the New Testament where this word is employed. It occurs nine times here (Matthew 5:3-11), though the beatitudes in Matthew 5:10 and Matthew 5:11 are very much alike. The copula is not expressed in either of these nine beatitudes. In each case a reason is given for the beatitude, “for” That is of small moment. “The originality of Jesus lies in putting the due value on these thoughts, collecting them, and making them as prominent as the Ten Commandments. No greater service can be rendered to mankind than to rescue from obscurity neglected moral commonplaces “ (Bruce). Jesus repeated his sayings many times as all great teachers and preachers do, but this sermon has unity, progress, and consummation. It does not contain all that Jesus taught by any means, but it stands out as the greatest single sermon of all time, in its penetration, pungency, and power. [source]
Matthew 6:25Be not anxious for your life [μη μεριμνατε τηι πσυχηι μων] This is as good a translation as the Authorized Version was poor; “Take no thought for your life.” The old English word “thought” meant anxiety or worry as Shakespeare says:“The native hue of resolution Is sicklied o‘er with the pale cast of thought.”Vincent quotes Bacon (Henry VII): “Harris, an alderman of London, was put in trouble and died with thought and anguish.” But words change with time and now this passage is actually quoted (Lightfoot) “as an objection to the moral teaching of the Sermon on the Mount, on the ground that it encouraged, nay, commanded, a reckless neglect of the future.” We have narrowed the word to mere planning without any notion of anxiety which is in the Greek word. The verb μεριμναω merimnaō is from μερισ μεριζω meris class="normal greek">παγωμεν πιωμεν περιβαλωμετα merizō because care or anxiety distracts and divides. It occurs in Christ‘s rebuke to Martha for her excessive solicitude about something to eat (Luke 10:41). The notion of proper care and forethought appears in 1 Corinthians 7:32; 1 Corinthians 12:25; Philemon 2:20. It is here the present imperative with the negative, a command not to have the habit of petulant worry about food and clothing, a source of anxiety to many housewives, a word for women especially as the command not to worship mammon may be called a word for men. The command can mean that they must stop such worry if already indulging in it. In Matthew 6:31 Jesus repeats the prohibition with the ingressive aorist subjunctive: “Do not become anxious,” “Do not grow anxious.” Here the direct question with the deliberative subjunctive occurs with each verb (περιβαλωμετα phagōmen class="normal greek">ενδυσηστε piōmen class="normal greek">τηι πσυχηι peribalōmetha). This deliberative subjunctive of the direct question is retained in the indirect question employed in Matthew 6:25. A different verb for clothing occurs, both in the indirect middle (πσυχηι peribalōmetha fling round ourselves in Matthew 6:31, σωμα endusēsthe put on yourselves in Matthew 6:25).For your life (Πσυχη tēi psuchēi). “Here καρδια psuchēi stands for the life principle common to man and beast, which is embodied in the διανοια sōma the former needs food, the latter clothing” (McNeile). πνευμα Psuchē in the Synoptic Gospels occurs in three senses (McNeile): either the life principle in the body as here and which man may kill (Mark 3:4) or the seat of the thoughts and emotions on a par with πσυχη kardia and dianoia (Matthew 22:37) and pneuma (Luke 1:46; cf. John 12:27; John 13:21) or something higher that makes up the real self (Matthew 10:28; Matthew 16:26). In Matthew 16:25 (Luke 9:25) psuchē appears in two senses paradoxical use, saving life and losing it. -DIVIDER-
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[source]
Luke 1:15Shall not drink [ου μη πιηι] Strong prohibition, double negative and second aorist subjunctive.The Holy Ghost (πνευματος αγιου pneumatos hagiou). The Holy Spirit in contrast to the physical excitement of strong drink (Plummer). Luke uses this phrase 53 times, 12 in the Gospel, Mark and John 4 each, Matthew 5 times. Even from his mother‘s womb A manifest Hebraism. Cf. Luke 1:41. [source]
Luke 1:15Even from his mother‘s womb [ετι εκ κοιλιας μητρος αυτου] A manifest Hebraism. Cf. Luke 1:41. [source]
Luke 1:28Highly favoured [κεχαριτωμενη] Perfect passive participle of χαριτοω charitoō and means endowed with grace The Vulgate gratiae plena “is right, if it means ‹full of grace which thou hast received‘; wrong, if it means ‹full of grace which thou hast to bestow‘” (Plummer). The oldest MSS. do not have “Blessed art thou among women” here, but in Luke 1:42. [source]
Luke 1:47Hath rejoiced [ηγαλλιασεν] This is aorist active indicative. Greek tenses do not correspond to those in English. The verb αγαλλιαω agalliaō is a Hellenistic word from the old Greek αγαλλω agallō It means to exult. See the substantive αγαλλιασις agalliasis in Luke 1:14,Luke 1:44. Mary is not excited like Elisabeth, but breathes a spirit of composed rapture. [source]
Luke 1:5There was [εγενετο] Not the usual εν en for “was,” but there arose or came into notice. With this verse the literary Koiné of Luke 1:1 to Luke 1:4 disappears. To the end of chapter 2 we have the most Hebraistic (Aramaic) passage in Luke‘s writings, due evidently to the use of documents or notes of oral tradition. Plummer notes a series of such documents ending with Luke 1:80,Luke 2:40,Luke 2:52. If the mother of Jesus was still alive, Luke could have seen her. She may have written in Aramaic an account of these great events. Natural reserve would keep her from telling too much and from too early publicity. Luke, as a physician, would take special interest in her birth report. The supernatural aspects disturb only those who do not admit the real Incarnation of Jesus Christ and who are unable to believe that God is superior to nature and that the coming of the Son of God to earth justifies such miraculous manifestations of divine power. Luke tells his story from the standpoint of Mary as Matthew gives his from the standpoint of Joseph. The two supplement each other. We have here the earliest documentary evidence of the origins of Christianity that has come down to us (Plummer). [source]
Luke 1:45For [οτι] It is not certain whether οτι hoti here is “that” or “because.” It makes good sense either way. See also Luke 7:16. This is the first beatitude in the New Testament and it is similar to the last one in the Gospels spoken to Thomas to discourage his doubt (John 20:29). Elisabeth wishes Mary to have full faith in the prophecy of the angel. This song of Elisabeth is as real poetry as is that of Mary (Luke 1:47-55) and Zacharias (Luke 1:68-70). All three spoke under the power of the Holy Spirit. These are the first New Testament hymns and they are very beautiful. Plummer notes four strophes in Mary‘s Magnificat (Luke 1:46-48,Luke 1:49,Luke 1:50,Luke 1:51-53,Luke 1:54,Luke 1:55). Every idea here occurs in the Old Testament, showing that Mary‘s mind was full of the spiritual message of God‘s word. [source]
Luke 10:21Rejoiced in the Holy Spirit [ηγαλλιασατο τωι πνευματι τωι αγιωι] First aorist middle of the late verb αγαλλιαω agalliaō for αγαλλω agallō to exult. Always in the middle in the N.T. save Luke 1:47 in Mary‘s Magnificat. This holy joy of Jesus was directly due to the Holy Spirit. It is joy in the work of his followers, their victories over Satan, and is akin to the joy felt by Jesus in John 4:32-38 when the vision of the harvest of the world stirred his heart. The rest of this verse is precisely like Matthew 11:25., a peculiarly Johannine passage in Matthew and Luke, but not in Mark, and so from Q (the Logia of Jesus). It has disturbed critics who are unwilling to admit the Johannine style and type of teaching as genuine, but here it is. See note on Matthew 11:25 for discussion. “That God had proved his independence of the human intellect is a matter for thankfulness. Intellectual gifts, so far from being necessary, are often a hindrance” (Plummer). [source]
Luke 11:27As he said these things [εν τωι λεγειν αυτον] Luke‘s common idiom, εν en with articular infinitive. Luke 11:27,Luke 11:28 are peculiar to Luke. His Gospel in a special sense is the Gospel of Woman. This woman “speaks well, but womanly” (Bengel). Her beatitude She is fulfilling Mary‘s own prophecy in Luke 1:48 (μακαριουσιν με makariousin me shall call me happy). [source]
Luke 4:36For [οτι] We have here an ambiguous οτι hoti as in Luke 1:45, which can be either the relative “that” or the casual οτι hoti “because” or “for,” as the Revised Version has it. Either makes good sense. Luke adds here δυναμει dunamei (with power) to Mark‘s “authority” So Luke where Mark has “and they obey him” (και υπακουουσιν αυτωι kai upakouousin autōi). [source]
Luke 9:38Lord [κυριε] Aorist active infinitive of επιβλεπω epiblepō (επι epi upon, βλεπω blepō look), common verb, but in the N.T. only here and James 2:3 except Luke 1:48 in quotation from lxx. This compound verb is common in medical writers for examining carefully the patient.Mine only child Only in Luke as already about an only child in Luke 7:12; Luke 8:42. [source]
Luke 9:38To look upon [επιβλεπσαι] Aorist active infinitive of επιβλεπω epiblepō (επι epi upon, βλεπω blepō look), common verb, but in the N.T. only here and James 2:3 except Luke 1:48 in quotation from lxx. This compound verb is common in medical writers for examining carefully the patient. [source]
John 5:35To rejoice [ἀγαλλιασθῆναι] The word signifies exultant, lively joy. See Matthew 5:12; Luke 1:47; Luke 10:21; 1 Peter 1:6. The interest in the Baptist was a frivolous, superficial, and short-lived excitement. Bengel says, “they were attracted by his brightness, not by his warmth.” [source]
John 17:11And these [και ουτοι] Note adversative use of και kai (= but these). I come Futuristic present, “I am coming.” Cf. John 13:3; John 14:12; John 17:13. Christ will no longer be visibly present to the world, but he will be with the believers through the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:20). Holy Father Only here in the N.T., but see 1 John 2:20; Luke 1:49 for the holiness of God, a thoroughly Jewish conception. See John 6:69 where Peter calls Jesus ο αγιος του τεου ho hagios tou theou For the word applied to saints see Acts 9:13. See John 17:25 for πατηρ δικαιε patēr dikaie (Righteous Father). Keep them First aorist (constative) active imperative of τηρεω tēreō as now specially needing the Father‘s care with Jesus gone (urgency of the aorist tense in prayer). Which Locative case of the neuter relative singular, attracted from the accusative ο ho to the case of the antecedent ονοματι onomati (name). That they may be one Purpose clause with ινα hina and the present active subjunctive of ειμι eimi (that they may keep on being). Oneness of will and spirit This is Christ‘s prayer for all believers, for unity, not for organic union of which we hear so much. The disciples had union, but lacked unity or oneness of spirit as was shown this very evening at the supper (Luke 22:24; John 13:4-15). Jesus offers the unity in the Trinity (three persons, but one God) as the model for believers. The witness of the disciples will fail without harmony (John 17:21). [source]
John 5:43In my Father‘s name [εν τωι ονοματι του πατρος μου] Seven times Jesus in John speaks of the “Name” of the Father (John 5:43; John 10:25; John 12:28; John 17:6,John 17:11,John 17:12,John 17:26). See John 1:12 for use of ονομα onoma (Luke 1:49). And ye receive me not “And yet ye do not receive me,” as in John 5:40, “the Gospel of the Rejection” (John 1:11; John 3:11,John 3:32; John 12:37) often applied to the Fourth Gospel. If another come Condition of third class Note αλλος allos not ετερος heteros like αλλον Ιησουν allon Iēsoun in 2 Corinthians 11:4. Similar prophecies occur in Mark 13:6,Mark 13:22 (Matthew 24:5,Matthew 24:24), all general in character like Antichrist in 2 Thessalonians 2:8-12. There is no occasion for a reference to any individual like Barcochba (about a.d. 134) as Pfleiderer and Schmiedel hold. These Messianic upstarts all come “in their own name” and always find a following. Him ye will receive “That one,” whoever he is, as Jesus said. Future active indicative of λαμβανω lambanō Credulous about the false Messiahs, incredulous about Christ. [source]
Acts 21:21They are informed [κατηχήθησαν] More than informed. They had been carefully instructed, probably by the Judaizing teachers. See on instructed, Luke 1:4. [source]
Acts 2:11We do hear them speaking [ακουομεν λαλουντων αυτων] Genitive case αυτων autōn with ακουω akouō the participle λαλουντων lalountōn agreeing with αυτων autōn a sort of participial idiom of indirect discourse (Robertson, Grammar, pp. 1040ff.). The mighty works (τα μεγαλεια ta megaleia). Old adjective for magnificent. In lxx, but only here (not genuine in Luke 1:49) in the N.T. Cf. 2 Peter 1:16 for μεγαλειοτης megaleiotēs (majesty). [source]
Acts 2:11The mighty works [τα μεγαλεια] Old adjective for magnificent. In lxx, but only here (not genuine in Luke 1:49) in the N.T. Cf. 2 Peter 1:16 for μεγαλειοτης megaleiotēs (majesty). [source]
Acts 8:21Matter [λογοι] Literally, word or subject (as in Luke 1:4; Acts 15:6), the power of communicating the Holy Spirit. This use of λογος logos is in the ancient Greek. Straight (ευτεια eutheia). Quotation from Psalm 78:37. Originally a mathematically straight line as in Acts 9:11, then moral rectitude as here. [source]
Acts 9:13To thy saints [τοις αγιοις] Dative of disadvantage. “Used here for the first time as a name for the Christians” (Knowling), but it came to be the common and normal (Hackett) term for followers of Christ (Acts 9:32,Acts 9:41; Acts 26:10; 1 Corinthians 1:2, etc.). This common word is from το αγος to hagos religious awe or reverence and is applied to God‘s name (Luke 1:49), God‘s temple (Matthew 24:15), God‘s people as set apart for God (Luke 1:70; Luke 2:23; Romans 1:7, etc.). Ananias in his ignorance saw in Saul only the man with an evil reputation while Jesus saw in Saul the man transformed by grace to be a messenger of mercy. [source]
Acts 21:9Virgins which did prophesy [παρτενοι προπητευσαι] Not necessarily an “order” of virgins, but Philip had the honour of having in his home four virgin daughters with the gift of prophecy which was not necessarily predicting events, though that was done as by Agabus here. It was more than ordinary preaching (cf. Acts 19:6) and was put by Paul above the other gifts like tongues (1 Corinthians 14:1-33). The prophecy of Joel (Joel 2:28.) about their sons and daughters prophesying is quoted by Peter and applied to the events on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:17). Paul in 1 Corinthians 11:5 gives directions about praying and prophesying by the women (apparently in public worship) with the head uncovered and sharply requires the head covering, though not forbidding the praying and prophesying. With this must be compared his demand for silence by the women in 1 Corinthians 14:34-40; 1 Timothy 2:8-15 which it is not easy to reconcile. One wonders if there was not something known to Paul about special conditions in Corinth and Ephesus that he has not told. There was also Anna the prophetess in the temple (Luke 2:36) besides the inspired hymns of Elizabeth (Luke 1:42-45) and of Mary (Luke 1:46-55). At any rate there was no order of women prophets or official ministers. There were Old Testament prophetesses like Miriam, Deborah, Huldah. Today in our Sunday schools the women do most of the actual teaching. The whole problem is difficult and calls for restraint and reverence. One thing is certain and that is that Luke appreciated the services of women for Christ as is shown often in his writings (Luke 8:1-3, for instance) before this incident. [source]
Romans 2:18Being instructed [κατηχούμενος] Systematically through catechetical and synagoguic instruction. See on Luke 1:4. This formal instruction is the basis of the critical discrimination. [source]
Romans 11:3Life [ψυχήν] From ψύχω tobreathe or blow. In classical usage it signifies life in the distinctness of individual existence, especially of man, occasionally of brutes. Hence, generally, the life of the individual. In the further development of the idea it becomes, instead of the body, the seat of the will, dispositions, desires, passions; and, combined with the σῶμα bodydenotes the constituent parts of humanity. Hence the morally endowed individuality of man which continues after death. Scripture. In the Old Testament, answering to nephesh primarily life, breath; therefore life in its distinct individuality; life as such, distinguished from other men and from inanimate nature. Not the principle of life, but that which bears in itself and manifests the life-principle. Hence spirit (ruach πνεῦμα ) in the Old Testament never signifies the individual. Soul ( ψυχή ), of itself, does not constitute personality, but only when it is the soul of a human being. Human personality is derived from spirit ( πνεῦμα ), and finds expression in soul or life ( ψυχή ). -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
The New-Testament usage follows the Old, in denoting all individuals from the point of view of individual life. Thus the phrase πᾶσα ψυχή everysoul, i.e., every person (Romans 2:9; Romans 13:1), marking them off from inanimate nature. So Romans 11:3; Romans 16:4; 2 Corinthians 1:23; 2 Corinthians 12:15; Philemon 2:30; 1 Thessalonians 2:8, illustrate an Old-Testament usage whereby the soul is the seat of personality, and is employed instead of the personal pronoun, with a collateral notion of value as individual personality. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
These and other passages are opposed to the view which limits the term to a mere animal life-principle. See Ephesians 6:6; Colossians 3:23; the compounds σύμψυχοι withone soul; ἰσοψύχον like-minded(Philemon 1:27; Philemon 2:20), where personal interest and accord of feeling are indicated, and not lower elements of personality. See, especially 1 Thessalonians 5:23. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
As to the distinction between ψυχή souland πνεῦμα spiritit is to be said:-DIVIDER-
1. That there are cases where the meanings approach very closely, if they are not practically synonymous; especially where the individual life is referred to. See Luke 1:47; John 11:33, and John 12:27; Matthew 11:29, and 1 Corinthians 16:18. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
2. That the distinction is to be rejected which rests on the restriction of ψυχή to the principle of animal life. This cannot be maintained in the face of 1 Corinthians 15:45; 1 Corinthians 2:14, in which latter the kindred adjective ψυχικός naturalhas reference to the faculty of discerning spiritual truth. In both cases the antithesis is πνεῦμα spiritin the ethical sense, requiring an enlargement of the conception of ψυχικός naturalbeyond that of σαρκικός fleshlyThat ψυχή soulmust not be distinguished from πνεῦμα ; spirit as being alone subject to the dominion of sin, since the πνεῦμα is described as being subject to such dominion. See 2 Corinthians 7:1. So 1 Thessalonians 5:23; 1 Corinthians 7:34, imply that the spirit needs sanctification. Compare Ephesians 4:23. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
4. Ψυχή soulis never used of God like πνεῦμα spiritIt is used of Christ, but always with reference to His humanity. -DIVIDER-
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Whatever distinction there is, therefore, is not between a higher and a lower element in man. It is rather between two sides of the one immaterial nature which stands in contrast with the body. Spirit expresses the conception of that nature more generally, being used both of the earthly and of the non-earthly spirit, while soul designates it on the side of the creature. In this view ψυχή soulis akin to σάρξ , flesh, “not as respects the notion conveyed by them, but as respects their value as they both stand at the same stage of creatureliness in contradistinction to God.” Hence the distinction follows that of the Old Testament between soul and spirit as viewed from two different points: the soul regarded as an individual possession, distinguishing the holder from other men and from inanimate nature; the spirit regarded as coming directly from God and returning to Him. “The former indicates the life-principle simply as subsistent, the latter marks its relation to God.” Spirit and not soul is the point of contact with the regenerating forces of the Holy Spirit; the point from which the whole personality is moved round so as to face God. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
Ψυχή soulis thus:-DIVIDER-
1. The individual life, the seat of the personality. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
2. The subject of the life, the person in which it dwells. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
3. The mind as the sentient principle, the seat of sensation and desire. -DIVIDER-
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[source]
Romans 2:17Approvest the things that are excellent [κατηχουμενος εκ του νομου] Originally, “Thou testest the things that differ,” and then as a result comes the approval for the excellent things. As in Philemon 1:10 it is difficult to tell which stage of the process Paul has in mind. Instructed out of the law (κατηχεω katēchoumenos ek tou nomou). Present passive participle of katēcheō a rare verb to instruct, though occurring in the papyri for legal instruction. See note on Luke 1:4 and note on 1 Corinthians 14:19. The Jew‘s “ethical discernment was the fruit of catechetical and synagogical instruction in the Old Testament” (Shedd). [source]
Romans 2:17Restest upon the law [επαναπαυηι νομωι] Late and rare double compound, in lxx and once in the Didache. In N.T. only here and Luke 10:6 which see. It means to lean upon, to refresh oneself back upon anything, here with locative case It is the picture of blind and mechanical reliance on the Mosaic law. Gloriest in God (καυχασαι εν τεωι kauchāsai en theōi). Koiné{[28928]}š vernacular form for καυχαι kauchāi (καυχαεσαι καυχασαι kauchaesaiκαυχαομαι kauchāsai) of κατακαυχασαι kauchaomai as in Romans 2:23; 1 Corinthians 4:7 and δοκιμαζεις τα διαπεροντα katakauchāsai in Romans 11:18. The Jew gloried in God as a national asset and private prerogative (2 Corinthians 10:15; Galatians 6:13). Approvest the things that are excellent Originally, “Thou testest the things that differ,” and then as a result comes the approval for the excellent things. As in Philemon 1:10 it is difficult to tell which stage of the process Paul has in mind. Instructed out of the law (κατηχεω katēchoumenos ek tou nomou). Present passive participle of katēcheō a rare verb to instruct, though occurring in the papyri for legal instruction. See note on Luke 1:4 and note on 1 Corinthians 14:19. The Jew‘s “ethical discernment was the fruit of catechetical and synagogical instruction in the Old Testament” (Shedd). [source]
Romans 2:17Instructed out of the law [κατηχεω] Present passive participle of katēcheō a rare verb to instruct, though occurring in the papyri for legal instruction. See note on Luke 1:4 and note on 1 Corinthians 14:19. The Jew‘s “ethical discernment was the fruit of catechetical and synagogical instruction in the Old Testament” (Shedd). [source]
Romans 4:6Pronounceth blessing [λεγει τον μακαρισμον] old word from μακαριζω makarizō to pronounce blessed (Luke 1:48), felicitation, congratulation, in N.T. only here, Romans 4:9; Acts 4:15. [source]
2 Corinthians 10:15Be enlarged by you - according to our rule abundantly [ἐν ὑμῖν μεγαλυνθῆναι - εἰς περισσείαν] Paul means that, as the faith of the Corinthians increases, he hopes that his apostolic efficiency will increase, so that Corinth shall become the basis of larger efforts, extending into other regions. The verb μεγαλύνω also means to praise or celebrate, as Luke 1:46; Acts 5:13; Acts 10:46, and is so explained by some interpreters here. But this would be inconsistent with the figure, to which Paul adheres. “He who can work far off is a man of great stature, who, without overstretching himself, reaches afar” (Meyer). [source]
2 Corinthians 10:15As your faith groweth [αυχανομενης της πιστεως] Genitive absolute of the present passive participle of αυχανω auxanō to grow. We shall be magnified (μεγαλυντηναι megalunthēnai). First aorist passive infinitive of μεγαλυνω megalunō old verb (Luke 1:46) to make great (cf. Philemon 1:20 of Christ). Indirect discourse after ελπιδα elpida (hope) with the construction of ελπιζω elpizō to hope. [source]
2 Corinthians 10:15We shall be magnified [μεγαλυντηναι] First aorist passive infinitive of μεγαλυνω megalunō old verb (Luke 1:46) to make great (cf. Philemon 1:20 of Christ). Indirect discourse after ελπιδα elpida (hope) with the construction of ελπιζω elpizō to hope. [source]
Ephesians 1:17The Spirit of wisdom and revelation [] Spirit has not the article, but the reference is to the Holy Spirit. Compare Matthew 12:28; Luke 1:15,Luke 1:35,Luke 1:41; Romans 1:4; 1 Peter 1:2. Wisdom and revelation are special forms of the Spirit's operation. He imparts general illumination (wisdom) and special revelations of divine mysteries. The combination of two words with an advance in thought from the general to the special is characteristic of Paul. Compare grace and apostleship, Romans 1:5; gifts and calling, Romans 11:29; wisdom and prudence, Ephesians 1:8, wisdom and knowledge, Colossians 2:3. [source]
Ephesians 4:31Clamour [κραυγη] Old word for outcry (Matthew 25:6; Luke 1:42). See note on Colossians 3:8 for the other words. Be put away (αρτητω arthētō). First aorist passive imperative of αιρω airō old verb, to pick up and carry away, to make a clean sweep. [source]
Ephesians 1:3Blessed [ευλογητος] Verbal of ευλογεω eulogeō common in the lxx for Hebrew baruk (Vulgate benedictus) and applied usually to God, sometimes to men (Genesis 24:31), but in N.T. always to God (Luke 1:68), while ευλογημενος eulogēmenos (perfect passive participle) is applied to men (Luke 1:42). “While ευλογημενος eulogēmenos points to an isolated act or acts, ευλογητος eulogētos describes the intrinsic character” (Lightfoot). Instead of the usual ευχαριστουμεν eucharistoumen (Colossians 1:3) Paul here uses ευλογητος eulogētos elsewhere only in 2 Corinthians 1:3 in opening, though in a doxology in Romans 1:25; Romans 9:5; 2 Corinthians 11:31. The copula here is probably εστιν estin (is), though either εστω estō (imperative) or ειη eiē (optative as wish) will make sense. [source]
1 Thessalonians 5:3When they are saying [οταν λεγωσιν] Present active subjunctive picturing these false prophets of peace and safety like Ezekiel 13:10 (Peace, and there is no peace). Ασπαλεια Asphaleia only in N.T. in Luke 1:4 (which see); Acts 5:23 and here. [source]
1 Timothy 1:1Of God our Saviour [τεου σωτηρος ημων] Genitive case with επιταγην epitagēn In the lxx σωτηρ sōtēr (old word from σωζω sōzō for agent in saving, applied to deities, princes, kings, etc.) occurs 20 times, all but two to God. The Romans called the emperor “Saviour God.” In the N.T. the designation of God as Saviour is peculiar to Luke 1:47; Judges 1:25; 1 Timothy 1:3; 1 Timothy 2:3; 1 Timothy 4:10; Titus 1:3; Titus 2:10; Titus 3:4. In the other Epistles Paul uses it of Christ (Philemon 3:20; Ephesians 5:23) as in 2 Timothy 1:10. In 2 Peter 1:1 we have “our God and Saviour Jesus Christ” as in Titus 2:13. Our hope (της ελπιδος ημων tēs elpidos hēmōn). Like Colossians 1:27. More than the author and object of hope, “its very substance and foundation” (Ellicott). [source]
2 Timothy 1:12Able [δυνατός] Often used with a stronger meaning, as 1 Corinthians 1:26, mighty; Acts 25:5, οἱδυνατοὶ thechief men: as a designation of God, ὁ δυνατός themighty one, Luke 1:49: of preeminent ability or power in something, as of Jesus, δυνατός ἐν ἔργῳ καὶ λόγῳ mightyin deed and word, Luke 24:19: of spiritual agencies, “The weapons of our warfare are δυνατὰ mightyetc., 2 Corinthians 10:4. Very often in lxx. [source]
Hebrews 7:11Perfection [τελείωσις] Only here and Luke 1:45. The act or process of consummating. By this word is signified the establishment of a perfect fellowship between God and the worshipper. See Hebrews 9:9; Hebrews 10:1. [source]
Hebrews 1:9Oil of gladness [ἔλαιον ἀγαλλιάσεως] The phrase N.T.oolxx. Ἀγαλλίασις exultantjoy. Comp. Luke 1:44; Acts 2:46, and the verb ἀγαλλιᾶσθαι , Matthew 5:12; Luke 10:21, etc. The noun only here in Hebrews, and the verb does not occur. [source]
Hebrews 1:9Hath anointed thee [εχρισεν σε] First aorist active indicative of χριω chriō to anoint, from which verb the verbal Χριστος Christos (Anointed One) comes. See Christ‘s use of εχρισεν echrisen in Luke 4:18 from Isaiah 66:1. With the oil of gladness Accusative case with εχρισεν echrisen (second accusative besides σε se). Perhaps the festive anointing on occasions of joy (Hebrews 12:2). See Luke 1:44. Fellows Old word from μετεχω metechō partners, sharers, in N.T. only in Hebrews save Luke 5:7. Note παρα para with accusative here, beside, beyond, above (by comparison, extending beyond). [source]
James 2:3Ye have respect [ἐπιβλέψητε] Lit., ye look upon, with the idea of respectful consideration; ye regard. Compare Luke 1:48; Luke 9:38. [source]
James 1:10In that he is made low [εν τηι ταπεινωσει αυτου] “In his low estate.” Play on ταπεινωσις tapeinōsis (from ταπεινοω tapeinoō Philemon 3:7), like ταπεινος tapeinos of James 1:9, old word in various senses, in N.T. only here, Luke 1:48; Acts 8:33; Philemon 3:21. The Cross of Christ lifts up the poor and brings down the high. It is the great leveller of men. [source]
James 2:3And ye have regard to [επιβλεπσητε δε επι] First aorist active subjunctive (still with εαν ean of James 2:2) of επιβλεπω epiblepō followed by repeated preposition επι epi to gaze upon, old compound, in N.T. only here and Luke 1:48; Luke 9:38. [source]
James 5:11We call blessed [μακαριζομεν] Old word (present active indicative of μακαριζω makarizō), from μακαριος makarios (happy), in N.T. only here and Luke 1:48. “We felicitate.” As in James 1:3,James 1:12; Daniel 12:12. [source]
1 Peter 2:2As newborn babes [ως αρτιγεννητα βρεπη] ρεπος Brephos old word, originally unborn child (Luke 1:41-44), then infant (Luke 2:12), here figuratively, like νηπιοι nēpioi Αρτιγεννητα Artigennēta is a late and rare compound (Lucian, imperial inscription) from αρτι arti and γενναω gennaō with evident allusion to αναγεγεννημενοι anagegennēmenoi in 1 Peter 1:23, probably meaning that they were recent converts, possibly slight proof that the Epistle written before Romans by Paul (Kuhl). [source]
3 John 1:2Soul [ψυχή] See on Mark 12:30; see on Luke 1:46. The soul ( ψυχή ) is the principle of individuality, the seat of personal impressions. It has a side in contact with both the material and the spiritual element of humanity, and is thus the mediating organ between body and spirit. Its meaning, therefore, constantly rises above life or the living individual, and takes color from its relation to either the emotional or the spiritual side of life, from the fact of its being the seat of the feelings, desires, affections, aversions, and the bearer and manifester of the divine life-principle ( πνεῦμα ). Consequently ψυχή is often used in our sense of heart (Luke 1:46; Luke 2:35; John 10:24; Acts 14:2); and the meanings of ψυχή souland πνεῦμα spiritoccasionally approach each other very closely. Compare John 12:27, and John 11:33; Matthew 11:29, and 1 Corinthians 16:18. Also both words in Luke 1:47. In this passage ψυχή soulexpresses the soul regarded as moral being designed for everlasting life. See Hebrews 6:19; Hebrews 10:39; Hebrews 13:17; 1 Peter 2:11; 1 Peter 4:19. John commonly uses the word to denote the principle of the natural life. See John 10:11,John 10:15; John 13:37; John 15:13; 1 John 3:16; Revelation 8:9; Revelation 12:11; Revelation 16:3. [source]
Revelation 19:7Let us rejoice and be exceeding glad [χαιρωμεν και αγαλλιωμεν] Present active subjunctive (volitive) of χαιρω chairō and αγαλλιαω agalliaō (elsewhere in N.T. in the middle except Luke 1:47; 1 Peter 1:8). For both verbs together see Matthew 5:12. [source]
What do the individual words in Luke 1:4 mean?
so thatyou may knowconcerningwhichyou were instructed[of the] thingsthecertainty
Greek Commentary for Luke 1:4
Second aorist active subjunctive of επιγινωσκω epiginōskō Full knowledge (επι epi -), in addition to what he already has. [source]
Make no slip Luke promises a reliable narrative. “Theophilus shall know that the faith which he has embraced has an impregnable historical foundation” (Plummer).The things (λογων logōn). Literally “words,” the details of the words in the instruction.Wast instructed First aorist passive indicative. Not in O.T. and rare in ancient Greek. Occurs in the papyri. The word ηχεω ēcheō is our word echo (cf. 1 Thessalonians 1:8 for εχηχηται exēchētai has sounded forth). Κατηχεω Katēcheō is to sound down, to din, to instruct, to give oral instruction. Cf. 1 Corinthians 14:9; Acts 21:21, Acts 21:24; Acts 18:25; Galatians 6:6. Those men doing the teaching were called catechists and those receiving it were called catechumens. Whether Theophilus was still a catechumen is not known. This Preface by Luke is in splendid literary Koiné and is not surpassed by those in any Greek writer (Herodotus, Thucydides, Polybius). It is entirely possible that Luke was familiar with this habit of Greek historians to write prefaces since he was a man of culture. [source]
Literally “words,” the details of the words in the instruction. [source]
First aorist passive indicative. Not in O.T. and rare in ancient Greek. Occurs in the papyri. The word ηχεω ēcheō is our word echo (cf. 1 Thessalonians 1:8 for εχηχηται exēchētai has sounded forth). Κατηχεω Katēcheō is to sound down, to din, to instruct, to give oral instruction. Cf. 1 Corinthians 14:9; Acts 21:21, Acts 21:24; Acts 18:25; Galatians 6:6. Those men doing the teaching were called catechists and those receiving it were called catechumens. Whether Theophilus was still a catechumen is not known. This Preface by Luke is in splendid literary Koiné and is not surpassed by those in any Greek writer (Herodotus, Thucydides, Polybius). It is entirely possible that Luke was familiar with this habit of Greek historians to write prefaces since he was a man of culture. [source]
See on Matthew 7:16. With the idea offull knowledge; or, as regards Theophilus, of more accurate knowledge than is possible from the many who have undertaken the narration. [source]
From ἀ , not, and σφάλλομαι ,to fall. Hence steadfastness, stability, security against error. [source]
From κατηχέω ,to resound; to teach by word of mouth; and so, in Christian writers, to instruct orally in the elements of religion. It would imply that Theophilus had, thus far, been orally instructed. See on delivered, Luke 1:2. The word catechumen is derived from it. [source]
Properly words (so Wyc.), which Rev. gives in margin. If the word can mean thing at all, it is only in the sense of the thing spoken of; the subject or matter of discourse, in which sense it occurs often in classical Greek. Some render it accounts, histories; others, doctrines of the faith. Godet translates instruction, and claims that not only the facts of the gospel, but the exposition of the facts with a view to show their evangelical meaning and to their appropriation by faith, are included in the word. There is force in this idea; and if we hold to the meaning histories, or even words, this sense will be implied in the context. Luke has drawn up his account in order that Theophilus may have fuller knowledge concerning the accounts which he has heard by word of mouth. That his knowledge may go on from the facts, to embrace their doctrinal and evangelical import; that he may see the facts of Jesus' life and ministry as the true basis of the Gospel of salvation.sa40 [source]
Reverse Greek Commentary Search for Luke 1:4
The Greek form of a Hebrew name, which had been borne by two illustrious individuals in former periods of the Jewish history - Joshua, the successor of Moses, and Jeshua, the high-priest, who with Zerubbabel took so active a part in the re-establishment of the civil and religious polity of the Jews on their return from Babylon. Its original and full form is Jehoshua, becoming by contraction Joshua or Jeshua. Joshua, the son of Nun, the successor of Moses, was originally named Hoshea (saving )which was altered by Moses into Jehoshua (Jehovah (our )Salvation ) (Numbers 13:16). The meaning of the name, therefore, finds expression in the title Saviour, applied to our Lord (Luke 1:47; Luke 2:11; John 4:42). Joshua, the son of Nun, is a type of Christ in his office of captain and deliverer of his people, in the military aspect of his saving work (Revelation 19:11-16). As God's revelation to Moses was in the character of a law-giver, his revelation to Joshua was in that of the Lord of Hosts (Joshua 5:13, Joshua 5:14). Under Joshua the enemies of Israel were conquered, and the people established in the Promised Land. So Jesus leads his people in the fight with sin and temptation. He is the leader of the faith which overcomes the world (Hebrews 12:2). Following him, we enter into rest. -DIVIDER- -DIVIDER- The priestly office of Jesus is foreshadowed in the high-priest Jeshua, who appears in the vision of Zechariah (Zechariah 3:1-10; compare Ezra 2:2) in court before God, under accusation of Satan, and clad in filthy garments. Jeshua stands not only for himself, but as the representative of sinning and suffering Israel. Satan is defeated. The Lord rebukes him, and declares that he will redeem and restore this erring people; and in token thereof he commands that the accused priest be clad in clean robes and crowned with the priestly mitre. -DIVIDER- -DIVIDER- Thus in this priestly Jeshua we have a type of our “Great High-Priest, touched with the feeling of our infirmities, and in all points tempted and tried like as we are;” confronting Satan in the wilderness; trying conclusions with him upon the victims of his malice - the sick, the sinful, and the demon-ridden. His royal robes are left behind. He counts not “equality with God a thing to be grasped at,” but “empties-DIVIDER- himself,” taking the “form of a servant,” humbling himself and becoming “obedient even unto death” (Philemon 2:6, Philemon 2:7, Rev.). He assumes the stained garments of our humanity. He who “knew no sin” is “made to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in him” (2 Corinthians 5:21). He is at once priest and victim. He pleads for sinful man before God's throne. He will redeem him. He will rebuke the malice and cast down the power of Satan. He will behold him” as lightning fall from heaven” (Luke 10:18). He will raise and save and purify men of weak natures, rebellious wills, and furious passions - cowardly braggarts and deniers like Peter, persecutors like Saul of Tarsus, charred brands - and make them witnesses of his grace and preachers of his love and power. His kingdom shall be a kingdom of priests, and the song of his redeemed church shall be, “unto him that loveth us, and loosed us from our sins by his own blood, and made us to be a kingdom, to be priests unto his God and Father; to him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen” (Revelation 1:5, Revelation 1:6, in Rev.). -DIVIDER- -DIVIDER- It is no mere fancy which sees a suggestion and a foreshadowing of the prophetic work of Jesus in the economy of salvation, in a third name closely akin to the former. Hoshea, which we know in our English Bible as Hosea, was the original name of Joshua (compare Romans 9:25, Rev.) and means saving. He is, in a peculiar sense, the prophet of grace and salvation, placing his hope in God's personal coming as the refuge and strength of humanity; in the purification of human life by its contact with the divine. The great truth which he has to teach is the love of Jehovah to Israel as expressed in the relation of husband, an idea which pervades his prophecy, and which is generated by his own sad domestic experience. He foreshadows Jesus in his pointed warnings against sin, his repeated offers of divine mercy, and his patient, forbearing love, as manifested in his dealing with an unfaithful and dissolute wife, whose soul he succeeded in rescuing from sin and death (Hosea 1-3). So long as he lived, he was one continual, living prophecy of the tenderness of God toward sinners; a picture of God's love for us when alien from him, and with nothing in us to love. The faithfulness of the prophetic teacher thus blends in Hosea, as in our Lord, with the compassion and sympathy and sacrifice of the priest. [source]
The rabbis named six whose names were given before birth: “Isaac, Ishmael, Moses, Solomon, Josiah, and the name of the Messiah, whom may the Holy One, blessed be His name, bring in our day.” The angel puts it up to Joseph as the putative father to name the child. “Jesus is the same as Joshua, a contraction of Jehoshuah (Numbers 13:16; 1 Chronicles 7:27), signifying in Hebrew, ‹Jehovah is helper,‘ or ‹Help of Jehovah‘”(Broadus). So Jesus is the Greek form of Joshua (Hebrews 4:8). He is another Joshua to lead the true people of God into the Promised Land. The name itself was common enough as Josephus shows. Jehovah is Salvation as seen in Joshua for the Hebrews and in Jesus for all believers. “The meaning of the name, therefore, finds expression in the title Saviour applied to our Lord (Luke 1:47; Luke 2:11; John 4:42)” (Vincent). He will save He will be prophet, priest, and king, but “Saviour” sums it all up in one word. The explanation is carried out in the promise, “for he is the one who (αυτος autos) will save (σωσει sōsei with a play on the name Jesus) his people from their sins.” Paul will later explain that by the covenant people, the children of promise, God means the spiritual Israel, all who believe whether Jews or Gentiles. This wonderful word touches the very heart of the mission and message of the Messiah. Jesus himself will show that the kingdom of heaven includes all those and only those who have the reign of God in their hearts and lives. [source]
The English word “blessed” is more exactly represented by the Greek verbal ευλογητοι eulogētoi as in Luke 1:68 of God by Zacharias, or the perfect passive participle ευλογημενος eulogēmenos as in Luke 1:42 of Mary by Elizabeth and in Matthew 21:9. Both forms come from ευλογεω eulogeō to speak well of The Greek word here English has thus ennobled “blessed” to a higher rank than “happy.” But “happy” is what Jesus said and the Braid Scots New Testament dares to say “Happy” each time here as does the Improved Edition of the American Bible Union Version. The Greek word is as old as Homer and Pindar and was used of the Greek gods and also of men, but largely of outward prosperity. Then it is applied to the dead who died in the Lord as in Revelation 14:13. Already in the Old Testament the Septuagint uses it of moral quality. “Shaking itself loose from all thoughts of outward good, it becomes the express symbol of a happiness identified with pure character. Behind it lies the clear cognition of sin as the fountain-head of all misery, and of holiness as the final and effectual cure for every woe. For knowledge as the basis of virtue, and therefore of happiness, it substitutes faith and love” (Vincent). Jesus takes this word “happy” and puts it in this rich environment. “This is one of the words which have been transformed and ennobled by New Testament use; by association, as in the Beatitudes, with unusual conditions, accounted by the world miserable, or with rare and difficult” (Bruce). It is a pity that we have not kept the word “happy” to the high and holy plane where Jesus placed it. “If you know these things, happy “Happy And Paul applies this adjective to God, “according to the gospel of the glory of the happy The term “Beatitudes” (Latin beatus) comes close to the meaning of Christ here by οτι makarioi It will repay one to make a careful study of all the “beatitudes” in the New Testament where this word is employed. It occurs nine times here (Matthew 5:3-11), though the beatitudes in Matthew 5:10 and Matthew 5:11 are very much alike. The copula is not expressed in either of these nine beatitudes. In each case a reason is given for the beatitude, “for” That is of small moment. “The originality of Jesus lies in putting the due value on these thoughts, collecting them, and making them as prominent as the Ten Commandments. No greater service can be rendered to mankind than to rescue from obscurity neglected moral commonplaces “ (Bruce). Jesus repeated his sayings many times as all great teachers and preachers do, but this sermon has unity, progress, and consummation. It does not contain all that Jesus taught by any means, but it stands out as the greatest single sermon of all time, in its penetration, pungency, and power. [source]
This is as good a translation as the Authorized Version was poor; “Take no thought for your life.” The old English word “thought” meant anxiety or worry as Shakespeare says:“The native hue of resolution Is sicklied o‘er with the pale cast of thought.”Vincent quotes Bacon (Henry VII): “Harris, an alderman of London, was put in trouble and died with thought and anguish.” But words change with time and now this passage is actually quoted (Lightfoot) “as an objection to the moral teaching of the Sermon on the Mount, on the ground that it encouraged, nay, commanded, a reckless neglect of the future.” We have narrowed the word to mere planning without any notion of anxiety which is in the Greek word. The verb μεριμναω merimnaō is from μερισ μεριζω meris class="normal greek">παγωμεν πιωμεν περιβαλωμετα merizō because care or anxiety distracts and divides. It occurs in Christ‘s rebuke to Martha for her excessive solicitude about something to eat (Luke 10:41). The notion of proper care and forethought appears in 1 Corinthians 7:32; 1 Corinthians 12:25; Philemon 2:20. It is here the present imperative with the negative, a command not to have the habit of petulant worry about food and clothing, a source of anxiety to many housewives, a word for women especially as the command not to worship mammon may be called a word for men. The command can mean that they must stop such worry if already indulging in it. In Matthew 6:31 Jesus repeats the prohibition with the ingressive aorist subjunctive: “Do not become anxious,” “Do not grow anxious.” Here the direct question with the deliberative subjunctive occurs with each verb (περιβαλωμετα phagōmen class="normal greek">ενδυσηστε piōmen class="normal greek">τηι πσυχηι peribalōmetha). This deliberative subjunctive of the direct question is retained in the indirect question employed in Matthew 6:25. A different verb for clothing occurs, both in the indirect middle (πσυχηι peribalōmetha fling round ourselves in Matthew 6:31, σωμα endusēsthe put on yourselves in Matthew 6:25).For your life (Πσυχη tēi psuchēi). “Here καρδια psuchēi stands for the life principle common to man and beast, which is embodied in the διανοια sōma the former needs food, the latter clothing” (McNeile). πνευμα Psuchē in the Synoptic Gospels occurs in three senses (McNeile): either the life principle in the body as here and which man may kill (Mark 3:4) or the seat of the thoughts and emotions on a par with πσυχη kardia and dianoia (Matthew 22:37) and pneuma (Luke 1:46; cf. John 12:27; John 13:21) or something higher that makes up the real self (Matthew 10:28; Matthew 16:26). In Matthew 16:25 (Luke 9:25) psuchē appears in two senses paradoxical use, saving life and losing it. -DIVIDER- -DIVIDER- [source]
See Luke 1:41, Luke 1:44. Compare Matthew, be exceeding glad ( ἀγαλλιἄσθε : see on 1 Peter 1:6). [source]
Clearly perceived. See on Matthew 7:16, and Luke 1:4. [source]
Ἔτι ,yet, still, means while yet unborn. Tynd., even in his mother's womb. Compare Luke 1:41. [source]
The word means that God is gracious. The mention of the name should have helped Zacharias to believe. The message of the angel (Luke 1:13-17) takes on a metrical form when turned into Hebrew (Ragg) and it is a prose poem in Greek and English like Luke 1:30-33, Luke 1:35-37, Luke 1:42-45, Luke 1:46-55, Luke 1:68-70; Luke 2:10-12, Luke 2:14, Luke 2:29-32, Luke 2:34-35. Certainly Luke has preserved the earliest Christian hymns in their oldest sources. He is the first critic of the sources of the Gospels and a scholarly one. [source]
Strong prohibition, double negative and second aorist subjunctive.The Holy Ghost (πνευματος αγιου pneumatos hagiou). The Holy Spirit in contrast to the physical excitement of strong drink (Plummer). Luke uses this phrase 53 times, 12 in the Gospel, Mark and John 4 each, Matthew 5 times. Even from his mother‘s womb A manifest Hebraism. Cf. Luke 1:41. [source]
A manifest Hebraism. Cf. Luke 1:41. [source]
Perfect passive participle of χαριτοω charitoō and means endowed with grace The Vulgate gratiae plena “is right, if it means ‹full of grace which thou hast received‘; wrong, if it means ‹full of grace which thou hast to bestow‘” (Plummer). The oldest MSS. do not have “Blessed art thou among women” here, but in Luke 1:42. [source]
This is aorist active indicative. Greek tenses do not correspond to those in English. The verb αγαλλιαω agalliaō is a Hellenistic word from the old Greek αγαλλω agallō It means to exult. See the substantive αγαλλιασις agalliasis in Luke 1:14, Luke 1:44. Mary is not excited like Elisabeth, but breathes a spirit of composed rapture. [source]
Not the usual εν en for “was,” but there arose or came into notice. With this verse the literary Koiné of Luke 1:1 to Luke 1:4 disappears. To the end of chapter 2 we have the most Hebraistic (Aramaic) passage in Luke‘s writings, due evidently to the use of documents or notes of oral tradition. Plummer notes a series of such documents ending with Luke 1:80, Luke 2:40, Luke 2:52. If the mother of Jesus was still alive, Luke could have seen her. She may have written in Aramaic an account of these great events. Natural reserve would keep her from telling too much and from too early publicity. Luke, as a physician, would take special interest in her birth report. The supernatural aspects disturb only those who do not admit the real Incarnation of Jesus Christ and who are unable to believe that God is superior to nature and that the coming of the Son of God to earth justifies such miraculous manifestations of divine power. Luke tells his story from the standpoint of Mary as Matthew gives his from the standpoint of Joseph. The two supplement each other. We have here the earliest documentary evidence of the origins of Christianity that has come down to us (Plummer). [source]
It is not certain whether οτι hoti here is “that” or “because.” It makes good sense either way. See also Luke 7:16. This is the first beatitude in the New Testament and it is similar to the last one in the Gospels spoken to Thomas to discourage his doubt (John 20:29). Elisabeth wishes Mary to have full faith in the prophecy of the angel. This song of Elisabeth is as real poetry as is that of Mary (Luke 1:47-55) and Zacharias (Luke 1:68-70). All three spoke under the power of the Holy Spirit. These are the first New Testament hymns and they are very beautiful. Plummer notes four strophes in Mary‘s Magnificat (Luke 1:46-48, Luke 1:49, Luke 1:50, Luke 1:51-53, Luke 1:54, Luke 1:55). Every idea here occurs in the Old Testament, showing that Mary‘s mind was full of the spiritual message of God‘s word. [source]
Aorist active indicative. Same verb as in Luke 1:46. [source]
First aorist middle of the late verb αγαλλιαω agalliaō for αγαλλω agallō to exult. Always in the middle in the N.T. save Luke 1:47 in Mary‘s Magnificat. This holy joy of Jesus was directly due to the Holy Spirit. It is joy in the work of his followers, their victories over Satan, and is akin to the joy felt by Jesus in John 4:32-38 when the vision of the harvest of the world stirred his heart. The rest of this verse is precisely like Matthew 11:25., a peculiarly Johannine passage in Matthew and Luke, but not in Mark, and so from Q (the Logia of Jesus). It has disturbed critics who are unwilling to admit the Johannine style and type of teaching as genuine, but here it is. See note on Matthew 11:25 for discussion. “That God had proved his independence of the human intellect is a matter for thankfulness. Intellectual gifts, so far from being necessary, are often a hindrance” (Plummer). [source]
Luke‘s common idiom, εν en with articular infinitive. Luke 11:27, Luke 11:28 are peculiar to Luke. His Gospel in a special sense is the Gospel of Woman. This woman “speaks well, but womanly” (Bengel). Her beatitude She is fulfilling Mary‘s own prophecy in Luke 1:48 (μακαριουσιν με makariousin me shall call me happy). [source]
We have here an ambiguous οτι hoti as in Luke 1:45, which can be either the relative “that” or the casual οτι hoti “because” or “for,” as the Revised Version has it. Either makes good sense. Luke adds here δυναμει dunamei (with power) to Mark‘s “authority” So Luke where Mark has “and they obey him” (και υπακουουσιν αυτωι kai upakouousin autōi). [source]
Old verb and in lxx, but only in Luke in the N.T. (here and Luke 1:41, Luke 1:44). It answers to Matthew‘s (Matthew 5:12) “be exceeding glad.” [source]
Aorist active infinitive of επιβλεπω epiblepō (επι epi upon, βλεπω blepō look), common verb, but in the N.T. only here and James 2:3 except Luke 1:48 in quotation from lxx. This compound verb is common in medical writers for examining carefully the patient.Mine only child Only in Luke as already about an only child in Luke 7:12; Luke 8:42. [source]
Aorist active infinitive of επιβλεπω epiblepō (επι epi upon, βλεπω blepō look), common verb, but in the N.T. only here and James 2:3 except Luke 1:48 in quotation from lxx. This compound verb is common in medical writers for examining carefully the patient. [source]
The word signifies exultant, lively joy. See Matthew 5:12; Luke 1:47; Luke 10:21; 1 Peter 1:6. The interest in the Baptist was a frivolous, superficial, and short-lived excitement. Bengel says, “they were attracted by his brightness, not by his warmth.” [source]
See on Mark 12:30; see on Luke 1:46. [source]
Note adversative use of και kai (= but these). I come Futuristic present, “I am coming.” Cf. John 13:3; John 14:12; John 17:13. Christ will no longer be visibly present to the world, but he will be with the believers through the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:20). Holy Father Only here in the N.T., but see 1 John 2:20; Luke 1:49 for the holiness of God, a thoroughly Jewish conception. See John 6:69 where Peter calls Jesus ο αγιος του τεου ho hagios tou theou For the word applied to saints see Acts 9:13. See John 17:25 for πατηρ δικαιε patēr dikaie (Righteous Father). Keep them First aorist (constative) active imperative of τηρεω tēreō as now specially needing the Father‘s care with Jesus gone (urgency of the aorist tense in prayer). Which Locative case of the neuter relative singular, attracted from the accusative ο ho to the case of the antecedent ονοματι onomati (name). That they may be one Purpose clause with ινα hina and the present active subjunctive of ειμι eimi (that they may keep on being). Oneness of will and spirit This is Christ‘s prayer for all believers, for unity, not for organic union of which we hear so much. The disciples had union, but lacked unity or oneness of spirit as was shown this very evening at the supper (Luke 22:24; John 13:4-15). Jesus offers the unity in the Trinity (three persons, but one God) as the model for believers. The witness of the disciples will fail without harmony (John 17:21). [source]
Seven times Jesus in John speaks of the “Name” of the Father (John 5:43; John 10:25; John 12:28; John 17:6, John 17:11, John 17:12, John 17:26). See John 1:12 for use of ονομα onoma (Luke 1:49). And ye receive me not “And yet ye do not receive me,” as in John 5:40, “the Gospel of the Rejection” (John 1:11; John 3:11, John 3:32; John 12:37) often applied to the Fourth Gospel. If another come Condition of third class Note αλλος allos not ετερος heteros like αλλον Ιησουν allon Iēsoun in 2 Corinthians 11:4. Similar prophecies occur in Mark 13:6, Mark 13:22 (Matthew 24:5, Matthew 24:24), all general in character like Antichrist in 2 Thessalonians 2:8-12. There is no occasion for a reference to any individual like Barcochba (about a.d. 134) as Pfleiderer and Schmiedel hold. These Messianic upstarts all come “in their own name” and always find a following. Him ye will receive “That one,” whoever he is, as Jesus said. Future active indicative of λαμβανω lambanō Credulous about the false Messiahs, incredulous about Christ. [source]
The matter of which we are talking: the subject of discourse, as Luke 1:4; Acts 15:6. [source]
More than informed. They had been carefully instructed, probably by the Judaizing teachers. See on instructed, Luke 1:4. [source]
See on Luke 1:4. [source]
Genitive case αυτων autōn with ακουω akouō the participle λαλουντων lalountōn agreeing with αυτων autōn a sort of participial idiom of indirect discourse (Robertson, Grammar, pp. 1040ff.). The mighty works (τα μεγαλεια ta megaleia). Old adjective for magnificent. In lxx, but only here (not genuine in Luke 1:49) in the N.T. Cf. 2 Peter 1:16 for μεγαλειοτης megaleiotēs (majesty). [source]
Old adjective for magnificent. In lxx, but only here (not genuine in Luke 1:49) in the N.T. Cf. 2 Peter 1:16 for μεγαλειοτης megaleiotēs (majesty). [source]
Literally, word or subject (as in Luke 1:4; Acts 15:6), the power of communicating the Holy Spirit. This use of λογος logos is in the ancient Greek. Straight (ευτεια eutheia). Quotation from Psalm 78:37. Originally a mathematically straight line as in Acts 9:11, then moral rectitude as here. [source]
Dative of disadvantage. “Used here for the first time as a name for the Christians” (Knowling), but it came to be the common and normal (Hackett) term for followers of Christ (Acts 9:32, Acts 9:41; Acts 26:10; 1 Corinthians 1:2, etc.). This common word is from το αγος to hagos religious awe or reverence and is applied to God‘s name (Luke 1:49), God‘s temple (Matthew 24:15), God‘s people as set apart for God (Luke 1:70; Luke 2:23; Romans 1:7, etc.). Ananias in his ignorance saw in Saul only the man with an evil reputation while Jesus saw in Saul the man transformed by grace to be a messenger of mercy. [source]
Not necessarily an “order” of virgins, but Philip had the honour of having in his home four virgin daughters with the gift of prophecy which was not necessarily predicting events, though that was done as by Agabus here. It was more than ordinary preaching (cf. Acts 19:6) and was put by Paul above the other gifts like tongues (1 Corinthians 14:1-33). The prophecy of Joel (Joel 2:28.) about their sons and daughters prophesying is quoted by Peter and applied to the events on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:17). Paul in 1 Corinthians 11:5 gives directions about praying and prophesying by the women (apparently in public worship) with the head uncovered and sharply requires the head covering, though not forbidding the praying and prophesying. With this must be compared his demand for silence by the women in 1 Corinthians 14:34-40; 1 Timothy 2:8-15 which it is not easy to reconcile. One wonders if there was not something known to Paul about special conditions in Corinth and Ephesus that he has not told. There was also Anna the prophetess in the temple (Luke 2:36) besides the inspired hymns of Elizabeth (Luke 1:42-45) and of Mary (Luke 1:46-55). At any rate there was no order of women prophets or official ministers. There were Old Testament prophetesses like Miriam, Deborah, Huldah. Today in our Sunday schools the women do most of the actual teaching. The whole problem is difficult and calls for restraint and reverence. One thing is certain and that is that Luke appreciated the services of women for Christ as is shown often in his writings (Luke 8:1-3, for instance) before this incident. [source]
From πνέω tobreathe or blow. The primary conception is wind or breath. Breath being the sign and condition of life in man, it comes to signify life. In this sense, physiologically considered, it is frequent in the classics. In the psychological sense, never. In the Old Testament it is ordinarily the translation of ruach It is also used to translate chai life, Isaiah 38:12; nbreath, 1 Kings 17:17. In the New Testament it occurs in the sense of wind or breath, John 3:8; 2 Thessalonians 2:8; Hebrews 1:7. Closely related to the physiological sense are such passages as Luke 8:55; James 2:26; Revelation 13:15. Pauline Usage: 1. Breath, 2 Thessalonians 2:8. 2. The spirit or mind of man; the inward, self-conscious principle which feels and thinks and wills (1 Corinthians 2:11; 1 Corinthians 5:3; 1 Corinthians 7:34; Colossians 2:5). In this sense it is distinguished from σῶμα bodyor accompanied with a personal pronoun in the genitive, as my, our, his spirit (Romans 1:9; Romans 8:16; 1 Corinthians 5:4; 1 Corinthians 16:18, etc.). It is used as parallel with ψυχή souland καρδία heartSee 1 Corinthians 5:3; 1 Thessalonians 2:17; and compare John 13:21and John 12:27; Matthew 26:38and Luke 1:46, Luke 1:47. But while ψυχή soulis represented as the subject of life, πνεύμα spiritrepresents the principle of life, having independent activity in all circumstances of the perceptive and emotional life, and never as the subject. Generally, πνεύμα spiritmay be described as the principle, ψυχή soulas the subject, and καρδία heartas the organ of life. 3. The spiritual nature of Christ. Romans 1:4; 1 Corinthians 15:45; 1 Timothy 3:16. 4. The divine power or influence belonging to God, and communicated in Christ to men, in virtue of which they become πνευματικοί spiritual - recipientsand organs of the Spirit. This is Paul's most common use of the word. Romans 8:9; 1 Corinthians 2:13; Galatians 4:6; Galatians 6:1; 1 Thessalonians 4:8. In this sense it appears as: a. Spirit of God. Romans 8:9, Romans 8:11, Romans 8:14; 1 Corinthians 2:10, 1 Corinthians 2:11, 1 Corinthians 2:12, 1 Corinthians 2:14; 1 Corinthians 3:16; 1 Corinthians 6:11; 1 Corinthians 7:40; 2 Corinthians 3:3; Ephesians 3:16. b. Spirit of Christ. Romans 8:9; 2 Corinthians 3:17, 2 Corinthians 3:18; Galatians 4:6; Philemon 1:19. c. Holy Spirit. Romans 5:5; 1 Corinthians 6:19; 1 Corinthians 12:3; Ephesians 1:13; 1 Thessalonians 1:5, 1 Thessalonians 1:6; 1 Thessalonians 4:8, etc. d. Spirit. With or without the article, but with its reference to the Spirit of God or Holy Spirit indicated by the context. Romans 8:16, Romans 8:23, Romans 8:26, Romans 8:27; 1 Corinthians 2:4, 1 Corinthians 2:10; 1 Corinthians 12:4, 1 Corinthians 12:7, 1 Corinthians 12:8, 1 Corinthians 12:9; Ephesians 4:3; 2 Thessalonians 2:13, etc. 5. A power or influence, the character, manifestations, or results of which are more peculiarly defined by qualifying genitives. Thus spirit of meekness, faith, power, wisdom. Romans 8:2, Romans 8:15; 1 Corinthians 4:21; 2 Corinthians 4:13; Galatians 6:1; Ephesians 1:17; 2 Timothy 1:7, etc. These combinations with the genitives are not mere periphrases for a faculty or disposition of man. By the spirit of meekness or wisdom, for instance, is not meant merely a meek or wise spirit; but that meekness, wisdom, power, etc., are gifts of the Spirit of God. This usage is according to Old Testament analogy. Compare Exodus 28:3; Exodus 31:3; Exodus 35:31; Isaiah 11:2. 6. In the plural, used of spiritual gifts or of those who profess to be under spiritual influence, 1 Corinthians 12:10; 1 Corinthians 14:12. 7. Powers or influences alien or averse from the divine Spirit, but with some qualifying word. Thus, the spirit of the world; another spirit; spirit of slumber. Romans 11:8; 1 Corinthians 2:12; 2 Corinthians 11:4; Ephesians 2:2; 2 Timothy 1:7. Where these expressions are in negative form they are framed after the analogy of the positive counterpart with which they are placed in contrast. Thus Romans 8:15: “Ye have not received the spirit of bondage, but of adoption. In other cases, as Ephesians 2:2, where the expression is positive, the conception is shaped according to Old-Testament usage, where spirits of evil are conceived as issuing from, and dependent upon, God, so far as He permits their operation and makes them subservient to His own ends. See Judges 9:23; 1 Samuel 16:14-16, 1 Samuel 16:23; 1 Samuel 18:10; 1 Kings 22:21sqq.; Isaiah 19:4. Spirit is found contrasted with letter, Romans 2:29; Romans 7:6; 2 Corinthians 3:6. With flesh, Romans 8:1-13; Galatians 5:16, Galatians 5:24. It is frequently associated with the idea of power (Romans 1:4; Romans 15:13, Romans 15:19; 1 Corinthians 2:4; Galatians 3:5; Ephesians 3:16; 2 Timothy 1:7); and the verb ἐνεργεῖν , denoting to work efficaciously, is used to mark its special operation (1 Corinthians 12:11; Ephesians 3:20; Philemon 2:13; Colossians 1:29). It is also closely associated with life, Romans 8:2, Romans 8:6, Romans 8:11, Romans 8:13; 1 Corinthians 15:4, 1 Corinthians 15:5; 2 Corinthians 3:6; Galatians 5:25; Galatians 6:8. It is the common possession of the Church and its members; not an occasional gift, but an essential element and mark of the christian life; not appearing merely or mainly in exceptional, marvelous, ecstatic demonstrations, but as the motive and mainspring of all christian action and feeling. It reveals itself in confession (1 Corinthians 12:3); in the consciousness of sonship (Romans 8:16); in the knowledge of the love of God (Romans 5:5); in the peace and joy of faith (Romans 14:17; 1 Thessalonians 1:6); in hope (Romans 5:5; Romans 15:13). It leads believers (Romans 8:14; Galatians 5:18): they serve in newness of the Spirit (Romans 7:6) They walk after the Spirit (Romans 8:4, Romans 8:5; Galatians 5:16-25). Through the Spirit they are sanctified (2 Thessalonians 2:13). It manifests itself in the diversity of forms and operations, appearing under two main aspects: a difference of gifts, and a difference of functions. See Romans 8:9; 1 Corinthians 3:16; 1 Corinthians 5:1, 1 Corinthians 5:11; 1 Corinthians 12:13; Ephesians 1:13; Ephesians 4:3, Ephesians 4:4, Ephesians 4:30; Philemon 2:1; [source]
The sense is stronger: mighty; compare Luke 1:49; Luke 24:19; Acts 18:24; 2 Corinthians 10:4; Revelation 6:15. [source]
Systematically through catechetical and synagoguic instruction. See on Luke 1:4. This formal instruction is the basis of the critical discrimination. [source]
From ψύχω tobreathe or blow. In classical usage it signifies life in the distinctness of individual existence, especially of man, occasionally of brutes. Hence, generally, the life of the individual. In the further development of the idea it becomes, instead of the body, the seat of the will, dispositions, desires, passions; and, combined with the σῶμα bodydenotes the constituent parts of humanity. Hence the morally endowed individuality of man which continues after death. Scripture. In the Old Testament, answering to nephesh primarily life, breath; therefore life in its distinct individuality; life as such, distinguished from other men and from inanimate nature. Not the principle of life, but that which bears in itself and manifests the life-principle. Hence spirit (ruach πνεῦμα ) in the Old Testament never signifies the individual. Soul ( ψυχή ), of itself, does not constitute personality, but only when it is the soul of a human being. Human personality is derived from spirit ( πνεῦμα ), and finds expression in soul or life ( ψυχή ). -DIVIDER- -DIVIDER- The New-Testament usage follows the Old, in denoting all individuals from the point of view of individual life. Thus the phrase πᾶσα ψυχή everysoul, i.e., every person (Romans 2:9; Romans 13:1), marking them off from inanimate nature. So Romans 11:3; Romans 16:4; 2 Corinthians 1:23; 2 Corinthians 12:15; Philemon 2:30; 1 Thessalonians 2:8, illustrate an Old-Testament usage whereby the soul is the seat of personality, and is employed instead of the personal pronoun, with a collateral notion of value as individual personality. -DIVIDER- -DIVIDER- These and other passages are opposed to the view which limits the term to a mere animal life-principle. See Ephesians 6:6; Colossians 3:23; the compounds σύμψυχοι withone soul; ἰσοψύχον like-minded(Philemon 1:27; Philemon 2:20), where personal interest and accord of feeling are indicated, and not lower elements of personality. See, especially 1 Thessalonians 5:23. -DIVIDER- -DIVIDER- As to the distinction between ψυχή souland πνεῦμα spiritit is to be said:-DIVIDER- 1. That there are cases where the meanings approach very closely, if they are not practically synonymous; especially where the individual life is referred to. See Luke 1:47; John 11:33, and John 12:27; Matthew 11:29, and 1 Corinthians 16:18. -DIVIDER- -DIVIDER- 2. That the distinction is to be rejected which rests on the restriction of ψυχή to the principle of animal life. This cannot be maintained in the face of 1 Corinthians 15:45; 1 Corinthians 2:14, in which latter the kindred adjective ψυχικός naturalhas reference to the faculty of discerning spiritual truth. In both cases the antithesis is πνεῦμα spiritin the ethical sense, requiring an enlargement of the conception of ψυχικός naturalbeyond that of σαρκικός fleshlyThat ψυχή soulmust not be distinguished from πνεῦμα ; spirit as being alone subject to the dominion of sin, since the πνεῦμα is described as being subject to such dominion. See 2 Corinthians 7:1. So 1 Thessalonians 5:23; 1 Corinthians 7:34, imply that the spirit needs sanctification. Compare Ephesians 4:23. -DIVIDER- -DIVIDER- 4. Ψυχή soulis never used of God like πνεῦμα spiritIt is used of Christ, but always with reference to His humanity. -DIVIDER- -DIVIDER- Whatever distinction there is, therefore, is not between a higher and a lower element in man. It is rather between two sides of the one immaterial nature which stands in contrast with the body. Spirit expresses the conception of that nature more generally, being used both of the earthly and of the non-earthly spirit, while soul designates it on the side of the creature. In this view ψυχή soulis akin to σάρξ , flesh, “not as respects the notion conveyed by them, but as respects their value as they both stand at the same stage of creatureliness in contradistinction to God.” Hence the distinction follows that of the Old Testament between soul and spirit as viewed from two different points: the soul regarded as an individual possession, distinguishing the holder from other men and from inanimate nature; the spirit regarded as coming directly from God and returning to Him. “The former indicates the life-principle simply as subsistent, the latter marks its relation to God.” Spirit and not soul is the point of contact with the regenerating forces of the Holy Spirit; the point from which the whole personality is moved round so as to face God. -DIVIDER- -DIVIDER- Ψυχή soulis thus:-DIVIDER- 1. The individual life, the seat of the personality. -DIVIDER- -DIVIDER- 2. The subject of the life, the person in which it dwells. -DIVIDER- -DIVIDER- 3. The mind as the sentient principle, the seat of sensation and desire. -DIVIDER- -DIVIDER- [source]
Originally, “Thou testest the things that differ,” and then as a result comes the approval for the excellent things. As in Philemon 1:10 it is difficult to tell which stage of the process Paul has in mind. Instructed out of the law (κατηχεω katēchoumenos ek tou nomou). Present passive participle of katēcheō a rare verb to instruct, though occurring in the papyri for legal instruction. See note on Luke 1:4 and note on 1 Corinthians 14:19. The Jew‘s “ethical discernment was the fruit of catechetical and synagogical instruction in the Old Testament” (Shedd). [source]
Late and rare double compound, in lxx and once in the Didache. In N.T. only here and Luke 10:6 which see. It means to lean upon, to refresh oneself back upon anything, here with locative case It is the picture of blind and mechanical reliance on the Mosaic law. Gloriest in God (καυχασαι εν τεωι kauchāsai en theōi). Koiné{[28928]}š vernacular form for καυχαι kauchāi (καυχαεσαι καυχασαι kauchaesaiκαυχαομαι kauchāsai) of κατακαυχασαι kauchaomai as in Romans 2:23; 1 Corinthians 4:7 and δοκιμαζεις τα διαπεροντα katakauchāsai in Romans 11:18. The Jew gloried in God as a national asset and private prerogative (2 Corinthians 10:15; Galatians 6:13). Approvest the things that are excellent Originally, “Thou testest the things that differ,” and then as a result comes the approval for the excellent things. As in Philemon 1:10 it is difficult to tell which stage of the process Paul has in mind. Instructed out of the law (κατηχεω katēchoumenos ek tou nomou). Present passive participle of katēcheō a rare verb to instruct, though occurring in the papyri for legal instruction. See note on Luke 1:4 and note on 1 Corinthians 14:19. The Jew‘s “ethical discernment was the fruit of catechetical and synagogical instruction in the Old Testament” (Shedd). [source]
Present passive participle of katēcheō a rare verb to instruct, though occurring in the papyri for legal instruction. See note on Luke 1:4 and note on 1 Corinthians 14:19. The Jew‘s “ethical discernment was the fruit of catechetical and synagogical instruction in the Old Testament” (Shedd). [source]
old word from μακαριζω makarizō to pronounce blessed (Luke 1:48), felicitation, congratulation, in N.T. only here, Romans 4:9; Acts 4:15. [source]
Orally. See on Luke 1:4. [source]
Final clause with ινα hina For the rare verb κατηχεω katēcheō see note on Luke 1:4 and note on Acts 18:25. [source]
Paul means that, as the faith of the Corinthians increases, he hopes that his apostolic efficiency will increase, so that Corinth shall become the basis of larger efforts, extending into other regions. The verb μεγαλύνω also means to praise or celebrate, as Luke 1:46; Acts 5:13; Acts 10:46, and is so explained by some interpreters here. But this would be inconsistent with the figure, to which Paul adheres. “He who can work far off is a man of great stature, who, without overstretching himself, reaches afar” (Meyer). [source]
Genitive absolute of the present passive participle of αυχανω auxanō to grow. We shall be magnified (μεγαλυντηναι megalunthēnai). First aorist passive infinitive of μεγαλυνω megalunō old verb (Luke 1:46) to make great (cf. Philemon 1:20 of Christ). Indirect discourse after ελπιδα elpida (hope) with the construction of ελπιζω elpizō to hope. [source]
First aorist passive infinitive of μεγαλυνω megalunō old verb (Luke 1:46) to make great (cf. Philemon 1:20 of Christ). Indirect discourse after ελπιδα elpida (hope) with the construction of ελπιζω elpizō to hope. [source]
See on Luke 1:4. [source]
For this late and rare verb κατηχεω katēcheō see note on Luke 1:4; note on Acts 18:25; and note on 1 Corinthians 14:19. It occurs in the papyri for legal instruction. Here the present passive participle retains the accusative of the thing. The active There was a teaching class thus early (1 Thessalonians 5:12; 1 Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians 4:11; 1 Thessalonians 5:17). [source]
Spirit has not the article, but the reference is to the Holy Spirit. Compare Matthew 12:28; Luke 1:15, Luke 1:35, Luke 1:41; Romans 1:4; 1 Peter 1:2. Wisdom and revelation are special forms of the Spirit's operation. He imparts general illumination (wisdom) and special revelations of divine mysteries. The combination of two words with an advance in thought from the general to the special is characteristic of Paul. Compare grace and apostleship, Romans 1:5; gifts and calling, Romans 11:29; wisdom and prudence, Ephesians 1:8, wisdom and knowledge, Colossians 2:3. [source]
Old word for outcry (Matthew 25:6; Luke 1:42). See note on Colossians 3:8 for the other words. Be put away (αρτητω arthētō). First aorist passive imperative of αιρω airō old verb, to pick up and carry away, to make a clean sweep. [source]
Verbal of ευλογεω eulogeō common in the lxx for Hebrew baruk (Vulgate benedictus) and applied usually to God, sometimes to men (Genesis 24:31), but in N.T. always to God (Luke 1:68), while ευλογημενος eulogēmenos (perfect passive participle) is applied to men (Luke 1:42). “While ευλογημενος eulogēmenos points to an isolated act or acts, ευλογητος eulogētos describes the intrinsic character” (Lightfoot). Instead of the usual ευχαριστουμεν eucharistoumen (Colossians 1:3) Paul here uses ευλογητος eulogētos elsewhere only in 2 Corinthians 1:3 in opening, though in a doxology in Romans 1:25; Romans 9:5; 2 Corinthians 11:31. The copula here is probably εστιν estin (is), though either εστω estō (imperative) or ειη eiē (optative as wish) will make sense. [source]
Present active subjunctive picturing these false prophets of peace and safety like Ezekiel 13:10 (Peace, and there is no peace). Ασπαλεια Asphaleia only in N.T. in Luke 1:4 (which see); Acts 5:23 and here. [source]
Comp. Luke 1:47; Judges 1:25. oP. Six times in the Pastorals. Used of both God and Christ (see Titus 1:3, Titus 1:4; Titus 2:10, Titus 2:13; Titus 3:4, Titus 3:6). The saving of men appears as God's direct will and act, 1 Timothy 2:4; Titus 3:5; 2 Timothy 1:9as Christ's work, 1 Timothy 1:15, comp. 2 Timothy 2:10. In lxx σωτὴρ occurs twenty times, and in all but two instances, of God. [source]
Genitive case with επιταγην epitagēn In the lxx σωτηρ sōtēr (old word from σωζω sōzō for agent in saving, applied to deities, princes, kings, etc.) occurs 20 times, all but two to God. The Romans called the emperor “Saviour God.” In the N.T. the designation of God as Saviour is peculiar to Luke 1:47; Judges 1:25; 1 Timothy 1:3; 1 Timothy 2:3; 1 Timothy 4:10; Titus 1:3; Titus 2:10; Titus 3:4. In the other Epistles Paul uses it of Christ (Philemon 3:20; Ephesians 5:23) as in 2 Timothy 1:10. In 2 Peter 1:1 we have “our God and Saviour Jesus Christ” as in Titus 2:13. Our hope (της ελπιδος ημων tēs elpidos hēmōn). Like Colossians 1:27. More than the author and object of hope, “its very substance and foundation” (Ellicott). [source]
Often used with a stronger meaning, as 1 Corinthians 1:26, mighty; Acts 25:5, οἱδυνατοὶ thechief men: as a designation of God, ὁ δυνατός themighty one, Luke 1:49: of preeminent ability or power in something, as of Jesus, δυνατός ἐν ἔργῳ καὶ λόγῳ mightyin deed and word, Luke 24:19: of spiritual agencies, “The weapons of our warfare are δυνατὰ mightyetc., 2 Corinthians 10:4. Very often in lxx. [source]
Only here and Luke 1:45. The act or process of consummating. By this word is signified the establishment of a perfect fellowship between God and the worshipper. See Hebrews 9:9; Hebrews 10:1. [source]
The phrase N.T.oolxx. Ἀγαλλίασις exultantjoy. Comp. Luke 1:44; Acts 2:46, and the verb ἀγαλλιᾶσθαι , Matthew 5:12; Luke 10:21, etc. The noun only here in Hebrews, and the verb does not occur. [source]
First aorist active indicative of χριω chriō to anoint, from which verb the verbal Χριστος Christos (Anointed One) comes. See Christ‘s use of εχρισεν echrisen in Luke 4:18 from Isaiah 66:1. With the oil of gladness Accusative case with εχρισεν echrisen (second accusative besides σε se). Perhaps the festive anointing on occasions of joy (Hebrews 12:2). See Luke 1:44. Fellows Old word from μετεχω metechō partners, sharers, in N.T. only in Hebrews save Luke 5:7. Note παρα para with accusative here, beside, beyond, above (by comparison, extending beyond). [source]
Lit., ye look upon, with the idea of respectful consideration; ye regard. Compare Luke 1:48; Luke 9:38. [source]
“In his low estate.” Play on ταπεινωσις tapeinōsis (from ταπεινοω tapeinoō Philemon 3:7), like ταπεινος tapeinos of James 1:9, old word in various senses, in N.T. only here, Luke 1:48; Acts 8:33; Philemon 3:21. The Cross of Christ lifts up the poor and brings down the high. It is the great leveller of men. [source]
First aorist active subjunctive (still with εαν ean of James 2:2) of επιβλεπω epiblepō followed by repeated preposition επι epi to gaze upon, old compound, in N.T. only here and Luke 1:48; Luke 9:38. [source]
Old word (present active indicative of μακαριζω makarizō), from μακαριος makarios (happy), in N.T. only here and Luke 1:48. “We felicitate.” As in James 1:3, James 1:12; Daniel 12:12. [source]
The word is always employed in the New Testament for great or lively joy. See Matthew 5:12; Luke 1:47; Luke 10:21. [source]
ρεπος Brephos old word, originally unborn child (Luke 1:41-44), then infant (Luke 2:12), here figuratively, like νηπιοι nēpioi Αρτιγεννητα Artigennēta is a late and rare compound (Lucian, imperial inscription) from αρτι arti and γενναω gennaō with evident allusion to αναγεγεννημενοι anagegennēmenoi in 1 Peter 1:23, probably meaning that they were recent converts, possibly slight proof that the Epistle written before Romans by Paul (Kuhl). [source]
Or, more literally, have come to know. John does not use the compound forms ἐπιγινώσκειν and ἐπίγνωσις (see on Matthew 7:16. See Luke 1:4; Acts 4:13; Romans 1:28; Ephesians 1:17, etc.), nor the kindred word γνῶσις knowledge(Luke 1:77; Romans 2:20, etc.). [source]
See on Mark 12:30; see on Luke 1:46. The soul ( ψυχή ) is the principle of individuality, the seat of personal impressions. It has a side in contact with both the material and the spiritual element of humanity, and is thus the mediating organ between body and spirit. Its meaning, therefore, constantly rises above life or the living individual, and takes color from its relation to either the emotional or the spiritual side of life, from the fact of its being the seat of the feelings, desires, affections, aversions, and the bearer and manifester of the divine life-principle ( πνεῦμα ). Consequently ψυχή is often used in our sense of heart (Luke 1:46; Luke 2:35; John 10:24; Acts 14:2); and the meanings of ψυχή souland πνεῦμα spiritoccasionally approach each other very closely. Compare John 12:27, and John 11:33; Matthew 11:29, and 1 Corinthians 16:18. Also both words in Luke 1:47. In this passage ψυχή soulexpresses the soul regarded as moral being designed for everlasting life. See Hebrews 6:19; Hebrews 10:39; Hebrews 13:17; 1 Peter 2:11; 1 Peter 4:19. John commonly uses the word to denote the principle of the natural life. See John 10:11, John 10:15; John 13:37; John 15:13; 1 John 3:16; Revelation 8:9; Revelation 12:11; Revelation 16:3. [source]
See on Luke 1:42. [source]
Present active subjunctive (volitive) of χαιρω chairō and αγαλλιαω agalliaō (elsewhere in N.T. in the middle except Luke 1:47; 1 Peter 1:8). For both verbs together see Matthew 5:12. [source]