Home
Math
Informatics
Science
Humanity
Hymns
Quotes
About
Screen
Send Close Add comments: (status displays here)
Got it!  This site "creationpie.com" uses cookies. You consent to this by clicking on "Got it!" or by continuing to use this website.  Note: This appears on each machine/browser from which this site is accessed.
John 3 Born from the beginnings
by RS  admin@creationpie.com : 1024 x 640
1. John 3 Born from the beginnings
Verse routeJohn 3:3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he can not see the kingdom of God. [kjv]
Verse routeαπεκριθη ιησους και ειπεν αυτω αμην αμην λεγω σοι εαν μη τις γεννηθη ανωθεν ου δυναται ιδειν την βασιλειαν του θεου [gnt]

The GNT (Greek New Testament) uses the phrase that means "born from above" or "born from the beginning". This was changed to "born again" from the Latin word "denuo" ≈ "anew, again". Which is it? The Greek for "born" is that of "coming into existence". Does that make a difference?

Do it again
2. John 3:3
   John 3:3 
 All 
KJV: Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he can not see the kingdom of God.
Greek: απεκριθη ο ιησους και ειπεν αυτω αμην αμην λεγω σοι εαν μη τις γεννηθη ανωθεν ου δυναται ιδειν την βασιλειαν του θεου
Latin: respondit Iesus et dixit ei amen amen dico tibi nisi quis natus fuerit denuo non potest videre regnum Dei
3. BASH as the Bourne again shell
Verse routeJohn 3:3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he can not see the kingdom of God. [kjv]
Verse routeαπεκριθη ιησους και ειπεν αυτω αμην αμην λεγω σοι εαν μη τις γεννηθη ανωθεν ου δυναται ιδειν την βασιλειαν του θεου [gnt]

The original UNIX shell program (command line interface) was not the best. In the 1980's, a person named Bourne wrote a much better shell program.

President Jimmy Carter (1976-1980) was known as a "Born again Christian" - often defined as someone who has had a dramatic transformation in their life.

Logo: Bash for Bourne-again shellA play on words was made on Bourne's dramatic improvement of the UNIX shell program as a "Bourne Again Shell", now known as Bash or BASH.
4. Genesis of birth
The corresponding ancient Greek word "γέννησις" ≈ "producing, beginning, birth"and is the source of the English word "genesis" and the name of the book of "Genesis" from the ancient Greek word "γένεσις" ≈ "origin, source, manner of birth, creation".

The ancient Greek word "γίγνομαι" ≈ "come into being". The context may indicated being born, being produced, taking place, etc.

The Latin "nativitas" ≈ "birth, nativity". From this we get "native", "nativity", "naive", etc.

Information sign More: Naive about the nativity
5. Aristotle and coming to be
Aristotle uses the Greek word for "coming to be" or "birth" many times in his works. One of Aristotle's works is the ancient Greek word "Περὶ γενέσεως καὶ φθορᾶς" ≈ "On the coming to be and passing away" (of the universe).

English: ... for coming-to-be and passing-away occur when things come together and are dissolved. Loeb #400, p. 166.
Greek: συνιόντων γὰρ καὶ διαλυομένων ἡ γένεσις συμβαίνει καὶ ἡ φθορά. [314b]
Aristotle uses a Greek word for "dissolving" that is not the Greek word translated as "dissolve" in the GNT.
Information sign More: Matthew 5: 17 Leave the light on but do not use the law as a residence inn
Information sign More: Aristotle
6. Strongs - from above
7. Usage - from above
The ancient Greek word "ἄνωθεν" ≈ "from above, from the beginning" and comes from "ἄνω" ≈ "upwards, above". There are other Greek words that mean "above" or "again" (and used by John and others). The modern Greek word "άνωθεν" (A-no-thehn) ≈ "above, from on high".
*G509 *13 ἄνωθεν (an'-o-then) : from G507; from above; by analogy, from the first; by implication, anew:--from above, again, from the beginning (very first), the top.
Word usage per chapter Words: ανωθεν=13

8. Strongs - above
9. Usage - above
The ancient Greek word "ἐπάνω" ≈ "above, higher than, more than" and comes from "ἐπί" ≈ "on" and "ἄνω" ≈ "upwards, above". The modern Greek word "πάνω" (PA-no) ≈ "above, on".
*G1883 *18 ἐπάνω (ep-an'-o) : from G1909 and G507; up above, i.e. over or on (of place, amount, rank, etc.):--above, more than, (up-)on, over.
Word usage per chapter Words: επανω=18

John uses this word for "above" in the same verse as the word translated as "again" (below).
10. Strongs - again
11. Usage - again
The ancient Greek word "πάλιν" ≈ "again, once more" and can mean "back in time" and is related to the ancient Greek word "παλιά" ≈ "old". The modern Greek word "πάλιν" (PA-leen) ≈ "again".
*G3823 *1 πάλη (pal'-ay) : from pallo (to vibrate; another form for G906); wrestling:--+ wrestle.
*G3825 *139 πάλιν (pal'-in) : probably from the same as G3823 πάλη (through the idea of oscillatory repetition); (adverbially) anew, i.e. (of place) back, (of time) once more, or (conjunctionally) furthermore or on the other hand:--again.
Word usage per chapter Words: παλη παλιν=141

John uses this word for "again" in 47 verses.
12. Greek words with similar meanings
*G1883 *18 ἐπάνω (ep-an'-o) : from G1909 and G507; up above, i.e. over or on (of place, amount, rank, etc.):--above, more than, (up-)on, over.
*G3825 *139 πάλιν (pal'-in) : probably from the same as G3823 (through the idea of oscillatory repetition); (adverbially) anew, i.e. (of place) back, (of time) once more, or (conjunctionally) furthermore or on the other hand:--again.
*G509 *13 ἄνωθεν (an'-o-then) : from G507; from above; by analogy, from the first; by implication, anew:--from above, again, from the beginning (very first), the top.
Note how Strongs forces the "again" meaning since that was the meaning decided in John 3:3 from the Latin translation. The word is used thirteen times in the GNT.The meaning of "again" is only found in the GNT translations and only in John 3 (two of three usages).
13. False dilemma
 ▶ 
 + 
 - 
 1 False dilemma 1 
 2 False dilemma 2 
 3 False dilemma 3 
 4 False dilemma 4 

A "false dilemma" is a logical fallacy whereby only a few of all possible choices are presented as being "collectively exhaustive". In some cases, the choices presented are not "mutually exclusive".

Information sign More: Sets: Mutually exclusive and collectively exhaustive
Information sign More: False dilemma
14. False dilemma
Do it again False dilemma 4

The general question to be asked of each usage of the word is the following.

Which meanings fit? Which meaning fits the best?
Some discussions (e.g., Wikipedia) present a "false dilemma", as a specific form of "framing", whereby only "above" and "again" are presented. In many cases, the "from the beginning" fits better but that idea is not presented nor discussed. And there may be other possible meanings.
15. Again - from the beginning
Can you do something "again" if that something is not the same? To do something "again" means that part of what is being done is the same.

Can one "search again" as in "research" as in doing it "again" for the "first time"? How about "research" it "from the beginning"?

The famous line remembered from the movie Casablanca is "Play it again, Sam". That line is never said. Bergman says, "Play it once, Sam, for old times sake". When Sam does nothing, she says "Play it, Sam! Play 'As time goes by'.".

Bergman said, essentially, "play it from the beginning". It is not uncommon to remember or think "play it again" when that was not actually said.
16. From the top
The idiom of "from the beginning" is in English as taking something "from the top". Interestingly,

Some call the "top of town" the north-most part of town or the part of highest elevation. In Greek cities, the "acropolis" became known as the highest part of the town. A temple was often built on this highest part of town.

Note: The Greek means the end point of a ridge but the meaning changed over time.


Information sign More: City: Colossae
17. Working again
Consider the task of doing work for three days such as on a small building project. Each day you are doing something different but, yet, with the same idea of "work". Are you really doing the same thing "again"? Not really. Part of it is the same and that is the way you might think and talk about it.
18. Born again
Consider the task of "coming into being" in three periods of time. One might say the following. Are you really doing the same thing "again"? Not really. Part of it is the same and that is the way you might think and talk about it.

Information sign More: Variations of born again in other words
19. Approach
Do it againWe could approach this meaning in many ways.
John often writes in what computer scientists call a "top down" or "goal-directed" manner - "from the end".

Let us look at how this word is used in the LXX (Septuagint) and (thirteen times) in the GNT , starting with the most obvious uses and continuing to the less obvious.
20. Genesis 6:16
In Genesis, God provides engineering plans for Noah to build the ark.

Verse routeGenesis 6:16 A window shalt thou make to the ark, and in a cubit shalt thou finish it above; and the door of the ark shalt thou set in the side thereof; with lower, second, and third stories shalt thou make it. [kjv]
Verse routeεπισυναγων ποιησεις την κιβωτον και εις πηχυν συντελεσεις αυτην ανωθεν την δε θυραν της κιβωτου ποιησεις εκ πλαγιων καταγαια διωροφα και τριωροφα ποιησεις αυτην [lxx]

Ark EncounterWhich meanings fit? Which meaning fits the best?
21. Genesis 6:16
   Genesis 6:16 
 All 
KJV: A window shalt thou make to the ark, and in a cubit shalt thou finish it above; and the door of the ark shalt thou set in the side thereof; with lower, second, and third stories shalt thou make it.
Hebrew: צהר תעשה לתבה ואל אמה תכלנה מלמעלה ופתח התבה בצדה תשים תחתים שנים ושלשים תעשה׃
Greek: επισυναγων ποιησεις την κιβωτον και εις πηχυν συντελεσεις αυτην ανωθεν την δε θυραν της κιβωτου ποιησεις εκ πλαγιων καταγαια διωροφα και τριωροφα ποιησεις αυτην
22. Exodus 25:21
In Exodus, God provides engineering plans to build the Ark of the Covenant.

Verse routeExodus 25:21 And thou shalt put the mercy seat above upon the ark; and in the ark thou shalt put the testimony that I shall give thee. [kjv]
Verse routeκαι επιθησεις το ιλαστηριον επι την κιβωτον ανωθεν και εις την κιβωτον εμβαλεις τα μαρτυρια α αν δω σοι [lxx]

Ark of the CovenantWhich meanings fit? Which meaning fits the best?
23. Exodus 25:21
   Exodus 25:21 
 All 
KJV: And thou shalt put the mercy seat above upon the ark; and in the ark thou shalt put the testimony that I shall give thee.
Hebrew: ונתת את הכפרת על הארן מלמעלה ואל הארן תתן את העדת אשר אתן אליך׃
Greek: και επιθησεις το ιλαστηριον επι την κιβωτον ανωθεν και εις την κιβωτον εμβαλεις τα μαρτυρια α αν δω σοι
24. Job and Mark
Verse routeJob 3:4 Let that day be darkness; let not God regard it from above, neither let the light shine upon it. [kjv]
Verse routeη ημερα εκεινη ειη σκοτος και μη αναζητησαι αυτην ο κυριος ανωθεν μηδε ελθοι εις αυτην φεγγος [lxx]

Which meanings fit? Which meaning fits the best?
    ☐ 1. again  ☐ 2. from above  ☐ 3. from the beginning


The ancient Greek for "light shine" used here became the modern Greek word for "moon".

Verse routeMark 13:24 But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, [kjv]
Verse routeαλλα εν εκειναις ταις ημεραις μετα την θλιψιν εκεινην ο ηλιος σκοτισθησεται και η σεληνη ου δωσει το φεγγος αυτης [gnt]

25. Mark 13:24
   Mark 13:24 
 All 
KJV: But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light,
Greek: αλλ αλλα εν εκειναις ταις ημεραις μετα την θλιψιν εκεινην ο ηλιος σκοτισθησεται και η σεληνη ου δωσει το φεγγος αυτης
26. Job 3:4
   Job 3:4 
 All 
KJV: Let that day be darkness; let not God regard it from above, neither let the light shine upon it.
Hebrew: היום ההוא יהי חשך אל ידרשהו אלוה ממעל ואל תופע עליו נהרה׃
Greek: η ημερα εκεινη ειη σκοτος και μη αναζητησαι αυτην ο κυριος ανωθεν μηδε ελθοι εις αυτην φεγγος
27. Jeremiah 4:27-28
Verse routeJeremiah 4:27 For thus hath the LORD said, The whole land shall be desolate; yet will I not make a full end. [kjv]
Verse route4:28 For this shall the earth mourn, and the heavens above be black: because I have spoken it, I have purposed it, and will not repent, neither will I turn back from it. [kjv]
Verse routeεπι τουτοις πενθειτω η γη και συσκοτασατω ο ουρανος ανωθεν διοτι ελαλησα και ου μετανοησω ωρμησα και ουκ αποστρεψω απ αυτης [lxx]

Which meanings fit? Which meaning fits the best?
The KJV (King James Version) uses "repent". How could God "repent" when he knows everything?

The literal Greek meaning is that of "think after" as in an "after thought".

God will not "think after" nor have an "after thought" on this matter. The Greek "turn back" is that of "turn away" (with some distance).

Information sign More: Think after what you heard and repent
28. Jeremiah 4:27

   Jeremiah 4:27 
 All 
KJV: For thus hath the LORD said, The whole land shall be desolate; yet will I not make a full end.
Hebrew: כי כה אמר יהוה שממה תהיה כל הארץ וכלה לא אעשה׃
Greek: ταδε λεγει κυριος ερημος εσται πασα η γη συντελειαν δε ου μη ποιησω
29. Jeremiah 4:28
   Jeremiah 4:28 
 All 
KJV: For this shall the earth mourn, and the heavens above be black: because I have spoken it, I have purposed it, and will not repent, neither will I turn back from it.
Hebrew: על זאת תאבל הארץ וקדרו השמים ממעל על כי דברתי זמתי ולא נחמתי ולא אשוב ממנה׃
Greek: επι τουτοις πενθειτω η γη και συσκοτασατω ο ουρανος ανωθεν διοτι ελαλησα και ου μετανοησω ωρμησα και ουκ αποστρεψω απ αυτης
Brenton: For these things let the earth mourn, and let the sky be dark above: for I have spoken, and I will not repent; I have purposed, and I will not turn back from it.
30. James 1:17
Verse routeJames 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. [kjv]
Verse routeπασα δοσις αγαθη και παν δωρημα τελειον ανωθεν εστιν καταβαινον απο του πατρος των φωτων παρ ω ουκ ενι παραλλαγη η τροπης αποσκιασμα [gnt]

James provides enough redundancy that the meaning is easier to determine.

Which meanings fit? Which meaning fits the best?
31. James 1:17
   James 1:17 
 All 
KJV: Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
Greek: πασα δοσις αγαθη και παν δωρημα τελειον ανωθεν εστιν καταβαινον απο του πατρος των φωτων παρ ω ουκ ενι παραλλαγη η τροπης αποσκιασμα
32. James 3:15,17
James uses the word twice in three verses.

Verse routeJames 3:15 This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. [kjv]
Verse routeουκ εστιν αυτη η σοφια ανωθεν κατερχομενη αλλα επιγειος ψυχικη δαιμονιωδης [gnt]
Verse route3:17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. [kjv]
Verse routeη δε ανωθεν σοφια πρωτον μεν αγνη εστιν επειτα ειρηνικη επιεικης ευπειθης μεστη ελεους και καρπων αγαθων αδιακριτος ανυποκριτος [gnt]

Which meanings fit? Which meaning fits the best?
33. James 3:15
   James 3:15 
 All 
KJV: This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish.
Greek: ουκ εστιν αυτη η σοφια ανωθεν κατερχομενη αλλ αλλα επιγειος ψυχικη δαιμονιωδης
34. James 3:17
   James 3:17 
 All 
KJV: But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.
Greek: η δε ανωθεν σοφια πρωτον μεν αγνη εστιν επειτα ειρηνικη επιεικης ευπειθης μεστη ελεους και καρπων αγαθων αδιακριτος και ανυποκριτος
35. James 3:16
The verse between 15 and 17 is interesting.

Verse routeJames 3:16 For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. [kjv]
Verse routeοπου γαρ ζηλος και εριθεια εκει ακαταστασια και παν φαυλον πραγμα [gnt]

The Greek translated as "envy" is that of "zeal" and competing against someone else for the same goal. The Greek translated as "strife" is that of using bad or contentious or "eristic" (the Greek word used) logic - usually as part of competing with others for the same goal.

The Greek translated as "confusion" is the word Paul uses in contrast to the "peace" of Jesus. The Greek translated as "evil" is not the usual word for "evil" but is the ancient Greek word "φαῦλος" ≈ "trivial, petty, careless".

Information sign More: Seeking damages from zealous jealousy
Information sign More: Eristic reasoning creates strife and contention
Information sign More: A mania for confusing commotions
36. James 3:16
   James 3:16 
 All 
KJV: For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.
Greek: οπου γαρ ζηλος και εριθεια εκει ακαταστασια και παν φαυλον πραγμα
37. James 3:15-17 Fit together
Verse routeJames 3:15 This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. [kjv]
Verse routeουκ εστιν αυτη η σοφια ανωθεν κατερχομενη αλλα επιγειος ψυχικη δαιμονιωδης [gnt]
Verse route3:16 For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. [kjv]
Verse routeοπου γαρ ζηλος και εριθεια εκει ακαταστασια και παν φαυλον πραγμα [gnt]
Verse route3:17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. [kjv]
Verse routeη δε ανωθεν σοφια πρωτον μεν αγνη εστιν επειτα ειρηνικη επιεικης ευπειθης μεστη ελεους και καρπων αγαθων αδιακριτος ανυποκριτος [gnt]

How well does verse 16 fit with the verse before and the verse after?
38. Matthew and Mark
Verse routeMatthew 27:51 And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent; [kjv]
Verse routeκαι ιδου το καταπετασμα του ναου εσχισθη απ ανωθεν εως κατω εις δυο και η γη εσεισθη και αι πετραι εσχισθησαν [gnt]
Verse routeMark 15:38 And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom. [kjv]
Verse routeκαι το καταπετασμα του ναου εσχισθη εις δυο απ ανωθεν εως κατω [gnt]

The presence of the "bottom" word helps establish the meaning of the "top" word.

Which meanings fit? Which meaning fits the best?
    ☐ 1. again  ☐ 2. from above  ☐ 3. from the beginning
What did the blind say to the drapes?
39. Matthew 27:51
   Matthew 27:51 
 All 
KJV: And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent;
Greek: και ιδου το καταπετασμα του ναου εσχισθη εις δυο απο απ ανωθεν εως κατω εις δυο και η γη εσεισθη και αι πετραι εσχισθησαν
40. Mark 15:38
   Mark 15:38 
 All 
KJV: And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom.
Greek: και το καταπετασμα του ναου εσχισθη εις δυο απο απ ανωθεν εως κατω
41. John 19:23
Verse routeJohn 19:23 Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took his garments, and made four parts, to every soldier a part; and also his coat: now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout. [kjv]
Verse routeοι ουν στρατιωται οτε εσταυρωσαν τον ιησουν ελαβον τα ιματια αυτου και εποιησαν τεσσαρα μερη εκαστω στρατιωτη μερος και τον χιτωνα ην δε ο χιτων αραφος εκ των ανωθεν υφαντος δι ολου [gnt]

Cross
Which meanings fit? Which meaning fits the best?
42. John 19:23
   John 19:23 
 All 
KJV: Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took his garments, and made four parts, to every soldier a part; and also his coat: now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout.
Greek: οι ουν στρατιωται οτε εσταυρωσαν τον ιησουν ελαβον τα ιματια αυτου και εποιησαν τεσσαρα μερη εκαστω στρατιωτη μερος και τον χιτωνα ην δε ο χιτων αρραφος αραφος εκ των ανωθεν υφαντος δι ολου
43. Galatians 4:9
Verse routeGalatians 4:9 But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage? [kjv]
Verse routeνυν δε γνοντες θεον μαλλον δε γνωσθεντες υπο θεου πως επιστρεφετε παλιν επι τα ασθενη και πτωχα στοιχεια οις παλιν ανωθεν δουλευσαι θελετε [gnt]

Which meanings fit? Which meaning fits the best?
If Paul meant for the word "from above" or "from the beginning" to mean "again", why did Paul not use the usual Greek word for "again" which Paul uses in this verse!

The ancient Greek word "πάλιν" ≈ "again, once more" and can mean "back in time" and is related to the ancient Greek word "παλιά" ≈ "old".

Information sign More: A recent new beginning
Information sign More: Galatians 4:21-25 Another allegory sequence of tabular dimensions
44. Galatians 4:9
   Galatians 4:9 
 All 
KJV: But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage?
Greek: νυν δε γνοντες θεον μαλλον δε γνωσθεντες υπο θεου πως επιστρεφετε παλιν επι τα ασθενη και πτωχα στοιχεια οις παλιν ανωθεν δουλευειν δουλευσαι θελετε
45. John 19:10-11
Verse routeJohn 19:10 Then saith Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee? [kjv]
Verse routeλεγει ουν αυτω ο πιλατος εμοι ου λαλεις ουκ οιδας οτι εξουσιαν εχω απολυσαι σε και εξουσιαν εχω σταυρωσαι σε [gnt]
Verse route19:11 Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin. [kjv]
Verse routeαπεκριθη αυτω ιησους ουκ ειχες εξουσιαν κατ εμου ουδεμιαν ει μη ην δεδομενον σοι ανωθεν δια τουτο ο παραδους με σοι μειζονα αμαρτιαν εχει [gnt]

Which meanings fit? Which meaning fits the best?
46. John 19:10
   John 19:10 
 All 
KJV: Then saith Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee?
Greek: λεγει ουν αυτω ο πιλατος εμοι ου λαλεις ουκ οιδας οτι εξουσιαν εχω σταυρωσαι απολυσαι σε και εξουσιαν εχω απολυσαι σταυρωσαι σε
47. John 19:11
   John 19:11 
 All 
KJV: Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin.
Greek: απεκριθη ο αυτω ιησους ουκ ειχες εξουσιαν ουδεμιαν κατ εμου ουδεμιαν ει μη ην σοι δεδομενον σοι ανωθεν δια τουτο ο παραδιδους παραδους με σοι μειζονα αμαρτιαν εχει
48. Luke 1:3
Luke is writing.

Verse routeLuke 1:3 It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus, [kjv]
Verse routeεδοξεν καμοι παρηκολουθηκοτι ανωθεν πασιν ακριβως καθεξης σοι γραψαι κρατιστε θεοφιλε [gnt]

BookIn English, the idiom "from the top" means "from the beginning".
Which meanings fit? Which meaning fits the best?
49. Luke 1:3
   Luke 1:3 
 All 
KJV: It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus,
Greek: εδοξεν καμοι παρηκολουθηκοτι ανωθεν πασιν ακριβως καθεξης σοι γραψαι κρατιστε θεοφιλε
50. Acts 26:5-6
Paul is speaking/writing.

Verse routeActs 26:5 Which knew me from the beginning, if they would testify, that after the most straitest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee. [kjv]
Verse routeπρογινωσκοντες με ανωθεν εαν θελωσιν μαρτυρειν οτι κατα την ακριβεστατην αιρεσιν της ημετερας θρησκειας εζησα φαρισαιος [gnt]
Verse route26:6 And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made of God unto our fathers: [kjv]

Which meanings fit? Which meaning fits the best?
51. Acts 26:5
   Acts 26:5 
 All 
KJV: Which knew me from the beginning, if they would testify, that after the most straitest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee.
Greek: προγινωσκοντες με ανωθεν εαν θελωσιν μαρτυρειν οτι κατα την ακριβεστατην αιρεσιν της ημετερας θρησκειας εζησα φαρισαιος
52. Acts 26:6
   Acts 26:6 
 All 
KJV: And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made of God unto our fathers:
Greek: και νυν επ ελπιδι της προς εις τους πατερας ημων επαγγελιας γενομενης υπο του θεου εστηκα κρινομενος
53. John
John uses the word three times in John 3 where Jesus is talking to Nicodemus. The last of these is verse 31.

Verse routeJohn 3:31 He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all. [kjv]
Verse routeο ανωθεν ερχομενος επανω παντων εστιν ο ων εκ της γης εκ της γης εστιν και εκ της γης λαλει ο εκ του ουρανου ερχομενος επανω παντων εστιν [gnt]

Which meanings fit? Which meaning fits the best?
The ancient Greek word "ἐπάνω" ≈ "above, higher than, more than" and comes from the ancient Greek word "ἐπί" ≈ "on" and the ancient Greek word "ἄνω" ≈ "upwards, above".
54. John 3:31
   John 3:31 
 All 
KJV: He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all.
Greek: ο ανωθεν ερχομενος επανω παντων εστιν ο ων εκ της γης εκ της γης εστιν και εκ της γης λαλει ο εκ του ουρανου ερχομενος επανω παντων εστιν
55. John 3:1-2
Let us return to the beginning of John 3 for context. Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews, comes to Jesus at night, to avoid attracting attention. This is an interesting "Nic at night" episode.

Verse routeJohn 3:1 There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: [kjv]
Verse routeην δε ανθρωπος εκ των φαρισαιων νικοδημος ονομα αυτω αρχων των ιουδαιων [gnt]
Verse route3:2 The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. [kjv]
Verse routeουτος ηλθεν προς αυτον νυκτος και ειπεν αυτω ραββι οιδαμεν οτι απο θεου εληλυθας διδασκαλος ουδεις γαρ δυναται ταυτα τα σημεια ποιειν α συ ποιεις εαν μη η ο θεος μετ αυτου [gnt]

It appears that John received inside information from Nicodemus since only Jesus and Nicodemus were present. Later, John reports what happened at a meeting of the religious establishment where Nicodemus was present.
56. John 3:1
   John 3:1 
 All 
KJV: There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews:
Greek: ην δε ανθρωπος εκ των φαρισαιων νικοδημος ονομα αυτω αρχων των ιουδαιων
57. John 3:2
   John 3:2 
 All 
KJV: The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.
Greek: ουτος ηλθεν προς τον ιησουν αυτον νυκτος και ειπεν αυτω ραββι οιδαμεν οτι απο θεου εληλυθας διδασκαλος ουδεις γαρ δυναται ταυτα τα σημεια δυναται ποιειν α συ ποιεις εαν μη η ο θεος μετ αυτου
58. John 3:3,7
Verse routeJohn 3:3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he can not see the kingdom of God. [kjv]
Verse routeαπεκριθη ιησους και ειπεν αυτω αμην αμην λεγω σοι εαν μη τις γεννηθη ανωθεν ου δυναται ιδειν την βασιλειαν του θεου [gnt]
Verse route… natus … denuo … videre … [v]
Verse route3:7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. [kjv]
Verse routeμη θαυμασης οτι ειπον σοι δει υμας γεννηθηναι ανωθεν [gnt]
Verse route… mireris … nasci denuo [v]

Which meanings fit? Which meaning fits the best?
59. Greek and Latin
Verse routeJohn 3:3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he can not see the kingdom of God. [kjv]
Verse routeαπεκριθη ιησους και ειπεν αυτω αμην αμην λεγω σοι εαν μη τις γεννηθη ανωθεν ου δυναται ιδειν την βασιλειαν του θεου [gnt]
Verse route… natus … denuo … videre … [v]


Verse route3:7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. [kjv]
Verse routeμη θαυμασης οτι ειπον σοι δει υμας γεννηθηναι ανωθεν [gnt]
Verse route… mireris … nasci denuo [v]

Whisper chainThe Latin Vulgate starts the "word slide" with the Latin word "denuo" ≈ "anew, again". This continued through Luther German and English translations such as the KJV.
60. Ancient and modern Greek
Verse routeJohn 3:3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he can not see the kingdom of God. [kjv]
Verse routeαπεκριθη ιησους και ειπεν αυτω αμην αμην λεγω σοι εαν μη τις γεννηθη ανωθεν ου δυναται ιδειν την βασιλειαν του θεου [gnt]
Verse route… natus … denuo … videre … [v]
Verse route3:7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. [kjv]
Verse routeμη θαυμασης οτι ειπον σοι δει υμας γεννηθηναι ανωθεν [gnt]
Verse route… mireris … nasci denuo [v]

The ancient Greek word "ἄνωθεν" ≈ "from above" and comes from "ἄνω" ≈ "upwards, above". The modern Greek word "άνωθεν" (A-no-thehn) ≈ "from above". This has not changed since ancient times.

Red flagSome modern Greek translations follow the English translation and use the (ancient and) modern Greek word "ξανά" (ksa-NA) ≈ "again" rather then the modern Greek word "άνωθεν" (A-no-thehn) ≈ "from above".
61. Idioms and meaning
Some will use the "idiom excuse" and explain a different meaning, when the original meaning fits, as an "idiom".

Warning Idiom excuse Warning Id-ten-T excuse Warning IDI0T excuse
In understanding the meaning of the GNT, one will often hear about the difference between Classic Greek and the Koine Greek spoken at the time of Jesus and how they are different.

Some differences are explained away by calling the phrase or word an "idiom". Idioms have their place in every language.
However, when the Classic Greek definition of a word fits the context of the GNT better than, say, any idiom might, the ancient Greek meaning of the word might be the appropriate meaning.

Some will use the "idiot" excuse, I mean the "idiom" excuse, to explain away the meaning they want the word to have rather than searching, in the context of the text, the meaning it most likely has.

Information sign More: Idioms and meaning
62. See with understanding
Verse routeJohn 3:3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he can not see the kingdom of God. [kjv]
Verse routeαπεκριθη ιησους και ειπεν αυτω αμην αμην λεγω σοι εαν μη τις γεννηθη ανωθεν ου δυναται ιδειν την βασιλειαν του θεου [gnt]
Verse route… natus … denuo … videre … [v]

The Greek for "see" means to "see with understanding". However, this does not say that one will "enter into" the "kingdom of God". That comes two verses later (below). For now, consider the 6th Beatitude.

Verse routeMatthew 5:8 Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. [kjv]
Verse routeμακαριοι οι καθαροι τη καρδια οτι αυτοι τον θεον οψονται [gnt]

Is there a difference between seeing (different words) the "kingdom of God" and seeing "God"?
63. Matthew 5:8
   Matthew 5:8 
 All 
KJV: Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.
Greek: μακαριοι οι καθαροι τη καρδια οτι αυτοι τον θεον οψονται
64. John 3:5
   John 3:5 
 All 
KJV: Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he can not enter into the kingdom of God.
Greek: απεκριθη ο ιησους αμην αμην λεγω σοι εαν μη τις γεννηθη εξ υδατος και πνευματος ου δυναται εισελθειν εις την βασιλειαν του θεου
65. Water and spirit
Verse routeJohn 3:5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he can not enter into the kingdom of God. [kjv]
Verse routeαπεκριθη ο ιησους αμην αμην λεγω σοι εαν μη τις γεννηθη εξ υδατος και πνευματος ου δυναται εισελθειν εις την βασιλειαν του θεου [gnt]

Why might John say that one needs to be born of both "water" and "spirit"? It appears that both "water" and "spirit" are required to "enter into" the "Kingdom of God".

The symbolic "sword" brought (thrown) by Jesus appears to represent the water used (thrown) at the Last Supper in the foot washing and is the "sword" part of the "flaming sword". The "wiping" represents "washed in the blood".

The Holy Spirit appears to be symbolic of the "flame" part of the "flaming sword".

Information sign More: The security of flaming swords
Information sign More: No sword no shoes no service on the way
66. Model of the kingdoms and births
Verse routeJohn 3:3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he can not see the kingdom of God. [kjv]
Verse routeαπεκριθη ιησους και ειπεν αυτω αμην αμην λεγω σοι εαν μη τις γεννηθη ανωθεν ου δυναται ιδειν την βασιλειαν του θεου [gnt]

 ▶ 
 + 
 - 
 1 Kingdoms 1 
 2 Kingdoms 2 
 3 Kingdoms 3 
 4 Kingdoms 4 
 5 Kingdoms 5 

Four parts: "earth", "air", "fire", "water".

The "ask", "seek", "knock" sequence is part of the "flame" and "sword" progression.


Information sign More: The security of flaming swords
Information sign More: No sword no shoes no service on the way
67. Details
68. 1 John 5:8
Verse route1 John 5:8 And there are three that bear witness in earth, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one. [kjv]
Verse routeτο πνευμα και το υδωρ και το αιμα και οι τρεις εις το εν εισιν [gnt]

Double edge sword meaning Enclosed tree of life with flaming sword
69. 1 John 5:8
   1 John 5:8 
 All 
KJV: And there are three that bear witness in earth, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one.
Greek: και τρεις εισιν οι μαρτυρουντες εν τη γη το πνευμα το πνευμα και το υδωρ και το αιμα και οι τρεις εις το εν εισιν
70. John 3:6-7
Verse routeJohn 3:6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. [kjv]
Verse routeτο γεγεννημενον εκ της σαρκος σαρξ εστιν και το γεγεννημενον εκ του πνευματος πνευμα εστιν [gnt]
Verse route3:7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. [kjv]
Verse routeμη θαυμασης οτι ειπον σοι δει υμας γεννηθηναι ανωθεν [gnt]
Verse route… mireris … nasci denuo [v]

71. John 3:6
   John 3:6 
 All 
KJV: That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.
Greek: το γεγεννημενον εκ της σαρκος σαρξ εστιν και το γεγεννημενον εκ του πνευματος πνευμα εστιν
72. John 3:7
   John 3:7 
 All 
KJV: Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.
Greek: μη θαυμασης οτι ειπον σοι δει υμας γεννηθηναι ανωθεν
Latin: non mireris quia dixi tibi oportet vos nasci denuo
73. Wind of the Spirit
In the context of being "born again" or "born from above" or "born from the beginning", Jesus tells Nicodemus the following.

Verse routeJohn 3:8 The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit. [kjv]
Verse routeτο πνευμα οπου θελει πνει και την φωνην αυτου ακουεις αλλ ουκ οιδας ποθεν ερχεται και που υπαγει ουτως εστιν πας ο γεγεννημενος εκ του πνευματος [gnt]

Paraphrase: The spirit speaks to who it desires, and those hear with understanding what the voice (light into the mind) says. They cannot determine from where it came or to where it is going. So is everyone who is born (comes into being) of the Spirit.

The "spirit" or "message" can "request" or "ask" whoever it "desires". When this "message" "asks", one may need a "loan".

Information sign More: Matthew 5:42 Do not loan shirk
74. John 3:8

   John 3:8 
 All 
KJV: The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit.
Greek: το πνευμα οπου θελει πνει και την φωνην αυτου ακουεις αλλ ουκ οιδας ποθεν ερχεται και που υπαγει ουτως εστιν πας ο γεγεννημενος εκ του πνευματος
75. Mighty breath
Verse routeActs 2:2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. [kjv]
Verse routeκαι εγενετο αφνω εκ του ουρανου ηχος ωσπερ φερομενης πνοης βιαιας και επληρωσεν ολον τον οικον ου ησαν καθημενοι [gnt]

The "sound" might be more accurately described as a "voice". The "rushing mighty wind" might be more accurately described as a "forceful breath".

Jesus enabled others to speak and listen at PentecostParaphrase:: The Spirit speaks to selected believers and they hear and tell others what they have heard. Some listeners hear as if in their own language. Some do not hear at all. Those speakers (who speak) and listeners (who understand) appear to have been born (come into being) of the Spirit.

The speaking and listening appears to go much deeper than a superficial speaking in some arbitrary language.


Information sign More: A big breath from a wind bag
76. Mighty breath
Verse routeActs 2:2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. [kjv]
Verse routeκαι εγενετο αφνω εκ του ουρανου ηχος ωσπερ φερομενης πνοης βιαιας και επληρωσεν ολον τον οικον ου ησαν καθημενοι [gnt]

The "mighty" is the same word used by Jesus to describe those who try to "take" or "rapture" (harpoon) the "Kingdom of Heaven" by "force" or "might" in Matthew 11:12.

Verse routeMatthew 11:12 And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force. [kjv]
Verse routeαπο δε των ημερων ιωαννου του βαπτιστου εως αρτι η βασιλεια των ουρανων βιαζεται και βιασται αρπαζουσιν αυτην [gnt]

Information sign More: Matthew 11: Exploring the Kingdom of Heaven
Information sign More: A tongue in cheek model for Pentecost
77. Strongs - blow
78. Usage - blow
*G4154 *7 πνέω (pneh'-o) : a primary word; to breathe hard, i.e. breeze:--blow. Compare G5594.
*G4157 *2 πνοή (pno-ay') : from G4154 πνέω; respiration, a breeze:--breath, wind.
Word usage per chapter Words: επνευσαν=2 πνεη πνει πνεοντα πνεοντος πνεουση πνοην πνοης

The same "blow" or "breath" is in John 3:8 with Nicodemus and Acts 2:2 at Pentecost. The word can mean "wind" but usually in the sense of the gods providing a good "wind". There is another Greek word that means "wind" and John uses it elsewhere.

Information sign More: A big breath from a wind bag
79. Wind and animals
The ancient Greek word "ἄνεμος" ≈ "wind" and is related to the Latin word "animus" ≈ "mind, spirit, breath, etc." and is the source of "animus". The breath part is the origin of the English word "animal".

The modern Greek word "άνεμος" (A-neh-mos) ≈ "wind".

The Greek word for "wind" has a negative connotation in the GNT.

Information sign More: An unlawful wind as an air of the spirit
80. Diagram
Linguistic diagram of wind


Information sign More: An unlawful wind as an air of the spirit
81. Wind
Can we tell where the "wind bloweth" and from "whence it cometh" and "wither it goeth"?

Sun, Earth and MoonIsaac Newton discovered the law of gravity. Newton's Laws let us determine exactly, via mathematical equations, how two bodies, such as the sun and earth, or earth and moon, interact and move due to gravity. However, mathematics has never solved the problem of how three or more bodies interact, such as sun, earth, and moon together.

Information sign More: Two and three body problem
Information sign More: Chaos theory and snowflakes
82. Hearing a voice
Verse routeJohn 18:37 Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice. [kjv]
Verse routeειπεν ουν αυτω ο πιλατος ουκουν βασιλευς ει συ απεκριθη ο ιησους συ λεγεις οτι βασιλευς ειμι εγω εις τουτο γεγεννημαι και εις τουτο εληλυθα εις τον κοσμον ινα μαρτυρησω τη αληθεια πας ο ων εκ της αληθειας ακουει μου της φωνης [gnt]

Throughout time, there are those who hear the message and have understanding. Jesus tells this to Pilate. The Greek for "born" means to "come into being" (in some form).

The Greek for "hear" assumes understanding. The ancient Greek word "φωνή" ≈ "voice" comes from the ancient Greek word "φως" ≈ "light" and the ancient Greek word "νους" ≈ "mind". That is, a "sound" is "light" into the "mind".

Information sign More: John: The reason for the season
Information sign More: A tongue in cheek model for Pentecost
83. John 18:37

   John 18:37 
 All 
KJV: Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.
Greek: ειπεν ουν αυτω ο πιλατος ουκουν βασιλευς ει συ απεκριθη ο ιησους συ λεγεις οτι βασιλευς ειμι εγω εγω εις τουτο γεγεννημαι και εις τουτο εληλυθα εις τον κοσμον ινα μαρτυρησω τη αληθεια πας ο ων εκ της αληθειας ακουει μου της φωνης
Latin: dixit itaque ei Pilatus ergo rex es tu respondit Iesus tu dicis quia rex sum ego ego in hoc natus sum et ad hoc veni in mundum ut testimonium perhibeam veritati omnis qui est ex veritate audit meam vocem
84. Translation
Translation issues make the context and meaning of both John 3:8 (Nicodemus) and Acts 2:2 (Pentecost) more difficult to associate with each other.

Discuss: How might preconceptions and prejudices about "free will" and "predestination" have effected the translation of what Jesus tells Nicodemus and what happens at Pentecost?

Future topic Details are left as a future topic.

85. John 3:9
Verse routeJohn 3:9 Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be? [kjv]
Verse routeαπεκριθη νικοδημος και ειπεν αυτω πως δυναται ταυτα γενεσθαι [gnt]

The Greek word translated as "can" means "having the potential" or "possibility".

The Greek word translated as "be" means "come into existence" or "come into being" and is the same Greek word used for "born" as in "born from above", "born from the beginning" or, as appears to be mistranslated, "born again".
86. John 3:9
   John 3:9 
 All 
KJV: Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be?
Greek: απεκριθη νικοδημος και ειπεν αυτω πως δυναται ταυτα γενεσθαι
87. Jesus and expectations
Verse routeJohn 3:10 Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things? [kjv]
Verse routeαπεκριθη ιησους και ειπεν αυτω συ ει ο διδασκαλος του ισραηλ και ταυτα ου γινωσκεις [gnt]

Paraphrased, Jesus is saying to a religious leader of his time, "In your position as a teacher of the scriptures, you should know these things".

Verse route18:23 Jesus answered him, If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil: but if well, why smitest thou me? [kjv]
Verse routeαπεκριθη αυτω ιησους ει κακως ελαλησα μαρτυρησον περι του κακου ει δε καλως τι με δερεις [gnt]

The word translated as "evil" is the Greek word for "bad" in contrast to "good" or "well".
88. John 3:10
   John 3:10 
 All 
KJV: Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things?
Greek: απεκριθη ο ιησους και ειπεν αυτω συ ει ο διδασκαλος του ισραηλ και ταυτα ου γινωσκεις
89. John 18:23
   John 18:23 
 All 
KJV: Jesus answered him, If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil: but if well, why smitest thou me?
Greek: απεκριθη αυτω ο ιησους ει κακως ελαλησα μαρτυρησον περι του κακου ει δε καλως τι με δερεις
90. John 3:11-12
Verse routeJohn 3:11 Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. [kjv]
Verse route3:12 If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things? [kjv]
Verse routeει τα επιγεια ειπον υμιν και ου πιστευετε πως εαν ειπω υμιν τα επουρανια πιστευσετε [gnt]

Outside the box
  • Earth: Inside of time and space. Inside the box.
  • Heaven: Outside of time and space. Outside the box.
    		•
    Peter says that the "sure word" of prophecy is more important than being an "eye witness". Jesus says much the same here.
    91. John 3:11
       John 3:11 
     All 
    KJV: Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness.
    Greek: αμην αμην λεγω σοι οτι ο οιδαμεν λαλουμεν και ο εωρακαμεν μαρτυρουμεν και την μαρτυριαν ημων ου λαμβανετε
    92. John 3:12
       John 3:12 
     All 
    KJV: If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things?
    Greek: ει τα επιγεια ειπον υμιν και ου πιστευετε πως εαν ειπω υμιν τα επουρανια πιστευσετε
    93. John 3:13
    Verse routeJohn 3:13 And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven. [kjv]
    Verse routeκαι ουδεις αναβεβηκεν εις τον ουρανον ει μη ο εκ του ουρανου καταβας ο υιος του ανθρωπου [gnt]

    Outside the box
  • Earth: Inside of time and space. Inside the box.
  • Heaven: Outside of time and space. Outside the box.
    		•
    Jesus now presents a prophecy from the OT (Old Testament) to be fulfilled that will act as an authentication code that is "more sure" than an "eye witness".
    94. John 3:13
       John 3:13 
     All 
    KJV: And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven.
    Greek: και ουδεις αναβεβηκεν εις τον ουρανον ει μη ο εκ του ουρανου καταβας ο υιος του ανθρωπου ο ων εν τω ουρανω
    95. John 3:14-15 Context after
    Verse routeJohn 3:14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: [kjv]
    Verse routeκαι καθως μωυσης υψωσεν τον οφιν εν τη ερημω ουτως υψωθηναι δει τον υιον του ανθρωπου [gnt]
    Verse route3:15 That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. [kjv]

    Serpent on the poleIn the desert, the people had only to look on the serpent on the pole to be saved. What must we do to be saved?

    How might that pole and serpent have appeared?
    96. John 3:14
       John 3:14 
     All 
    KJV: And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up:
    Greek: και καθως μωσης μωυσης υψωσεν τον οφιν εν τη ερημω ουτως υψωθηναι δει τον υιον του ανθρωπου
    97. John 3:15
       John 3:15 
     All 
    KJV: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.
    Greek: ινα πας ο πιστευων εις αυτον μη αποληται αλλ εν αυτω εχη ζωην αιωνιον
    98. John 3:16-17 Context after
    Verse routeJohn 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. [kjv]
    Verse route3:17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. [kjv]
    Verse routeου γαρ απεστειλεν ο θεος τον υιον εις τον κοσμον ινα κρινη τον κοσμον αλλ ινα σωθη ο κοσμος δι αυτου [gnt]

    Divide into two partsThe word translated as "condemn" in verse 17 is the Greek word for "divide" or "separate". Jesus did not come to "separate", as in "sheep" and (young) "goats" in his first coming.


    Information sign More: Matthew 7:1-2 Here comes the judge, but just barley
    99. John 3:16
       John 3:16 
     All 
    KJV: For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
    Greek: ουτως γαρ ηγαπησεν ο θεος τον κοσμον ωστε τον υιον αυτου τον μονογενη εδωκεν ινα πας ο πιστευων εις αυτον μη αποληται αλλ αλλα εχη ζωην αιωνιον
    100. John 3:17
       John 3:17 
     All 
    KJV: For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
    Greek: ου γαρ απεστειλεν ο θεος τον υιον αυτου εις τον κοσμον ινα κρινη τον κοσμον αλλ ινα σωθη ο κοσμος δι αυτου
    101. Romans 8:1
    Verse routeRomans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. [kjv]
    Verse routeουδεν αρα νυν κατακριμα τοις εν χριστω ιησου [gnt]

    The ancient Greek word "νῦν" ≈ "now" and is related to the Latin word "num" ≈ "now" and the English word "now" and the German word "nun" ≈ "now". The "condemnation" is not "now" but could be "later" if one does not do what they are supposed to do. A different word "judge" means to separate.

    Might this help answer the question of "once saved always saved"?

    Future topic Details are left as a future topic.



    Information sign More: Romans 8: Battle cry separation for the love of Christ (part 1)
    Information sign More: Matthew 7:1-2 Here comes the judge, but just barley
    102. Romans 8:1

       Romans 8:1 
     All 
    KJV: There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
    Greek: ουδεν αρα νυν κατακριμα τοις εν χριστω ιησου μη κατα σαρκα περιπατουσιν αλλα κατα πνευμα
    103. Judging related Greek words
    Verse routeMatthew 7:1 Judge not, that ye be not judged. [kjv]
    Verse routeμη κρινετε ινα μη κριθητε [gnt]

    Divide into two parts 1. "κρίνω" ≈ "separate" which is related to "κριθη" ≈ "barley". "ἀποκρίνω" ≈ "answer a question" by separating (judging).
    Didache life and death 2. "κρίμα" ≈ "decision, sentence" related to "crime". "κρίσις" ≈ "decision, determination" source of "crisis".
    What do you see? 3. "κατακρίμα" ≈ "enforcement of penalty". "κριτής" ≈ "judge" may be involved in all three parts of the process.
    Pilate has power to do all three parts. The only "separation" in Matthew 7 is that of who is going through the "narrow gate" (heaven) or remaining in the "wide area" (hell).

    Information sign More: Matthew 7:1-2 Here comes the judge, but just barley
    104. Strongs - condemnation
    105. Usage - condemnation
    *G2631 *3 κατάκριμα (kat-ak'-ree-mah) : from G2632; an adverse sentence (the verdict):--condemnation.
    Word usage per chapter Words: κατακριμα=3

    106. End of page
    by RS  admin@creationpie.com : 1024 x 640