Verse in Greek
Τοῦ λοιποῦ κόπους μοι μηδεὶς παρεχέτω· ἐγὼ γὰρ τὰ στίγματα τοῦ κυρίου Ἰησοῦ ἐν τῷ σώματί μου βαστάζω.
Focus Topic: The Genitive Absolute and Possessive Genitive with Emphasis on Identity
This verse contains a powerful personal declaration from Paul, blending a strong imperative prohibition with theological emphasis on bodily suffering as a mark of identity with Christ. The grammar deepens the force of the appeal.
Imperative and Prohibition: μηδεὶς παρεχέτω
The phrase μηδεὶς παρεχέτω (“let no one cause [me] trouble”) uses the present imperative with μηδεὶς (no one). The construction expresses a general prohibition against future or ongoing action. It reflects Paul’s desire to bring disputes to an end.
| Greek Word | Form | Function |
|---|---|---|
| μηδεὶς | Negative pronoun, nominative singular | Subject of the imperative verb |
| παρεχέτω | Present active imperative, 3rd person singular | “Let [no one] cause/give [trouble]” |
Temporal Expression: Τοῦ λοιποῦ
Τοῦ λοιποῦ is a genitive of time meaning “from now on” or “henceforth.” Though it appears genitive, it functions adverbially to express the point in time moving forward. It sets the tone of finality.
Possessive Genitive: τὰ στίγματα τοῦ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ
The phrase τὰ στίγματα τοῦ κυρίου Ἰησοῦ (“the marks of the Lord Jesus”) uses a possessive genitive to express ownership or association. These marks are symbolic or physical signs (possibly scars or suffering endured) that Paul bears as identifying him with the Messiah.
Locative Phrase: ἐν τῷ σώματί μου
The phrase ἐν τῷ σώματί μου (“in my body”) uses the dative case with ἐν to express location — where these marks are borne. Paul is not speaking metaphorically alone; he anchors his identity and suffering in the physical reality of his own body.
Verb of Bearing: βαστάζω
βαστάζω is present active indicative, 1st person singular: “I bear.” The present tense emphasizes the continuous nature of his bearing of these marks — it is an ongoing state, not a past experience.
Key Observations
- ἐγὼ is emphatic due to its position and usage, showing personal authority and experience.
- στίγματα refers to marks or scars, often associated with branding — possibly indicating persecution or even identification with Christ’s crucifixion.
- The verse contrasts external trouble from others with internal evidence of allegiance to Christ.
Theological Depth Through Syntax
Paul appeals to both his apostolic authority and his physical testimony. The use of prohibition, perfective aspect, genitive of time, and possessive genitives intertwines grammar and theology — showing not just a desire to silence opposition, but a claim to visible, lived union with the suffering Messiah.
