Paul’s Writing Style and Punctuation in the KJV

Paul’s Writing Style and Punctuation in the KJV

Take a close look at the opening four verses of Paul’s letter to Titus below. We are about to analyse his writing style and by the end of this little lesson, you will understand why Paul wrote like this, and the significance of the specific way the King James Bible uses punctuation to help us understand what Paul is saying, as well as provide us with much deeper insight and interpretation of the scriptures. This is an important lesson.

Titus 1:1-4  Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God’s elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness; 2 In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began; 3 But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour; 4 To Titus, mine own son after the common faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour.

Immediately upon starting to read Titus, one encounters a long, flowing sentence (Titus 1:1-4) that is characteristic of Paul's writing style. Before delving into an in-depth analysis of the letter to Titus, it is important to understand this specific format or style in which Paul writes and also how the King James Bible punctuates these extended, sweeping sentences. This foundational understanding will help you to interpret similar sweeping passages in Paul's other epistles and comprehend how the King James Bible applies punctuation to divide and structure his writing.  

The Structure and Flow of Paul’s Sentences

Paul’s writing in the King James Bible is known for its long, interconnected sentences, often structured in layers where each clause builds on the previous one. This reflects the Greek language, which lacked extensive punctuation. As a result, Paul's arguments unfold in a continuous, flowing style that mirrors the oral traditions of his time, where ideas were developed in long, interconnected sentences rather than isolated statements. His writing style challenges readers to engage deeply with the text, discerning the complex interplay of thoughts woven throughout the passage.

Here Are Some Examples of Paul’s Long Sentences

Titus 1:1-4 (90 words, 4 verses, 4 clauses)

Paul opens his letter to Titus with one flowing sentence, illustrating his layered approach:

• His calling as a servant and apostle.
• The hope of eternal life, promised by God.
• The manifestation of God’s Word through preaching.
• His connection with Titus, emphasizing shared faith.

Each clause expands on Paul’s apostleship and his purpose in preaching salvation.

Ephesians 1:3-14 (257 words, 12 verses, 7 clauses)

Paul outlines spiritual blessings in Christ, emphasizing:

• Election and predestination – believers were chosen before the foundation of the world.
• Adoption as sons – brought into God's family through Christ.
• Redemption and forgiveness – secured by Christ’s blood.
• Revelation of God's will – unveiling His divine plan.
• Inheritance in Christ – eternal promise to believers.
• Sealing by the Holy Spirit – a guarantee of redemption.

Each clause builds on the previous, reinforcing God’s grace and His promises.

Colossians 1:9-20 (218 words, 12 verses, 6 clauses)

Paul’s prayer for the Colossians transitions into a majestic description of Christ’s supremacy:

• Spiritual wisdom – Paul intercedes for the Colossians.
• Walking worthy – encouraging a life that pleases God.
• Deliverance and redemption – Christ rescues believers.
• Image of the invisible God – Christ’s divine nature.
• Reconciliation of all things – restoring creation.
• Peace through His blood – securing salvation.

This structure emphasizes Christ’s absolute supremacy.

Romans 1:1-7 (102 words, 7 verses, 6 clauses)

Paul introduces himself and the gospel’s significance:

• His apostolic calling.
• The gospel’s promise, foretold by prophets.
• Christ’s identity, declared by His resurrection.
• Grace and apostleship, extending salvation to Gentiles.
• Calling of believers, belonging to Christ.
• Blessing of grace and peace, given to Roman saints.

Each clause reinforces Paul’s authority and Christ’s central role.

The Importance of KJV Punctuation

Understanding how punctuation operates within the King James Bible allows readers to grasp its intricate meaning and interpret the text with greater accuracy. Punctuation marks, such as colons and semi-colons, are not mere grammatical tools but serve as signposts for emphasis and narrative flow. They bridge clauses, clarify connections, and highlight transitions between ideas, ensuring that the depth and nuance of the scripture are preserved for reflection and study.

Colons (: ) introduce expectations:

A colon is a punctuation mark used to introduce or emphasize additional information in a sentence. It often precedes explanations, definitions, lists, or quotations, ensuring the reader understands that what follows directly elaborates on the preceding clause.

Here are typical examples of using colons in a sentence:

• Lists – "Paul wrote to three churches: Rome, Corinth, and Ephesus."
• Definitions – "There is one core truth: salvation is by grace through faith."
• Quotations – "Paul said it clearly: 'Christ in you, the hope of glory.'"

Semi-colons (; ) connect related thoughts:

A semi-colon serves as a subtle connector between closely related independent clauses, ensuring clarity without the abruptness of a full stop. It allows the writer to weave together ideas that are distinct yet closely linked, maintaining the rhythm and coherence of the text.

Here are typical examples of using semi-colons in a sentence:

• "Paul’s ministry was divinely appointed; his mission was to reveal God's eternal promise."
• "The gospel is about grace, not works; salvation is a gift, freely given to those who believe."

So, coming back to Titus 1:1-4, you should now be able to identify that the semi-colons in this passage link Paul’s thoughts into a unified theme:

• His calling
• The hope of eternal life
• The manifestation of God's Word
• His relationship with Titus

Conclusion

Paul’s long sentences reflect deep theological connections, and tracking punctuation in the KJV enhances understanding.

• His writing builds layered arguments with clauses expanding on core themes.
• Key passages like Ephesians 1, Colossians 1, and Romans 1 illustrate this structure.
• Colons and semi-colons in the KJV guide comprehension and reinforce meaning.

By analyzing Paul’s writing style, we uncover richer, interconnected truths that deepen our understanding of Scripture.