Repetition of Words/Phrases

Look for repetition of words, phrases and ideas and ask yourself “what does the author/God seem to emphasize?”

Just as we emphasize and use repetition in our speech and writing so the Biblical authors do too. Paul uses the word “rejoice” numerous times in his letters to the Philippians, which is very apt considering how gritty and challenging the letter is. It may be challenging us to live up to a high calling, but it is one that we can do so rejoicing!

Example

“In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, in order that we, who were the first to put our hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory.

And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.”

Ephesians 1:11-14

In Paul’s opening passage in Ephesians he describes some of the spiritual blessings we have in Jesus Christ, but can you spot some of the repetition he uses? – That all things are for the praise of his glory! In fact, Paul even uses it a third time a few verses beforehand, emphasizing that God’s ultimate motive behind our salvation and spiritual blessing is for the praise of his glory.