In | Repetition

Repetition is the most straightforward way to create emphasis. The easiest kind of repetition to notice is words (which you can track with a concordance). In Romans chapter 7, the word law occurs 23 times. That’s followed by the word Spirit occurring 21 times in chapter 8.

While some words are obviously rich theologically, some simple words are important threads that help reinforce the meaning of a passage or book. The preposition in functions this way in John 17:20-23 where repetition of phrases reinforces the idea of oneness with God: in me, in you, in us, in them.

Also, on occasion we will point out how an original Hebrew, Aramaic or Greek root is used in different forms to make the emphasis. These forms are often translated with different words in English.