Connecting Words Linked to Better Understanding

Connecting words, also known as connectives or linking words, are common words that are easy to overlook when we read and study Scripture.

Yet, grammar and sentence structure help us properly understanding a biblical text. In fact, some of the most familiar words can be key to proper understanding. Words like therefore, but, for, so, since, that, and, because, if, yet, or, now, since, and more act as road signs in the passage. 

These connecting words indicate relationship, explain reasons, show cause and effect and help track lines of argument and flow of thought. Biblical authors used them to join together clauses, paragraphs, and even larger sections of a Bible book.

Yes, connecting words may be common and familiar, but they are not insignificant. They help us keep everything within the proper context.

Look for Connecting Words

When I read and study a Bible passage, I always look for connecting words. In fact, as I record my observations, I put a little box around any I find. (See also “Bible Highlighting,” “The 4 R Inductive Bible Study Method for Everyday Use” and “10 Things to Observe in a Bible Passage.”) Then I check to see how the author used that word, to see what he’s connecting together and what type of relationship it is.

If you see a connecting word at the beginning of a chapter or paragraph break, look above it to find the verse or passage to which it relates. Headings, paragraph breaks, and chapter and verse numbering were not in the original manuscripts, but were added later. So, don’t let them trip you up. Always double-check to make sure you aren’t missing any relevant context. 

A Few Examples

The following examples from Scripture each show a different purpose for the connecting word. These examples are not exhaustive, but are some of the more common ways these linking words are used.

Proper response:

I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called. Ephesians 4:1 ESV

We find this “therefore” at the beginning of a new chapter. But it connects what follows with what’s come before. In fact, the “therefore” of Ephesians 4:1 connects the last three chapters of Ephesians with the first three. In chapters 1-3, Paul beautifully detailed God’s great salvation. Then beginning in 4:1, Paul showed how we should practically respond.  The “therefore” points to practical application contingent on what has come before. Paul also used “therefore” in a similar way in Romans 12:1. (If you’d like to study the book of Romans check out “Deep Rooted: Growing through the Book of Romans.“)

Contrast: 

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2 ESV

The “but” in Romans 12:2 shows the relationship between two independent clauses. One is a negative command and the other is a positive command. This connecting word contrasts two behaviors, one that is unacceptable to God and one that pleases Him. The “but” makes it obvious which one God wants us to pursue. 

Condition: 

If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14 ESV

The “if/then” connecting words in the verse above shows the conditional relationship between Israel’s actions and God’s. This pattern, which is used throughout Scripture, emphasizes that the one part completely depends on the other. It presents a hypothesis and a conclusion.

Reason:

Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. Matthew 26:41 NLT

In the example above, the connecting phrase “so that” explains the purpose of Jesus’ command given in the first clause of the sentence. Followers of Jesus should “watch and pray” to find strength to resist temptation. Connecting words are often used to show the reason or purpose for something such as why it happened, why it is true, or why we must act. 

Conclusion: 

 He said to them, “Which one of you who has a sheep, if it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will not take hold of it and lift it out? Of how much more value is a man than a sheep! So it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath.” Matthew 12:11-12 ESV

In this story, Jesus had a confrontation with the Jewish leaders because He intended to heal a man on the Sabbath day. Jesus gave an example to illustrate His point then presented His conclusion with a “so.” Connecting words like therefore, so then, and for this reason are used as terms of conclusion to close out or summarize a preceding argument. 

In closing (see what I did there?), when you spot a connecting word in a passage, check the larger surrounding context to determine what pieces the author is linking. Then determine the nature on this connection to help you best understand the passage.

What about you? Do you usually watch for connecting words? If so, do you mark them in some way?