The Greek word boulḗ, represented by G1012, refers to volition, advice, or purpose. It appears 12 times in 12 unique verses in the Bible. The term is used to describe a considered plan or intention, originating from either God or human beings.
In Scripture, G1012 frequently denotes God's sovereign and unchangeable plan. The crucifixion was not a random event but occurred by the "determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God" Acts 2:23. Paul states that he did not shun declaring "all the counsel of God" Acts 20:27. This divine counsel is presented as immutable, with God confirming it by an oath to show its unchangeability Hebrews 6:17. In contrast, the term also describes human plans, such as the soldiers' counsel to kill the prisoners Acts 27:42 or the counsel of the Jewish leaders to which Joseph of Arimathaea had not consented Luke 23:51.
Several related words help clarify the meaning of G1012 by exploring volition, purpose, and action:
- G1014 boúlomai (to "will," i.e. (reflexively) be willing): This is the root verb from which boulḗ is derived, indicating the act of willing or being disposed to do something. It is used to describe God willing to show the immutability of His counsel Hebrews 6:17.
- G2307 thélēma (a determination... choice... purpose, decree... volition): This word often appears alongside boulḗ to describe the determined will of God. Believers are predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things after the counsel of His own will Ephesians 1:11.
- G2041 érgon (an act:--deed, doing, labour, work): This term for an action or deed is sometimes contrasted with boulḗ. Gamaliel suggests that if a counsel or work is of men, it will fail, distinguishing the plan from the resulting action Acts 5:38.
The theological weight of G1012 is significant, primarily in establishing the nature of God's sovereignty versus human intention.
- Divine Sovereignty: The word underscores that God's plan is purposeful, predetermined, and absolute. His counsel is "determinate" Acts 2:23 and works in concert with His "foreknowledge" and "will" to accomplish His purposes Ephesians 1:11.
- Human Counsel and Rejection: In contrast, human counsel is fallible and can stand in opposition to God's will. The Pharisees and lawyers "rejected the counsel of God against themselves" Luke 7:30, demonstrating that divine plans can be refused by man, to their own detriment.
- Final Judgment and Revelation: The term points toward an ultimate accountability, where hidden intentions will be judged. At the Lord's coming, He will "make manifest the counsels of the hearts," revealing the true motives behind every action 1 Corinthians 4:5.
In summary, G1012 is a crucial term that distinguishes between the perfect, immutable plans of God and the often flawed, temporary plans of humanity. It functions as more than simple advice; it signifies a determined purpose. The use of boulḗ throughout scripture illustrates the contrast between God's sovereign will, which undergirds all of history, and the counsels of men, which are ultimately subject to His judgment.
TRV