The Greek word gnṓmē, represented by G1106, refers to cognition, opinion, or resolve. It appears 9 times across 8 unique verses in the Bible. Its meaning ranges from a subjective opinion or piece of advice to an objective, unified purpose or will.
In the biblical text, G1106 is used to convey several related ideas. It can refer to an apostle's personal counsel or judgment when a direct commandment from the Lord is not available 1 Corinthians 7:25. Paul uses it to offer his advice to the Corinthians, stating what is expedient for them 2 Corinthians 8:10. The word also signifies a shared resolve or unity, as when believers are called to be perfectly joined together in the same judgment to avoid divisions 1 Corinthians 1:10. In a different context, it describes the unified mind of the kings who give their power to the beast Revelation 17:13, and also refers to God's will, which He puts into their hearts to fulfill Revelation 17:17.
Several related words help clarify the concept of judgment, mind, and purpose:
- G3563 noûs (the intellect, i.e. mind; by implication, meaning): This word for mind or understanding is used alongside G1106 to call for believers to be united in the same mind and judgment 1 Corinthians 1:10.
- G1380 dokéō (to think; by implication, to seem): This verb expresses the act of thinking or forming an opinion. After giving his judgment G1106, Paul adds, "and I think also that I have the Spirit of God" 1 Corinthians 7:40.
- G1096 gínomai (to cause to be, i.e. (reflexively) to become): This word is used with G1106 to describe the formation of a purpose. When a plot was laid against Paul, "he purposed" to return through Macedonia Acts 20:3.
The theological weight of G1106 is significant, particularly in its application to both human and divine agency.
- Apostolic Counsel: The term illustrates the distinction between a divine commandment and apostolic wisdom. Paul offers his judgment G1106 as one who is faithful G4103 by God's mercy, providing guidance where scripture is not explicit 1 Corinthians 7:25.
- Unity of Mind: The call for believers to be of the same judgment G1106 underscores the importance of spiritual and doctrinal unity within the church, contrasting with destructive divisions G4978 1 Corinthians 1:10.
- Sovereign and Permissive Will: The word captures the interplay between God's will and human choice. Paul respects Philemon's mind G1106, desiring his actions to be willingly G1595 rather than by necessity G318 Philemon 1:14. Yet, God is shown to put His will G1106 into the hearts of kings to accomplish His ultimate purpose Revelation 17:17.
In summary, G1106 is a multifaceted term that moves beyond a simple "opinion." It conveys a considered judgment, personal advice, and a collective purpose or mind. It is used to describe the resolve of individuals like Paul Acts 20:3, the unified agreement of groups Revelation 17:13, and the sovereign will of God himself Revelation 17:17, providing a rich understanding of decision, counsel, and unity in scripture.
TRV