### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective γνωστός (gnōstós), Strong's number `{{G1110}}`, is derived from the verb γινώσκω (ginōskō, `{{G1097}}`), meaning "to know," "to perceive," or "to understand." As a verbal adjective, γνωστός primarily signifies "that which is known" or "knowable." Its semantic range encompasses:
1. **Known/Recognized:** Something that has become apparent, understood, or widely acknowledged.
2. **Notable/Prominent:** Referring to a person or event that is well-known or famous.
3. **Knowable/Perceptible:** Describing something that is capable of being apprehended or understood, even if not yet fully comprehended.
The nuance often depends on the context, ranging from simple public recognition to a deeper, more profound awareness of truth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
γνωστός appears predominantly in the book of Acts and in Romans 1:19, with a singular significant occurrence in Acts 15:18.
In the book of Acts, γνωστός frequently describes events or facts that become widely disseminated or publicly acknowledged:
* In [[Acts 1:19]], the fate of Judas Iscariot "became known to all the inhabitants of Jerusalem," indicating widespread public knowledge of a tragic event.
* Peter uses the phrase "Be it known to you" (γνωστὸν ἔστω ὑμῖν) in [[Acts 2:14]] and [[Acts 4:10]] to introduce crucial proclamations about Jesus' resurrection and the power of His name. Similarly, Paul uses "Let it be known to you therefore, brothers" (γνωστὸν οὖν ἔστω ὑμῖν, ἀδελφοί) in [[Acts 13:38]] to announce the forgiveness of sins through Jesus. These usages highlight the public and declarative nature of the apostolic message.
* The widespread impact of miracles is also described using γνωστός. The resurrection of Tabitha in [[Acts 9:42]] "became known throughout all Joppa," leading many to believe in the Lord. Similarly, the fear that fell upon those in Ephesus after the sons of Sceva incident in [[Acts 19:17]] "became known to all, both Jews and Greeks who lived in Ephesus." Here, γνωστός emphasizes the undeniable and publicly observable nature of God's work.
* In [[Acts 28:22]], when Paul meets Jewish leaders in Rome, they state that "with regard to this sect [Christianity], we know that everywhere it is spoken against." While not directly γνωστός, the underlying concept of "known" reputation is present, implying a widespread public perception, albeit a negative one.
A profound theological usage occurs in [[Acts 15:18]], where James quotes Amos 9:11-12, stating, "Known to God from eternity are all His works" (γνωστὰ ἀπ’ αἰῶνος τὰ ἔργα αὐτοῦ). This verse speaks to God's omniscience and foreknowledge, affirming that all of His plans and actions are eternally present and known to Him.
Perhaps the most theologically significant use is in [[Romans 1:19]]: "For what can be known about God (τὸ γνωστὸν τοῦ Θεοῦ) is plain to them, because God has shown it to them." Here, γνωστός refers to the aspects of God's character and existence that are discernible through general revelation, particularly His invisible attributes, eternal power, and divine nature, as manifested in creation. It signifies that God has made Himself "knowable" to all humanity, rendering them without excuse for their ungodliness.
### Related Words & Concepts
γνωστός is intimately connected to its root verb, γινώσκω (ginōskō, `{{G1097}}`), which denotes a wide range of knowledge, from simple acquaintance to deep, experiential understanding. Other related terms include:
* γνῶσις (gnōsis, `{{G1108}}`): The noun form, meaning "knowledge" or "understanding." While γνωστός refers to that which is known, γνῶσις is the act or state of knowing.
* ἐπιγινώσκω (epiginōskō, `{{G1921}}`): "To know fully," "to recognize," often implying a more complete or accurate knowledge.
* ἀγνωσία (agnōsia, `{{G56}}`): The opposite, meaning "ignorance" or "lack of knowledge."
The concept of γνωστός also relates to broader theological themes such as revelation (both general and special), truth, perception, and divine wisdom. It underscores the accessibility of certain truths, whether about God or about significant events.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of γνωστός is multifaceted:
1. **God's Knowability and General Revelation:** [[Romans 1:19]] is foundational. It asserts that God has made Himself "knowable" to all humanity through the created order. This "knowable" aspect of God's being includes His eternal power and divine nature. This truth establishes the basis for human accountability, as no one can claim ignorance regarding the existence and basic attributes of the Creator. It highlights God's initiative in revealing Himself to humanity.
2. **Divine Omniscience and Sovereignty:** [[Acts 15:18]] ("Known to God from eternity are all His works") speaks to God's comprehensive and eternal knowledge. This affirms His sovereignty over history and His perfect understanding of all things, past, present, and future. It provides assurance that God's plan is unfolding precisely as He has eternally purposed.
3. **The Public Nature of the Gospel:** In Acts, γνωστός frequently describes the widespread dissemination and public recognition of the gospel message, miraculous signs, and significant events. This emphasizes that the early Christian movement was not a secret cult but a public phenomenon, attested by observable facts and boldly proclaimed truths. The "making known" of these realities was essential for evangelism and the spread of the faith.
4. **Human Accountability:** Because certain truths are "knowable" (Romans 1:19), humanity is held responsible for its response to God. Ignorance is not an excuse when God has already provided sufficient revelation.
### Summary
The Greek word γνωστός (gnōstós, `{{G1110}}`) signifies "that which is known" or "knowable," derived from the verb "to know." Its usage in the New Testament highlights two primary theological themes:
1. **Divine Revelation and Knowability:** God has made Himself "knowable" to all humanity through creation, ensuring that basic truths about His existence and attributes are discernible by all, thus establishing human accountability ([[Romans 1:19]]). Furthermore, all of God's works are eternally "known" to Him, underscoring His omniscience and sovereign plan ([[Acts 15:18]]).
2. **The Public Proclamation of Truth:** In the book of Acts, γνωστός often describes the widespread public awareness and dissemination of the gospel message, the powerful acts of God, and the significant events surrounding the early church. This emphasizes the open and verifiable nature of the Christian message.
In essence, γνωστός reminds us that God is not a hidden deity but one who has intentionally revealed Himself and His will, making certain truths accessible and demanding a response from humanity.
TRV