The Greek word gnōstós, represented by G1110, is derived from the verb for "to know" and means well-known. It appears 15 times in 15 unique verses. The term carries a range of meanings from a personal acquaintance to something that is publicly known or notable.
In scripture, G1110 is frequently used in the book of Acts to introduce a formal proclamation of truth. The apostles repeatedly use the phrase "Be it known unto you" to declare essential facts about Jesus' ministry, such as his resurrection and the power of his name Acts 4:10, the forgiveness of sins offered through him Acts 13:38, and that God's salvation is sent to the Gentiles Acts 28:28. The term also describes events that have become public knowledge, such as the purchase of Aceldama being known to all in Jerusalem Acts 1:19 or a miracle being known throughout Joppa Acts 9:42. In a more personal sense, it is used for an acquaintance Luke 23:49 or a disciple who was known to the high priest John 18:15.
Several related words clarify the concept of what is known and how it is revealed:
- G1453 egeírō (to waken, rouse, raise): This action is central to the message being made known. The apostles declare it is by the power of Jesus Christ, whom God raised from the dead, that a man is healed Acts 4:10.
- G1484 éthnos (a race, tribe, Gentile, nation): G1110 is used to announce the expansion of God's salvation to all peoples. This is a key truth made known: that the salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles Acts 28:28.
- G4592 sēmeîon (an indication, miracle, sign, token, wonder): A divine act that makes God's power known. In Acts, a "notable miracle" is described as manifest to all, something that cannot be denied Acts 4:16.
The theological importance of G1110 is centered on the revelation and proclamation of divine truth.
- Apostolic Proclamation: The term is a key marker for apostolic declarations. It prefaces the public announcement of core gospel truths, including the power of Jesus' name Acts 4:10, the forgiveness of sins Acts 13:38, and the inclusion of the Gentiles Acts 28:28.
- Public Verifiability: The word emphasizes that God's actions are not done in secret. Events are described as known throughout entire cities (Acts 1:19, Acts 9:42), making the works of God verifiable and undeniable to the public.
- Divine Revelation: G1110 is used to describe the aspects of God that are knowable to humanity. It is used in reference to "that which may be known of God" being manifest in creation Romans 1:19 and the fact that all God's works are known to Him from the beginning Acts 15:18.
In summary, G1110 is a significant term for understanding how truth is revealed and declared in the New Testament. It ranges from describing personal relationships to being the formal term used to make the gospel publicly known. It highlights that God's work—from creation to the resurrection of Christ and the salvation of all nations—is not hidden but is a notable and verifiable reality to be proclaimed to all.
TRV