The Greek word dēlóō, represented by G1213, means to make plain (by words). It is used in scripture to declare, shew, or signify. This term appears 7 times across 7 unique verses, indicating a specific role in contexts where information, truth, or meaning is being revealed or clarified.
In its biblical usage, G1213 covers a range of communications. It can refer to a simple report, as when the contentions in the Corinthian church were declared to Paul 1 Corinthians 1:11. It is also used to convey information of a more profound nature, such as when the Lord shewed Peter that his death was approaching 2 Peter 1:14. The word frequently points to a deeper meaning being made plain, as when the Holy Ghost was signifying a spiritual truth about the tabernacle Hebrews 9:8, or when a specific phrase in scripture signifieth the removal of things that are shaken Hebrews 12:27.
Several related words help clarify the concept of making things known:
- G4303 promartýromai (to be a witness in advance i.e. predict): This is used with G1213 to show how the Spirit did not just signify but also testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ 1 Peter 1:11.
- G5319 phaneróō (to render apparent): This term is used to explain that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, which was the truth the Holy Ghost was signifying through the first tabernacle Hebrews 9:8.
- G601 apokalýptō (to take off the cover, i.e. disclose): This word for divine disclosure is linked to G1213, explaining that the day will declare a man's work because it will be revealed by fire 1 Corinthians 3:13.
The theological weight of G1213 is tied to the process of revelation and clarification.
- Clarifying Divine Truth: The word is frequently used to show the Holy Spirit making a spiritual reality plain, such as when the Spirit of Christ did signify the sufferings and glory to come 1 Peter 1:11. It is an act of divine explanation.
- Interpreting Signs: G1213 is used to explain the meaning behind symbols or events. The first tabernacle's existence was signifying a specific truth about access to God Hebrews 9:8, and a prophetic phrase signifieth a future cosmic event Hebrews 12:27.
- Eschatological Declaration: The term points to the final judgment, where the "day" itself will declare the nature of every person's work, leaving nothing hidden 1 Corinthians 3:13.
In summary, G1213 is a precise term for making something known. It moves beyond simple speaking to the act of revealing, clarifying, and making plain what was once obscure. Whether used for a report between believers Colossians 1:8, a prophetic signification from the Spirit 1 Peter 1:11, or the final declaration of a person's life work 1 Corinthians 3:13, its core function is to ensure that truth is clearly and plainly communicated.
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