### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **diamartýromai**, represented by `{{G1263}}`, means to **attest or protest earnestly** or to give a hortative charge. It appears **15 times** across **15 unique verses** in the Bible, signifying its use in moments of solemn testimony, urgent warning, or authoritative instruction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1263}}` is used to convey a serious and urgent communication. It is frequently used for solemn apostolic **charges**, as when Paul **charges** Timothy before God and the Lord Jesus Christ [[2 Timothy 4:1]]. The word is also central to proclaiming the core message of faith; Paul describes his ministry as the duty "to **testify** the gospel of the grace of God" [[Acts 20:24]], and he **testified** to both Jews and Greeks about repentance and faith [[Acts 20:21]]. It can also function as an urgent warning, like the rich man's plea for someone to **testify** to his brothers to avoid torment [[Luke 16:28]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of an earnest testimony:
* `{{G3140}}` **martyréō** (to be a witness, i.e. testify): The root of `{{G1263}}`, this word signifies the act of bearing witness. In [[Acts 23:11]], the Lord tells Paul that just as he has **testified** `{{G1263}}` in Jerusalem, he must also **bear witness** `{{G3140}}` in Rome.
* `{{G3870}}` **parakaléō** (to call near, i.e. invite, invoke): This word for exhortation is used alongside `{{G1263}}` to show the dual nature of apostolic address. In [[Acts 2:40]], Peter both **testified** `{{G1263}}` and **exhorted** `{{G3870}}` the crowd.
* `{{G2784}}` **kērýssō** (to herald...especially divine truth): This term for preaching is linked to testifying. The apostles were commanded to **preach** `{{G2784}}` to the people and to **testify** `{{G1263}}` that Jesus is the ordained Judge [[Acts 10:42]].
* `{{G5279}}` **hypomimnḗskō** (to remind quietly, i.e. suggest to the memory): This word connects the act of reminding with solemn charging. Timothy is instructed to **put them in remembrance** `{{G5279}}` of certain things while **charging** `{{G1263}}` them before the Lord [[2 Timothy 2:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1263}}` is significant, highlighting key aspects of divine communication.
* **Solemn Charge and Responsibility:** The word is used to convey commands with divine authority. Paul's charges to Timothy are made "before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ" ([[2 Timothy 4:1]], [[1 Timothy 5:21]]), establishing that the instructions are not merely human advice but a sacred duty.
* **Essential Testimony of the Gospel:** The word is intrinsically linked to the core message of Christianity. Paul's mission was "to **testify** the gospel" [[Acts 20:24]]. This testimony specifically concerned "repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ" [[Acts 20:21]], identifying the foundational elements being proclaimed.
* **Urgent Warning of Divine Judgment:** The testimony conveyed by `{{G1263}}` often serves as a grave warning about future consequences. This is seen in the duty to **testify** that Jesus is the ordained "Judge of quick and dead" [[Acts 10:42]] and the warning that the Lord is the "avenger" of certain sins [[1 Thessalonians 4:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1263}}` is more than just "to witness." It signifies an earnest, forceful, and often solemn act of communication. From apostolic **charges** given with the full weight of divine authority [[2 Timothy 4:1]] to the essential work of **testifying** the gospel [[Acts 20:24]], the word underscores the gravity and urgency of the message being delivered. It serves as a vehicle for both sacred instruction and critical warning, highlighting the accountability of both the speaker and the hearer.
TRV