The Greek word diastéllomai, represented by G1291, is a verb used to convey a strong charge or command. It appears 9 times across 7 unique verses in the Bible. Its base definition is to set oneself apart, and by implication, to enjoin or give a commandment. This term is consistently used to express a direct and forceful instruction.
In the Gospels, G1291 is frequently used by Jesus to issue specific commands, often demanding secrecy. After raising a girl from the dead, He charged them straitly that no man should know it Mark 5:43. Similarly, He charged His disciples that they should tell no man that He was Jesus the Christ Matthew 16:20. This pattern of commanding silence is also seen after the transfiguration, where He charged them to tell no man what they had seen until the Son of man were risen from the dead Mark 9:9. The term also functions as a stern warning, as when Jesus charged his followers to beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Herod Mark 8:15. In Acts, it is used to clarify authority, stating that the apostles gave no such commandment to Gentiles regarding circumcision Acts 15:24.
Several related words help clarify the nature of the commands given or disobeyed:
- G2036 épō (to speak or say): This word is used in conjunction with G1291 to show the content of a command. For instance, Jesus charged them and commanded that something should be given to the girl to eat Mark 5:43.
- G1334 diēgéomai (to relate fully): This describes the action forbidden by a G1291 charge. Jesus charged the disciples that they should tell no man what they had seen on the mountain Mark 9:9.
- G2784 kērýssō (to herald or proclaim): This verb highlights the response to a command from G1291. The more Jesus charged people not to speak of a healing, the more a great deal they published it Mark 7:36.
- G5083 tēréō (to guard or keep): This term is used to describe the substance of a false teaching that the apostles explicitly state they did not command. The Judaizers troubled the church by saying they must keep the law, a directive the apostles never gave Acts 15:24.
The theological weight of G1291 is seen in its function as a vehicle for divine authority and instruction.
- Authoritative Command: The word is consistently used to show Jesus issuing a direct and forceful "charge," underscoring his authority over people, circumstances, and the timing of revelation (Matthew 16:20, Mark 8:15).
- Controlled Revelation: A primary theme associated with G1291 is Jesus's strategic commanding of silence regarding his miracles and identity, ensuring his mission unfolded according to a divine timetable (Mark 5:43, Mark 9:9).
- Doctrinal Correction: It plays a key role in establishing correct doctrine. The apostles use it to disavow false teachings that were troubling and subverting the souls of believers in Antioch Acts 15:24.
- The Weight of God's Law: In Hebrews, the word refers to the terrifying commandment at Mount Sinai which the people could not endure, illustrating the awesome and unapproachable nature of the Old Covenant law Hebrews 12:20.
In summary, G1291 is more than just a word for "command." It signifies a specific, authoritative charge intended to direct, warn, or prohibit. It is crucial for understanding Jesus's method of ministry, the establishment of early church doctrine, and the profound difference between the Old and New Covenants. The use of this term highlights moments of critical instruction and divine authority throughout the New Testament.
TRV