### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **didáskalos**, represented by `{{G1320}}`, is a term for an **instructor**, **master**, or **teacher**. It appears 58 times across 57 unique verses in the Bible. Derived from the verb `{{G1321}}` "to teach," this noun is used both as a respectful form of address, particularly for Jesus, and to denote a specific and authoritative role of instruction within the community of believers.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Gospels, `{{G1320}}` is frequently used as a title for Jesus by his disciples, followers, and even his opponents. A lawyer addresses him as "**Master**" when asking about eternal life [[Luke 10:25]], and Nicodemus acknowledges him as "a **teacher** come from God" [[John 3:2]]. Jesus himself accepts this title, telling his disciples, "Ye call me **Master** and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am" [[John 13:13]]. The term is also used to identify a formal office within the early church, listed by Paul as a role established by God alongside apostles and prophets ([[1 Corinthians 12:28]], [[Ephesians 4:11]]). This position carried significant weight, as James warns believers, "be not many **masters**, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation" [[James 3:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the function and context of a `{{G1320}}`:
* `{{G1321}}` **didáskō** (to teach): This is the root verb describing the action that a **teacher** performs. It is used to describe Jesus, who was known to **teach** the way of God in truth [[Mark 12:14]].
* `{{G3101}}` **mathētḗs** (a learner, i.e. pupil): This is the direct counterpart to a **teacher**. The relationship is explicitly defined in scripture: "The **disciple** is not above his **master**" [[Matthew 10:24]].
* `{{G1319}}` **didaskalía** (instruction... doctrine, learning, teaching): This term refers to the substance of what a **teacher** provides. The connection is highlighted in the warning that people will eventually reject sound **doctrine** and instead gather for themselves **teachers** to suit their own desires [[2 Timothy 4:3]].
* `{{G4461}}` **rhabbí** (my master, i.e Rabbi): An honorific title frequently used for Jesus, it is explicitly translated as **Master** `{{G1320}}` in the Bible [[John 1:38]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1320}}` is significant, establishing key principles of authority and discipleship.
* **Christ as the Supreme Master:** Jesus is presented as the ultimate **teacher**. His authority is recognized by many, and he refers to himself as "The **Master**" when giving instructions to his disciples [[Matthew 26:18]].
* **The Teaching Office in the Church:** The role of **teacher** is a divinely appointed office essential for the health of the church [[Ephesians 4:11]]. Paul identifies his own calling as being "a **preacher**, and an **apostle**... a **teacher** of the Gentiles" [[1 Timothy 2:7]].
* **Accountability in Teaching:** The title carries profound responsibility. The warning that **teachers** face a "greater condemnation" [[James 3:1]] underscores the seriousness of handling divine truth.
* **The Master-Disciple Model:** The dynamic between a **master** and a **disciple** `{{G3101}}` is central to Christian formation. A disciple's goal is to become like their **master** [[Luke 6:40]], which involves a process of learning from and imitating an authoritative instructor.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1320}}` is far more than a simple term for an educator. It functions as a title of the highest respect for Jesus Christ, the definitive **Master**, and as the designation for a crucial, God-ordained office within the church. The word illuminates the biblical structure of spiritual authority, the importance of sound doctrine, and the foundational relationship between the learner and the one who teaches God's truth.
TRV