The Greek word ekdiēgéomai, represented by G1555, is a specific term used to declare or "narrate through wholly." It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. Its definition suggests a complete and thorough telling of a matter, ensuring nothing is left out of the account.
The use of G1555 in scripture highlights two distinct outcomes of proclaiming God's work. In one context, it is used to declare the conversion of the Gentiles, an act that resulted in great joy for all the brethren Acts 15:3. In contrast, it is also used in a solemn warning to "despisers." They are told of a great work of God, but it is prophesied they will not believe it, even though a man declare it to them fully Acts 13:41.
Several related words provide context for what is being declared and how it is received:
- G1995 epistrophḗ (conversion): This is the subject of the joyful declaration, signifying the moral revolution of the Gentiles that was being reported Acts 15:3.
- G2041 érgon (deed, doing, labour, work): This refers to the divine act of God that is being declared. The response to this declared work determines the fate of the hearers Acts 13:41.
- G4100 pisteúō (to believe): This is the critical response to what is declared. A failure to believe the declared message leads to a stern warning of perishing Acts 13:41.
- G2707 kataphrontḗs (despiser): This identifies the audience of the declaration in one instance, highlighting that the act of declaring a truth does not guarantee its acceptance Acts 13:41.
The theological weight of G1555 centers on the communication of divine acts and the accountability of those who hear them.
- Proclamation of God's Work: The term is used to narrate the mighty acts of God. This includes both the joyful news of conversion Acts 15:3 and the solemn work that serves as a warning to unbelievers Acts 13:41.
- The Consequence of Belief: The response to what is declared has significant spiritual consequences. Hearing the declaration of Gentile conversion brings joy Acts 15:3, while hearing and refusing to believe the declared work of God leads to judgment Acts 13:41.
In summary, G1555 is more than a simple act of speaking; it is a full and complete narration of God's actions. The two occurrences in scripture powerfully illustrate that the same act of declaring divine truth can be met with either joyful acceptance or defiant unbelief. This word underscores the importance of both proclaiming God's work and the critical responsibility of the hearer to believe what is declared.
TRV