The Greek word ekdiṓkō, represented by G1559, is defined as "to pursue out, i.e. expel or persecute implacably." Its base components, ἐκ (out) and διώκω (to pursue), emphasize an intense and relentless form of hostility. This term, translated as persecute, appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible.
In its biblical usage, G1559 specifically describes the violent opposition faced by God's messengers. In Luke 11:49, "the wisdom of God" foretells that prophets and apostles will be sent, and some will be slain and persecuted, framing this hostility as an expected consequence of their mission. Similarly, 1 Thessalonians 2:15 uses the word to describe the suffering of the apostles, drawing a direct parallel to the historical killing of "the Lord Jesus, and their own prophets."
The meaning of G1559 is clarified by the words it appears with in scripture:
- G615 apokteínō (to kill outright; figuratively, to destroy): This word for killing is paired with persecution in both occurrences of G1559, highlighting the extreme and often fatal nature of the hostility (Luke 11:49, 1 Thessalonians 2:15).
- G4396 prophḗtēs (a foreteller ("prophet"); by analogy, an inspired speaker): Prophets are consistently identified as the targets of this persecution and killing in both biblical contexts where G1559 is found (Luke 11:49, 1 Thessalonians 2:15).
- G652 apóstolos (a delegate; specially, an ambassador of the Gospel): Mentioned alongside prophets, apostles are also designated as those who will be sent by God and subsequently persecuted by men Luke 11:49.
The theological weight of G1559 is centered on the recurring theme of opposition to divine messengers.
- A Pattern of Rejection: The word establishes a clear historical pattern, linking the persecution of the apostles directly to the killing of the prophets and of Jesus himself 1 Thessalonians 2:15.
- A Prophesied Consequence: The act of being persecuted is not presented as a surprise, but as a foretold reality for those sent by God, as stated by "the wisdom of God" Luke 11:49.
- Opposition to God: The act of persecution is characterized as being contrary to God's will. Those who carry out this action are described as those who "please not God, and are contrary to all men" 1 Thessalonians 2:15.
In summary, G1559 is a powerful and specific term for implacable persecution. Though used only twice, it is a crucial word for understanding the cost of divine service. It consistently describes the hostile and often lethal reception given to God's chosen messengers—prophets, apostles, and Christ himself—thereby defining a key element of the conflict between God's mission and human rebellion.
TRV