### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun G1561 (ekdochḗ, transliterated as "ekdochḗ") is derived from the verb G1551 (ekdechomai), meaning "to receive from, to wait for, to expect." As a noun, ekdochḗ carries the core meaning of "expectation" or "a looking for." It denotes an anticipation of something to come, often with an implication of readiness or a state of waiting for an event to unfold. While the root verb G1551 can encompass both positive and negative expectations (e.g., waiting for the Lord's return or waiting for an event), the noun ekdochḗ in its sole New Testament occurrence takes on a distinctly somber, even dreadful, semantic nuance, indicating a fearful anticipation. The term emphasizes the mental posture of looking forward to a future event, highlighting the certainty of its arrival from the perspective of the one expecting it.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The noun G1561 (ekdochḗ) appears only once in the New Testament, in the Epistle to the Hebrews:
* **Hebrews 10:27**: "but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and a fury of fire which will consume the adversaries." [[Hebrews 10:27]]
In this critical passage, ekdochḗ is immediately qualified by the adjective φοβερὰ (phobera), meaning "fearful" or "terrible." The context is a solemn warning against willful sin and apostasy after having received the knowledge of the truth and experienced the sanctifying work of Christ. The author of Hebrews contrasts the efficacy of Christ's singular sacrifice with the futility of continued sin, particularly the deliberate rejection of the Son of God and the spurning of the covenant of grace. For those who thus "trample under foot the Son of God" and "insult the Spirit of grace" [[Hebrews 10:29]], there remains no further sacrifice for sins. Instead, what awaits them is this "fearful expectation of judgment." This judgment is further described as "a fury of fire which will consume the adversaries," drawing upon Old Testament imagery of divine wrath (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 32:22]], [[Isaiah 26:11]]). The use of ekdochḗ here underscores the inevitability and certainty of this impending judgment for those who turn away from Christ. It is not a mere possibility, but a future event that is actively being awaited, albeit with dread.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verb from which G1561 (ekdochḗ) is derived:
* G1551 (ekdechomai): "to wait for, to expect, to receive." This verb appears multiple times in the New Testament, sometimes with a positive connotation (e.g., waiting for the Son from heaven in [[1 Thessalonians 1:10]], or waiting for the Lord's coming in [[James 5:7]]), and sometimes neutrally or with a negative implication (e.g., waiting for a specific outcome). The noun ekdochḗ encapsulates the *state* of this waiting or expectation.
Other related Greek terms that convey aspects of waiting, hope, or anticipation include:
* G603 (apokaradokia): "earnest expectation," an eager and intense anticipation, often with the head stretched forward (e.g., [[Romans 8:19]] regarding creation's longing for the revealing of the sons of God). This term conveys a more intense and often positive longing than ekdochḗ in its NT usage.
* G1679 (elpis): "hope," a foundational theological virtue denoting a confident expectation of what is future and good, based on God's promises (e.g., [[Romans 5:4]], [[Hebrews 6:11]]). While ekdochḗ describes an *expectation*, elpis specifically refers to a *hope* that is rooted in faith and directed towards divine promises.
* G5287 (hypomonē): "endurance, steadfastness, patient waiting." This term emphasizes perseverance under trial while waiting for a future outcome (e.g., [[Romans 5:3]], [[James 1:3]]).
Unlike G1679 (elpis) which is always positive, or G5287 (hypomonē) which focuses on enduring *while* waiting, G1561 (ekdochḗ) in its sole occurrence specifically highlights the *nature* of the expectation itself as "fearful," marking a distinct theological emphasis on the consequences of rejecting grace.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of G1561 (ekdochḗ) in [[Hebrews 10:27]] carries profound theological weight. It serves as a stark warning about the irreversible consequences of apostasy and the gravity of divine judgment.
1. **Severity of Apostasy**: The "fearful expectation" underscores that for those who deliberately and definitively reject the atoning work of Christ, there is no further recourse for salvation. The author of Hebrews emphasizes the uniqueness and finality of Christ's sacrifice; to spurn it is to invite certain judgment.
2. **Divine Justice and Wrath**: The term highlights the reality of God's justice and His righteous indignation against sin, particularly against those who treat His covenant and the blood of Christ with contempt. It is a reminder that God is not only merciful but also a consuming fire for those who oppose Him ([[Hebrews 12:29]]).
3. **Certainty of Judgment**: The word ekdochḗ implies a definite and unavoidable future event. It is not a speculative possibility but a sure outcome for those who fall away. This certainty is intended to impress upon the readers the seriousness of their commitment to Christ.
4. **Motivation for Perseverance**: While daunting, this "fearful expectation" functions as a powerful motivation for believers to persevere in faith and avoid spiritual complacency or outright rebellion. It stands as a solemn counterpoint to the glorious hope offered in Christ, emphasizing the critical choice set before humanity.
The theological significance of ekdochḗ is thus intrinsically tied to the high Christology and the warnings against apostasy prevalent in the Epistle to the Hebrews. It reveals a facet of God's character as a righteous judge and underscores the immense value and irreplaceable nature of Christ's sacrifice.
### Summary
G1561 (ekdochḗ) is a Greek noun meaning "expectation" or "a looking for," derived from the verb G1551 (ekdechomai, "to wait for, expect"). Its singular occurrence in the New Testament, specifically in [[Hebrews 10:27]], is highly significant. There, it describes a "fearful expectation of judgment" (φοβερὰ ἐκδοχὴ κρίσεως) that awaits those who willfully reject the atoning sacrifice of Christ after having received the knowledge of the truth. This term powerfully conveys the certainty and dread of divine judgment for apostasy, serving as a solemn warning within the theological framework of the Epistle to the Hebrews. It underscores the gravity of spurning God's grace, highlighting both His righteous judgment and the critical need for perseverance in faith.
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