### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word ἐκπληρόω (ekplēróō) is a compound verb formed from the preposition ἐκ (ek), meaning "out of" or "from," often conveying completion or intensity, and the verb πληρόω (plēróō) `{{G4137}}`, meaning "to fill," "to complete," or "to fulfill." The combination of these elements yields a robust meaning: "to accomplish entirely," "to fulfill completely," or "to bring to full measure." The prefix ἐκ intensifies the action of πληρόω, suggesting that the fulfillment is not partial or superficial, but exhaustive and definitive. It implies that nothing is left undone; the task or promise is brought to its absolute and intended conclusion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word ἐκπληρόω (ekplēróō) is notably rare in the New Testament, appearing primarily in [[Acts 13:33]]. In this passage, Paul is delivering a pivotal sermon in the synagogue at Antioch of Pisidia. He declares: "God has fulfilled this for us, their children, by raising Jesus" (ESV). The Greek text uses ἐκπεπλήρωκεν (ekpeplērōken), the perfect active indicative of ἐκπληρόω.
The context of [[Acts 13:33]] is crucial. Paul is expounding on God's historical dealings with Israel, leading to the climactic event of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. The "promise made to the fathers" (v. 32) is identified as having been completely and utterly fulfilled by God through the resurrection of Jesus. The use of ἐκπληρόω here underscores the absolute certainty and finality of this divine act. The resurrection is presented not merely as an event that *partially* satisfies or *begins* to fulfill God's promise, but as the *complete and ultimate* realization of His redemptive plan. It signifies that God's word has been brought to full fruition, leaving no aspect of the promise unfulfilled. This emphasizes God's faithfulness and the decisive nature of Christ's resurrection as the cornerstone of salvation history.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **πληρόω (plēróō) `{{G4137}}`**: The root verb, meaning "to fill, complete, fulfill." While πληρόω often conveys fulfillment, ἐκπληρόω adds an intensified sense of thoroughness and totality.
* **ἀναπληρόω (anaplēróō) `{{G378}}`**: "To fill up, to complete, to fulfill." This word often implies making up a deficiency or completing a required measure.
* **συμπληρόω (symplēróō) `{{G4845}}`**: "To fill up together, to complete." Used for things like filling boats or the completion of a period of time.
* **τελέω (teleō) `{{G5055}}`**: "To bring to an end, to accomplish, to finish." While πληρόω focuses on *filling* or *making full*, τελέω emphasizes *completion* or *reaching an end*. ἐκπληρόω bridges these concepts, signifying a full and final accomplishment.
* **Divine Faithfulness**: The theological concept that God is true to His word and always brings His promises to fruition.
* **Prophetic Fulfillment**: The idea that God's ancient prophecies, particularly those concerning the Messiah, find their complete and perfect realization in Jesus Christ.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of ἐκπληρόω (ekplēróō) lies in its declaration of divine accomplishment and faithfulness. In [[Acts 13:33]], its application to the resurrection of Jesus Christ carries profound implications:
1. **God's Unwavering Faithfulness**: The use of this intensive verb underscores that God's promises are not conditional or subject to human failure; they are brought to a complete and perfect conclusion by His own sovereign power. This reinforces the absolute trustworthiness of God's character and His covenantal reliability.
2. **The Decisive Nature of Christ's Resurrection**: The resurrection of Jesus is presented as the ultimate and non-negotiable fulfillment of God's redemptive promises. It is not merely a significant event, but the definitive act that wholly accomplishes what God had purposed and declared throughout history. This highlights the centrality of the resurrection as the validation of Jesus' messianic claims and the foundation of Christian hope.
3. **Redemptive History as a Divine Plan**: The word suggests that the unfolding of God's plan of salvation is not haphazard but a meticulously executed divine accomplishment. From the initial promises to the patriarchs, through the prophetic utterances, to the historical reality of Christ's death and resurrection, God is actively and completely bringing His purposes to pass. This provides immense assurance to believers regarding the certainty of God's ultimate victory and the reliability of His word.
4. **The "Already" of God's Kingdom**: While the full consummation of God's kingdom is "not yet," ἐκπληρόω emphasizes that a decisive and complete fulfillment has "already" occurred in Christ's resurrection. This provides the basis for present salvation and the assurance of future glory.
### Summary
The Greek term ἐκπληρόω (ekplēróō), a compound signifying "to accomplish entirely" or "to fulfill completely," is a powerful descriptor of divine action. Though rare in the New Testament, its singular prominent occurrence in [[Acts 13:33]] is profoundly significant. There, it emphatically declares that God brought His ancient promises to a thorough and exhaustive realization through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This word underscores God's unwavering faithfulness, the absolute certainty of His purposes, and the definitive nature of Christ's work as the complete fulfillment of all that God had spoken. It assures believers that God's redemptive plan is not only in motion but has already achieved its decisive, complete, and irreversible accomplishment in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
TRV