### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb ektelev (`{{G1615}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition ek (meaning "out of," "from," often indicating completion or intensity) and the verb teleo (`{{G5055}}`, meaning "to finish," "to accomplish," "to bring to an end"). The combination therefore signifies "to complete fully," "to carry out to the end," or "to bring to a thorough conclusion." It implies not merely the cessation of an activity, but its full and exhaustive accomplishment, leaving nothing undone or incomplete. The prefix ek intensifies the sense of teleo, emphasizing the complete execution or achievement of a task, project, or purpose. It denotes the successful culmination of an endeavor, reaching its intended goal or telos (`{{G5056}}`).
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb ektelev (`{{G1615}}`) appears only twice in the New Testament, but in contexts that highlight its precise meaning of full completion.
1. **Luke 14:29-30**: In the parable of the tower builder, Jesus warns against beginning a project without first calculating the cost to ensure its completion. The builder "begins to build and is not able to *finish* (ektelev)". Here, ektelev underscores the inability to bring the construction to its intended, completed state. The shame is not in starting, but in failing to bring the undertaking to its full and desired conclusion, thus demonstrating a lack of foresight or resources. This context emphasizes human responsibility, prudence, and the necessity of commitment to see a task through to its finality, particularly in the context of discipleship, which requires counting the cost.
2. **Romans 15:28**: The Apostle Paul uses ektelev in reference to his ministry plan. He states, "Therefore, when I have *finished* (ektelev) this, and have put my seal on this fruit for them, I will go on by way of you to Spain." Here, Paul is referring to the completion of his mission to deliver the collection for the poor saints in Jerusalem. The word conveys his intention to thoroughly and completely carry out this specific task before moving on to his next missionary endeavor. It speaks to the diligence and thoroughness with which he approached his apostolic responsibilities, ensuring that the work entrusted to him was brought to a full and proper conclusion.
In both instances, ektelev denotes the successful and thorough execution of a planned activity, whether a construction project or a missionary undertaking, emphasizing the importance of bringing an endeavor to its designed end.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **teleo (`{{G5055}}`):** The base verb, meaning "to finish," "to accomplish," "to pay." ektelev is a stronger form, emphasizing the *full* and *complete* nature of the finishing.
* **telos (`{{G5056}}`):** The noun form of teleo, meaning "end," "goal," "purpose," "consummation." ektelev is the action of bringing something to its telos.
* **pleroo (`{{G4137}}`):** "To fill," "to fulfill," "to complete." While pleroo often refers to filling up something to its full measure or fulfilling a prophecy, ektelev specifically refers to the completion of a task or process.
* **ergon (`{{G2041}}`):** "Work," "deed," "task." ektelev is the verb that describes the full completion of an ergon.
* **Perseverance and Diligence:** The concept embedded in ektelev strongly relates to the virtues of perseverance, diligence, and commitment. It speaks to the importance of not abandoning a task midway but seeing it through to its rightful and intended conclusion.
* **Counting the Cost:** As illustrated in Luke 14, ektelev inherently links to the concept of careful planning and assessment before embarking on a significant undertaking, ensuring one has the means and commitment to see it through.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ektelev (`{{G1615}}`) lies primarily in its implications for human responsibility, foresight, and the diligent pursuit of one's calling.
1. **Human Discipleship and Commitment:** The Lukan parable serves as a profound spiritual analogy. Just as a builder must "count the cost" to *fully complete* a tower, so too must a prospective disciple assess the demands of following Christ. Discipleship is not a partial commitment but a total surrender that requires perseverance to the end. The failure to ektelev in this spiritual sense leads to spiritual "shame" and an incomplete witness. It underscores the call to wholeheartedness and steadfastness in the Christian life, warning against superficial or fleeting commitments.
2. **Integrity in Ministry and Service:** Paul's use of ektelev in Romans 15:28 highlights the importance of thoroughness and integrity in fulfilling one's God-given tasks. His commitment to *fully complete* the collection for Jerusalem before moving on demonstrates a model of faithful stewardship and dedication to the specific ministries entrusted to him. This principle extends to all forms of Christian service: tasks undertaken for the Lord should be pursued with diligence and brought to a proper conclusion, reflecting the seriousness of one's calling.
3. **Divine Faithfulness (Implicit):** While ektelev is used for human actions, the concept of full completion resonates with the character of God. God Himself is the ultimate Finisher of His plans and purposes. Though other words like teleo or epiteleo (`{{G2005}}`) are often used (e.g., Philippians 1:6, "He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion"), the underlying divine attribute of bringing all things to their perfect telos provides a foundational assurance. Human ektelev in ministry and discipleship is a reflection, however imperfect, of God's own perfect execution of His will.
### Summary
The Greek verb ektelev (`{{G1615}}`) precisely means "to complete fully" or "to bring to a thorough conclusion." Though appearing only twice in the New Testament, its usage is highly significant. In Luke 14:29-30, it underscores the necessity of foresight and commitment in discipleship, warning against beginning what one cannot *fully complete*. In Romans 15:28, it highlights the Apostle Paul's diligent and thorough execution of his missionary tasks, emphasizing the importance of bringing one's God-given work to a proper conclusion. Ektelev thus encapsulates the vital biblical principle of perseverance, integrity, and the full commitment required to see endeavors through to their intended end, whether in personal faith or in service to God. It calls believers to a disciplined and complete follow-through in all aspects of their Christian walk.
TRV