The Greek word ektíthēmi, represented by G1620, is defined as "to expose; figuratively, to declare." It is derived from ἐκ and τίθημι. Occurring just 4 times in 4 verses, this term carries two distinct applications in scripture: the literal act of being "cast out" and the figurative act to "expound" or explain in detail.
In its usage, G1620 illustrates a contrast between physical abandonment and spiritual instruction. The literal sense is found in the account of Moses, where it states, "when he was cast out, Pharaoh's daughter took him up" Acts 7:21. The figurative meaning is used three times to describe the act of explaining spiritual matters. Peter "rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order" to the brethren Acts 11:4. Similarly, Aquila and Priscilla "took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly" Acts 18:26. Paul also expounded and testified about the kingdom of God to the Jews in Rome Acts 28:23.
Several related words help clarify the context in which G1620 is used:
- G337 anairéō (to take up... kill, slay, take away, take up): This word appears in direct contrast to G1620 in the story of Moses, where after being "cast out," Pharaoh's daughter "took him up" Acts 7:21, signifying a rescue from exposure.
- G197 akribésteron (more exactly... more perfect(-ly)): This adverb modifies the action of expounding in Acts 18:26, showing that Aquila and Priscilla clarified the way of God for Apollos with greater precision.
- G1263 diamartýromai (to attest or protest earnestly... testify): Paired with G1620 in Acts 28:23, it emphasizes that Paul's expounding was also a form of earnest testimony about the kingdom of God.
- G2517 kathexēs (consecutively... by (in) order): This highlights the systematic nature of Peter's explanation, as he "expounded it by order" Acts 11:4, relating events sequentially.
The theological weight of G1620 is seen in its dual application of revealing something.
- Exposure and Salvation: The story of Moses being "cast out" Acts 7:21 presents a theme of vulnerability and abandonment that leads directly to divine deliverance and a new identity, a pattern seen throughout scripture.
- Clarification of Truth: The act to "expound" is vital for the growth of the early church. It is used to carefully and systematically explain the details of the gospel, correct misunderstandings, and persuade hearers, as when Paul "expounded and testified the kingdom of God" Acts 28:23.
- Orderly Revelation: The use of G1620 in contexts of explaining "by order" Acts 11:4 and "more perfectly" Acts 18:26 underscores the importance of a clear, structured, and accurate declaration of God's ways.
In summary, G1620 is a term that encompasses both physical and intellectual exposure. It can describe the literal act of being "cast out" or the detailed work of "expounding" complex truths. Whether depicting a moment of peril that leads to rescue or a careful explanation that leads to deeper faith, ektíthēmi illustrates the biblical principle of bringing things out into the open for a redemptive or clarifying purpose.
TRV