### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **elénchō**, represented by `{{G1651}}`, carries the meaning of to confute, admonish, convict, convince, tell a fault, rebuke, or reprove. It appears **18 times** across **17 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is not merely about scolding but involves exposing a truth, often with the aim of correction or conviction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1651}}` is applied in various significant contexts. It describes the private, restorative process of confronting a brother who has trespassed in order to gain him back [[Matthew 18:15]]. It is also a key function of the Holy Spirit, who will **reprove** the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment [[John 16:8]]. The word is used to describe how the law **convinces** people of their status as transgressors when they show partiality [[James 2:9]]. Furthermore, it is a tool for church leaders to **convince** those who contradict sound doctrine [[Titus 1:9]] and a command for believers to **reprove** the unfruitful works of darkness rather than having fellowship with them [[Ephesians 5:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the full scope of `{{G1651}}`:
* `{{G2008}}` **epitimáō** (rebuke): This word means to censure or admonish and is often used alongside `{{G1651}}`. In the charge to Timothy, he is told to reprove, **rebuke**, and exhort [[2 Timothy 4:2]].
* `{{G3870}}` **parakaléō** (exhort): Meaning to call near, invite, or give exhortation, this term often appears with `{{G1651}}` to balance correction with encouragement, as seen in the instruction to **exhort** with all longsuffering and doctrine [[2 Timothy 4:2]].
* `{{G5319}}` **phaneróō** (make manifest): This term means to render apparent. It is linked directly to reproof, as scripture explains that all things that are reproved are **made manifest** by the light [[Ephesians 5:13]].
* `{{G266}}` **hamartía** (sin): This word for sin is frequently the object of the action of `{{G1651}}`. Jesus challenges his accusers, "Which of you convinceth me of **sin**?" [[John 8:46]], and the Holy Spirit's work is to reprove the world of **sin** [[John 16:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1651}}` is demonstrated in its role in divine and human relationships.
* **Divine Chastening:** The act of rebuking is presented as an expression of God's love for His children. The Lord says, "As many as I love, I **rebuke** and chasten" [[Revelation 3:19]], a sentiment echoed in the exhortation not to faint when "rebuked of him" [[Hebrews 12:5]].
* **Exposure of Evil:** A core function of `{{G1651}}` is to expose what is wrong. Those who do evil hate the light, fearing their deeds will be **reproved** [[John 3:20]]. This highlights the conflict between light and darkness, where reproof is an agent of the light.
* **Maintaining Church Purity:** The term is a vital instruction for church health. Leaders are to **rebuke** those who sin before all, so that others may fear [[1 Timothy 5:20]]. This is to be done with all authority [[Titus 2:15]] and at times sharply, so that people may be sound in the faith [[Titus 1:13]].
* **The Work of the Holy Spirit:** The conviction of sin in the world is a primary ministry of the Holy Spirit. His coming means He will **reprove** the world concerning sin, righteousness, and judgment, making this a foundational concept in the doctrine of salvation [[John 16:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1651}}` is a multifaceted term that is crucial for understanding biblical concepts of correction, conviction, and righteousness. Its use ranges from the intimate act of restoring a brother to the universal work of the Holy Spirit. It functions not as a means of condemnation but as an instrument of light to expose error, of love to chasten and correct, and of authority to preserve the truth, ultimately aiming for repentance and restoration.
TRV