The Greek word éleusis, represented by G1660, signifies an advent or coming. This term is highly specific, appearing just 1 time in a single verse in the New Testament. Its sole usage points to a significant, foretold arrival, establishing a direct link between Old Testament prophecy and the person of Jesus Christ.
The single biblical instance of G1660 occurs in Stephen's defense before the council in Acts. He powerfully recounts Israel's history of rejecting God's messengers, asking, "Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted?" Acts 7:52. Stephen declares that these persecuted prophets were the very ones who "shewed before" the coming G1660 of the "Just One" G1342. The use of the word culminates in his accusation that his listeners have become the "betrayers" and "murderers" of this prophesied figure.
Several related words from its single context in Acts 7:52 illuminate the meaning of G1660:
- G4293 prokatangéllō (to anounce beforehand, i.e. predict, promise): This verb describes the act of foretelling. In the same verse, it is the prophets who "shewed before" the advent of the Just One Acts 7:52. The prophets also foretold of "these days" Acts 3:24.
- G1342 díkaios (equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy): This describes the one whose coming is announced. The title "the Just One" is used for this figure, who is identified as Jesus Christ, the righteous advocate with the Father 1 John 2:1.
- G4396 prophḗtēs (a foreteller ("prophet"); by analogy, an inspired speaker): These are the messengers who announced the coming. The prophets were consistently persecuted for their message Acts 7:52, yet their writings, along with the Law, are shown to be fulfilled in Christ Luke 24:44.
The theological weight of G1660 is concentrated in its singular use, highlighting several key themes:
- Prophetic Fulfillment: The coming is not a random event but the culmination of prophetic announcements. Stephen's argument hinges on the fact that God had "shewed before" G4293 this advent through His prophets Acts 7:52, a theme echoed elsewhere where it is stated God fulfilled what He showed by the mouth of all His prophets Acts 3:18.
- The Identity of the Just One: The use of éleusis points specifically to the arrival of "the Just One" G1342. This title establishes the perfect and innocent character of the coming figure, marking the central event the prophets spoke of.
- A Pattern of Rejection: The context of the word highlights a tragic pattern. The fathers G3962 who persecuted G1377 the prophets announcing the coming are mirrored by Stephen's audience, who became the "betrayers" G4273 and "murderers" G5406 of the very one whose advent was foretold Acts 7:52.
In summary, while éleusis G1660 appears only once, its significance is profound. It serves as a critical anchor in Stephen's argument, marking the prophesied coming of the Just One as the pivotal event in Israel's history. The word encapsulates the entire narrative of prophetic foretelling, the perfect character of the awaited Messiah, and the ultimate tragedy of His rejection. It demonstrates how a single, carefully chosen word can define a theological turning point.
TRV