The Greek word endeíknymi, represented by G1731, means to indicate (by word or act) and is often translated as "do, show (forth)." It appears 12 times across 11 unique verses in the Bible. The word signifies a deliberate demonstration, making an internal quality or intent visible through external action.
In Scripture, G1731 is used to describe both divine and human demonstrations. God is shown to G1731 His power in Pharaoh to make His name known Romans 9:17 and also His wrath and longsuffering Romans 9:22. In the New Covenant, God uses it to shew the exceeding riches of His grace and kindness through Christ Ephesians 2:7. For believers, the word describes the outward proof of their inner character, such as shewing love through ministering to the saints Hebrews 6:10, shewing all meekness Titus 3:2, and shewing good fidelity to adorn God's doctrine Titus 2:10. It can also describe negative actions, as when Alexander the coppersmith did much evil 2 Timothy 4:14.
Several related words help clarify the concept of demonstrating or indicating something:
- G1732 éndeixis (indication (abstractly):--declare, evident token, proof): This noun is the direct counterpart to the verb, representing the tangible proof or "evident token" that is shown. Believers are called to shew G1731 the proof G1732 of their love to the churches 2 Corinthians 8:24.
- G1247 diakonéō (to be an attendant, i.e. wait upon... minister (unto), serve): The act of showing love is directly linked to service. Believers have shewed G1731 love toward God's name because they have ministered G1247 to the saints Hebrews 6:10.
- G1411 dýnamis (force... specially, miraculous power): One of the key attributes God demonstrates is His power. He raised up Pharaoh specifically to shew G1731 His power G1411 in him Romans 9:17.
- G3115 makrothymía (longanimity, i.e. (objectively) forbearance or (subjectively) fortitude:--longsuffering, patience): This is another attribute shown forth. Christ shew forth G1731 all longsuffering G3115 as a pattern for believers 1 Timothy 1:16.
The theological weight of G1731 is significant, as it connects unseen realities to visible actions.
- Divine Revelation: The word is frequently used to describe how God reveals His character to humanity. He actively demonstrates His wrath Romans 9:22, power Romans 9:17, and grace Ephesians 2:7, ensuring His nature is not merely a concept but is displayed in history.
- Evidence of Faith: For Christians, G1731 underscores the principle that true faith and character are demonstrated externally. Love is not just a feeling but is shewed by the work G2041 and labour G2873 of serving others Hebrews 6:10. Fidelity and meekness are qualities to be actively shewing (Titus 2:10, Titus 3:2).
- The Conscience as Witness: The term is used to show how the moral law, even apart from special revelation, is made evident. The conscience of those without the law can shew the work of the law written in their hearts Romans 2:15, with their thoughts either accusing or excusing them.
In summary, G1731 is more than a simple word for "show." It conveys the idea of proving or demonstrating an invisible reality—be it God's power, a believer's love, or the inner moral law—through visible, tangible words and deeds. It serves as a critical link between the internal character of God and man and its necessary external expression.
TRV