from ἐκ and ἐλέγχω; to convict fully, i.e. (by implication) to punish:--convince.
Transliteration:exelénchō
Pronunciation:ex-el-eng'-kho
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb ἐξελέγχω (exelénchō, `{{G1827}}`) is a compound formed from the preposition ἐκ (ek, meaning "out," "from," often intensifying a verb) and the verb ἐλέγχω (elégchō, `{{G1651}}`, meaning "to convict," "reprove," "expose," or "bring to light"). The addition of ἐκ serves to intensify the action of ἐλέγχω, indicating a thoroughness or completeness in the act of conviction or exposure. Therefore, exelénchō signifies to "convict fully," "expose completely," or "prove beyond any doubt." The semantic range includes a definitive and irrefutable demonstration of guilt or error, leading to an undeniable conclusion. By implication, such a thorough conviction often precedes or accompanies a corresponding judgment or punishment, as the Strong's definition notes, "to punish." It moves beyond mere persuasion to an undeniable revelation of truth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb ἐξελέγχω (exelénchō, `{{G1827}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, found in the Epistle of Jude:
* **[[Jude 1:15]]**: "...to execute judgment on all, and to **convict** (ἐξελέγξαι) all the ungodly of all their ungodly deeds which they have committed in an ungodly way, and of all the harsh things which ungodly sinners have spoken against Him."
In this sole occurrence, exelénchō describes a divine action in the context of the final judgment. The Lord comes to "convict" the ungodly. This is not a gentle reproof or an attempt at persuasion, but a decisive and comprehensive act of demonstrating their guilt. The conviction is not merely intellectual but forensic, serving as the basis for the subsequent execution of judgment. The thoroughness implied by the prefix ἐκ indicates that the ungodly will be utterly exposed, their deeds and words laid bare, leaving no room for denial or defense. This divine conviction is absolute and irrefutable, leading directly to the pronouncement and implementation of divine justice.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is the root verb ἐλέγχω (elégchō, `{{G1651}}`). While elégchō can mean to "convict," "reprove," or "expose," exelénchō (`{{G1827}}`) intensifies this process, emphasizing the *thoroughness* and *finality* of the conviction. Where elégchō might involve a process of bringing to light or demonstrating error (e.g., [[John 3:20]], [[Ephesians 5:11]], [[2 Timothy 4:2]]), exelénchō suggests a complete and unassailable proof of guilt, leaving no doubt.
Other related concepts include:
* **Judgment (κρίσις, krisis, `{{G2920}}`):** The thorough conviction by exelénchō is intrinsically linked to divine judgment, serving as its foundational basis.
* **Truth (ἀλήθεια, alētheia, `{{G225}}`):** The act of exelénchō is the ultimate revelation of truth concerning human sin and rebellion before God.
* **Accountability:** The word underscores the inescapable accountability of all individuals before a righteous God.
* **Justice (δικαιοσύνη, dikaiosynē, `{{G1343}}`):** The divine act of exelénchō demonstrates God's perfect justice in exposing and dealing with sin.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of ἐξελέγχω (exelénchō, `{{G1827}}`) in [[Jude 1:15]] carries profound theological weight. It speaks directly to the nature of God's final judgment and His absolute sovereignty.
1. **Divine Omniscience and Justice:** The word highlights God's perfect knowledge of all human deeds and words. He does not merely accuse but "convicts fully," implying an irrefutable presentation of evidence that leaves no room for dispute. This underscores the righteousness and infallibility of divine judgment.
2. **Certainty of Judgment:** The thoroughness implied by exelénchō assures believers of the certainty and comprehensiveness of God's coming judgment against all ungodliness. No sin will remain hidden, and no ungodly act or word will escape divine scrutiny and conviction.
3. **No Escape:** For the ungodly, this thorough conviction means there will be no evasion, no successful defense, and no hiding from the truth of their rebellion. Their guilt will be unequivocally established by God Himself.
4. **Vindication of God's Character:** In convicting the ungodly, God vindicates His own holy character and righteous standards, demonstrating that He is just in His dealings with sin.
### Summary
Ἐξελέγχω (exelénchō, `{{G1827}}`) is a powerful Greek verb meaning "to convict fully" or "to expose thoroughly." Formed from ἐκ (out, intensifying) and ἐλέγχω (to convict, expose), it denotes a complete and undeniable demonstration of guilt. Its sole occurrence in [[Jude 1:15]] describes a divine action: the Lord's coming to thoroughly convict the ungodly of their impious deeds and words. This conviction is not merely persuasive but forensic and definitive, serving as the righteous basis for the execution of divine judgment. The word underscores God's perfect knowledge, His unassailable justice, and the inescapable accountability of all before Him at the final judgment, where all ungodliness will be fully exposed and condemned.
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