The Greek word epideíknymi, represented by G1925, means to exhibit or shew, both physically and mentally. It is derived from the words ἐπί and δεικνύω. It appears 9 times across 9 unique verses, indicating a specific and deliberate usage to convey the act of presenting something for examination or as proof.
In the biblical narrative, G1925 is used to describe the presentation of tangible evidence. After his resurrection, Jesus shewed his disciples his hands and his feet as proof Luke 24:40. When challenged about tribute, Jesus commanded, "Shew me the tribute money" Matthew 22:19. The word also applies to presenting people, as when Jesus told the lepers to "shew yourselves unto the priests" Luke 17:14. It is also used when a supernatural display is requested, such as when the Pharisees desired Jesus to shew them a sign from heaven Matthew 16:1.
Several related words provide context for the act of showing:
- G4592 sēmeîon (miracle, sign, token, wonder): This often represents the object that is to be shown. It is used when the Pharisees ask Jesus to shew them a sign from heaven Matthew 16:1.
- G1246 diakatelénchomai (to prove downright, i.e. confute): This word can be the result of showing. Apollos convinced the Jews by shewing from the scriptures that Jesus was Christ Acts 18:28.
- G1014 boúlomai (to "will," i.e. (reflexively) be willing): This term describes the intent behind an exhibition. God, willing more abundantly to shew the heirs of promise his unchangeable counsel, confirmed it by an oath Hebrews 6:17.
- G4198 poreúomai (to traverse, i.e. travel): This action is often commanded in conjunction with showing something. Jesus instructs the lepers to go and shew themselves to the priests Luke 17:14.
The theological weight of G1925 is centered on the concepts of proof, revelation, and testimony.
- A Call for Proof: The word is used when individuals demand proof to validate a claim. The Pharisees and Sadducees came "tempting" Jesus, asking him to shew them a sign, thereby challenging His authority Matthew 16:1.
- Divine Revelation: God uses the act of showing to reveal His nature and promises. He chose to shew the "immutability of his counsel" to the heirs of promise Hebrews 6:17. Likewise, Jesus shewed his resurrected body as a physical revelation of his victory over death Luke 24:40.
- Public Testimony: Showing something can serve as a public witness. Apollos was shewing by the scriptures to publicly prove that Jesus was the Christ Acts 18:28. The widows in Joppa were shewing the garments Dorcas had made as a testimony to her life and works Acts 9:39.
In summary, G1925 is more than a simple act of display; it is an active demonstration intended to provide evidence. Whether presenting physical proof like a coin or a resurrected body, or offering intellectual proof from the scriptures, epideíknymi signifies an exhibition for the purpose of convincing, confirming, or bearing witness. It highlights the role of tangible and reasoned evidence within the biblical framework of faith and revelation.
TRV