from ἐπί and μαρτυρέω; to attest further, i.e. corroborate:--testify.
Transliteration:epimartyréō
Pronunciation:ep-ee-mar-too-reh'-o
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb ἐπιμαρτυρέω (epimartyréō, `{{G1957}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition ἐπί (epi) and the verb μαρτυρέω (martyreō, `{{G3140}}`). The root verb μαρτυρέω means "to bear witness," "to testify," or "to give evidence." The prefix ἐπί can convey various nuances, including "upon," "in addition to," "further," or "for the purpose of." When combined, ἐπιμαρτυρέω therefore signifies "to bear witness upon," "to testify further," or "to corroborate." It implies not merely the act of witnessing, but of providing additional, confirming, or reinforcing testimony to an existing truth or claim. The semantic range points to a strengthening or authentication of a statement, lending it greater weight and authority.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb ἐπιμαρτυρέω (epimartyréō, `{{G1957}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in 1 Peter 5:12. In this passage, the Apostle Peter concludes his epistle with a significant statement: "Through Silvanus, a faithful brother as I consider him, I have written to you briefly, exhorting and *testifying* that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it." [[1 Peter 5:12]]
The context reveals Peter's intention to affirm the veracity of the gospel message that his readers have received and in which they stand. His use of ἐπιμαρτυρέω indicates that he is not introducing a new concept of grace but rather adding his apostolic authority and personal corroboration to the "true grace of God." This is crucial for the recipients, who are facing suffering and persecution, as it grounds their faith in a divinely attested and unshakeable reality. Peter's "testifying" serves to confirm the authenticity and reliability of the grace they have experienced, urging them to remain steadfast amidst trials. It is an authoritative seal on the truth of the gospel.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the root verb μαρτυρέω (martyreō, `{{G3140}}`), which denotes the general act of bearing witness. Other cognates include μαρτυρία (martyria, `{{G3141}}`), meaning "testimony" or "witness," and μάρτυς (martys, `{{G3144}}`), meaning "witness" or one who testifies even unto death (martyr).
The distinguishing feature of ἐπιμαρτυρέω (epimartyréō, `{{G1957}}`) is the prefix ἐπί, which elevates the simple act of witnessing to one of corroboration or authoritative confirmation. It suggests an affirmation that strengthens conviction and provides assurance. Concepts closely associated with ἐπιμαρτυρέω include:
* **Corroboration:** Providing additional evidence to support or confirm a statement.
* **Authentication:** Verifying the truth or genuineness of something.
* **Divine Attestation:** The act of God, or His appointed messengers, bearing witness to truth.
* **Assurance:** The state of being confident in the truth or reality of something.
This word stands in contrast to merely presenting a new witness; it is about reinforcing an existing, foundational truth.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of ἐπιμαρτυρέω (epimartyréō, `{{G1957}}`) in 1 Peter 5:12 carries profound theological weight. Peter's "testifying" to the "true grace of God" is more than a casual affirmation; it is an authoritative apostolic endorsement. This attestation serves several key theological purposes:
1. **Confirmation of Divine Truth:** It underscores the absolute reliability and divine origin of the gospel message concerning God's grace. In a world of shifting philosophies and trials, Peter provides an unshakeable foundation for their faith.
2. **Pastoral Assurance:** For a community enduring suffering, Peter's corroboration of "the true grace of God" offers immense comfort and assurance. It reminds them that their hope is not in vain, but rooted in a verified, divine reality.
3. **Apostolic Authority:** The use of ἐπιμαρτυρέω highlights Peter's role as an authoritative witness to Christ and His truth. His testimony is not merely personal opinion but an apostolic confirmation, designed to strengthen the faith of the believers.
4. **Call to Steadfastness:** By confirming the truth of God's grace, Peter implicitly calls the believers to "stand firm in it." The confirmed nature of grace provides the necessary ground for perseverance in faith and conduct, even under duress.
Thus, ἐπιμαρτυρέω functions as a theological anchor, securing the believers' understanding and experience of God's grace in the face of adversity.
### Summary
The Greek verb ἐπιμαρτυρέω (epimartyréō, `{{G1957}}`) denotes the act of providing a strong, authoritative confirmation or corroboration of a truth. It implies a "further" or "additional" testimony that serves to authenticate or reinforce an existing witness. Its sole New Testament appearance in 1 Peter 5:12 is highly significant, where the Apostle Peter uses it to attest to the "true grace of God." This usage underscores the divine reliability and unshakeable nature of the gospel message, providing assurance to believers facing trials. ἐπιμαρτυρέω is therefore not merely about witnessing, but about an authoritative, reinforcing witness designed to solidify faith and encourage steadfastness in the foundational truths of Christian doctrine.
TRV