from ἐπί and τελέω; to fulfill further (or completely), i.e. execute; by implication, to terminate, undergo:--accomplish, do, finish, (make) (perfect), perform(X -ance).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epiteléō**, represented by `{{G2005}}`, is defined as to fulfill further or completely, to execute, finish, or make perfect. Derived from ἐπί and τελέω, it appears 13 times across 10 unique verses. The word signifies carrying out an action to its intended conclusion, encompassing concepts of accomplishing, performing, and bringing a task or process to its complete end.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2005}}` is used to describe the completion of a process. It refers to God's promise to **perform** the good work He began in believers until the day of Jesus Christ [[Philippians 1:6]]. It is also used as a command for believers, who are called to be **perfecting** holiness in the fear of God [[2 Corinthians 7:1]]. On a practical level, the word can refer to finishing a specific task, such as when Paul intended to **perform** the delivery of an offering [[Romans 15:28]], or when the priests were **accomplishing** their service in the tabernacle [[Hebrews 9:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of completing a work:
* `{{G1728}}` **enárchomai** (to commence on): This word for beginning stands in direct contrast to finishing. The two are used together to frame a complete process, as seen in the phrase "he which hath **begun** a good work... will **perform** it" [[Philippians 1:6]].
* `{{G4160}}` **poiéō** (to make or do): This is a general term for action. In [[Hebrews 8:5]], Moses is told to **make** (poiéō) all things according to a pattern as part of the instruction to **make** (epiteléō) the tabernacle, linking the general act of making with the specific fulfillment of the command.
* `{{G5048}}` **teleióō** (to complete... consummate (in character)): This word often points to the final state of perfection. In [[Luke 13:32]], Jesus speaks of the works he will **do** (epiteléō) before he will "be **perfected**" (teleióō), showing a progression from performing actions to reaching a state of completion.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2005}}` is significant, particularly in the context of salvation and Christian living.
* **God's Sovereign Completion:** The promise in [[Philippians 1:6]] that God will **perform** His work in believers provides assurance that salvation is ultimately secured and brought to completion by God Himself.
* **The Process of Sanctification:** The term frames sanctification as a process that must be brought to its proper end. [[Galatians 3:3]] warns against beginning in the Spirit only to attempt to be **made perfect** by the flesh, while [[2 Corinthians 7:1]] encourages believers in the active work of **perfecting** holiness.
* **Faithful Execution of Service:** From the priests **accomplishing** their duties in the tabernacle [[Hebrews 9:6]] to the apostle Paul **perform**ing his mission [[Romans 15:28]], the word underscores the importance of faithfully executing a divinely appointed task.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2005}}` is more than just "to finish." It conveys the idea of bringing an action or process to its full and intended end. It applies to God's sovereign work, human responsibility in sanctification, and the dedicated completion of ministry. By linking the start of an endeavor to its ultimate fulfillment, **epiteléō** underscores the importance of seeing a process through, whether it is God's work in us or our work for Him.
TRV