The Greek word thélēsis, represented by G2308, refers to will. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. The term signifies a determination or option, defining the act of willing itself.
The sole appearance of G2308 is in Hebrews 2:4. In this passage, the author describes how God G2316 confirmed the message of salvation by "bearing them witness" G4901. This divine testimony was accomplished with signs G4592, wonders G5059, various miracles G1411, and distributed "gifts G3311 of the Holy Ghost G4151." The distribution of these gifts is explicitly tied to God's sovereign choice, being done "according to his own will" Hebrews 2:4.
Several related words clarify the context in which G2308 is found:
- G2316 theós (God): Defined as "a deity, especially...the supreme Divinity," this term identifies the one whose will is paramount. The passage specifies that the gifts are distributed according to the will of God Hebrews 2:4.
- G3311 merismós (gift): Meaning "a separation or distribution," this word refers to the "gifts of the Holy Ghost" that are apportioned according to God's sovereign determination Hebrews 2:4.
- G1411 dýnamis (miraculous power): This word for "miraculous power" describes one of the specific manifestations of God's testimony. These mighty works are enacted according to His will Hebrews 2:4.
The theological weight of G2308, though found in a single verse, is significant. It highlights key aspects of God's character and work.
- Divine Sovereignty: The term underscores that the distribution of spiritual gifts and miracles is an act of God's own sovereign will. It is His "determination" and "option" that governs these manifestations Hebrews 2:4.
- Confirmation of Truth: God's will is directly linked to the act of "bearing them witness" G4901. The signs, wonders, and gifts are a deliberate outworking of His will to confirm the message of salvation.
- Source of Spiritual Gifts: The passage establishes that the "gifts G3311 of the Holy G40 Ghost G4151" are apportioned "according to his own will," identifying the divine determination as the source and standard for their distribution Hebrews 2:4.
In summary, thélēsis G2308 is a precise term for will as a sovereign "determination." Though it appears only once, its use in Hebrews 2:4 is pivotal. It firmly connects the miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit and the signs that confirmed the early preaching of the gospel directly to the deliberate and sovereign choice of God. The word illustrates how divine action is not arbitrary but flows from God's own purpose and option.
TRV