### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **theodídaktos**, represented by `{{G2312}}`, is defined as **divinely instructed:--taught of God**. It is formed from the words θεός (God) and διδάσκω (to teach). This specific term is exceptionally rare in scripture, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, which gives its single use significant weight.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G2312}}` is in [[1 Thessalonians 4:9]]. In this verse, the author is discussing the subject of **brotherly love** `{{G5360}}`. He states that there is no **need** `{{G5532}}` for him to **write** `{{G1125}}` to the believers on this topic. The reason **for** `{{G1063}}` this is that they **yourselves** `{{G846}}` **are** `{{G2075}}` already **taught of God** `{{G2312}}`. The purpose of this divine instruction is **to** `{{G1519}}` **love** `{{G25}}` **one another** `{{G240}}`. The word emphasizes an internal, divine teaching that makes external, human instruction on this core principle unnecessary.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and meaning of being "taught of God":
* `{{G5360}}` **philadelphía** (brotherly love): This is the specific subject for which the believers have been divinely instructed. The command is for this **brotherly love** to continue [[Hebrews 13:1]].
* `{{G5532}}` **chreía** (need): This word underscores the sufficiency of God's teaching. Because they are taught by God, the believers have no **need** for further written commands on the matter [[1 Thessalonians 4:9]].
* `{{G1125}}` **gráphō** (to write): This highlights the contrast between apostolic instruction and divine teaching. Paul's writing is rendered unnecessary by God's direct work. A similar concept appears where it is **written** that all people will be taught by God [[John 6:45]].
* `{{G25}}` **agapáō** (to love): This is the direct action and outcome of being "taught of God." It is the very behavior they have been divinely instructed to practice toward one another [[John 13:34]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2312}}` is significant despite its single use. It reveals key truths about the Christian life.
* **Direct Divine Tutelage:** The term establishes that believers are not merely students of men or texts, but are personally and directly instructed by God Himself. This idea is affirmed in the prophecy that "they shall be all taught of God" [[John 6:45]].
* **The Internal Source of Love:** It indicates that the capacity for genuine **brotherly love** `{{G5360}}` is not simply a human effort but a result of God's work within the heart. Being **taught of God** is what enables believers **to love** `{{G25}}` **one another** `{{G240}}` [[1 Thessalonians 4:9]].
* **Sufficiency in God:** The use of `{{G2312}}` shows that God's teaching is sufficient. The believers in Thessalonica had no **need** `{{G5532}}` of a written reminder from an apostle, because the ultimate Teacher had already instructed them in this essential matter.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2312}}` **theodídaktos** provides a profound insight into the nature of spiritual growth. Though used only once, it describes the reality of believers being personally "taught of God," especially concerning the foundational command to love one another. This unique word shifts the source of Christian knowledge and behavior from an external letter to an internal, divine relationship, affirming that God Himself equips His people for the life He calls them to live.
TRV