### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word ktḗtōr (`{{G2935}}`) is derived from the verb ktáomai (`{{G2932}}`), which carries the core meaning "to acquire," "to obtain," "to procure," or "to possess." Consequently, ktḗtōr refers to "one who has acquired," "an owner," or "a possessor." Its semantic range is quite focused, emphasizing the state of having come into possession of something, often through a deliberate act of acquisition, purchase, or effort. It denotes proprietorship and the legal or de facto holding of an asset. The word does not imply creation, but rather the act of gaining and holding dominion over something already existing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ktḗtōr (`{{G2935}}`) is notably rare in the New Testament, appearing only once in the book of Acts.
* [[Acts 4:34]]: "For there was not a needy person among them, for all who were owners of lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold."
In this solitary occurrence, ktḗtōr describes individuals within the early Christian community in Jerusalem who *owned* (were possessors of) lands or houses. The context highlights their extraordinary generosity and communal spirit. These "owners" willingly divested themselves of their personal property, bringing the proceeds to the apostles to ensure that no one in the community was in need. The use of ktḗtōr here underscores the fact that these were genuine proprietors, legally entitled to their possessions, yet they chose to surrender their rights for the common good. This act was not coerced but voluntary, demonstrating a radical reorientation of their relationship to material wealth.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding ktḗtōr is enhanced by examining its linguistic relatives and associated biblical concepts:
* **ktáomai (`{{G2932}}`):** The root verb, meaning "to acquire, obtain, possess." Examples include [[Luke 21:19]] ("By your endurance you will gain your lives") and [[Acts 8:20]] ("because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money!"). This verb highlights the process of coming into possession.
* **ktēsis (`{{G2933}}`):** A noun meaning "acquisition, possession, property." It appears in [[Acts 8:20]] and [[1 Timothy 6:19]] ("laying up for themselves a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life").
* **ktisma (`{{G2936}}`):** "Creation, creature," derived from ktizō (`{{G2937}}`, "to create"). While ktḗtōr focuses on acquisition rather than creation, the broader biblical understanding of God as the ultimate Creator and ktḗtōr (owner/possessor) of all things connects these ideas.
* **Stewardship:** The concept of human ownership as a temporary trust under God's ultimate proprietorship. While ktḗtōr denotes human ownership, the Acts passage illustrates a practical application of stewardship, where personal possessions are viewed as resources to be managed for God's purposes and the welfare of His people.
* **Material Possessions:** The specific items owned by the ktḗtōr in [[Acts 4:34]] are agros (`{{G68}}`, "land") and oikia (`{{G3613}}`, "house"), underscoring the tangible nature of the possessions being relinquished.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of ktḗtōr in [[Acts 4:34]] carries profound theological weight, illustrating a foundational aspect of early Christian community life. The voluntary actions of these "owners" demonstrate:
* **Redefinition of Ownership:** In the light of the Gospel, personal ownership was not viewed as an absolute right to be selfishly guarded, but as a resource to be shared for the common good. This challenged prevailing societal norms centered on individual accumulation and status.
* **Radical Generosity and Love:** The ktḗtōr in Acts exemplify a deep, sacrificial love for fellow believers, ensuring that "there was not a needy person among them." This practical expression of love fulfilled the command to love one's neighbor.
* **Communal Solidarity:** The passage portrays a vibrant community where individual needs were met through collective resources. This voluntary sharing fostered deep unity and demonstrated the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in their midst.
* **Kingdom Values:** The actions of the ktḗtōr prioritized the spiritual and material well-being of the community over personal wealth and security, reflecting an embrace of kingdom values. It showcases a detachment from worldly possessions in favor of eternal realities and the immediate needs of God's people.
Ultimately, while ktḗtōr refers to human owners, the underlying theological principle points to God as the ultimate ktḗtōr of all things. Humans are merely stewards of what God has entrusted to them, called to manage these resources in a way that honors Him and serves others.
### Summary
The Greek word ktḗtōr (`{{G2935}}`), derived from ktáomai (`{{G2932}}`, "to acquire"), precisely designates an "owner" or "possessor." Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Acts 4:34]] provides a powerful vignette of the early Jerusalem church. Here, ktḗtōr refers to those who owned lands and houses, who willingly sold their possessions and contributed the proceeds to the apostles for the benefit of the entire community, ensuring no one was in need. This act vividly illustrates the theological principles of radical generosity, communal solidarity, and the redefinition of ownership within the Christian faith. It highlights a transformed heart that views material wealth as a resource for God's kingdom and the welfare of His people, rather than a personal entitlement. Though describing human ownership, the passage implicitly points to God as the ultimate ktḗtōr of all creation, positioning human possession as a sacred trust and an opportunity for selfless stewardship.
TRV