### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **homologéō**, represented by `{{G3670}}`, is a compound word meaning to assent, covenant, or acknowledge. It appears **26 times** across **21 unique verses** in scripture. The term encompasses a range of actions from making a **promise** [[Matthew 14:7]] to giving **thanks** [[Hebrews 13:15]] or making a public **confession** [[Romans 10:10]].
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The use of `{{G3670}}` spans several critical contexts in the New Testament. It is foundational to the concept of salvation, where one must **confess** with the mouth the Lord Jesus to be saved [[Romans 10:9]]. It is also central to the believer's relationship with God, as in the call to **confess** our sins to receive forgiveness and cleansing [[1 John 1:9]]. The term also describes a public declaration of faith, such as the "good profession" made before many witnesses [[1 Timothy 6:12]]. In a different sense, it can be used to describe a false profession, where individuals **profess** to know God but deny Him by their works [[Titus 1:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning of confessing and acknowledging truth:
* `{{G3671}}` **homología** (confession, professed): The direct noun form of `{{G3670}}`, this word refers to the **confession** or profession itself. It is used alongside its verb counterpart to describe professing a good **profession** [[1 Timothy 6:12]].
* `{{G720}}` **arnéomai** (to deny, refuse): This word serves as a direct antonym. Scripture often contrasts confessing with denying, as seen when individuals **profess** to know God but **deny** him in their works [[Titus 1:16]] or when John the Baptist **confessed** and **denied** not [[John 1:20]].
* `{{G4100}}` **pisteúō** (to have faith, believe): This term is frequently linked with `{{G3670}}` to connect internal faith with external confession. Salvation involves both to **believe** in the heart and to **confess** with the mouth [[Romans 10:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3670}}` is significant, establishing core principles of Christian faith and practice.
* **The Basis of Salvation:** A foundational theological concept is that confession is intrinsically linked to salvation. Scripture states that one must **confess** with the mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in the heart that God raised him from the dead to **be saved** [[Romans 10:9]], as "confession is made unto salvation" [[Romans 10:10]].
* **Mutual Acknowledgment:** `{{G3670}}` establishes a principle of reciprocal acknowledgment between Christ and believers. Those who **confess** Jesus before men will be confessed by Him before the Father in heaven [[Matthew 10:32]]. This confession signifies an indwelling of God in the believer [[1 John 4:15]].
* **A Condition for Forgiveness:** The act of confessing is a prerequisite for receiving God's forgiveness and purification. Believers are instructed that **if** they **confess** their sins, God is faithful and just to forgive them and **cleanse** them from all unrighteousness [[1 John 1:9]].
* **An Act of Worship:** Confession extends beyond doctrinal statements to acts of worship. Believers are encouraged to offer a "sacrifice of praise," which is defined as "the fruit of our lips giving thanks" to His name [[Hebrews 13:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3670}}` **homologéō** is a significant term that conveys a binding agreement or acknowledgment. It is not merely speaking, but aligning one's words with an inner reality, whether that is faith in Christ for salvation [[Romans 10:9]], repentance from sin [[1 John 1:9]], or a false claim to know God [[Titus 1:16]]. The act of confessing defines a believer's identity, secures their relationship with God, and serves as a fundamental expression of faith and worship.
TRV