### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **homología**, represented by `{{G3671}}`, means **acknowledgment** and is translated as **confession** or **profession**. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. The term signifies a formal and open declaration of one's belief or allegiance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3671}}` is frequently associated with a steadfast commitment to faith. The book of Hebrews exhorts believers to "hold fast{G2902} our **profession**" [[Hebrews 4:14]] and to "hold fast{G2722} the **profession** of our faith{G1680}" [[Hebrews 10:23]]. This confession is centered on Jesus Christ, who is described as the "Apostle{G652} and High Priest{G749} of our **profession**" [[Hebrews 3:1]]. The concept of a public declaration is highlighted when believers are instructed to recall the "good **profession**" they made "before many witnesses" [[1 Timothy 6:12]], which mirrors Christ's own "good **confession**" [[1 Timothy 6:13]]. Furthermore, a "professed{G3671} subjection{G5292}" to the gospel is a cause for others to "glorify{G1392} God" [[2 Corinthians 9:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for the meaning of profession:
* `{{G3670}}` **homologéō** (to assent, i.e. covenant, acknowledge): This is the root verb from which **homología** is derived. It is used when one has "professed{G3670} a good profession" [[1 Timothy 6:12]].
* `{{G2902}}` **kratéō** (to use strength, i.e. seize or retain): This word emphasizes the active effort required to "hold fast{G2902} our profession" [[Hebrews 4:14]].
* `{{G1680}}` **elpís** (expectation or confidence): The content of our profession is identified as our "hope," as believers are to "hold fast the profession of our faith{G1680}" [[Hebrews 10:23]].
* `{{G3140}}` **martyréō** (to be a witness, i.e. testify): This term connects the act of confession with bearing witness, as when Christ "witnessed{G3140} a good confession" before Pontius Pilate [[1 Timothy 6:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3671}}` is significant and multifaceted:
* **Public Declaration:** The term is consistently used to describe a public and vocal acknowledgment of faith, such as the "good **profession** before many witnesses" [[1 Timothy 6:12]].
* **Steadfast Endurance:** Believers are repeatedly commanded to "hold fast" their **profession**, linking the declaration to perseverance and an unwavering commitment to Christ ([[Hebrews 4:14]], [[Hebrews 10:23]]).
* **Christ as the Object:** The **profession** is not abstract but is anchored in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is called the "Apostle{G652} and High Priest{G749} of our **profession**" [[Hebrews 3:1]].
* **Action-Oriented Faith:** The **professed** subjection to the gospel is validated by tangible actions, which in turn cause others to glorify God [[2 Corinthians 9:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3671}}` is not merely a verbal statement but a foundational and binding **confession** of faith. It is a public witness that is centered on Christ, requires steadfast endurance to "hold fast," and is ultimately demonstrated through a life of "professed subjection" to the gospel.
TRV