### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun πρόκριμα (prókrima, `{{G4299}}`) is a compound word derived from the preposition πρό (pro, "before" or "in front of") and the verb κρίνω (krinō, "to judge," "to decide," "to distinguish"). Etymologically, it signifies a "judgment made beforehand." Its core meaning therefore encompasses "prejudgment," "prejudice," or a "prior decision." This implies a judgment formed without a full and impartial examination of the facts, often influenced by pre-existing biases, personal inclinations, or partiality. The English rendering "prefer one before another" in its sole biblical occurrence accurately captures the essence of showing favoritism or making a decision based on undue preference rather than equitable assessment. It inherently carries a negative connotation, pointing to an unfair or biased evaluation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term πρόκριμα (prókrima) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[1 Timothy 5:21]].
In this pivotal verse, the Apostle Paul issues a solemn charge to Timothy: "I charge you before God and Christ Jesus and the elect angels to keep these instructions without prejudging, doing nothing with partiality."
The immediate context of [[1 Timothy 5:21]] is Paul's instructions to Timothy regarding the proper conduct of church leaders, particularly concerning the treatment of elders. Verses [[1 Timothy 5:19-20]] deal with the process for receiving accusations against elders and, if proven, public rebuke. Following this, the command "without prejudging" (χωρὶς προκρίματος) directly applies to Timothy's role in evaluating such accusations and, by extension, in all matters of church discipline and administration.
The phrase "doing nothing with partiality" (μηδὲν ποιῶν κατὰ πρόσκλισιν) serves as a parallel and reinforcing statement, clarifying the nature of the "prejudging" that is forbidden. πρόσκλισις (prosklisis, `{{G4346}}`) means "inclination" or "bias," underscoring the prohibition against favoritism, undue influence, or any decision-making process tainted by personal preference rather than objective truth.
Paul's weighty adjuration, invoking God, Christ Jesus, and the elect angels, emphasizes the absolute seriousness and divine imperative of this command. It highlights that impartial judgment is not merely a good practice but a fundamental requirement for those entrusted with spiritual authority in the church.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words and theological concepts illuminate the meaning and significance of πρόκριμα:
* κρίνω (krinō, `{{G2919}}`): The root verb from which πρόκριμα is derived, meaning "to judge," "to decide," or "to distinguish." While κρίνω can be neutral or positive (e.g., righteous judgment), πρόκριμα specifies a *biased* or *premature* form of judgment.
* πρόσκλισις (prosklisis, `{{G4346}}`): "Partiality," "bias," "inclination." This word appears alongside πρόκριμα in [[1 Timothy 5:21]], functioning as a near synonym or explanatory phrase, emphasizing the prohibition against any form of favoritism in judgment.
* προσωπολημψία (prosopolempsia, `{{G4382}}`): "Respect of persons," "partiality," "favoritism." This is a broader term frequently used in the New Testament (e.g., [[James 2:1]], [[Romans 2:11]], [[Colossians 3:25]]) to condemn showing favoritism based on external factors such as wealth, social status, or appearance. While πρόκριμα focuses on the *act* of prejudgment, προσωπολημψία describes the *attitude* or *practice* of showing partiality, often as a result of such prejudgment.
* ἀπροσωπολήμπτως (aprosopolemptos, `{{G67}}`): The adverbial form, meaning "without partiality," used to describe God's impartial judgment (e.g., [[1 Peter 1:17]]).
These related terms collectively underscore the biblical condemnation of any form of biased or unfair judgment, whether in secular or sacred contexts. The concept aligns with Old Testament principles of justice and impartiality for judges (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 1:17]], [[Proverbs 24:23]]).
### Theological Significance
The command against πρόκριμα holds profound theological significance for Christian leadership and the integrity of the church:
* **Reflection of God's Character:** At its core, the prohibition against prejudgment and partiality is rooted in the very character of God. Scripture consistently portrays God as utterly impartial ([[Romans 2:11]], [[Acts 10:34]], [[Colossians 3:25]]). Therefore, those who serve as His representatives, especially in roles of judgment or decision-making within the church, are called to embody this divine attribute. To act with πρόκριμα is to misrepresent God's justice and righteousness.
* **Integrity of Church Leadership:** For Timothy and all subsequent church leaders, this instruction is vital for maintaining the integrity and credibility of spiritual authority. When leaders operate with πρόκριμα, it erodes trust, fosters division, and undermines the moral authority of the church. Just and impartial judgment is essential for a healthy and functioning Christian community.
* **Pastoral Responsibility:** The specific context of [[1 Timothy 5:21]] highlights the gravity of pastoral responsibility in matters of discipline and appointment. Decisions concerning the reputation, ministry, and spiritual well-being of individuals, particularly elders, must be based on objective truth, careful investigation, and biblical principles, rather than personal biases, friendships, or animosities.
* **Ethical Imperative for All Believers:** While directed at Timothy as a leader, the principle of avoiding πρόκριμα extends as an ethical imperative to all believers. It calls for a disposition of fairness, open-mindedness, and a commitment to truth in all interpersonal interactions, guarding against hasty judgments, gossip, slander, and the tendency to form opinions without adequate information or empathy.
### Summary
πρόκριμα (prókrima, `{{G4299}}`) denotes a "prejudgment" or "prejudice," signifying a decision made prematurely or with partiality, rather than through objective and fair assessment. Its singular New Testament occurrence in [[1 Timothy 5:21]] serves as a solemn command to Christian leaders—and by extension, all believers—to conduct themselves without bias or favoritism in matters of judgment, especially concerning church discipline and appointments. This imperative is deeply rooted in the impartial character of God Himself and is crucial for maintaining the integrity, justice, and effective witness of the church. The word underscores the ethical demand for fairness, objectivity, and a commitment to truth in all judgments, guarding against the corrosive effects of preconceived notions and undue preferences.
TRV