The Greek word sophízō, represented by G4679, carries a dual meaning centered on wisdom and deception. It appears 3 times across 2 unique verses. Its definition is "to render wise," but in a sinister context, it means to "form 'sophisms', i.e. continue plausible error." This is reflected in its biblical translations as both "make wise" and "cunningly devised."
The two uses of G4679 in scripture highlight its contrasting meanings. In a positive sense, Paul reminds Timothy that from childhood he has known the holy scriptures, which are able to make him wise unto salvation through faith in Christ Jesus 2 Timothy 3:15. Conversely, Peter uses the term in its negative sense, stating that the apostles did not follow "cunningly devised" fables when they proclaimed the power and coming of the Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of His majesty 2 Peter 1:16.
Several related words help clarify the concepts of true versus false wisdom:
- G1107 gnōrízō (to make known): This word is used in direct contrast to the deception implied by G4679. The apostles did not rely on sophistry; instead, they made known the power of Christ 2 Peter 1:16.
- G1121 grámma (a writing... scripture): This term points to the source of genuine wisdom. It is the holy scriptures that are able to "make wise" unto salvation 2 Timothy 3:15.
- G1411 dýnamis (force... miraculous power): The apostolic message was not based on fables but on the reality of Christ's power, which they made known to their followers 2 Peter 1:16.
The theological weight of G4679 lies in the distinction it draws between divine truth and human error.
- The Source of True Wisdom: The word is used to affirm that the holy scriptures G1121 are the means by which a person is made wise unto salvation G4991 through faith G4102 in Christ 2 Timothy 3:15.
- The Rejection of Deception: In its negative usage, G4679 serves as a label for "cunningly devised" fables, which stand in opposition to the eyewitness testimony of Christ's majesty G3168 and power G1411 2 Peter 1:16.
- The Goal of Godly Wisdom: The purpose of being "made wise" by the scriptures is explicitly stated as salvation G4991, differentiating it from worldly philosophies that cannot achieve this end 2 Timothy 3:15.
In summary, G4679 is a significant term that encapsulates the conflict between two kinds of wisdom. It simultaneously describes the process of becoming truly wise for salvation through God's revealed word and the act of creating plausible but false narratives. The word forces a choice between the wisdom that comes from the holy scriptures and the "cunningly devised" fables that originate from human invention.
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