### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **téknon**, represented by `{{G5043}}`, means **a child (as produced):--child, daughter, son**. It appears 99 times across 91 unique verses in the Bible, establishing it as a key term for understanding both familial and spiritual relationships. The word signifies a direct, produced relationship, like that of an offspring to a parent.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5043}}` is used in both literal and figurative contexts. It describes the natural family unit, with commands for **children** to obey their parents ([[Ephesians 6:1]], [[Colossians 3:20]]) and for fathers to not provoke their **children** [[Ephesians 6:4]]. It is also used metaphorically to describe a spiritual relationship. Believers are granted the power to become the **sons** of God [[John 1:12]] and are called "dear **children**" [[Ephesians 5:1]]. This spiritual application extends to mentorship, as Paul refers to Timothy as his "son" in the faith [[2 Timothy 2:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G5043}}`:
* `{{G5207}}` **huiós** (son): This word is also translated as "son" or "child" but is used very widely for immediate, remote, or figurative kinship. It often emphasizes a dignified position, as in Jesus being the "Son of God" [[John 3:16]], whereas téknon emphasizes origin.
* `{{G3962}}` **patḗr** (father): As the direct counterpart, this word is essential for context. The relationship between a **father** and his children is used to illustrate God's relationship with believers, who can ask their heavenly **Father** for good gifts [[Matthew 7:11]].
* `{{G1118}}` **goneús** (a parent): This term specifies the parental role. It is used in direct relation to `{{G5043}}` in commands such as "**Children**, obey your **parents** in the Lord" [[Ephesians 6:1]].
* `{{G4690}}` **spérma** (seed, offspring): This word relates to lineage and descendants. While `{{G5043}}` can refer to an individual child, **spérma** often refers to the entire line of descendants, as seen in the promise that the "children of the promise are counted for the **seed**" [[Romans 9:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G5043}}` is profound, especially in defining the believer's new identity in Christ.
* **Spiritual Birth:** The term is central to the concept of being born again. Through faith, believers are not just followers but are made **children** of God [[John 1:12]], sharing in a new spiritual nature. This distinguishes the "children of God" from the "children of the devil" [[1 John 3:10]].
* **Divine Inheritance:** A direct consequence of being a child of God is becoming an heir. The Apostle Paul connects these concepts directly: "And if **children**, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ" [[Romans 8:17]].
* **A New Nature:** The word is used to describe a person's core identity. Believers are called to walk as "**children** of light" [[Ephesians 5:8]], which contrasts with their former state as "**children** of wrath" by nature [[Ephesians 2:3]].
* **Relational Intimacy:** Unlike more formal titles, **téknon** often conveys a sense of affection and intimacy. Believers are called "dear **children**" of God [[Ephesians 5:1]] and "beloved" sons [[1 Corinthians 4:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5043}}` moves far beyond a simple term for offspring. It is a foundational concept in the New Testament that redefines a believer's identity. From the literal relationships within a human family to the intimate, spiritual reality of being born into God's family, **téknon** illustrates the transformative power of the gospel, which makes individuals children of God, co-heirs with Christ, and partakers in a new, divine nature.
TRV