The Greek word teleíōsis, represented by G5050, defines the act of completion. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. The term carries a dual sense, signifying either the verification of a prophecy, translated as performance, or the absolution achieved through expiation, translated as perfection.
In the biblical narrative, G5050 is used in two distinct contexts. In the New Testament, it describes the fulfillment of God's promise to Mary, where her belief is met with the promised performance of what the Lord had spoken Luke 1:45. The term is also used in a theological argument concerning the Levitical priesthood, questioning whether true perfection or absolution could be attained through its rituals, thereby pointing to the need for a new order of priesthood Hebrews 7:11.
Several related words provide context for the meaning of completion and perfection:
- G3107 makários (blessed, happy): This term for being supremely blest is tied to the concept of fulfillment. In the narrative, one is called blessed for believing that a divine promise will see its performance Luke 1:45.
- G4100 pisteúō (to have faith, believe): Meaning to entrust or have faith, this action is presented as a precursor to fulfillment. Believing what God has said is linked directly to the eventual performance of His word Luke 1:45.
- G2980 laléō (to talk, speak): This word for uttering words is used to describe the divine promises that await their completion. The performance is a verification of what was previously told by the Lord Luke 1:45.
- G3549 nomothetéō (establish, receive the law): This term for legislation is used to frame the system under which perfection was sought but unattainable. The people received the law under a priesthood that could not bring about completion Hebrews 7:11.
The theological weight of G5050 is seen in its application to both divine promises and religious systems.
- Verification of Prophecy: The term underscores the certainty of God's word. Its use as performance demonstrates that what God has told will be brought to completion, linking faith directly to fulfillment Luke 1:45.
- Expiatory Completion: When used as perfection, the word highlights the limitations of the Levitical priesthood. The fact that the law given under this system could not achieve perfection serves as a theological argument for the necessity of a superior priesthood and covenant Hebrews 7:11.
In summary, G5050 is a focused term that encapsulates the concept of completion. Though appearing only twice, it carries significant weight, illustrating both the performance of a divine promise and the inability of the Levitical system to bring about true perfection. The word connects the faithfulness of God in fulfilling what He has spoken with the theological argument for a new and better covenant.
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