The Greek word axióō, represented by G515, is used to express the idea of deeming something or someone entitled or fit. Its definition includes concepts like to desire, think good, or count worthy. This term appears 11 times across 7 unique verses, indicating a specific and focused application in scripture. It is used to convey a judgment of value or suitability, whether by God or by people.
In the biblical text, G515 is applied in various contexts of assessment and value. It describes a person's self-perception, as when the centurion did not think himself worthy to have Jesus come to him Luke 7:7. It is also used to establish a standard for leadership, stating that elders who rule well are to be "counted worthy of double honour" 1 Timothy 5:17. The word carries a severe weight in Hebrews 10:29, where it asks what punishment one is "thought worthy" of for rejecting the Son of God. Conversely, it is used in a prayer that God would "count you worthy of this calling" 2 Thessalonians 1:11, connecting worthiness to a divine purpose.
Several related words help to clarify the concept of being deemed worthy:
- G5092 timḗ (honour, precious, price, some): This word for value or honour is directly linked to G515 in the instruction to count elders worthy of double honour 1 Timothy 5:17.
- G1391 dóxa (dignity, glory, honour, praise, worship): This term for glory is used to elevate the status of Christ, who was "counted worthy of more glory than Moses" Hebrews 3:3.
- G2233 hēgéomai (to deem, i.e. consider): This word is used alongside G515 in a passage about the consequences of apostasy, where one has counted the blood of the covenant an unholy thing Hebrews 10:29.
- G5098 timōría (vindication, i.e. (by implication) a penalty): This word for punishment is the direct consequence for one who is "thought worthy" of it for having done despite to the Spirit of grace Hebrews 10:29.
The theological weight of G515 is significant, highlighting key principles of value and judgment.
- Accountability and Consequence: The use of G515 establishes that actions have corresponding value, leading to either honor or punishment. One can be "thought worthy" of "sorer punishment" for disrespecting the covenant Hebrews 10:29.
- Christ's Supreme Worth: The word is used to affirm the unparalleled value of Jesus Christ. He is "counted worthy of more glory than Moses," establishing his preeminence Hebrews 3:3.
- God as the Source of Worth: Worthiness in a believer is not self-generated but is an attribute conferred by God. The prayer in 2 Thessalonians 1:11 is that God would "count you worthy," and then "fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness" with "power."
- Human Judgment: The term is also used for human decisions, such as when Paul "thought not good" to take a companion with him, showing a practical application of deeming something unfit for a purpose Acts 15:38.
In summary, G515 is a precise term that communicates the act of assigning value or fitness. It operates on both a human and divine level, from discerning a person's character to establishing the ultimate glory of Christ. The word serves as a reminder that in the biblical worldview, there are standards of worth, and individuals are deemed worthy of honor, purpose, or punishment based on their relationship to God and their actions.
TRV