The Greek word phḗmē, represented by G5345, describes a saying, rumor, or fame. It appears only 2 times across 2 unique verses, highlighting specific moments when news about Jesus began to circulate widely. It denotes a report or reputation that spreads throughout a region.
In the biblical narrative, G5345 is used exclusively to describe the burgeoning reputation of Jesus. In one instance, after Jesus returned to Galilee G1056 in the power G1411 of the Spirit, a fame of him went out through the entire surrounding region Luke 4:14. In another account, the fame hereof went abroad into all that land G1093, indicating that news of a specific event quickly spread Matthew 9:26.
Several related words help clarify the context of this spreading fame:
- G1831 exérchomai (to issue (literally or figuratively)): This verb is used in both occurrences to describe how the fame "went out" or "went abroad," emphasizing the active dissemination of the news (Luke 4:14, Matthew 9:26).
- G1411 dýnamis (force (literally or figuratively); specially, miraculous power): The fame of Jesus in Galilee is directly linked to his return in the power of the Spirit, indicating that the reports were about his mighty works Luke 4:14.
- G1093 gē (soil; by extension a region...): This word defines the geographical scope of the report. The fame was not contained but spread "into all that land" Matthew 9:26.
The theological weight of G5345 is connected to the initiation of Jesus's public ministry.
- Spirit-Empowered Ministry: The term's use in Luke establishes that the fame surrounding Jesus was a direct consequence of the power G1411 of the Spirit G4151 at work through Him Luke 4:14.
- Proclamation of Christ: The spreading fame serves as an unofficial proclamation, a rumor of divine activity that precedes more formal teaching and preaching. It marks the initial impact of Jesus's presence and actions on the public.
- Witness of Mighty Works: The word signifies that what spread was not idle gossip but a report about significant events. The fame that "went abroad" was a testimony to the power and authority demonstrated by Jesus.
In summary, G5345 is a specific term used to capture the moment when reports about Jesus and his power began to spread. Though rare, its usage in the Gospels is significant, marking the beginning of a public awareness of Christ's ministry. It illustrates that the news of Jesus was not a carefully managed message at first, but a powerful fame that went out organically as a result of the Spirit's work through him.
TRV