from χρῆμα; to utter an oracle (compare the original sense of χράομαι), i.e. divinely intimate; by implication, (compare the secular sense of χρεία) to constitute a firm for business, i.e. (generally) bear as a title:--be called, be admonished (warned) of God, reveal, speak.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **chrēmatízō**, represented by `{{G5537}}`, primarily means to utter an oracle or to be divinely admonished. It appears **9 times** across **9 unique verses** in the Bible. While its core meaning relates to divine communication, such as a warning or revelation, it is also used more broadly to signify bearing a name or a title publicly.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5537}}` is frequently used to describe direct communications from God to individuals, often to guide or protect them. God **warned** the wise men in a dream `{{G3677}}` not to return to Herod [[Matthew 2:12]], and similarly **warned** Joseph in a dream to turn aside into Galilee [[Matthew 2:22]]. This divine guidance extended to foundational moments, as when Noah was **warned of God** about future events, prompting him to build the ark by faith `{{G4102}}` [[Hebrews 11:7]]. Beyond warnings, it signifies revelation, as it was **revealed** to Simeon by the Holy Ghost that he would see the Lord's Christ `{{G5547}}` before his death [[Luke 2:26]]. The word is also used to signify being publicly designated with a name or status, as when the disciples were first **called** Christians `{{G5546}}` in Antioch [[Acts 11:26]], or when a woman is legally **called** an adulteress `{{G3428}}` [[Romans 7:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and impact of `{{G5537}}`:
* `{{G3677}}` **ónar** (a dream): This is a primary medium through which the divine warnings of `{{G5537}}` are delivered, as seen in the instructions given to the wise men and Joseph ([[Matthew 2:12]], [[Matthew 2:22]]).
* `{{G191}}` **akoúō** (to hear): This is the human response to a divine utterance. Cornelius was warned by an angel to send for Peter in order to **hear** words from him [[Acts 10:22]].
* `{{G5399}}` **phobéō** (to be alarmed; by analogy, to be in awe of, i.e. revere): This often describes the reaction to a situation that necessitates a divine warning. Joseph **was afraid** to go to Judaea, and it was in this context that he was **warned of God** in a dream [[Matthew 2:22]].
* `{{G5546}}` **Christianós** (a Christian, i.e. follower of Christ): This term is the specific title given to the disciples in Antioch, an act described using `{{G5537}}` [[Acts 11:26]].
* `{{G1321}}` **didáskō** (to teach): This action often precedes the naming described by `{{G5537}}`. In Antioch, the disciples were **taught** for a whole year before they were first called Christians [[Acts 11:26]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5537}}` is centered on God's active and direct communication with humanity.
* **Divine Warning and Providence:** The word consistently illustrates God's sovereign care, as He intervenes to warn and guide His people away from harm and toward safety. This is evident in the warnings given to Noah, the wise men, and Joseph ([[Hebrews 11:7]], [[Matthew 2:12]], [[Matthew 2:22]]).
* **Revelation of God's Will:** It signifies more than a simple warning; it is a revelation of God's plan and purpose. Moses was **admonished of God** concerning the heavenly pattern for the tabernacle [[Hebrews 8:5]], and Simeon was **revealed** the fulfillment of a messianic promise [[Luke 2:26]].
* **Establishment of a New Identity:** The word is used in the pivotal moment when believers were first **called** Christians [[Acts 11:26]]. This establishes that the identity of God's people is a title conferred with divine significance, not merely a human invention.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5537}}` is a specific term that carries the authority of its source. It encompasses the spectrum from a divine oracle or warning to the public bearing of a name. Whether revealing a heavenly pattern, warning of impending danger, or assigning the name "Christian" to followers of Christ `{{G5547}}`, the word highlights God's purposeful communication and His role in defining reality and identity for His people.
TRV