### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun chrēmatismós (`{{G5538}}`) is derived from the verb chrēmatizō (`{{G5537}}`). While chrēmatizō can generally mean "to transact business" or "to deal," in its theological usage, which is prevalent in the New Testament, it consistently refers to receiving a divine warning, instruction, or revelation. Thus, chrēmatismós encapsulates the *result* or *act* of such divine communication. It signifies a "divine response," a "revelation from God," or specifically, an "answer of God." The term implies an authoritative, direct communication originating from the divine realm, often given in response to a particular situation or to convey specific, crucial guidance. It is not merely information, but a divinely authoritative utterance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The noun chrēmatismós (`{{G5538}}`) appears only once in the New Testament:
* **[[Romans 11:4]]**: "But what is the divine response (chrēmatismós) to him? 'I have reserved for myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal.'"
* In this passage, Paul is addressing the apparent rejection of Israel and is arguing for God's continued faithfulness to His covenant people. He uses the example of the prophet Elijah, who, in despair, believed he was the only faithful one left (cf. [[1 Kings 19:10]], [[1 Kings 19:14]]). The chrēmatismós here refers to God's direct, revelatory answer to Elijah's lament. This divine response corrects Elijah's perception, revealing that God had secretly preserved a faithful remnant of seven thousand who had not participated in the idolatry of Baal. The use of chrēmatismós emphasizes the authoritative and definitive nature of God's communication, providing both information and reassurance that God's plan was still unfolding, even when hidden from human sight. It highlights God's active sovereignty in preserving His people.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **chrēmatizō (`{{G5537}}`)**: The verbal root of chrēmatismós. This verb is used more frequently in the New Testament to describe divine instructions or warnings given through dreams, visions, or direct speech (e.g., Joseph being warned in dreams in [[Matthew 2:12]], [[Matthew 2:22]]; Cornelius receiving instruction in [[Acts 10:22]]; Paul receiving a warning in [[Acts 27:23-24]]). The close relationship between the noun and its verb reinforces the understanding of chrēmatismós as a specific instance of God's direct, authoritative communication.
* **apokalypsis (`{{G602}}`)**: Meaning "revelation" or "unveiling." While apokalypsis is a broader term for any divine disclosure, chrēmatismós can be seen as a specific type or instance of such a revelation—one that functions as a direct divine response or answer.
* **logos (`{{G3056}}`)**: "Word" or "utterance." God's logos encompasses His communicated truth. A chrēmatismós is a particular and authoritative logos from God.
* **rhēma (`{{G4487}}`)**: "Spoken word" or "utterance." Similar to logos, often emphasizing the specific spoken or uttered word. A chrēmatismós is a rhēma from God, carrying divine weight.
* **Prophecy**: The concept of prophetic utterance often involves a chrēmatismós—a divine answer or revelation conveyed through a prophet, as exemplified by Elijah's experience.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of chrēmatismós (`{{G5538}}`) in the New Testament, though rare, carries profound theological weight:
* **God's Communicative Nature**: The term powerfully affirms that God is not a silent or distant deity. He actively communicates with humanity, revealing His will, His plans, and His hidden work. This communication is not merely informative but often corrective and reassuring.
* **Divine Authority and Sovereignty**: A chrēmatismós is unequivocally an "answer of God." This underscores its supreme authority and origin. It is a word from the Creator and Sovereign, not subject to human debate or alteration. It reflects God's absolute control over history and His ability to intervene and speak into human circumstances.
* **Guidance and Assurance**: In the context of [[Romans 11:4]], the chrēmatismós serves as a divine assurance to Elijah, and by extension to believers throughout history, that God remains faithful even when circumstances seem to suggest otherwise. It offers divine perspective, comfort, and guidance in moments of doubt, despair, or perceived abandonment.
* **Preservation of the Remnant**: The specific content of the chrēmatismós to Elijah highlights God's unwavering commitment to preserving a faithful remnant. This demonstrates God's enduring grace, His covenant faithfulness, and His sovereign election, even amidst widespread apostasy or spiritual decline.
* **Continuity of Divine Revelation**: By referencing an Old Testament event, the use of chrēmatismós in the New Testament emphasizes the continuity of God's character and His consistent method of communicating with His people across different dispensations of salvation history.
### Summary
chrēmatismós (`{{G5538}}`) is a unique and potent Greek noun, appearing only once in the New Testament at [[Romans 11:4]]. Derived from chrēmatizō (`{{G5537}}`), it precisely denotes a "divine response or revelation" or an "answer of God." Its singular use vividly portrays God's direct, authoritative communication to Elijah, reassuring him of a preserved remnant during a time of national apostasy. Theologically, chrēmatismós underscores God's active, communicative nature, His sovereign authority, and His unwavering faithfulness in providing guidance and preserving His people. It represents a specific, authoritative word from God that shapes understanding, corrects human perception, and offers profound assurance in the face of doubt.
TRV