### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apódeixis**, represented by `{{G585}}`, means **manifestation** or **demonstration**. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its significance comes from its context, where it contrasts the persuasive methods of human reasoning with the undeniable evidence of God's power.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G585}}` is found in [[1 Corinthians 2:4]], where Paul describes his ministry. He states that his speech and preaching were not based on the "enticing words of man's wisdom." Instead, his message was delivered in **demonstration** of the Spirit and of power. This sets up a clear distinction between communication that relies on human skill and a proclamation validated by a tangible manifestation of divine authority.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its biblical context help clarify the meaning of `{{G585}}`:
* `{{G4678}}` **sophía** (wisdom): This refers to "wisdom (higher or lower, worldly or spiritual)." In the key verse, Paul contrasts the divine **demonstration** with **man's** `{{G442}}` **wisdom** [[1 Corinthians 2:4]], suggesting that the gospel does not depend on human philosophy for its proof.
* `{{G1411}}` **dýnamis** (power): Defined as "miraculous power," this is what is being demonstrated. The gospel's evidence is not just in words but in supernatural **power**. This is the **power** believers are promised they will receive when the Holy Ghost comes upon them [[Acts 1:8]].
* `{{G3056}}` **lógos** (word): Meaning "something said" or "speech," this is the vehicle for the message. Paul’s **speech** `{{G3056}}` was not impressive by worldly standards, but it became the medium for a spiritual **demonstration** [[1 Corinthians 2:4]]. The **word** of God is described elsewhere as "quick, and powerful" [[Hebrews 4:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G585}}` is centered on the nature of spiritual truth and its confirmation.
* **Rejection of Human Persuasion:** The term establishes that faith is not meant to be a product of clever rhetoric or philosophical argument. Paul explicitly set aside "enticing words" [[1 Corinthians 2:4]].
* **Evidence of the Spirit:** The proof of the gospel is the manifest work of the **Spirit** `{{G4151}}` and **power** `{{G1411}}`. This **demonstration** provides an internal and external confirmation that transcends intellectual assent.
* **Divine Authentication:** `Apódeixis` points to God authenticating His own message. The messenger's role is to deliver the proclamation, but it is God who provides the **demonstration** that brings conviction.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G585}}` is a pivotal term for understanding the basis of Christian faith. Though used only once, **apódeixis** powerfully argues that the gospel's validity rests not on the eloquence of human **wisdom** `{{G4678}}` but on the undeniable **demonstration** of the Spirit's **power** `{{G1411}}`. It shows that the truth of God's **word** `{{G3056}}` is confirmed by a divine, not human, source of authority.
TRV