### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **askéō**, represented by `{{G778}}`, means to **exercise**, train, or strive. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The term suggests an intentional, disciplined effort to elaborate on or train oneself in a particular way.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G778}}` is found in [[Acts 24:16]], where Paul describes his personal discipline. He states, "herein do I **exercise** myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men." In this context, the word signifies a deliberate, ongoing practice. Paul is not speaking of physical training, but a rigorous moral and spiritual effort to maintain a clear conscience and live in a way that is blameless before both God and other people.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in this verse illuminate the meaning of this spiritual exercise:
* `{{G4893}}` **syneídēsis** (conscience): This is the focus of the exercise. It refers to a moral consciousness that must be kept clear [[Hebrews 10:22]].
* `{{G677}}` **apróskopos** (void of offence): This describes the goal of the exercise—to be faultless or inoffensive in one's conduct [[1 Corinthians 10:32]].
* `{{G1275}}` **diapantós** (always): This word, meaning constantly or continually, highlights that the discipline is not occasional but a perpetual effort [[Hebrews 13:15]].
* `{{G2316}}` **theós** (God): The exercise is directed vertically toward the supreme Divinity [[John 3:16]].
* `{{G444}}` **ánthrōpos** (men): The exercise is also directed horizontally toward other human beings, demonstrating a comprehensive integrity [[Matthew 5:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G778}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful application.
* **Active Moral Discipline:** The term emphasizes that a righteous life requires intentional effort and training. It is an active striving, not a passive state.
* **Comprehensive Integrity:** Paul’s goal to be "void of offence" is twofold: "toward God, and toward men" [[Acts 24:16]]. This shows that biblical ethics involve both a right relationship with God and right relationships with people.
* **The Cultivated Conscience:** The ultimate aim of this exercise is to "have always a conscience void of offence." This highlights the importance of maintaining a pure moral consciousness as a central component of the Christian walk [[1 Timothy 1:5]].
### Summary
In summary, though **askéō** `{{G778}}` is used only once, it provides a crucial insight into the nature of spiritual discipline. It defines the believer's responsibility to actively and constantly train oneself in order to maintain a clear conscience. The word powerfully illustrates that a life of faith involves a purposeful and diligent exercise of one's moral and spiritual faculties before both God and humanity.
TRV