Resurrection Truth: τεκμήριον (Strong’s G5039: tekmērion) Proves Divine Reality

Strong’s G5039: A neuter noun denoting a sure sign, decisive proof, or infallible evidence. In biblical usage, it specifically refers to the undeniable proofs of Christ’s resurrection, emphasizing the empirical and irrefutable nature of His post-resurrection appearances.

U- Unveiling the Word

Τεκμήριον represents the strongest form of proof in Greek thought, signifying evidence that is clear, decisive, and irrefutable. In Acts 1:3, Luke deliberately chooses this term to describe the proofs of Christ’s resurrection, emphasizing their undeniable nature. Unlike other words for proof or evidence, τεκμήριον implies conclusive demonstration that leaves no room for doubt. Early church fathers frequently employed this term when defending the historical reality of the resurrection against skeptics. Today, it reminds us that Christian faith, while personal, rests on historical evidence and real demonstrations of divine power.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: τεκμήριον, tekmērion, /tek-MAY-ree-on/
• Detailed Pronunciation: tek (as in “technology”) – MAY (as in “may”) – ree (as in “read”) – on (as in “on”)
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• From τέκμαρ (tekmar) meaning “fixed mark”
• Suffix -ιον indicating diminutive or derived form
• Related to Proto-Indo-European *tekw- (to run, flow)

D – Defining Meanings

• Infallible proof
• Decisive evidence
• Sure sign
• Demonstrable proof

For compound words: Not applicable as this is a simple noun

Translation Options:

• Infallible proof – Emphasizes certainty
• Decisive evidence – Captures conclusive nature
• Demonstrable proof – Highlights empirical aspect

E – Exploring Similar Words

• σημεῖον (sēmeion) /say-MAY-on/ – Sign, often miraculous
  See G4592
• μαρτύριον (martyrion) /mar-TOO-ree-on/ – Testimony, witness
  See G3142
• ἀπόδειξις (apodeixis) /ap-OH-deik-sis/ – Demonstration
  See G585

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a neuter noun, τεκμήριον exhibits:

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular and Plural
• Gender: Neuter
• Declension: Second declension

Examples:

• Nominative/Accusative: τεκμήριον (proof)
• Genitive: τεκμηρίου (of proof)
• Dative: τεκμηρίῳ (to/with proof)
• Plural: τεκμήρια (proofs)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

Lexical authorities emphasize τεκμήριον’s unique strength. BDAG highlights its use for irrefutable proof, particularly in legal contexts. Thayer’s notes its distinction as the strongest form of proof in Greek. LSJ documents its classical usage in rhetoric and logic. Vine’s emphasizes its significance in Acts regarding the resurrection. Strong’s connects it to concepts of demonstration and certainty. Moulton and Milligan cite papyri showing its use in legal documentation. LEH discusses its rare but significant appearances emphasizing absolute certainty.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
Acts 1:3: “After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God.”

Additional References:
This is the only occurrence in the New Testament.

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Τεκμήριον powerfully demonstrates that the resurrection of Jesus isn’t based on wishful thinking but on undeniable evidence. Its use in Acts emphasizes that the earliest Christian proclamation rested on demonstrable proofs of the risen Messiah. The good news of King Jesus is strengthened by this word’s testimony that our faith is founded on historical reality, not mere speculation. It reminds us that God provided clear, convincing evidence of His Son’s victory over death.

D – Did You Know?

1. Used in ancient Greek courts for conclusive legal evidence
2. Considered the strongest form of proof in Aristotelian logic
3. Appears in early Christian apologetic works defending the resurrection

Strong’s G5039: A neuter noun denoting a sure sign, decisive proof, or infallible evidence. In biblical usage, it specifically refers to the undeniable proofs of Christ’s resurrection, emphasizing the empirical and irrefutable nature of His post-resurrection appearances.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: proof, evidence, resurrection, certainty, apologetics, demonstration, testimony, witness, logic, truth, history​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​