ἐκτελέω

I complete, perform

Definition

The verb ἐκτελέω means to bring something to its full and intended conclusion, emphasizing thorough completion. In Luke 14:29-30, it describes the act of finishing the construction of a building, carrying a project through from start to finish. This implies not just stopping, but successfully accomplishing a planned task or purpose. The prefix ἐκ- intensifies the sense of bringing something 'out' to its ultimate end.

Biblical Usage

ἐκτελέω is used only twice in the New Testament, both in the same parable of the tower builder in Luke 14:28-30. Jesus uses it to illustrate the importance of counting the cost before beginning a project, lest one starts but fails to 'complete' (ἐκτελέω) it. The context is about foresight, commitment, and following through on one's intentions, applying this principle to discipleship.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐκ (ek, meaning 'out of' or 'from') combined with the verb τελέω (teleō, meaning 'to finish, bring to an end, fulfill'). The compound form intensifies the root idea, stressing a completion that is thorough and exhaustive, bringing something out to its final point. It is related to words like τέλος (telos, 'end, goal') and ἐκτέλεια (ekteleia, 'completion').

Semantic Range

This word underscores the biblical value of faithfulness and perseverance. In Jesus' teaching (Luke 14:28-30), it becomes a metaphor for the commitment required in discipleship—starting is not enough; one must be prepared to carry the commitment through to the end. It enriches our understanding of God's own faithfulness in completing His work (Philippians 1:6) and calls believers to a similar steadfastness in their spiritual lives.

In the ancient Mediterranean world, an unfinished building project was a public embarrassment and a financial loss, as noted in Luke 14:29-30. Starting construction without the resources to finish demonstrated poor planning and could invite ridicule. Jesus uses this well-understood cultural scenario to teach about the seriousness of committing to follow Him.

τελέω (teleō, G5055) — a more general term for finishing or fulfilling, without the intensive 'thoroughness' of ἐκτελέω. τελειόω (teleioō, G5048) — focuses on bringing to perfection or maturity, often in a moral or spiritual sense. ἐπιτελέω (epiteleō, G2005) — also means to complete or accomplish, sometimes with a sense of executing or performing a duty.

Word Details

Scripture References