ἐπάγγελμα

a promise

Definition

ἐπάγγελμα refers to a formal, solemn promise or pledge, particularly one made by God. In the New Testament, it consistently denotes the divine promises that are central to Christian hope. In 2 Peter 1:4, the term describes the 'precious and very great promises' through which believers partake in the divine nature. In 2 Peter 3:13, it points specifically to the eschatological promise of 'new heavens and a new earth' where righteousness dwells. The word carries a sense of certainty and reliability, grounded in the character of the one making the promise.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the New Testament, both times in 2 Peter. Its usage is exclusively theological, focusing on God's covenantal and eschatological commitments to His people. In 2 Peter 1:4, it frames the promises as the means of spiritual transformation. In 2 Peter 3:13, it anchors Christian hope in the future cosmic renewal. The pattern is one of linking present spiritual reality to a guaranteed future fulfillment from God.

Etymology

Derived from the verb ἐπαγγέλλομαι (epangellomai, G1861), meaning 'to announce,' 'to proclaim,' or 'to promise.' The noun form ἐπάγγελμα thus signifies the concrete content or substance of what is proclaimed—the promise itself. It is related to the more common New Testament word ἐπαγγελία (epangelia, G1860), which also means 'promise,' with ἐπάγγελμα being a rarer, more formal synonym.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it encapsulates the objective content of God's covenantal pledges. Understanding ἐπάγγελμα enriches Bible reading by highlighting that Christian hope is not a vague wish but is founded on specific, divine commitments. It connects the believer's present experience of grace (2 Peter 1:4) to the ultimate future restoration of all creation (2 Peter 3:13), underscoring the reliability and transformative power of God's word.

In the Greco-Roman world, a formal promise (ἐπάγγελμα) often carried legal or contractual weight, especially in contexts of patronage or public decrees. For New Testament readers, this cultural backdrop would have reinforced the binding and authoritative nature of God's promises, distinguishing them from casual or unreliable human statements.

ἐπαγγελία (epangelia, G1860) — The more frequently used general term for 'promise.' ὁμολογία (homologia, G3671) — A confession or agreement, sometimes involving a pledge, but more focused on verbal assent than on a pledged future action.

Word Details

Scripture References