ἐξαγγέλλω

I announce publicly, proclaim

Definition

The verb ἐξαγγέλλω means to proclaim or announce something publicly, often with a sense of spreading news outward. It carries the connotation of declaring something openly and widely, not just privately. In its single New Testament occurrence in 1 Peter 2:9, it describes the purpose of God's people: to 'proclaim the excellencies' of God who called them out of darkness. This specific usage focuses on declaring the praiseworthy deeds and character of God as a public testimony.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in 1 Peter 2:9. Here, it is used in a theological and missional context, defining the purpose of the Christian community. Peter applies Old Testament language (from Isaiah 43:21) to the church, stating that believers are chosen to proclaim God's marvelous deeds. The usage is exclusively for declaring the virtues and mighty acts of God to the world.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐξ (ex), meaning 'out of' or 'forth,' combined with the verb ἀγγέλλω (angellō), meaning 'to announce' or 'to report.' Thus, it literally means 'to announce out' or 'to proclaim forth.' It intensifies the base idea of announcing by adding a directional sense of broadcasting the message outward to a broader audience.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it defines the core identity and mission of the church. In 1 Peter 2:9, it is directly tied to the doctrine of election—God's people are chosen specifically for the purpose of public proclamation. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading of this verse by emphasizing that worship is not private but inherently public and evangelistic; the church exists to declare God's excellencies to the world.

In the Greco-Roman world, public proclamation (κήρυγμα / kērygma) was a familiar concept for announcing official decrees or significant news. Peter's use of this term would resonate with readers as a call to be God's official heralds. The 'excellencies' or 'virtues' (ἀρετάς / aretas) proclaimed were also a concept in Greek philosophy and ruler cults, but Peter redirects this praise exclusively to the one true God, a counter-cultural claim.

κηρύσσω (kēryssō, G2784) — to herald or preach as a public crier, often with authority. εὐαγγελίζω (euangelizō, G2097) — to announce good news (gospel). ἀπαγγέλλω (apangellō, G518) — to report or bring back a message, often from a specific source or event.

Word Details

Scripture References