ἐξομολογέω

I consent fully, confess

Definition

The verb ἐξομολογέω (exomologeō) carries three primary meanings in the New Testament. First, it means to confess or acknowledge something, often in the context of admitting sins, as seen when people were baptized by John 'confessing their sins' (Matthew 3:6, Mark 1:5). Second, it can mean to give thanks or praise, as Jesus does when He 'praise[s]' the Father (Matthew 11:25, Luke 10:21). Third, in a prophetic context, it signifies a universal, public acknowledgment, as in the quotation from Isaiah where 'every tongue shall confess' to God (Romans 14:11).

Biblical Usage

This word is used 11 times across Gospels, Acts, and Paul's letters. In the Gospels, it appears in contexts of confessing sins (Matthew 3:6) and offering praise to God (Luke 10:21). In Acts 19:18, it describes believers openly confessing their magical practices. Paul uses it twice in Romans: for universal confession to God (Romans 14:11) and for Gentiles praising God's mercy (Romans 15:9). The usage shows a pattern moving from personal admission to public, declarative praise.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐξ (ex, meaning 'out of' or 'fully') combined with the verb ὁμολογέω (homologeō, meaning 'to say the same thing,' 'to agree,' or 'to confess'). The compound form intensifies the root meaning, emphasizing a full, outward, or public declaration. Its meaning developed from a secular sense of acknowledging a debt to broader biblical concepts of confession and praise.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it bridges human repentance and divine worship. It captures the essential response to God's revelation: confessing sin (acknowledging our need) and confessing praise (acknowledging His glory). Understanding its dual use enriches reading, showing that true confession is not merely private guilt but leads to public acknowledgment of God's truth and character, as seen in the movement from personal repentance (Acts 19:18) to cosmic praise (Romans 14:11).

In the Greco-Roman world, the verb could be used in legal or formal contexts for binding agreements or public declarations. The New Testament usage, especially for confessing sins, resonates with Jewish penitential practices, while its use for praise aligns with the language of the Psalms (LXX). The public, communal aspect of 'confessing' was more pronounced than in many modern individualistic understandings.

ὁμολογέω (homologeō, G3670) — a simpler root meaning 'to confess' or 'agree,' without the intensive 'outward' force of ἐξομολογέω. ἐπαινέω (epaineō, G1867) — means 'to praise' or 'commend,' but typically lacks the confessional or declarative component.

Word Details

Scripture References