καθεξῆς
in order, just after
Definition
The Greek word καθεξῆς means 'in order,' 'in succession,' or 'next in sequence.' It describes events or actions that follow one after another in a logical or chronological progression. In Luke 1:3, it refers to writing an orderly account of Jesus' life, while in Acts 3:24, it highlights the succession of prophets from Samuel onward. The term can also imply immediacy, as in 'just after' a preceding event, seen in Acts 11:4 where Peter explains matters 'in order' following his vision.
Biblical Usage
This word appears five times in the New Testament, exclusively in Luke-Acts, emphasizing Luke's concern for orderly narrative and historical sequence. It is used to structure accounts of ministry (Luke 8:1), prophetic history (Acts 3:24), personal testimony (Acts 11:4), and travel itineraries (Acts 18:23). The pattern shows it linking events or explanations to ensure clarity and continuity for the reader.
Etymology
Derived from κατά (kata, 'according to') and ἑξῆς (hexēs, 'next' or 'in order'), καθεξῆς literally means 'according to sequence.' It emphasizes alignment with a series, reflecting a Greek appreciation for logical and temporal order. Cognates include ἑξῆς itself, used similarly for successive items.
Semantic Range
καθεξῆς underscores the theological importance of order and fulfillment in God's plan. In Luke-Acts, it reinforces that Jesus' ministry and the early church's growth follow a divine, purposeful sequence, linking prophecy to fulfillment (e.g., Acts 3:24). Understanding this word enriches Bible reading by highlighting how biblical narratives are intentionally structured to reveal God's orderly work in history.
In ancient Greek culture, order (τάξις) was valued in rhetoric, history, and philosophy. Luke's use of καθεξῆς aligns with Hellenistic historiographical practices, where presenting events 'in order' lent credibility and clarity. This contrasts with modern casual storytelling, as ancient audiences expected systematic accounts to convey truth and authority.
ἑξῆς (hexēs, G1836) — simpler form meaning 'next' or 'in order,' often interchangeable but less emphatic; ἐφεξῆς (ephexēs, G1887) — similar meaning of 'in order' or 'successively,' used in Acts 21:1 for sequential travel.
Word Details
How this works
Definitions are from the Dodson Greek-English Lexicon, a concise public-domain resource suitable for introductory word study. Brief glosses are supplemented by STEPBible TBESG data (CC BY 4.0). For advanced research, standard scholarly references include BDAG (Danker, 3rd ed.) and LSJ.
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