κτίσμα

a created thing, creature

Definition

κτίσμα refers to a created thing or creature, emphasizing its status as something brought into existence by a creator. In the New Testament, it consistently denotes anything that has been created, from physical objects to living beings. In 1 Timothy 4:4, it describes 'every creature of God' as good, highlighting the inherent goodness of creation. In James 1:18, believers are called a 'kind of firstfruits of his creatures,' using the term to signify God's new spiritual creation. In Revelation, it appears in cosmic contexts: all creation worships the Lamb (Revelation 5:13) and sea creatures perish (Revelation 8:9).

Biblical Usage

This noun is used four times in the New Testament, appearing in pastoral, general epistles, and apocalyptic literature. It consistently refers to entities that owe their existence to a creator. In 1 Timothy 4:4, it underscores the goodness of all material creation. James 1:18 applies it metaphorically to Christians as God's new creation. In Revelation, it has a broad, universal scope, encompassing all created beings in worship (Revelation 5:13) and specifically sea life in judgment (Revelation 8:9).

Etymology

Derived from the verb κτίζω (ktizō, G2936), meaning 'to create, found, or build.' The suffix -μα indicates the result of an action, so κτίσμα literally means 'that which has been created.' It is related to κτίσις (ktisis, G2937), which means 'creation' or 'creature' but often refers to the act or totality of creation. κτίσμα focuses more on individual created things.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it reinforces the biblical doctrine of creation, affirming that everything exists because God willed it. It highlights creation's dependence on and accountability to the Creator. In 1 Timothy 4:4, it counters asceticism by declaring all creation good. In James 1:18, it connects believers to God's creative power in redemption. Understanding κτίσμα enriches reading by emphasizing that both the physical world and redeemed people are God's intentional handiwork, made for His glory.

In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of creation was diverse, with some philosophies viewing the material world as inferior or evil. The New Testament's use of κτίσμα, especially in 1 Timothy 4:4, directly challenges such dualistic views by affirming the goodness of God's tangible creation. This stood in contrast to cultural tendencies to spiritualize or denigrate the physical realm.

κτίσις (ktisis, G2937) — Often refers to the act of creating or the whole creation collectively, while κτίσμα typically denotes an individual created thing. ποίημα (poiēma, G4161) — Means 'something made' or 'workmanship,' with a focus on craftsmanship, used in Ephesians 2:10 for believers as God's workmanship.

Word Details

Scripture References