τολμηρότερον

more boldly

Definition

τολμηρότερον is the comparative form of the adverb τολμηρῶς, meaning 'more boldly' or 'with greater boldness.' It describes an action undertaken with increased confidence, frankness, or even a degree of audacity, often in contexts requiring courage to speak or act. In its single New Testament occurrence, Romans 15:15, Paul uses it to describe the frankness with which he writes to the Roman believers, stemming from his apostolic grace. The comparative degree ('more boldly') suggests a level of boldness that exceeds a typical or expected standard, implying a holy confidence granted for a specific purpose.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Romans 15:15. Here, the Apostle Paul writes, 'But I have written very boldly to you on some points, so as to remind you again, because of the grace that was given to me from God.' The context is Paul's explanation of his apostolic ministry to the Gentiles and his desire to instruct the Roman church. The usage fits a pattern where Paul, or other NT writers, describe their speech or writing as 'bold' (e.g., παρρησία, *parrēsia*, G3954) when delivering divinely authorized truth, especially when it involves correction or reminder.

Etymology

Derived from the adjective τολμηρός (*tolmēros*, G5111), meaning 'bold' or 'daring,' which itself comes from the verb τολμάω (*tolmaō*, G5111), meaning 'to dare' or 'to have courage.' The suffix -τερον makes it a comparative adverb ('more boldly'). The root concept involves courage, willingness to risk, or venturing beyond what is typical or safe.

Semantic Range

This word highlights the God-given boldness required for faithful ministry and teaching. Paul's 'more bold' writing is explicitly linked to 'the grace given' to him (Romans 15:15), showing that apostolic authority and confidence are not personal arrogance but a stewardship of divine gift. It underscores that speaking biblical truth, even when corrective, is an act of grace-driven courage, a model for Christian communication that balances love with holy frankness.

In Greco-Roman culture, boldness (παρρησία, parrēsia) was a valued virtue for free citizens speaking in public assemblies. For Paul, a Roman citizen and apostle, using such a term to describe his writing would convey a sense of authorized, forthright speech. However, he redefines its source not as civic privilege but as divine grace, transforming a cultural ideal into a spiritual characteristic of gospel ministry.

παρρησία (parrēsia, G3954) — a noun meaning 'boldness' or 'openness,' often used for speech; broader in usage than the comparative 'more boldly.' παρρησιάζομαι (parrēsiazomai, G3955) — a verb meaning 'to speak boldly or freely.'

Word Details

Scripture References