Strong's Lexicon presbeuó: To be an ambassador, to act as a representative Original Word: πρεσβεύω Word Origin: Derived from the Greek word πρέσβυς (presbus), meaning "elder" or "ambassador." Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: The concept of being an ambassador or representative is not directly paralleled in a single Hebrew word, but similar roles can be seen in the function of prophets and messengers, such as in the Hebrew word מַלְאָךְ (mal'akh), meaning "messenger" or "angel." Usage: The verb "presbeuó" primarily means to act as an ambassador or representative. In the New Testament, it is used metaphorically to describe the role of believers, particularly apostles, as representatives of Christ and His message. This involves conveying the message of reconciliation and the gospel to others, acting with the authority and responsibility of a divine envoy. Cultural and Historical Background: In the ancient world, ambassadors were highly respected individuals who represented the interests and authority of their sovereign or state. They were entrusted with delivering messages and negotiating on behalf of their rulers. In the context of the New Testament, the use of "presbeuó" reflects the early Christian understanding of their mission to spread the gospel as representatives of Christ, the ultimate sovereign. HELPS Word-studies 4243 presbeúō (a verb derived from presbys, "an older, venerated person") – properly, to be elderly or mature, "to be the elder, to take precedence and hence act as an ambassador" (A-S). 4243 /presbeúō ("act as an ambassador") means to act as an established statesman (diplomat) – a trusted, respected ambassador who is authorized to speak as God's emissary (represent His kingdom). This term is used in the ancient phrase, "I am on embassy to the Emperor, I am an ambassador" (Souter) – i.e. as someone respected as trustworthy (loyal, knowledgeable), especially in the opinion of those they know (belong to). NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom the same as presbuteros Definition to be the elder, to take precedence NASB Translation am an ambassador (1), ambassadors (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 4243: πρεσβεύωπρεσβεύω; (πρέσβυς an old man, an elder (Curtius, p. 479; Vanicek, p. 186)); 1. to be older, prior by birth or in age ((Sophocles), Herodotus and following). 2. to be an ambassador, act as an ambassador: 2 Corinthians 5:20; Ephesians 6:20, ((Herodotus 5, 93 at the beginning), Aristophanes, Xenophon, Plato, and following). From the base of presbuteros; to be a senior, i.e. (by implication) act as a representative (figuratively, preacher) -- be an ambassador. see GREEK presbuteros Englishman's Concordance 2 Corinthians 5:20 V-PIA-1PGRK: Χριστοῦ οὖν πρεσβεύομεν ὡς τοῦ NAS: Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, KJV: Now then we are ambassadors for INT: Christ therefore we are ambassadors as it were Ephesians 6:20 V-PIA-1S Strong's Greek 4243 |
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