Lexical Summary diagnósis: Investigation, discernment, decision Original Word: διάγνωσις Strong's Exhaustive Concordance hearing. From diaginosko; (magisterial) examination ("diagnosis") -- hearing. see GREEK diaginosko NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom diaginóskó Definition a distinguishing, determination NASB Translation decision (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 1233: διάγνωσιςδιάγνωσις, διαγνώσεως, ἡ, (see διαγινώσκω); 1. a distinguishing. 2. in a legal sense (Latincognitio), examination, opinion, decision, (Sap. iii. 18; Plato, legg. 9, p. 865 c.): Acts 25:21. Although διάγνωσις belongs to the legal vocabulary of the Greco-Roman world, Scripture uses it to signal a careful weighing of evidence culminating in an authoritative decision. It stands near synonyms such as κρίσις (judgment) and διακρίσις (discernment), yet carries a nuance of formal verdict rendered after full examination. Single New Testament Occurrence (Acts 25:21) “Paul appealed to be held for the decision of the Emperor” (Acts 25:21). Here the noun frames Paul’s request not merely as a procedural step but as an earnest quest for an impartial ruling. Festus recognizes that the apostle’s case requires a διάγνωσις at the highest level of Roman jurisprudence and therefore orders Paul kept in custody until transfer to Caesar. Context in Paul’s Legal Journey Paul’s trials in Caesarea (Acts 24–26) showcase a sequence of hearings before Felix, Festus, and Agrippa II. Each governor acknowledges Paul’s innocence (Acts 25:25; 26:31–32), yet political pressures impede release. By invoking his privilege as a Roman citizen (Acts 22:28), Paul turns a provincial stalemate into an imperial review—the “decision” anticipated by διάγνωσις. Luke thereby illustrates both the protections available to citizens and the sovereign oversight of God, who had already told Paul, “You must also testify in Rome” (Acts 23:11). Roman Judicial Procedure and the Right of Appeal The lex Iulia de vi against wrongfully detained citizens, together with the provocatio and the appellatio ad Caesarem, undergird Paul’s appeal. A διάγνωσις from the Emperor constituted the final court of appeal, and governors were obliged to dispatch the accused with a statement of the case (Acts 25:26–27). Scripture’s lone use of διάγνωσις thus evokes the weight of imperial authority and the expectation of decisive justice. Theological Implications: Divine Providence in Human Courts Throughout Acts, legal venues become stages for gospel proclamation (Acts 24:24–25; 26:22–23). The term διάγνωσις reminds readers that earthly verdicts, however momentous, are subordinate to the ultimate tribunal of God (Romans 14:10–12). Paul’s unwavering confidence amid chains exemplifies trust that “all things work together for good to those who love God” (Romans 8:28). Ministry Applications: Christian Engagement with Secular Authorities 1 Peter 2:13–17 urges believers to submit to every human authority, “whether to the king as supreme or to governors,” yet always for the Lord’s sake. Paul’s resort to διάγνωσις models such submission without compromising mission. Christians may avail themselves of lawful appeals, but their ultimate aim remains the advance of the gospel and the honor of Christ (Philippians 1:12–14). Related Scriptural Themes • Discernment and righteous judgment: Proverbs 15:28; 1 Corinthians 2:15. Historical Church Reception Early apologists echoed Paul’s strategy, petitioning emperors for fair hearings of the faith (e.g., Justin Martyr, First Apology 1.2). Patristic writers saw Paul’s appeal as precedent for lawful defense of the gospel and personal rights when confronted by hostile powers. Practical Considerations for Contemporary Believers • Use legal avenues to protect religious freedom while maintaining a blameless conscience (Acts 24:16). In Acts 25:21 διάγνωσις captures the intersection of Roman law, apostolic courage, and divine purpose—assuring readers that even in secular courts the Lord directs events toward the fulfillment of His redemptive plan. |
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