Lexical Summary aklinés: Unwavering, steadfast Original Word: ἀκλινής Strong's Exhaustive Concordance without wavering. From a (as a negative particle) and klino; not leaning, i.e. (figuratively) firm -- without wavering. see GREEK a see GREEK klino NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom alpha (as a neg. prefix) and klinó Definition unbending NASB Translation without wavering (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 186: ἀκλινήςἀκλινής, (ές (κλίνω), not inclining, firm, unmoved: Hebrews 10:23. (Frequent in secular writings.) Topical Lexicon Overview of the TermAppearing uniquely in Hebrews 10:23, the word translated “without wavering” encapsulates the idea of a stance that will not bend or tilt under pressure. It pictures a believer holding a position so steady that no external force—persecution, doubt, or delay—can incline the confession of hope even slightly from its intended alignment. Biblical Context The Epistle to the Hebrews was written to Christians facing mounting social and religious hostility. In that setting, “Let us hold resolutely to the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful” (Hebrews 10:23) calls the church to steadfastness amid severe testing. The exhortation follows the writer’s exposition of Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice and priestly ministry (Hebrews 10:1-22) and precedes the celebrated roll call of faith (Hebrews 11). Thus, unwavering confession is presented as the bridge between understanding Christ’s finished work and living by persevering faith. Theological Significance 1. Fidelity to God’s Promise The firmness urged in Hebrews rests on the character of God: “for He who promised is faithful.” Unwavering hope is therefore not self-generated optimism but trust in the immutability of divine promise (Numbers 23:19; 2 Corinthians 1:20). 2. Perseverance and Assurance The term underscores a critical biblical theme: true faith perseveres (Matthew 24:13; Colossians 1:23). Scripture never divorces assurance from endurance; the Spirit-enabled ability to remain unbent testifies to a genuine work of grace. 3. Confessional Community The call is corporate (“let us hold”). Unwavering confession is nurtured in fellowship (Hebrews 10:24-25). Mutual encouragement, public worship, and accountability keep the church’s collective witness from drifting. Historical Usage in Early Christian Exhortation Early Christian writers built on the Hebrew exhortation. The Didache encourages believers to “endure all things for the sake of the gospel.” Ignatius urged the Ephesus church to be “unshaken” amidst Roman opposition. Such language mirrors the New Testament’s single occurrence, showing how one inspired word shaped subsequent pastoral vocabulary. Related Concepts and Complementary Passages • Steadfast Heart: Psalm 112:7; Psalm 57:7 Practical Ministry Implications 1. Discipleship Training Ground new believers in the covenant faithfulness of God so that hope becomes resilient before trials emerge. 2. Corporate Liturgy Confessions, creeds, and public testimonies reinforce an unwavering stance. Regular rehearsal of gospel truths counteracts cultural drift. 3. Pastoral Care Encourage sufferers by directing them to the reliability of God’s promise rather than to their fluctuating emotions. Hebrews 10:23 is a counseling anchor. 4. Missions and Martyrdom The word equips missionaries and persecuted saints, reminding them that gospel confession may cost freedom or life, yet remains immovable because the promiser is faithful. Reflection for Contemporary Discipleship In an age of ideological volatility, the church is tempted to soften or tilt her message. The solitary New Testament use of this term stands as a clarion call: hold the confession unswervingly. The unbending hope of the gospel is not merely personal conviction; it is a public, communal, Spirit-empowered proclamation that Christ’s atoning work is sufficient, His priesthood eternal, and His promises irreversible. Forms and Transliterations ακλινη ακλινή ἀκλινῆ akline aklinê aklinē aklinē̂Links Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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