197. akribesteron
Lexical Summary
akribesteron: More accurately, more exactly, more precisely

Original Word: ἀκριβέστερον
Part of Speech: Adverb
Transliteration: akribesteron
Pronunciation: ah-kree-BES-te-ron
Phonetic Spelling: (ak-ree-bes'-ter-on)
KJV: more perfect(-ly)
Word Origin: [neuter of the comparative superlative of akribes (a derivative of the same as G206 (ἄκρον - farthest end))]

1. (adverbially) more exactly

Strong's Exhaustive Concordance
more perfectly.

Neuter of the comparative of the same as akribestatos; (adverbially) more exactly -- more perfect(-ly).

see GREEK akribestatos

HELPS Word-studies

Cognate: 197 akribésteron – the comparative ("-er") form of 199 /akribṓs meaning "more accurate." See 199 (akribōs).

NAS Exhaustive Concordance
Word Origin
adverb from the cptv. of akribés, q.v.

Topical Lexicon
Meaning and Scope

ἀκριβέστερον is the comparative form of a term for precision, carefulness, and exactness. In biblical settings it intensifies the idea of accuracy—seeking a truer, fuller alignment with the facts of God’s revelation and with just practice toward others.

Biblical Vignettes of Greater Accuracy

• Priscilla and Aquila with Apollos: “They took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately” (Acts 18:26).
• The Sanhedrin’s pretext: “You and the Council must petition the commander to bring him down to you as though you were going to examine his case more accurately” (Acts 23:15).
• Paul’s nephew exposing the plot: “They plan to ask you to bring Paul down tomorrow, pretending to investigate his case more accurately” (Acts 23:20).
• Felix delaying judgment: “When Lysias the commander comes, I will decide your case” (Acts 24:22), signaling a desire—real or feigned—for fuller information.

In every instance the word marks a transition from partial knowledge or preliminary inquiry to a more thorough, responsible understanding.

Historical Resonance and Legal Setting

First-century Jewish and Roman life valued rigorous examination. Luke’s choice of ἀκριβέστερον fits that milieu: Jewish teachers refine doctrine; Roman officials demand exact testimony. The term therefore grounds Christian witness within the broader ancient expectation that truth claims be verified with care.

Ministry Significance

1. Teaching and Correction

– The Apollos episode shows that giftedness benefits from humble correction. Mature believers must supply whatever is lacking so that gospel proclamation grows in accuracy as well as fervor.
2. Discernment of Motives

– The Sanhedrin’s misuse of the idea of “closer examination” warns that an appeal to accuracy can mask ulterior motives. Faithful servants must couple precision with integrity.
3. Apologetics and Evangelism

– Clear, well-substantiated presentation of the faith commends the message to both seekers and skeptics, mirroring the exactness of Scripture itself.

Related Concepts

• ἀκριβῶς – exactness in observation (Ephesians 5:15).
• ἀκρίβεια – meticulous strictness, often of Pharisaic tradition (Acts 22:3).

Together with ἀκριβέστερον these terms form a cluster that urges believers to move from general familiarity toward refined, mature comprehension and practice.

Practical Applications

• Bible Study: Compare passages, weigh contexts, and pursue the “whole counsel of God” for increasingly accurate doctrine.
• Discipleship: Come alongside brothers and sisters who have zeal but incomplete knowledge, modeling Priscilla and Aquila’s gracious instruction.
• Church Oversight: Investigate disciplinary and doctrinal matters thoroughly, ensuring decisions rest on verified facts and Scriptural standards (Deuteronomy 19:15–18; 1 Timothy 5:19–21).

Summary

ἀκριβέστερον highlights the believer’s calling to ever-deeper accuracy in understanding, teaching, and living out God’s truth—reflecting the character of the God who speaks with perfect clarity and expects His people to handle that revelation with diligence and honesty.

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