Lexical Summary euschémón: Noble, reputable, honorable, of good form Original Word: εὐσχήμων Strong's Exhaustive Concordance comely, honorable. From eu and schema; well-formed, i.e. (figuratively) decorous, noble (in rank) -- comely, honourable. see GREEK eu see GREEK schema HELPS Word-studies 2158 eus 2158/eus [2158 (eusxḗmōn) is used in Koine Greek of a person who properly uses influence, especially by serving in a high (respected) position.] NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom eu and schéma Definition comely NASB Translation appropriate (1), presentable (1), prominence (1), prominent (2). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 2158: εὐσχήμωνεὐσχήμων, εὔσχημον (εὖ, and σχῆμα the figure, Latinhabitus); 1. of elegant figure, shapely, graceful, comely, bearing oneself becomingly in speech or behavior (Euripides, Aristophanes, Xenophon, Plato): τά εὐσχήμονα ἡμῶν, the comely parts of the body that need no covering (opposed to τά ἀσχήμονα ἡμῶν, verse 23), 1 Corinthians 12:24; of morals: πρός τό εὔσχημον, to promote decorum, 1 Corinthians 7:35. 2. in later usage (cf. Lob. ad Phryn., p. 333), of good standing, honorable, influential, wealthy, respectable (R. V. of honorable estate): Mark 15:43; Acts 13:50; Acts 17:12. (Josephus, de vita sua §9; Plutarch, parallel. Graec. et Rom c. 15, p. 309 b.) Strong’s Greek 2158 conveys the idea of outward dignity that accords with inner integrity. Scriptures employ the term to describe persons, behaviors, and arrangements that are “becoming,” “respectable,” or “well-ordered,” underscoring the harmony between visible conduct and God-honoring character. Occurrences in the New Testament • Mark 15:43 presents Joseph of Arimathea as “a prominent Council member”. His social standing provides access to Pilate, enabling the burial of Jesus and silently testifying that respectable society cannot ignore the crucified Christ. Historical and Cultural Setting Greco-Roman culture prized external dignity—appropriate dress, speech, and public conduct. By applying this term to both behavior and people, the New Testament recognizes societal categories yet reorients them around Christ. Respectability is not dismissed; it is redeemed, becoming a platform for advancing the kingdom rather than a badge of worldly pride. Theology of Honor and Gospel Witness 1. God employs respected individuals (Joseph, prominent women) to open doors that the marginalized cannot. Practical Ministry Applications • Encourage believers of societal influence to view their status as stewardship, following Joseph’s example of courageous, public allegiance to Christ. Connection with Old Testament Concepts The term resonates with the Hebrew ideal of “splendor” (hadar) bestowed by God on humanity (Psalm 8:5). Both Testaments affirm that true honor originates with the Lord and is granted for His purposes. Christological Significance Joseph’s honorable burial of Jesus fulfills Isaiah 53:9, where the Suffering Servant is assigned “with the rich in His death.” The term thus frames Christ’s passion within prophetic expectation, showing that divine purpose orchestrates even the involvement of society’s dignitaries. Summary Strong’s 2158 spans social status, personal conduct, and ecclesial order, revealing that in Christ genuine honor aligns outward respectability with inward holiness. Whether receiving the gospel, opposing it, or facilitating its advance, those deemed “prominent” are summoned to display the beauty of a life conformed to the Lord of glory. Englishman's Concordance Mark 15:43 Adj-NMSGRK: ἀπὸ Ἁριμαθαίας εὐσχήμων βουλευτής ὃς NAS: came, a prominent member of the Council, KJV: Arimathaea, an honourable counsellor, INT: from Arimathaea prominent Council member who Acts 13:50 Adj-AMP Acts 17:12 Adj-GMP 1 Corinthians 7:35 Adj-ANS 1 Corinthians 12:24 Adj-NNP Strong's Greek 2158 |
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