Lexical Summary theodidaktos: Taught by God Original Word: θεοδίδακτος Strong's Exhaustive Concordance taught of God. From theos and didasko; divinely instructed -- taught of God. see GREEK theos see GREEK didasko NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom theos and didaskó Definition taught of God NASB Translation taught by God (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 2312: θεοδίδακτοςθεοδίδακτος, θεοδιδακτον (Θεός and διδακτός), taught of God: 1 Thessalonians 4:9. ((the Epistle of Barnabas 21, 6 [ET] (cf. Harnack's note)); ecclesiastical writings.) STRONGS NT 2312: θεολόγοςθεολόγος, θεολογου, ὁ (Θεός and λέγω), in Greek writings (from Aristotle on) one who speaks (treats) of the gods and divine things, versed in sacred science; (Grossmann, Quaestiones Philoneae, i., p. 8, shows that the word is used also by Philo, especially of Moses (cf. de praem. et poen. § 9)). This title is given to John in the inscription of the Apocalypse, according to the Rec. text, apparently as the publisher and interpreter of divine oracles, just as Lucian styles the same person θεολόγος in Alex. 19 that he calls προφήτης in c. 22. The common opinion is that John was called θεολόγος in the same sense in which the term was used of Gregory of Nazianzus, viz. because he taught the θεότης of the λόγος. But then the wonder is, why the copyists did not prefer to apply the epithet to him in the title of the Gospel. Strong’s 2312 names the reality of believers being directly instructed by God Himself. Scripture locates this instruction in the heart, is mediated by the Holy Spirit, and produces practical obedience—chiefly expressed in self-giving love. Foundations in the Hebrew Scriptures The promise begins with the prophetic vision of a renewed covenantal community: These passages anticipate an era when divine teaching will be personal, continuous, and transformative rather than merely external or ritual. Fulfilment in the Teaching of Jesus Jesus openly appropriates Isaiah’s promise: “It is written in the Prophets: ‘And they will all be taught by God’” (John 6:45). He presents Himself as the focal point of this instruction; whoever truly hears the Father comes to the Son. Thus, God’s teaching leads unerringly to Christ, revealing both the Father’s will and the Son’s saving work. Paul’s Emphasis in 1 Thessalonians 4:9 Paul’s lone New-Testament use of theodidaktos confirms that the promise was already operative among ordinary believers: “Now about brotherly love, you do not need anyone to write to you, because you yourselves are taught by God to love one another.” The context (4:1-12) highlights three features: 1. Divine teaching is experiential, not merely academic. The Spirit’s Continuing Tutelage Jesus foretold the Spirit as Teacher (John 14:26; 16:13), and the apostolic writings affirm the experience (1 Corinthians 2:12-13; 1 John 2:20, 27). The Spirit applies Scripture to the heart, illumines Christ’s glory, convicts of sin, and energizes obedience. Being “God-taught” never sidelines Scripture; rather, the Author of Scripture personally guides the reader into its meaning and power. Corporate and Missional Outcomes God-taught love builds genuine fellowship (Acts 2:42-47), diffuses quarrels (Philippians 2:1-4), and fuels evangelistic credibility (1 Thessalonians 1:8). Communities shaped by such instruction become living epistles “known and read by everyone” (2 Corinthians 3:2-3). Historical Reception Early fathers such as Ignatius and Chrysostom saw in 1 Thessalonians 4:9 a proof that grace precedes all human effort. Reformers echoed the theme, stressing the Spirit’s witness that renders Scripture self-authenticating. Periodic revivals—from Pietism to the Great Awakenings—have been marked by believers testifying that “the Lord Himself has taught us.” Ministerial Application 1. Preachers rely on the Spirit to make the Word effective; every sermon is an appeal to God the Teacher. Eschatological Prospect The present reality of being God-taught foreshadows perfect knowledge in the age to come (1 Corinthians 13:12). When faith becomes sight, the Teacher and the lesson converge in Christ Himself, and love reaches its consummation. Related Themes and Texts Inner illumination (Psalm 119:18), the new heart (Ezekiel 36:26-27), spiritual discernment (Hebrews 5:14), and the anointing (1 John 2:27) all orbit the same center: God personally instructs His people for His glory. Summary Strong’s 2312 captures a covenant privilege—God Himself teaching His children. Rooted in prophetic promise, realized through Christ, carried on by the Spirit, and evidenced in brotherly love, it assures believers that the Author of redemption also tutors them into the likeness of His Son. |
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