Lexical Summary anatassomai: To arrange again, to set in order, to compile. Original Word: ἀνατάσσομαι Strong's Exhaustive Concordance set in order. From ana and the middle voice of tasso; to arrange -- set in order. see GREEK ana see GREEK tasso NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom ana and tassó Definition to arrange in order NASB Translation compile (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 392: ἀνατάσσομαιἀνατάσσομαι; (1 aorist middle infinitive ἀνατάξασθαι); (middle of ἀνατάσσω) to put together in order, arrange, compose: διήγησιν, Luke 1:1 (so to construct (R. V. draw up) a narrative that the sequence of events may be evident. Found besides only in Plutarch, de sollert. anim. c. 12, where it denotes to go regularly through a thing again, rehearse it; (in Ecclesiastes 2:20 Ald., and in ecclesiastical writings e. g. Irenaeus 3, 21, 2 at the end)). Topical Lexicon Term Overview This Greek verb describes the deliberate action of arranging material in an orderly sequence. It stresses methodical compilation rather than casual narration, highlighting careful structure, accuracy, and coherence. Biblical Occurrence and Context Luke 1:1 records its only New Testament use: “Many have undertaken to compile an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us” (Berean Standard Bible). Luke introduces his Gospel by acknowledging previous attempts at writing, then pledges to produce an orderly narrative. The verb sets the tone for the entire work, signaling a consciously structured history of Jesus Christ. Historical Background First-century biographies and historical works prized orderly presentation. Writers such as Thucydides and Josephus arranged sources, eyewitness testimony, and archives to establish credibility. Luke, a traveling companion of Paul (Acts 16:10; Colossians 4:14; 2 Timothy 4:11), echoes this Greco-Roman literary ideal while remaining rooted in Hebrew prophetic tradition. His decision to arrange accounts affirms that Christianity is grounded in verifiable events, not myth or speculation. Theological Significance 1. Reliability of Revelation By promising an orderly record, Luke underscores divine faithfulness. The events “fulfilled among us” (Luke 1:1) are fulfillment of Old Testament promises (Isaiah 7:14; Micah 5:2). An arranged account invites the reader to trace God’s covenant faithfulness from Abraham through Christ. 2. Role of Human Agency in Inspiration Luke’s effort illustrates how God employs careful human research within the process of inspiration. “Having carefully investigated everything from the beginning, it seemed good also to me to write an orderly account” (Luke 1:3). The Spirit’s guidance does not bypass diligent scholarship but sanctifies it. 3. Apostolic Tradition and Catechesis Luke addresses Theophilus “so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught” (Luke 1:4). An orderly compilation serves catechetical purposes, providing a foundation for discipleship and doctrinal instruction (Acts 2:42). Connection with Biblical Inspiration and Gospel Reliability The verb implies that the Gospel writers were conscious historians. Luke’s systematic arrangement corroborates parallel testimonies (Matthew, Mark, John) and meshes with apostolic preaching recorded in Acts. The early church recognized such carefully structured works as authoritative Scripture (2 Peter 3:15-16). Pastoral and Ministry Implications • Teaching: Bible teachers emulate Luke by presenting doctrine in coherent progression (Nehemiah 8:8; 1 Corinthians 14:40). Cross-References and Related Concepts • Old Testament precedents: Moses arranging laws (Deuteronomy 31:24-26); Ezra’s compiled chronicles; genealogies in 1 Chronicles emphasize ordered remembrance. Applications for Teaching and Preaching 1. Present Gospel events in chronological blocks (incarnation, Galilean ministry, Passion Week) to mirror Luke’s orderly flow. Reflection on Redemptive History The single New Testament use of this verb appears at the threshold of Luke’s Gospel, marking a pivotal moment when oral tradition transitioned into canonical Scripture. The Spirit-led resolve to “set in order” Christ’s life opened a literary doorway through which the Church would understand the unfolding plan of redemption “from the days of eternity” (Micah 5:2) to the promised return (Acts 1:11). Summary Strong’s Greek 392 highlights the Spirit’s use of meticulous arrangement to convey inspired truth. Luke’s resolve to compile an ordered Gospel encourages believers to value accuracy, structure, and faith-building clarity in every aspect of ministry, confident that God’s mighty acts withstand the closest historical scrutiny while nurturing steadfast assurance in the hearts of disciples. Forms and Transliterations αναταξασθαι ανατάξασθαι ἀνατάξασθαι anataxasthai anatáxasthaiLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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