Lexical Summary prokrima: Prejudice, partiality, preconceived judgment Original Word: πρόκριμα Strong's Exhaustive Concordance prejudice, biasFrom a compound of pro and krino; a prejudgment (prejudice), i.e. Prepossession -- prefer one before another. see GREEK pro see GREEK krino HELPS Word-studies 4299 prókrima (from 4253 /pró, "before" and 2919 /krínō, "judge") – properly, pre-judging, bias (prejudice); undue (unfair) preference shown by partiality (used only in 1 Tim 5:21). NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom a comp. of pro and krinó Definition a prejudice NASB Translation bias (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 4299: πρόκριμαπρόκριμα, προκρίματος, τό (πρό and κρίμα), an opinion formed before the facts are known, a prejudgment, a prejudice, (Vulg.praejudicium): 1 Timothy 5:21 (anonymous in Suidas, under the word; (Athanasius, Apology contra Arian. 25 (i. 288 a. Migne edition); Justinian manuscript 10, 11, 8, § ἐ)). Topical Lexicon Scriptural ContextThe noun πρόκριμα appears only once in the New Testament, in Paul’s solemn charge to Timothy: “I solemnly charge you before God and Christ Jesus and the elect angels to maintain these principles without prejudice or favoritism” (1 Timothy 5:21). In this setting it underscores the apostolic insistence that church leaders must render judgments free from preconceived bias, whether dealing with accusations against elders (1 Timothy 5:19-20) or administering discipline and restoration. Theological Emphasis 1. Divine Impartiality Scripture repeatedly affirms that the Lord “does not show favoritism” (Acts 10:34; Romans 2:11). By invoking πρόκριμα, Paul roots Timothy’s pastoral conduct in the very character of God. Any hint of pre-judgment undermines the gospel’s proclamation that all stand equal at the foot of the cross (Galatians 3:28). 2. Justice and Mercy Held Together While bias distorts justice, the absence of prejudice allows mercy to be extended wisely and fairly. Paul instructs Timothy to rebuke sinning elders “so that the rest will stand in fear” (1 Timothy 5:20) yet also to avoid hasty condemnation (1 Timothy 5:22). Πρόκριμα guards both justice and mercy from being hijacked by personal preference. Historical Perspective Early Christian writers echoed Paul’s concern. The Didache (late first–early second century) commands overseers to judge “without prejudice” so that no gift or status sways their verdict. Tertullian later argued that church courts must mirror God’s tribunal, “where no regard is had to person, only to truth.” The single Pauline usage thus cascaded into a broader ecclesial ethic: ecclesiastical authority must operate without partiality. Ministerial Application 1. Leadership Evaluation Churches today continue to examine potential elders or deacons. Πρόκριμα warns against letting charisma, wealth, or connections color discernment (1 Timothy 3:1-7). A rigorous, prayerful process protects the flock and honors Christ. 2. Church Discipline When allegations arise, leaders are tempted to shield friends or prominent donors. Paul’s charge confronts that temptation. Transparent procedures, corroborated testimony, and communal prayer help ensure that correction is both righteous and restorative (Matthew 18:15-17; Galatians 6:1). 3. Conflict Resolution Congregational disputes frequently involve competing narratives. Mediators who imitate God’s impartiality foster reconciliation. “Wisdom that comes from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason” (James 3:17). Πρόκριμα identifies the first obstacle to such wisdom: a prejudged mind. Related Biblical Principles • Exodus 23:2-3 – Warnings against perverting justice by siding with the crowd or showing favoritism to the poor. Conclusion Though πρόκριμα occurs only once, its force reverberates through the biblical witness. God’s people are called to mirror His impartial nature, especially in leadership, discipline, and conflict resolution. By rejecting prejudgment and embracing Spirit-led discernment, the church safeguards its witness and embodies the justice and mercy of Christ before a watching world. Forms and Transliterations προκριματος προκρίματος prokrimatos prokrímatosLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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