ἀποφθέγγομαι (apophthengomai)
apophthengomai
to declare
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb apophtheggomai means to speak out or declare with authority. It does not describe casual conversation but rather a formal, elevated utterance. In the New Testament, it appears only three times, all within the book of Acts, marking moments where speech carries significant weight and public importance.
Its usage highlights a distinct tone of dignity. When Peter stands up to address the crowd in Jerusalem, the text says he "uttered" his message (Acts 2:14), signaling that this was not just talking but a prophetic declaration. Similarly, Paul’s defense before King Agrippa is described with this term (Acts 26:25), emphasizing the serious, official nature of his testimony.
The word combines a prefix meaning "out" with a root related to voice or sound. This structure reinforces the idea of projecting one’s words clearly and powerfully. Translators often render it as "speak out," "declare," or "utter," capturing the forceful and deliberate character of the speech rather than mere communication.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When we read that Peter "spoke out" in Acts 2:14, the text uses a word that carries weight. It is not casual chat. It is a formal declaration meant to be heard and understood. This reminds us that our words, when guided by the Spirit, can carry truth with clarity and dignity.
Similarly, Paul’s defense before King Agrippa in Acts 26:25 shows this word used for bold testimony. He did not whisper his faith; he declared it openly. This encourages us to speak what we believe with confidence, trusting that God gives us the right words when we need them.
Whether in a large crowd or before a single ruler, the call is to speak truth clearly. We do not need perfect eloquence, just a willing heart ready to declare what God has done. Your voice matters when it points others to Him.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- to utter forth1×
- spoke forth1×
- I utter.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀποφθέγγομαι.1×
- ἀποφθέγγεσθαι1×
- ἀπεφθέγξατο1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 2:14
But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice and spoke out to them, “You men of Judea and all you who dwell at Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and listen to my words.
This verse marks the moment Peter uses this formal term to launch his public sermon, showing how the Holy Spirit empowers clear and authoritative witness.
-
Acts 26:25
But he said, “I am not crazy, most excellent Festus, but boldly declare words of truth and reasonableness.
Paul uses this word to describe his bold testimony before a king, emphasizing that his message was not madness but truth spoken with reason and conviction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Greek word apophthengomai mean?
How is this word different from other words for speaking in the New Testament?
Where does this word appear in the Bible?
Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)
Acts 3 verses
They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other languages, as the Spirit gave them the ability…
Acts 2:14But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice and spoke out to them, “You men of Judea and all you who…
Acts 26:25But he said, “I am not crazy, most excellent Festus, but boldly declare words of truth and reasonableness.