κλέος (kleos)
kleos
credit
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun kleos refers to what is heard about someone, encompassing both general reports and specific reputations. In classical usage, it often denoted enduring fame or glory achieved through notable deeds. However, in the New Testament, its range is narrower, focusing on the public perception of a person’s character.
This word appears only once in the New Testament, in 1 Peter 2:20. Here, Peter discusses the value of enduring unjust suffering with patience. He notes that such conduct earns "credit" or "good report" from God. The context suggests that this reputation is not merely social standing but a divine acknowledgment of faithful endurance.
The term highlights how Christian witness is measured not by self-promotion but by the integrity revealed in difficult circumstances. When believers respond to injustice with grace, they build a reputation that honors God. This aligns with the broader biblical theme that true honor comes from faithfulness rather than human applause.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word kleos points to a reputation built on how we handle life’s hardest moments. In 1 Peter 2:20, it describes the credit we gain when we endure unjust suffering with patience. This is not about seeking human applause or defending our rights. It is about letting your integrity speak when others are unfair.
God notices this quiet faithfulness. He sees the choice to respond with grace instead of anger. Such conduct earns a good report from Him. Your character is shaped in these unseen moments, creating a witness that honors God more than any public achievement could.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- credit [is it]1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- κλέος1×
Key Verses
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I Peter 2:20
For what glory is it if, when you sin, you patiently endure beating? But if when you do well, you patiently endure suffering, this is commendable with God.
This verse uses kleos to define the divine credit earned by patiently enduring unjust suffering after doing good.