μαρτύριον (marturion)
marturion
testimony
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 19 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun marturion refers to a testimony or witness that serves as proof. In the New Testament, it often denotes evidence presented to confirm a truth, such as when Paul speaks of the gospel being established through testimony (1 Corinthians 1:6). It can also describe the act of bearing witness itself, as seen in Acts 4:33, where the apostles gave great power and authority to their testimony.
This word appears in contexts ranging from personal accounts to official proofs. Jesus instructs healed individuals to offer their experience as a testimony to the priests (Mark 1:44), while also predicting that his followers will bear witness before governors and kings (Matthew 10:18). The term carries weight as a credible account, whether in legal settings or spiritual declarations, emphasizing the reliability of what is attested.
Its usage highlights the importance of authentic witness in early Christian communities. Whether referring to a written record or spoken declaration, marturion underscores the value of truthful testimony in establishing faith and conviction among believers and outsiders alike.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word marturion points to a reliable account that confirms a truth. In the New Testament, it is not merely an opinion but evidence that stands firm. When Paul writes that the testimony of Christ was confirmed in the believers at Corinth, he describes a reality that has taken root in their lives (1 Corinthians 1:6). This suggests that faith is built on something solid and verifiable, rather than fleeting emotion.
For your daily walk, this means your experiences with God are valuable. Whether you share your story with a friend or stand firm when questioned by others, your life can serve as a witness to what is true. The apostles gave their testimony with great power because it was grounded in the resurrection of Jesus (Acts 4:33). You do not need perfect words; you only need to be faithful to the grace you have received.
Even when circumstances are difficult, your steadfastness becomes a testimony to those around you. It shows that trust in God provides strength that endures. This kind of witness is quiet but powerful, inviting others to see the reliability of Christ through your actions and words.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 19 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- a testimony10×
- testimony8×
- a testimony.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- μαρτύριον16×
- μαρτυρίου2×
- μαρτύριον.1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 4:33
With great power, the apostles gave their testimony of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. Great grace was on them all.
This verse highlights how the apostles' testimony was not just speech but a powerful demonstration of the resurrection that brought grace to the community.
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Matthew 24:14
This Good News of the Kingdom will be preached in the whole world for a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come.
Here, the global preaching of the Gospel serves as a witness to all nations, marking the timeline of history before the end comes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Greek word marturion mean?
How is marturion different from the word for witness (martys)?
Where does this word appear in the Bible?
Why is testimony important in Christian faith?
Every Occurrence (19 verses across 12 books)
Matthew 3 verses
Jesus said to him, “See that you tell nobody; but go, show yourself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses…
Matthew 10:18Yes, and you will be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony to them and to the nations.
Matthew 24:14This Good News of the Kingdom will be preached in the whole world for a testimony to all the nations, and then the end…