τελέω (teleō)
teleō
to finish
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 28 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb teleō carries the core meaning of bringing something to its intended end, whether that is finishing a task, fulfilling a promise, or completing a process. Its root relates to the concept of a "goal" or "end," suggesting that completion is not merely stopping but reaching a specific destination. In the New Testament, this word appears in diverse contexts, from Jesus declaring "it is finished" on the cross (John 19:30) to Paul describing his ministry as a race he has completed (2 Timothy 4:7).
A key nuance of teleō is its association with fulfillment. It often describes bringing a prophecy or command into actual reality, ensuring that what was spoken aligns perfectly with action. This sense of perfect execution appears when the sources note that Jesus fulfilled all Scripture regarding his suffering (Luke 24:44) or when believers are called to fulfill the law through love (Romans 13:8). The word implies a thoroughness that leaves nothing undone.
Interestingly, teleō also has a practical, financial sense in both secular and biblical usage: to pay a tax or tribute. This dual meaning highlights the idea of settling a debt or obligation completely. In Matthew 17:24, it refers to paying the temple tax, showing that the same word used for spiritual completion can describe a concrete financial transaction. This range underscores the comprehensive nature of the term, covering both physical acts and deeper theological realities.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word teleō reminds us that God’s work is never half-finished. When Jesus said on the cross, "It is finished," He was not speaking of defeat but of a mission fully completed. This assurance means our faith rests on what He has already accomplished, not on our own endless efforts to earn favor.
In daily life, this word encourages us to trust that God brings His promises to their intended end. Whether you are facing a long season of waiting or a task that feels overwhelming, you can rest in the knowledge that God’s plans reach their goal. He does not start good works and leave them undone; He completes them in time and in His way.
This sense of completion also applies to our relationships and duties. When we love others as Christ loved us, we are fulfilling the highest calling of the law. It is a call to thoroughness, leaving nothing out of our devotion. We can face the future with peace, knowing that the One who began a good work in us will bring it to completion.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 28 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- finished5×
- may have been completed2×
- may be completed2×
- you may gratify.1×
- you keep1×
- would be completed1×
- will be accomplished1×
- was completed1×
- to be accomplished1×
- they will be completed1×
- they may have completed1×
- they had performed1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐτέλεσεν5×
- τελεσθῇ3×
- ἐτέλεσαν2×
- ἐτελέσθη2×
- τετέλεσται.1×
- τετέλεσται,1×
- τετέλεκα,1×
- τελέσωσιν1×
- τελέσητε.1×
- τελέσητε1×
- τελοῦσα1×
- τελεῖτε·1×
Key Verses
-
John 19:30
When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, “It is finished!” Then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
This verse captures the word's most profound theological weight, declaring that Jesus' sacrificial mission was fully accomplished, leaving no further payment for sin required.
-
II Timothy 4:7
I have fought the good fight. I have finished the course. I have kept the faith.
Paul uses this term to describe his life's ministry as a race run to its very end, offering a model of faithful perseverance for believers.
-
Matthew 7:28
When Jesus had finished saying these things, the multitudes were astonished at his teaching,
Here the word marks a structural transition, indicating that Jesus had thoroughly completed His teaching before the crowds responded with astonishment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does teleō mean in the Bible?
How is teleō different from other words for 'finish'?
Why does Jesus use this word in John 19:30?
Does this word apply to our daily lives?
Every Occurrence (28 verses across 10 books)
Matthew 7 verses
When Jesus had finished saying these things, the multitudes were astonished at his teaching,
Matthew 10:23But when they persecute you in this city, flee into the next, for most certainly I tell you, you will not have gone…
Matthew 11:1When Jesus had finished directing his twelve disciples, he departed from there to teach and preach in their cities.
Matthew 13:53When Jesus had finished these parables, he departed from there.
Matthew 17:24When they had come to Capernaum, those who collected the didrachma coins came to Peter, and said, “Doesn’t your teacher…
Matthew 19:1When Jesus had finished these words, he departed from Galilee and came into the borders of Judea beyond the Jordan.
Matthew 26:1When Jesus had finished all these words, he said to his disciples,