Wednesday, August 27, 2008

a great old fashioned word:

Uttermost. Kind of a strange word, one we never hear used anymore. In fact, I can’t remember using the word for many years, the last time, while reading from the old King James Bible. Here is a verse that uses the word, “uttermost”. Hebrews 7:25 “Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.” (KJV) In my opinion, this old word describes the concept of the teaching better than any more modern word we can use. The word in the original Greek language is panteles (pan-tel-ace') which is defined as "full-ended, entire, or complete". This verse is telling us that Jesus is able to save us completely, without limit, with no end. A couple of more modern translations say: “Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save those who come to God through him. He lives forever to intercede with God on their behalf.” (NLT) and “Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.” (TNIV)

I think “uttermost” says is better. Just something direct about it, it leaves no question. When describing the level to which Christ saves us, I think that being thorough is important. Uttermost. That says it.

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