Proof (τεκμήριον)

The term proof (τεκμήριον) conveys the concept of a fixed sign or marker. It provides a clear indication or decisive confirmation of something. It stems from the root τεκμήρ, meaning "a fixed boundary or marker," metaphorically extended to signify something that firmly establishes or delineates truth.

Proof (τεκμήριον) is notably used in Acts 1:3, where it refers to the convincing proofs Jesus provided of His resurrection during His appearances to His disciples.

In extra-biblical Greek literature, proof (τεκμήριον) is used widely in various contexts to denote evidence of something true and verifiable. It is employed in rhetoric, philosophy, historical records, scientific observations, and legal discourse.

Based on its normal use, proof (τεκμήριον) carries the idea of providing certainty or clarity, whether through logical reasoning, physical evidence, or observable signs. This richness of meaning aligns with its use in Acts 1:3, where it highlights the decisive and convincing nature of the resurrection of Christ, providing proof through His post-resurrection appearances to the disciples.

In comparison to the use of proof (τεκμήριον), demonstration (ἔνδειξις) refers to make a show, while manifestation (ἀπόδειξις) describes the act of showing or proving something.

Demonstration (ἔνδειξις) is used as both a verb and noun. The righteousness of God was demonstrated through Christ’s propitiatory work, making a show of the righteousness of God in the deferral of punishment for sins (Romans 3:25-26). In 2 Thessalonians 1:5, the suffering the saints in Thessalonica demonstrates the righteous judgement of God, showing that they are counted worthy of the kingdom of God.

In Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians, he describes how he came to them. He did not come with excellence of speech or wisdom announcing the witness of God. Instead, he determined to proclaim only Jesus Christ and Him crucified. Paul approached them in weakness, fear, and much trembling, having come from Athens where their great philosophers rejected the resurrection of Christ. Thus, he did not proclaim the resurrected Christ through persuasive words of human wisdom, but in a manifestation (ἀπόδειξις) of the Spirit and the inherent ability of the gospel message (1 Corinthians 2:4).

After Christ’s resurrection, He gave the disciples clear, identifiable markers confirming that He was raised out from the dead. This proof still stands today in the writings of the Apostles and the history of their actions, which were driven by the absolute truth of Christ’s resurrection out from the dead.