The Term ἀξιός in the Gospel according to Matthew as a Relational Category

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21906/rbl.3769

Keywords:

ἀξιός, biblical theology, discipleship, exegesis, Gospel of Matthew, grace, Kingdom of God, metanoia, New Testament

Abstract

This article examines the meaning of the term ἀξιός (axios) in the Gospel according to Matthew, focusing on its function within the theological structure of the text. Using a synchronic approach and semantic analysis, the study provides an exegesis of all major occurrences of the term (Matt 3:8–11; 10:10–13; 10:37–38; 22:8). The findings demonstrate that ἀξιός does not denote “worthiness” in an ontological or merely moral sense, but rather expresses the adequacy of the human response to God’s salvific action. The term has a relational and dynamic character, emerging in contexts such as conversion, reception of the mission, relationship to Jesus, and participation in the Kingdom of God. The article proposes a theological model in which ἀξιός functions as a key category integrating the relationship between grace and response. This approach allows for a fuller understanding of Matthew’s anthropology, Christology, and eschatology in terms of relational adequacy.

References

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Zbroja, B. (2022). Godność człowieka (ἄξιος) w narracji Łukaszowej (Łk i Dz). Ruch Biblijny i Liturgiczny, 75(1), 5–25. https://doi.org/10.21906/rbl.3745

Published

2023-12-31

How to Cite

Zbroja, B. (2023). The Term ἀξιός in the Gospel according to Matthew as a Relational Category. The Biblical and Liturgical Movement, 76(4), 25–43. https://doi.org/10.21906/rbl.3769

Issue

Vol. 76 No. 4 (2023)

Section

Articles

Copyright (c) 2023 Bogdan Zbroja

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