καταξιόω

From the study of 2 Thessalonians 1:5

Range of meaning

To consider, deem, or judge someone worthy; to grant someone the honour of. It is a strengthened form of ἀξιόω ('think worthy'). The verb describes an assessment or verdict made by another party. It does not mean causing someone to become worthy.

Against the English

KJV 'counted worthy', ESV 'considered worthy', NASB 'considered worthy', BSB/NIV 'counted worthy': all are accurate. NLT's 'to make you worthy' changes the verb's meaning from God's verdict about them to a change God works in them.

How it drifted

Modern English 'worthy' tends to suggest earned merit, a deserved reward. The Greek is about recognition and fitness: being judged suitable for, and honoured with, a share in something. It describes the verdict, not a purchase.

Used elsewhere in the period

In the NT: Luke 20:35 ('those counted worthy to attain that age and the resurrection'); Acts 5:41 (the apostles rejoicing 'that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonour for the Name'). In Jewish martyr literature, 4 Maccabees 18:3 says those who gave their bodies to suffering for piety were 'deemed worthy of a divine portion'. Wisdom of Solomon 3:5 makes the same point with the simpler adjective: 'God tested them and found them worthy (axious) of himself.' Paul uses the plain verb in 2 Thessalonians 1:11: 'that our God may count you worthy (axiōsē) of the calling.' Compare 1 Thessalonians 2:12: 'walk worthily of God, who calls you into his own kingdom and glory.'

From the study of Acts 5:41

Range of meaning

To consider or declare someone worthy of something, usually something good: an honour, a privilege, a share in an inheritance. The κατα- prefix makes it stronger than the simple ἀξιόω. It is the language of a superior granting standing to someone below him. Rarely it is used of being judged deserving of punishment.

Against the English

"Counted worthy" (KJV, WEB, BSB) is accurate. Modern ears can hear "they earned it" or "they proved good enough," which shifts the focus to the apostles' achievement. The Greek stresses being judged worthy by someone else: a verdict handed down, not a reward earned.

Used elsewhere in the period

4 Maccabees 18:3 says the Jewish martyrs under Antiochus, who gave their bodies to suffering for piety, "were deemed worthy (κατηξιώθησαν) of a divine portion," which is the same verb form in a martyr setting. Luke uses it in Luke 20:35 ("those deemed worthy of that age"), and Paul in 2 Thess 1:5 ("deemed worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you also suffer"). Josephus uses it often for being granted honours.

From the study of Luke 20:35

Range of meaning

To consider, judge or declare someone worthy or deserving of something. It is always a judgment passed by another party. In the New Testament it is always passive: Luke 20:35; Acts 5:41 (apostles 'counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the Name'); 2 Thessalonians 1:5 ('counted worthy of the kingdom of God').

Against the English

'Considered worthy' (BSB, WEB) and 'accounted worthy' (KJV, YLT) are accurate. A modern reader might hear 'considered' as a mere opinion, or 'worthy' as earning a reward by merit. The Greek stresses that a verdict is handed down from outside, and the unnamed judge is God.

Used elsewhere in the period

Used in Greek literature and inscriptions for honours granted by a city or ruler ('deemed worthy of a crown'). 4 Maccabees 18:3 says the martyrs were 'deemed worthy of a divine portion'. Some manuscripts of Luke 21:36 read 'that you may be counted worthy to escape', though the oldest read 'have strength'.