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G2962 · Greek · New Testament
κύριος
kyrios
Noun, masculine
Lord, master, sir

Definition

Appearing over 700 times, kyrios is a paramount christological title. In everyday Greek: "sir" or "master." In the Septuagint, it translates both Adonai and the divine name YHWH (H3068). Applied to Jesus, it carries the full weight of the divine name.

Usage & Theological Significance

The earliest Christian confession was "Jesus is kyrios" (Romans 10:9). In the Roman Empire, this denied Caesar's ultimate authority. Philippians 2:9–11 quotes Isaiah 45:23 (where YHWH speaks) and applies it to Jesus — every knee will bow and confess that Jesus Christ is kyrios.

Key Bible Verses

Romans 10:9 If you declare 'Jesus is Lord [kyrios],' and believe God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
Philippians 2:11 Every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord [kyrios].
Acts 2:36 God has made this Jesus both Lord [kyrios] and Messiah.
1 Corinthians 12:3 No one can say, 'Jesus is Lord [kyrios],' except by the Holy Spirit.
Revelation 19:16 KING OF KINGS AND LORD [KYRIOS] OF LORDS.

Word Study

The use of kyrios for both YHWH and Jesus is one of the strongest NT arguments for Christ's deity. Joel 2:32 says everyone who calls on kyrios (YHWH) will be saved — Paul applies this directly to Jesus (Romans 10:13). Jesus IS the YHWH of the Old Testament made flesh.

Related Words

External Resources

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