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G398 · Greek · New Testament
ἀναφαίνω
anaphainō
Verb
to appear, come into view, show

Definition

The verb anaphainō means to bring to light, to appear, or to come into view — often of something previously hidden that now becomes visible. It appears twice in the New Testament: Luke 19:11 (the Kingdom of God "appearing" immediately) and Acts 21:3 (the island of Cyprus coming into sight).

Usage & Theological Significance

The two uses of anaphainō — one geographical, one eschatological — both involve something becoming visible that was not yet seen. When Cyprus "appeared" to Paul's ship, it was a navigational landmark orienting a dangerous journey. When Jesus taught that the Kingdom of God would not appear immediately, He corrected the disciples' triumphalist expectations with the Parable of the Ten Minas — the King must first go away and return. Christian hope is oriented toward a kingdom that will one day fully appear; in the meantime, faithful stewardship of what has been entrusted is required. The kingdom is real but not yet fully visible.

Key Bible Verses

Luke 19:11 While they were listening to this, he went on to tell them a parable, because he was near Jerusalem and the people thought that the kingdom of God was going to appear at once.
Acts 21:3 After sighting Cyprus and passing to the south of it, we sailed on to Syria.
Colossians 3:4 When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
1 John 3:2 But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.
Titus 2:13 While we wait for the blessed hope — the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.

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External Resources

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