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G5043 · Greek · New Testament
τέκνον
teknon
Noun, neuter
child, offspring, descendant

Definition

From tikto (to give birth), teknon emphasizes the birth-relationship — one who has been born of a parent. In the NT it is used for both biological children and spiritual offspring. John 1:12 uses it to describe believers as 'children of God' — those born of God through faith in Christ.

Usage & Theological Significance

The distinction between teknon (child by birth) and huios (son by status/inheritance) matters. John prefers teknon for believers — emphasizing the new birth, the family likeness, the intimacy of the parent-child bond. Paul sometimes prefers huios to emphasize the legal standing and inheritance rights. Together they describe the Christian's full identity: born into God's family (teknon) with full inheritance rights (huios). The cry 'Abba, Father!' flows from both realities.

Key Bible Verses

John 1:12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons (children) of God.
Romans 8:16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.
1 John 3:1 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.

Related Words

External Resources

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