Definition: The Greek word "aion" appears in several New Testament passages, but its exact meaning has not been clearly defined. It could refer to various things depending on the context:
1.
The Word
: In Mark 2:37-38, Jesus tells a parable about a man who "was born of a woman" (aion) and is called to be king.
2.
Journeying in the Spirit
:
- According to Acts 10:45-66, Peter was called "a messenger sent from God." This passage suggests that "aion" refers to the power or agency of the Holy Spirit.
3.
Atonement
: In Luke 19:17, Jesus tells a parable about "the sacrifice of Atonement," implying a belief in the atonement through Christ's blood and righteousness.
4.
Salvation
:
- In John 3:16-20, John is speaking about salvation as a result of Jesus' death on the cross; this passage suggests that "aion" can refer to both being born of or being saved by God.
5.
Atonement and Redemption
: This was not just a human act but also involved an animal sacrifice. It could suggest that "aion" is related to sacrificial acts, possibly referring to the type of act of atonement involving animals.
6.
Eternal Life and Immortality
: In John 10:27-30, Jesus says that he will give eternal life by his death on the cross, which might suggest that "aion" could refer to both eternal life and immortality (also known as eternity).
The specific meaning of "aion" is not easily determined from the Greek text alone without further context or understanding. Its use in the New Testament often implies a complex interplay between divinity and humanity, particularly in the sense of salvation through faith in Christ.