Lexical Summary eugenes: Noble, well-born, of noble character Original Word: εὐγενής Strong's Exhaustive Concordance nobleFrom eu and ginomai; well born, i.e. (literally) high in rank, or (figuratively) generous -- more noble, nobleman. see GREEK eu see GREEK ginomai Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 2104: εὐγενήςεὐγενής, ἐυγενες (from εὖ and γένος); 1. well-born, of noble race: Luke 19:12 (of a prince); 1 Corinthians 1:26. 2. noble-minded: comparitive ἐυγενεστερος, Acts 17:11. (the Sept.; often in Greek writings from Aristophanes and Tragg. down.) Concept of Nobility in Scripture The term εὐγενής highlights two complementary ideas in the New Testament: hereditary rank (“well-born”) and cultivated character (“noble-minded”). Scripture employs the word to show that genuine nobility is measured not merely by pedigree but by a heart responsive to God. Occurrences in the New Testament Luke 19:12 introduces a “nobleman” whose high birth enables him to receive and administer a kingdom. The parable’s setting underscores Christ’s own royal authority and anticipates His return. 1 Corinthians 1:26 reminds believers that “not many were of noble birth,” stressing that divine election disregards social privilege, exalting humble faith above human standing. Acts 17:11 commends the Bereans as “more noble-minded,” praising their eagerness and discernment in daily examining the Scriptures. Here nobility is moral and spiritual, not ancestral. Background in Greco-Roman Culture In the first-century Mediterranean world, εὐγενής described citizens of respected lineage who enjoyed education, influence, and legal advantage. Luke, Paul, and the author of Acts (also Luke) adapt the term, affirming that the gospel reaches every stratum while redefining nobility around receptivity to divine truth. Social Status and Spiritual Calling Paul’s argument in 1 Corinthians 1:26-31 dismantles boasting in fleshly markers—wisdom, power, and birth. The cross nullifies human hierarchies, elevating those whom society deems lowly. By retaining the adjective for the minority who were “noble-born,” Paul shows that salvation unites rich and poor under one grace, yet without yielding to aristocratic pride. Noble-Minded Receptivity to the Word Acts 17:11 offers the richest theological nuance. The Bereans are called “more noble-minded” because they combine eagerness with scrutiny: “Now the Berean Jews were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were so.” (Acts 17:11) Their example defines noble character as: This standard equips believers to hold fast to truth while avoiding gullibility, fostering congregations grounded in biblical authority. True Nobility in Christ Luke’s parable hints at Christ as the ultimate “Nobleman.” Born of David’s royal line yet rejected by His subjects, He departs to receive the Kingdom and will return to reward faithfulness (Luke 19:12-27). Those who serve Him share His royal dignity, irrespective of earthly ancestry. Thus, nobility is re-anchored in union with the King. Implications for Ministry 1. Evangelism: The gospel addresses people of every class. Workers should not presume receptivity or resistance based on birth or education. Applications for Contemporary Discipleship • Encourage every believer to own a daily Scripture-reading plan, coupling eagerness with careful inquiry. In sum, εὐγενής calls the church to recognize that authentic nobility is bestowed by God, evidenced in humble submission to His Word, and displayed in lives that honor the coming King. Englishman's Concordance Luke 19:12 Adj-NMSGRK: Ἄνθρωπός τις εὐγενὴς ἐπορεύθη εἰς NAS: He said, A nobleman went INT: A man certain of noble birth proceeded to Acts 17:11 Adj-NMP-C 1 Corinthians 1:26 Adj-NMP Strong's Greek 2104 |
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