Controversies (2214) (zetesis from zetéo = to seek) is a word used by the Greeks to indicate philosophical inquiry. To some extent zetesis is used with this meaning once in the NT, Luke recording...
Acts 25:20 "And being at a loss how to investigate such matters, I asked whether he was willing to go to Jerusalem and there stand trial on these matters.
Zetesis -7x times - John 3:25; Acts 15:2, 7; 25:20; 1Ti 6:4; 2Ti 2:23; Titus 3:9) and not in the Septuagint (LXX)
NAS = controversial questions, 1; controversies, 1; debate, 2; discussion, 1; how to investigate, 1; speculations, 1.
The most common meaning of zetesis refers to the exchange of words for the purpose of disputing, engaging in contentious, controversial questions. Zetesis denotes the preoccupation with pseudo-intellectual theorizing. It pictures one engaging in debates rather than the carrying out of a genuine search for information...
Acts 15:2 And when Paul and Barnabas had great dissension and debate (zetesis) with them, the brethren determined that Paul and Barnabas and certain others of them should go up to Jerusalem to the apostles and elders concerning this issue...7 And after there had been much debate, Peter stood up and said to them, "Brethren, you know that in the early days God made a choice among you, that by my mouth the Gentiles should hear the word of the gospel and believe.
John 3:25 There arose therefore a discussion (zetesis = "controversy" Amplified) on the part of John's disciples with a Jew about purification.
1 Timothy 1:4 nor to pay attention to myths and endless genealogies, which give rise to mere speculation (zetesis) rather than furthering the administration of God which is by faith.
1 Timothy 6:4 he is conceited and understands nothing; but he has a morbid interest in controversial questions (zetesis) and disputes about words, out of which arise envy, strife, abusive language, evil suspicions,
2 Timothy 2:23 But refuse foolish and ignorant speculations (zetesis), knowing that they produce quarrels.
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Greek Word Studies ( - )
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