Bible Dictionaries
Confirm

Holman Bible Dictionary

To establish an agreement and to show that a word is true and reliable. English translations use confirm for general Hebrew terms meaning, “to prove reliable, trustworthy,” “to be strong,” “to fill, fulfill,” “to stand,” “to rise.” The Greek terms mean, “to be reliable” and “to set up.” The terms are regularly used to speak of humans establishing God's words, covenant, or law by practicing them (Deuteronomy 27:26 ) and more often of God confirming His message or His covenant by setting it up with His people and bringing to pass the promises He made (Leviticus 26:9; 2 Samuel 7:25; 1 Chronicles 16:17; Isaiah 44:26; Romans 15:8 ). At times human agreements or promises are confirmed (Ruth 4:7; 1 Kings 1:14; Esther 9:29; Jeremiah 44:25; Hebrews 6:16 ). One could also establish themselves in a position or institution (2 Kings 15:19; 1 Chronicles 17:14 ). Believers seek to confirm the gospel message through a Christian life (1 Corinthians 1:6; Philippians 1:7 ). In so doing one also confirms the individual's calling and election (2 Peter 1:10 ).