The Greek word *dokimos* (G1384) is significant in understanding the concept of being proved or approved in the biblical context. It always indicates being acceptable to God, never reflecting self-approval. This term, used in various scriptures, implies a state of having been tested and found worthy, highlighting a past tense of approval. In relation to proving oneself, *dokimos* underscores the importance of life experiences as a means of demonstrating trustworthiness and integrity. For instance, individuals like Timothy are noted for having proven character through their actions and witness, showing reliability and commitment to following God regardless of circumstances. The use of *dokimos* in these contexts emphasizes that approval comes from God through the process of testing. Furthermore, *dokimos* appears in discussions of divisions and heresies within the church, suggesting the necessity of following the example of those who have passed the test and remained faithful. It carries meaningful implications regarding work, growth, overcoming, witness, faithfulness, and even the potential for reward and inclusion in God's kingdom. The consistent theme is that God is the Creator who tests and proves His people, ensuring their conduct aligns with His standards for living in His kingdom.

The Greek word *dokimos* (G1384) in the New Testament conveys the concept of character through the idea of testing or proving, much like smelting metals to ensure their quality. In a figurative sense, *dokimos* signifies proven worth, attested quality, or demonstrated character, indicating something or someone that has endured a process of testing and emerged as genuine and authentic. For instance, in Philippians 2, it refers to proven worth, highlighting an individual's character as having been refined through trials, emerging as solid gold. Conversely, the negative form, *adokimos*, means debased, reprobate, or depraved, representing a lack of proven quality or tested character. This contrast underscores a state of rejection or baseness, as seen in Romans 1. Believers are called out of such depravity into a process of testing and trial designed to prove the worth of their character, aligning with God's purpose of building enduring, valuable qualities. This process of character development is further illustrated in I Corinthians 3, where materials like gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, and stubble represent varying degrees of character quality, judged by their value and endurance under trial. God desires all to strive for the highest quality, akin to diamonds that shine under pressure, though He acknowledges differing levels of achievement. However, those who defile their character by returning to a reprobate state face destruction, as they reject the foundation laid by Jesus Christ. In I Corinthians 11, the idea of proven character being made manifest among believers suggests that divisions and challenges serve a purpose—to reveal who possesses true, tested character. This separation process identifies those who have grown in righteous character from those who have not, emphasizing the critical importance of character in fulfilling God's calling. Finally, in I Peter 1, the mission of believers is described as a spiritual process of character building through trials, proving and improving the quality of faith. This tested character, found honorable and praiseworthy, qualifies one for the undefiled inheritance awaiting at Christ's return. Character, therefore, is central to God's plan, as it determines one's readiness for the ultimate reward.

The Greek word *dokimos* (G1384) carries the meaning of being tested and found genuine, often translated as "approved" in the New Testament. It signifies a state of having been proven through trials, much like precious metals are refined by fire to confirm their purity. In the context of spiritual life, *dokimos* reflects the character of one who has endured testing and emerged as faithful and true to God's standards. This concept aligns with the idea of overcoming, where victory is not just in avoiding sin but in actively pursuing righteousness. Just as a crown symbolizes honor and victory, being *dokimos* represents the approval of God upon those who remain steadfast and obedient to Christ through life's challenges.