an'-ser: In our English Bible the word "answer" does not always mean a simple reply to a question.

 1. In the Old Testament:

 Six different words are translated by answer.

 (1) It is frequently used where no question has been asked and in such cases it means a word, a statement.

 (2) It also means a response (Job 21:34; 34:36).

 (3) It often means a declaration or proclamation from God where no question has been asked. See the many passages that read: "The Lord answered and said."

 (4) The other words translated "answer" or "answered" in the Old Testament are unimportant shadings and variations.

 2. In the New Testament:

 The words translated "answer" are not so varied.

 (1) It sometimes means an apology, a defense (1Pe 3:15; Ac 24:10,25).

 (2) It may mean simply "to say" (Mr 9:6).

 (3) It may mean a revelation from God (Ro 11:4).

 (4) It is also used to apply to unspoken thoughts of the heart, especially in the sayings of Jesus; also by Peter to Sapphira (Ac 5:8).

  G. H. Geberding