The adverb συντόμως conveys the ideas of brevity, conciseness, and speed—doing or saying something “in a short time” or “briefly.” In New Testament usage it can indicate either restrained speech (concise remarks) or rapid action (swift execution).

Occurrences in Scripture

1. Mark 16:20 – the concluding summary of Mark describes the apostles going out and preaching everywhere, the Lord working “συντόμως” with them, confirming the word through accompanying signs.
2. Acts 24:4 – the orator Tertullus tells Governor Felix, “But in order not to burden you any further, I beg you to hear us briefly in your kindness”.

Exegetical Observations

• Mark 16:20 places συντόμως in a context of missionary urgency. The risen Lord immediately authenticates the proclamation with signs, underscoring that the gospel’s advance is not slow or hesitant but prompt and decisive.
• Acts 24:4 shows the word in polite forensic speech, modeling respect for authority and disciplined communication. Tertullus’ appeal to brevity illustrates how measured words can enhance persuasiveness.

Historical and Ministry Significance

Early Christian preaching was characterized by urgency; the church could not afford delay while the world lay in darkness (cf. Romans 13:11). Συντόμως captures that atmosphere: apostolic proclamation went forth without procrastination, and God answered with equally prompt confirmation.

In apologetic settings, concise testimony often proved most effective. The brevity promised by Tertullus paved the way for Paul’s subsequent defense, reminding believers that careful, succinct presentation of truth can open doors for the gospel even before secular tribunals.

Theological Implications

1. Divine Cooperation – Mark 16:20 links human obedience and divine action in real time: as soon as the disciples preach, the Lord “worked with them,” validating His word.
2. Stewardship of Words – Acts 24:4 highlights the biblical principle that “Where words are many, sin is not absent” (Proverbs 10:19). Disciplined brevity honors both hearer and message.
3. Eschatological Urgency – The New Testament connects the shortness of time with earnest proclamation (1 Corinthians 7:29; Revelation 1:3). Συντόμως subtly reinforces this eschatological note.

Practical Reflections for Believers

• Proclaim promptly. Opportunities can vanish quickly; obedience delayed is often obedience denied.
• Speak concisely. A well-chosen word often penetrates where many words confuse (Colossians 4:6).
• Trust divine confirmation. Faithful witness is met by God’s timely vindication—sometimes through signs and wonders, always through Spirit-empowered conviction.

Related Concepts and Passages

• “Immediately” (εὐθύς) in Mark’s Gospel emphasizes similar urgency (Mark 1:18).
• “Redeeming the time” (Ephesians 5:16) parallels the call to act without delay.
• Proverbs 17:27: “He who restrains his words has knowledge” complements Acts 24:4’s model of succinct speech.

Summary

Strong’s Greek 4935, συντόμως, gathers in a single adverb two vital strands of New Testament life: swift obedience and concise proclamation. Whether describing the rapid spread of the gospel or the respectful brevity of courtroom rhetoric, the term reminds Christ’s followers to act and speak with purposeful urgency, confident that the Lord will promptly uphold His word.