The Greek word bradýnō, represented by G1019, means to delay. It is defined as "to delay:--be slack, tarry." This word appears 3 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. It conveys the idea of slowness, either in a personal, logistical sense or in a theological context regarding the timing of divine promises.
In its biblical usage, G1019 carries two distinct applications. In 1 Timothy 3:15, Paul uses the term in a personal context, writing about what Timothy should do if "I tarry long". This potential delay from the apostle underscores the need for proper conduct in the "house of God" G3624, the church G1577. In contrast, 2 Peter 3:9 uses G1019 twice to address a theological concern: "The Lord is not slack concerning his promise." The passage clarifies that what might be perceived by some G5100 as divine delay is not a failure to act, but rather an expression of God's character.
Several related words clarify the meaning of G1019 in its key contexts:
- G1022 bradýtēs (slackness): This noun form is used directly in 2 Peter 3:9 to describe the human perception of God's timing, which the verse then corrects. It is defined as "tardiness."
- G3114 makrothyméō (is longsuffering): This verb explains the true reason for the perceived delay. God is not slack, but instead "is longsuffering to us-ward" 2 Peter 3:9, showing His patient nature. It means "to be long-spirited."
- G1163 deî (oughtest): This word, used in 1 Timothy 3:15, highlights the necessity of proper behavior in the church, which is the reason for Paul's letter in case he should tarry long G1019. It signifies that which is "necessary (as binding)."
The theological weight of G1019 is most significant in its reframing of divine timing.
- Divine Patience: The term is used to counter the idea that God is slow or neglectful. The Lord is not slack G1019, but is instead longsuffering G3114 2 Peter 3:9. This presents God's timing as an act of mercy rather than inaction.
- Salvific Purpose: The reason for God's patience is explicitly stated: He is "not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance" 2 Peter 3:9. The apparent "delay" serves the purpose of allowing more people to be saved.
- Church Order: In 1 Timothy, Paul's potential to tarry long G1019 establishes the basis for his instructions on how one "oughtest to behave" G390 in the church, which is the "pillar and ground of the truth" G4769 G1477 1 Timothy 3:15. A delay in apostolic presence necessitates a firm understanding of church structure and conduct.
In summary, G1019 is a concise term for delay that is used in both human and divine contexts. While it can refer to a simple personal delay, as with Paul's plans 1 Timothy 3:15, its primary theological contribution is to correct misunderstandings about God's fulfillment of His promises G1860. It teaches that what may seem like slackness to humanity is in fact the patient, longsuffering nature of a God who desires salvation for all 2 Peter 3:9.
TRV