The Greek word deûro, represented by G1204, is an imperative term primarily meaning come or hither. It appears 9 times in 9 unique verses, functioning as a direct and urgent summons. While its base definition is "here" or "hither," it is almost always used as a command to move toward the speaker. It can also be used in a temporal sense to mean "hitherto," or up to a certain point in time.
In scripture, G1204 is used in several distinct contexts of divine summons. Jesus uses it when calling the rich young ruler, commanding him to sell his possessions and then "come, follow me" (Luke 18:22; Matthew 19:21). This command is a pivotal call to discipleship. The word also carries the weight of miraculous authority, as when Jesus cries out, "Lazarus, come forth" John 11:43. In the Old Testament narrative, it is the word God uses to command Abraham to "come into the land" Acts 7:3 and to send Moses on his mission to Egypt Acts 7:34. In Revelation, an angel repeatedly says, "Come hither," to invite John to witness divine judgment and glory (Revelation 17:1; Revelation 21:9). Its only temporal use is by Paul, who was prevented from visiting Rome "hitherto" Romans 1:13.
Several related words help clarify the context and consequence of the summons issued by G1204:
- G190 akolouthéō (to be in the same way with, i.e. to accompany (specially, as a disciple):--follow, reach.): This word is frequently paired with G1204 to describe the intended result of the summons. The call is not just to come, but to follow as a disciple Matthew 19:21.
- G1854 éxō (out(-side, of doors), literally or figuratively:--away, forth, (with-)out (of, -ward), strange.): This adverb specifies direction. Jesus commands Lazarus to "come G1204 forth G1854," indicating a movement from inside the tomb to the outside John 11:43.
- G5217 hypágō (withdraw or retire (as if sinking out of sight), literally or figuratively:--depart, get hence, go (a-)way.): This often represents a prerequisite action. Jesus tells the rich young ruler to first "go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast," and then to "come" and follow Him Mark 10:21.
The theological weight of G1204 is significant, highlighting critical moments of transition and decision.
- The Cost of Discipleship: The call to "come" issued by Jesus is an absolute summons that requires leaving something behind. For the rich young ruler, it meant abandoning his wealth to gain treasure in heaven and follow Christ Mark 10:21.
- Divine Commissioning: The word is used by God to initiate a mission. It marks the moment Abraham is called to leave his country Acts 7:3 and Moses is sent to deliver Israel, prefaced with the statement, "I am come down to deliver them. And now come, I will send thee" Acts 7:34.
- The Power over Death and an Invitation to See: G1204 demonstrates Christ's ultimate authority, as He commands the dead to live John 11:43. It also serves as a heavenly invitation for mortals to witness divine revelation, as when the angels summon John to behold "the judgment of the great whore" and "the bride, the Lamb's wife" (Revelation 17:1; Revelation 21:9).
In summary, G1204 is far more than a simple invitation. It is a potent, imperative command that marks a turning point. Whether used by Jesus to call a disciple, by God to commission a prophet, or by an angel to unveil heavenly mysteries, deûro signifies a divine summons that demands a response. It encapsulates the authority of the speaker and the critical choice placed before the one being called.
TRV